Where to Go When It’s Hot AF Out in Indy

City of Shay’s Shay McCoy shares her favorite spots to stay cool when it’s so darn hot.
Peace Water Winery

Founders Coffee rooftop Speedway IndianaTry a Caffeinated Sparkling Soda

Cool off with an all-natural caffeinated sparkling soda at Founder’s Ground Coffee Company in Speedway. If the weather is bearable, they have a great rooftop patio. You could also split a coffee flight with a friend.

Go Kayaking on the White River

When it’s hot af out, there’s nothing better than being by water. Frank’s Paddlesports Livery will help outfit you with everything you need to kayak down the White River. Launch your kayak or paddleboard at their station in Riverside and enjoy the city’s sights while still enjoying nature.

Read at Central Library

Free to enjoy? Cold AC all day, every day? Say less. The Indianapolis Public Central Library downtown not only has great amenities and views, but it also has the chilled atmosphere needed to beat the heat. Curl up with a good book on the fourth floor and take in the city views.

child picking out books at the Indianapolis Central Library

Enjoy a Wine Night

Literally, nothing sounds more peaceful, right? Grab the girls and head to one of Peace Water Winery’s locations for a taste of Napa in India-nap-olis. They even have cute patios if the temps are nice enough to enjoy al fresco sips.

group of friends at Peace Water Winery Indianapolis

Get Lost in Art

What’s notoriously cold but easy to enjoy and explore?? Art museums! Get out of the heat and head into Newfields. Then, wander four floors full of art from all regions of the globe, along with a design gallery, historic home, and so much more. Check out the gardens or the park if the weather is nice.

Go Cliff Jumping

Take a trip outside the city for some fun in the sun (but a great way to cool off, too) at White Rock Park. Zip line into the water, camp or hike, or try out fishing and volleyball with friends—there’s truly an activity for everyone here, and it’s only forty-eight minutes away from downtown Indy.

Get a Cryo Facial

Cool off (literally) and treat yourself simultaneously with a trip to FACE FOUNDRIÉ. The Cryo Facial is extremely refreshing, with bursts of cool, icy air leaving your skin glowy with a boost of oxygen. They have facials that will fit into a quick lunch break for a great price, so this is the perfect way to relax and create space during the day for yourself.

facial at Face Faoundrie Indianapolis

Head to a Basketball Game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse

They may bring the heat, but they’ll be so cool to watch. Now that Caitlin Clark has arrived in Indy, basketball is on a whole new level. Cheer on these incredible athletes at the next Indiana Fever game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for a girls’ night.

Monon Mixer

Be a kid again with an adults-only night at The Waterpark in Carmel. There are different themed nights throughout the summer, like Swiftie Night on August 2nd. Your ticket allows you to experience all the amenities on site, like the Aqua Zumba, surf simulator, and plunge wall.

Fire and Ice

Get the best of both worlds at the Indianapolis Salt Cave with an infrared sauna with red light therapy followed by a three—to five-minute cold plunge. Have the hour to yourself or bring friends, but be sure to experience the salt cave’s holistic benefits.

Indianapolis Salt Cave
Photo by Michael Durr

As City of Shay, I create content for young 20 and 30-something’s who want to live a full life in the city of Indianapolis, with a focus on lifestyle, local culture, and affordability. I love finding the next cocktail spot, going to events, restaurant openings and more, all while living within my means.

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