It’s Ridiculously Hot Outside; Here Are The 10 Best Ways To Cool Off In Indiana

Great news everyone! It's summer! Oh, I know - I can hear the groans from here. That being said, though, it's a great excuse to start looking for creative and fun ways to cool off, and I've gone ahead and come up with a handful of 10 things to do this summer in Indiana to keep nice and cool, from indoor attractions to outdoor ones and everything in between. If you're on the lookout for all kinds of cool (literally) things to do in Indiana this season, you're in the right place. Let's check a few of 'em out!

France Park is a classic, must-do summer activity for everyone in Indiana to do at least once or twice. For many, it's a family tradition, and it's obvious as to why: this amazing place is perfect for chilling out on a hot day, with scenic trails, cool, clean water and all the fun you could ever hope for. Make it a day trip - it's worth spending the time for!

When it comes to Lake Michigan beaches, it's tough to choose a favorite. But one of the coolest things about living in Indiana is that our beaches are truly ocean-like; you don't need to fly to a coastal state to enjoy the perfect beach day. Washington Park Beach is one of several awesome Indiana beaches that's sure to thrill the whole family - or maybe just you and a date! The photogenic lighthouse is a huge plus. Sunsets, anyone?

Did you know that Indiana has its very own cruise "ship" known as the Madam Carroll? It's true! Cruise Lake Freeman on an old-school, 300-ton boat from May through October, imbibing in food, drink, and entertainment. Sunset on the lake is especially fun and soul-soothing; I highly recommend booking your cruise well in advance and bringing all your friends. There's more to this cruise than just the water that's cool.

The Koch Immersive Theatre & Planetarium is a part of the Evansville Immersive Theatre and Planetarium, which is absolutely awesome and totally worthy of a day trip. The theatre is truly an incredible experience, offering traditional planetarium programming with all sorts of other amazing, must-see events. Enjoy the nice, cool air conditioning and learn something new - it's worth it!

There are numerous notable water parks in Indiana, though the Prophetstown State Park Aquatic Center might be one of the best. With a tube slide, a lazy river, and nice, chilly water sure to please on a hot day, this is a must-do for families and groups of friends that want a little more adventure with their state parks. Not all of our state parks include a pool and water park - but this one definitely does.

There are many awe-inspiring waterfalls in Indiana, and Cataract Falls is one of the most popular and well-loved. You can't swim in the falls, since it serves as a water source for a nearby town, but what you can do is nestle yourself right up alongside them and enjoy the water-cooled air surrounding the river and cascades. It's a perfect picnic spot!

Hidden away in Noblesville is the refreshing Morse Reservoir Dam, where you and your family can frolic and play and enjoy the cool, clean water to the fullest. It's a sight to behold, absolutely beautiful, and it certainly makes for a perfect summer afternoon outdoors. Splash around in the water, take in the sights, and enjoy the perfect summer day.

Splash Island is the second water park I'll mention here, and for good reason: it's amazing and provides awesome summer fun for the whole fam. With a children's play area, waterslides, a diving area, and so much more, this is no doubt the epitome of fun in the sun. Just be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen!

Fun fact: the Indianapolis Children's Museum is the biggest children's museum in the world, and it's ours - all ours! With amazing installations, exhibits, and more, this incredible (air conditioned) museum is amazing for kids AND adults, so don't let its name fool you. The kids love this one, but I think you'll love it just as much for lots of other reasons.

Finally, I'd like to mention a swimming hole in Indiana that might just be the best of them all. White Rock Park doubles as a campground and sits alongside a nice, chilly swimming hole just waiting for you to jump in. Zipline over the lake, swing into the water using a rope swing, go SCUBA diving... the possibilities are endless! Get your tickets in advance, as they go quick.

There you have 'em: 10 ideas for things to do this summer in Indiana, all of which will help you keep cool and relax. If you're planning to visit and would like somewhere interesting to spend the night, check out all the options from our friends at VRBO.

Do you have a favorite way to keep cool in the heat? Tell me about it in the comments!