10 ways to stay cool in the heat in Metro Vancouver
Whether there’s a heat wave in Vancouver, unseasonably high temperatures, or even just an average, hot summer day – keeping cool in the city is hard.
During hot weather, you might be excited to soak up some major sun… or dreading the oncoming onslaught of sweat headed your way.
In either case, here are some classic and out-of-the-box ways you can stay cool in the Vancouver heat:
1. Cool off with ice cream
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When it’s hot out, ice cream is a must-have dessert. There are so many great ice cream spots in Vancouver. From liquid nitrogen ice cream to ice cream sandwiches to gelato, you are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, all while cooling down.
2. Chill at the movies
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Movie theatres have great AC, so if you can catch a matinee film, then you’ll be comfortable eating popcorn and watching the latest blockbuster this summer while the sun’s at its hottest.
3. Head to a beach
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The warm weather calls for a swim in cold water. Lucky for us, Vancouver has tons of beaches to help keep us cool this summer.
4. Jump in a lake
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Vancouver’s beaches and pools are great, but they can get a bit crowded in the summer months. If you’re looking to take a swim and enjoy a bit of wilderness, there are plenty of lakes to swim in around Metro Vancouver and beyond.
5. Check out an art exhibit
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Immerse yourself in culture while relaxing in air-conditioned heaven. Vancouver has tons of art galleries and exhibits you can check out. The Vancouver Art Gallery is an amazing place to spend an afternoon that’s a little too hot for comfort.
6. Go shopping
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Shopping is the perfect pastime to escape the heat, especially if you need some hot weather wardrobe pieces. Enjoy all your favourite stores in any of Metro Vancouver’s air-conditioned malls.
7. Go to a waterfall
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The rushing water and refreshing mist of a waterfall are all you need to escape the summer heat. Check out these easy trails and spend the day lounging next to one of the bodies of water nearby.
8. Drink a cold beer
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What’s better than enjoying a cold beer on a warm day with good company? BC has tons of great breweries where you can try summer brews. Find yourself a shady patio and enjoy a drink or two.
9. Eat at an air-conditioned restaurant
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Enjoy a meal in air-conditioned peace and escape the heat temporarily by eating out. Try going for lunch at an air-conditioned spot to beat the heat of midday. Not sure where to find one? Often, many hotel restaurants in the city are air-conditioned, so that’s a good place to start.
10. Check out an outdoor pool or splash park
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Splash parks and pools are great for everyone who’s looking to cool down from the heat. Pack a towel and don’t forget the sunscreen!
How are you staying cool in this heat?
This article was first published in May 2022 and has since been updated.Â
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