Editor’s Note: This article originally published July 10, 2024. It was updated by the Indy Maven team on June 24, 2025.
Try 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 has everything you need to kayak down the White River. Launch your kayak, canoe, 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.
Enjoy a Wine Night
Literally, nothing sounds more peaceful, right? Grab the girls and head to one of Peace Water Winery’s locations (Carmel, Indianapolis, or Fishers) for a taste of Napa in India-nap-olis. They even have cute outdoor patios if the temps are nice enough to enjoy al fresco sips.
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. Wander four floors full of art from all regions of the globe, along with a design gallery 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.
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.
Play Like a Kid at a 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 Christmas in July on July 11. Your ticket allows you to experience all the amenities on site, like the Aqua Zumba, surf simulator, and plunge wall.
Experience a Salt Cave
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.
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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