The summer heat may have gotten off to a slow start, but all Texans know that’s going to change soon enough. When it arrives in full force, it hits hard. And in San Antonio, the added humidity makes the heat feel even more intense. That can make figuring out what to do with the kids all day quite a challenge!
Whether you’re a born-and-raised local or a recent transplant, one thing is certain: Texas summers are no joke. Fortunately, there’s plenty of things to do in San Antonio in the summer. Here are some of the best ways to beat the heat while making the most of your summer.
Embrace the Outdoors Wisely
Yes, it’s hot outside, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay cooped up indoors all summer. San Antonio is home to numerous splash pads that provide the perfect way to cool down without a trip to the coast. Some local favorites are Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair, Pearsall Park, and the San Pedro Springs Park. They’re perfect for kids to run, play, and splash around while staying cool.
Elmendorf Lake Park offers shady picnic areas to relax and unwind near the water; you can even fish in the lake! Avoid the peak heat of the day by going in the mornings.
Your own backyard can also be a summer sanctuary with a little creativity. Set up an inflatable pool from Costco for a DIY water escape the whole family can enjoy. Add in a mosquito net tent from Academy to stay bite-free while you lounge or let the kids play.
If you’re dreaming ahead, summer is actually the perfect time to plan and prep your fall garden. Just remember: if you’re spending time outdoors, hydration, sun protection, and shade are essential. Keep water bottles handy, wear sunscreen with high SPF, and take frequent breaks in cool, shaded areas.
Get Creative Indoors
When the sun is just too strong or the humidity is unbearable, staying indoors becomes a no-brainer. San Antonio has some fantastic local indoor play spots: the kids can burn off energy while staying cool.
Check out Maui Maui, a locally loved indoor playground featuring interactive areas designed for kids of all ages. Unlike national chains, Maui Maui offers a unique atmosphere and community-focused vibe that sets it apart. It’s an ideal retreat when the playground equipment outside feels more like a stovetop than a jungle gym.
Want to stay closer to home? Beat boredom with activities like indoor scavenger hunts or a classic science experiment like a baking soda and vinegar volcano, which is always a hit with kids. Painting garden rocks is another enjoyable and low-mess craft that gives your garden a personal touch while keeping everyone cool and busy inside.
Of course, none of these activities are enjoyable if your home feels like an oven. A reliable air conditioning system is essential during Texas summers, providing both comfort and safety. Therefore, it is vital to arrange routine AC maintenance to guarantee your system operates effectively when you rely on it the most.
Local experts like Shafer Services Plus specialize in keeping San Antonio homes cool with professional air conditioning maintenance services. They’ll inspect, clean, and optimize your system, helping you avoid surprise breakdowns in the middle of a heatwave.
Stay Cool, San Antonio
Surviving the summer heat in San Antonio is all about strategy and preparation. From visiting splash pads and fishing at local parks to setting up backyard oases and enjoying creative indoor activities, there are plenty of ways to keep the family entertained while staying safe and cool.
Just as a reminder, nothing spoils a summer afternoon faster than a broken AC. Reach out to Shafer Services Plus for your AC maintenance and repair needs!