As the temperature rises and the sun gets hotter, you’re desperately thinking of ways to cool off, right? As easy and simple as it seems to hide out inside with the air conditioner, turn on the hose, or soak in a bathtub of ice cubes, here’s a few ideas of how to beat the heat in fun, exciting and affordable ways!

All under a 30 minute drive from downtown Buffalo, these places offer everything you need to keep cool, whether it’s a misty breeze, or a full blown plunge into refreshing waters. For those looking to make a splash, Kenmore Pool, Mang Wading Pool, North Forest Pool, Lincoln Swimming Pool and Brighton Pool are great for cooling down and hanging out. For those looking for a bit more excitement, check out Martin’s Fantasy Island and Darien Lake, which both include huge water parks for all ages. Not looking to dive in? No worries, take a drive to Niawanda Park for a walk along the Niagara River Waterfront. Grab a bite to eat and some delicious ice cream across the street at Mississippi Mudds, or head down the road for some seafood at Old Man Rivers! The Erie Basin Marina offers the same with a different view. Grab some food at The Hatch or some ice cream at the gazebo and feel the breeze of Lake Erie. For a more laid back yet exciting feel, experience Lake Erie far out on the water and sail back in time on the Spirit of Buffalo. Enjoy a romantic sunset sail, or pirate adventures with the kids, this 73 foot topsail schooner has offers for all ages.

Whether you’re looking for a free trip down by the water, or a more costly sail along Lake Erie, don’t melt under the sun’s scorching rays at home; get out, cool off and see Buffalo during the hottest time of year!

What do you do to keep cool?  Where do you go to beat the heat?

Kenmore Pool- 255 Mang Ave, Kenmore NY  14217                                  716-873-6225

Mang Wading Pool- 425 Mang Ave, Kenmore, NY 14217                          716-875-8777

North Forest Pool- 85 North Forest Road Buffalo NY, 14223

Lincoln Swimming Pool- 1200 Parker Blvd, Buffalo, NY, 14223               716-833-7757

Brighton Pool- 251 Brompton Rd, Buffalo, NY, 14221                                716-693-3505

Martin’s Fantasy Island- 2400 Grand Island Blvd, Grand Island, NY, 14072  716-773-7591

Darien Lake- 9993 Allegheny Road Darien Center, NY 14040                    585.599.4641

Niawanda Park/Niagara River Water Front- Niagara Street Tonawanda, NY 14150 

Mississippi Mudds -13 Niagara Street Tonawanda, NY 14150  (716)        694-0787

Old Man Rivers- 375 Niagara Street  Tonawanda, NY 14150(716)             693-5558

Erie Basin Marina/ The Hatch- 329 Erie Street  Buffalo, NY 14202   (716)  851-5389

Spirit of Buffalo-                                                               716.796.7210

Please note some community facilities may require residency confirmation to be admitted*

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