This guest blog post is by Matt Champion.
It’s only June and we’re already sweating bullets. With temperatures quickly heading toward every day triple-digits, we’re all going to need our summertime havens.
Austinites have a tendency to be claustrophobic. We love the outdoors and won’t let anything, even the scorching sun, keep us stuck inside all day to mindlessly fiddle with the thermostat.
We all know the standards: Barton Springs, Blues on the Green, the Greenbelt, and the list goes on. But I know we’re getting antsy, so here are some ways to beat the heat in Austin, in addition to our wonderful local traditions.
Pull your head out of your freezer and smile because you live in one of the greatest cities in the nation, regardless of whether or not the summer sun gives you the ability to bake cookies on the dashboard of your car.
“Swimmin’ Hole!”
Credit: jessicareeder via Flickr CC
Have you hit Barton Springs, Hamilton Pool, and Deep Eddy already? Then head over to Spicewood and take a dip into Krause Springs. It’s located 30 miles west of Austin and will have you showcasing your best swinging cannonballs while taking in the waterfall and butterfly garden.
Primitive tent or RV camping is available on site if you can’t will yourself to spend just one day in this summer paradise. Make sure to leave pets, glass, and credit cards at home.
Credit: South Austin Sno on Facebook
Somebody Shave Me
Looking for some quick relief? Make a pit stop at South Austin Sno. With locations on Manchaca and S. Lamar, this family-owned business has been serving cones to locals since 2004.
South Austin Sno’s flavor selection will keep you on your toes. Pickle and Cajun Redhot are a couple of many that are as weird as Austin. My personal favorite is Cantaloupe.
Credit: Elenajoy via Wikipedia Commons
Feeling Brave?
Become one with Lake Travis through Paddleboard Yoga. Classes are offered through Balance Yoga in Lakeway and take place every Friday afternoon beginning on July 22nd. At $20 for the board rental and the class, it’s not a bad way to stay sane in the heat.
Make sure and pre-register online because classes fill up quickly.
Levitate over Lake Travis
Credit: Aquafly.com
Ever dreamed of flying? Aquafly offers the chance to knock that off your bucket list and stay cool at the same time. They began offering the flyboard experience to Austin last year and have been quickly gaining popularity on Lake Travis. Many levels of training are offered, from introductory to tips and tricks once you hone your skills.
Flight packages range from $89-$219 and are offered throughout the week. If it’s your first time, there is a mandatory introductory course that will run you $39. I’d say that’s reasonable to achieve a lifelong dream.
Say Hello to My Little Friend
Credit: BaxterandBirdie.com
I’m proud to say that I think most of Austin is made up of dog people. Our furry sidekicks need a break from the heat, too, right? Red Bud Isle is the perfect escape for your pup if they start to feel the summer blues.
With 13 acres of off-leash roaming right off Lady Bird Lake, there’s no way your dog will be depressed. But, it’s not only for them, there are plenty of places to fish and even take a dip yourself.
It’s Art, Man
Credit: Debbi Robertson Photography
If you haven’t been yet, I highly encourage you to grab your camera and go take a look at Castle Hill before it’s replaced by condos. Located downtown off Baylor Street, the space was originally meant for real estate. But after foundation failures and repeated taggings, the city decided to make it a legal venue for graffiti artists to display their work. Not only that, but the creations are constantly changing and evolving as new works cover older pieces.
This spot doesn’t involve water or snow cones, but if you go early enough, you should be able to avoid the heat and be treated to one heck of a sight.
Matt Champion has called Austin home for 8 years and is a local musician, writer, and educator.
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