Keeping Cool in the Forest City
When summer temperatures climb and humidity settles in, staying cool becomes less of a suggestion and more of a strategy. Fortunately, London, Ontario, and the surrounding area offer no shortage of ways to escape the heat, whether that means diving into a lake, ducking into air-conditioned attractions, wandering shady forest trails, or treating yourself to something frozen downtown.
From splash pads and beaches to indoor adventures and ice cream walks, consider this your guide to making the most of the hottest days of summer.
Splashtacular Outdoor Spots
There is something timeless about spending a hot summer day around water. Luckily, London offers plenty of ways to cool off close to home.
The City of London operates numerous spray pads, outdoor pools, and wading pools throughout the city, making it easy to find a quick escape no matter the neighbourhood. Best of all, many are free and perfect for spontaneous summer outings.
For a full day of family fun, East Park Water Park remains a local favourite. With waterslides, splash zones, a wave pool, and plenty of space to relax between adventures, it feels like a mini vacation without leaving the city.
Looking for something new? The Super Splash Water Park in nearby St Mary’s is making waves this season. This floating inflatable obstacle course features slides, climbing walls, and balance challenges that almost guarantee you’ll end up in the water.
Hit the Lake: Worth-the-Drive Day Trips
Sometimes the best cure for a hot day is packing a cooler and heading for the beach.
Conservation Areas:
Lake Whittaker Conservation Area: a peaceful spot with a sandy beach, calm water, and plenty of room to spread out.
Wildwood Conservation Area: known for its reservoir views and swimming areas, it’s an easy and relaxing escape.
Springwater Conservation Area: a quiet destination that combines swimming, picnicking, and nature walks.
The Pinery Provincial Park: one of Ontario’s most iconic summer destinations, where towering dunes meet long Lake Huron beaches. If you only choose one big summer outing, make it this one.
Port Stanley: just 45 minutes south, this Lake Erie gem offers sandy beaches, boutique shops, and the perfect excuse for an ice cream stop after a swim.
Grand Bend: about an hour away, this lively Lake Huron beach town is known for crystal-clear water, boardwalk energy, and unforgettable sunsets.
Escape Into Air Conditioning
When the heat becomes relentless, indoor adventures start to look very appealing.
100 Kellogg Lane: One of London's coolest destinations - literally and figuratively. What was once a historic cereal factory has been transformed into a massive entertainment complex with something for every age and interest. Inside, you'll find The Factory, Canada's largest indoor adventure park, featuring ropes courses, zip lines, trampolines, arcade games, virtual reality experiences, and more.
Families will also want to visit the recently relocated London Children's Museum, now housed within 100 Kellogg Lane. Its expanded space offers hands-on exhibits and imaginative play experiences that can easily fill an afternoon.
For adults, 100 Kellogg Lane offers far more than just family attractions. Head upstairs to The Club House, where golf simulators, mini golf, duckpin bowling, craft cocktails, and lounge-style seating make it an ideal spot for a date night or group outing.
You can also enjoy a local pint at Powerhouse Brewing, explore the fascinating stories behind Canadian medical innovation at the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame, browse seasonal markets and events, or simply relax with a meal and cold drink while enjoying the building's unique industrial character.
Museum London: Part art gallery, part history lesson, and part "how have I never been here before?" experience, Museum London is one of the city's most underrated summer escapes. Located along the Thames River, it blends fascinating local history with thought-provoking art exhibitions, making it the perfect place to spend an hour or unexpectedly lose an entire afternoon. Best of all, admission is free.
Eldon House: Just steps from Museum London sits one of the city's best-kept secrets. Eldon House, London's oldest residence, offers a glimpse into life in the 1800s through beautifully preserved rooms, family heirlooms, and stunning heritage gardens. On a hot summer day, wandering through this historic home feels a little like stepping into another era altogether.
Other reliable cool-down options include:
Ice Cream, Frozen Treats & Downtown Cool-Down Walks
Let’s be honest: summer is partly powered by ice cream.
Downtown London has quietly become one of the best places in the city to turn a simple cone into an evening outing. Whether you’re strolling through the core or making a dedicated dessert stop, there’s something for every craving.
Marble Slab Creamery: custom-mixed ice cream with endless topping combinations.
Roli Poli Ice Cream: rolled ice cream made fresh to order, as entertaining as it is delicious.
District Ice Cream: a modern downtown stop known for creative flavours and easy strolling.
La Diperie: soft-serve cones with a wide range of dips and toppings.
Haven's Creamery: small-batch, indulgent flavours perfect for a slower summer moment.
And for the classic summer ice cream detour outside the downtown core, a few longtime favourites are worth the drive:
Merla Mae Ice Cream: a true London institution with nostalgic soft serve and classic roadside charm.
Shaw's Ice Cream: A beloved local tradition known for rich flavours, generous scoops, and waffle cones worth the trip.
Not in the mood for ice cream? Frozen lemonade, bubble tea, milkshakes, smoothies, and iced coffee all do an excellent job of cooling you down in the most enjoyable way possible.
For Every Kind of Summer Day
Not every summer day needs the same plan. Here’s a simple guide:
If You Have an Hour:
Grab ice cream downtown
Walk through a nearby park
Visit a neighbourhood splash pad or wading pool
Sit in the shade with a cold drink
If You Have Half a Day:
East Park Water Park
100 Kellogg Lane
Springwater Conservation Area
Eldon House
If You Have a Full Day:
Grand Bend
Port Stanley
The Pinery Provincial Park
St. Mary’s Super Splash Water Park
Local Secrets for Staying Cool
A few tricks seasoned Londoners swear by:
Visit beaches early in the day for smaller crowds.
Weekday splash pad visits are often quieter than weekends.
Bring water shoes for rocky sections of conservation area beaches.
Pack a picnic and stay longer than planned.
Choose shaded trails during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Save outdoor dining for the evening when patios are at their best.
One Final Thought…
The best summer days rarely require complicated plans. They’re built from simple things: shade, water, something cold to drink, and a little time to slow down.
However you choose to cool off, London and the surrounding area make it easy to find your perfect hot-day escape. 🌞
