Like almost everywhere in Canada, Peterborough has its share of chilly winters and sizzling hot summers. As much as we look forward all year to the warmer weather, it is human nature to complain about it once it finally arrives. Those of us lucky enough to live in Peterborough have many chances not just to escape the heat, but to love every last minute of it!
If you’d rather enjoy a hot summer day than suffer through it, here are a few of our favourite ideas for you to stay cool and smiling.
Hit the Beach
Nothing, and we mean absolutely nothing says summer like heading to the beach! In Peterborough, this can be an all day adventure or an escape for a couple of hours since we have great options right here in town.
Beavermead Beach is located on Little Lake, and is less than a 10 minute drive away depending on what neighbourhood you are in. Plus, there’s a nearby hiking or cycling trail where you can first work up a sweat before plunging into the waves!
Rogers Cove is another option just minutes away on the other side of the Otonabee River. Here, you’ll find a sandy beach, a playground, and plenty of shade, making it the perfect place for families to cool off for an hour or two.
Young children should always be supervised carefully around water. That said, it’s nice to know that lifeguards are on duty at both locations. It’s easy to settle down for an entire afternoon of fun or just cool off while out on a walk on a sunny day.
No matter what neighbourhood you live in, a cool retreat awaits you, including:
- King Edward Park at 455 George Street
- Nicholls Oval at 725 Armour Road
- Kinsmen Park at 1 Kinsmen Way
- Hamilton Park at 575 Bonaccord Street
Looking for more fun things to do in Peterborough? Read these posts next!
- Is Peterborough Dog Friendly?
- Top Activities for Kids in Peterborough
- What Does a Night Out Look Like in Peterborough?
Jump in a Splash Pad
After moving back to Peterborough with our own family in 2018, we’d like to submit an official request to change the name to “Splash Pad City.” There are so many great options where children can run around and laugh as they jump and splash!
If you prefer the calmness of a wading pool rather than splashing around, you also have options. The following are supervised for your family’s safety:
- Knights of Columbus Park at Park and Lake Street
- Chelsea Gardens Park at Southlawn Drive and Severn Road
- John Taylor Memorial Park at McKellar Street and St. Catherine Street
Visit a Public Pool
As much as we love the beach, it’s not for everyone. Some people would prefer not to get sand on their feet or spend hours under the sun. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get your laps in at one of Peterborough’s numerous indoor and outdoor pools.
The local YMCA and Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre both offer scheduled swimming times. If you want to exercise without breaking a sweat, there are lane swims and aquafit. Both of these are also fun places to visit with your whole family. If anyone could stand to brush up on their strokes, swimming lessons are also available.
Take a Hike
Are you the type of person who prefers to stay dry and cool? There are other ways to be comfortable without dipping a toe in the water. For example, you could venture out to explore one of Peterborough’s incredible trails and green spaces.
Surrounded by a canopy of trees and shade, you can’t help but feel the temperature drop a degree or two, especially when there’s a nice breeze in the air! Whether walking or cycling, the beauty of Jackson Creek, Millennium Park, or the stunning waterfront can’t help but lift your spirits.
To learn more, check out All About Peterborough’s Stunning Green Spaces right here.
Enjoy a Day Indoors
There’s nothing wrong with spending a day indoors every now and again, especially when the humidex begins to rise. When no amount of shade can make you comfortable, Peterborough has many great indoor places where you can have fun while beating the heat. Below are just a few ideas:
- Take the kids to an indoor playground like Kidz Playland
- Laugh away your cares at a comedy show!
- Spend a day browsing in an air-conditioned shopping centre.
- Get some culture at a local museum, such as The Canadian Canoe Museum
- If in doubt, grab a bite to eat. Peterborough’s dining scene is out of this world!
Looking for things to do in The Kawarthas? Read these posts next:
- What Are the Fastest Growing Towns in Kawartha Lakes?
- Dining in the Kawarthas: A Sneak Peek at the Best Restaurants
- 8 Things To Do In The Kawarthas This Summer
Time for a Road Trip?
Close proximity to the beautiful Kawartha Lakes is one of the many benefits of living in Peterborough. Though the little towns are fantastic to visit any time of year, the shimmering lakes and sandy beaches are best enjoyed in the summer!
If you have an afternoon or weekend to spare, it might be time for a road trip with your family or friends. The Kawarthas are the place to be for boating, fishing, swimming, or enjoying an ice cream in a shady picnic spot!
Alternatively, Cobourg has two beaches that are one of Ontario’s top secrets! Victoria Beach and West Beach offer sandy shores and supervised swimming areas. After you’ve dried off, you might want to take in the sights along the gorgeous boardwalk!
Are you curious about living in Peterborough? Thinking about buying a home here? Our experienced real estate agents are here to help! Get in touch with us directly at team@jeffandkatie.ca or call 705-243-9797 today!
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