Beat the Heat in Downtown Raleigh

It’s now officially summer and this one feels extra HOT! Here are our favorite things to do to help you stay cool this summer. 

• Marbles IMAX: Need to get the kids out of the house, but want them to stay out of the sun? Marbles IMAX Theater has multiple showings a day including the return of Gru and his minions in the highly anticipated Despicable Me 4 being released on July 3. Be sure to visit the museum while you’re there too to make the most of your outing! 201 E. Hargett St.

• Live @ Raleigh Times: Downtown Raleigh’s newest live music series at The Raleigh Times features indoor performances almost every Thursday from 7-10 p.m. Grab a bite to eat and a beer while you listen to live music in the AC! 14 E. Hargett St.

• North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: If you haven’t visited the museum’s new living conservatory yet, this is a must! With butterflies, tropical plants and even a two-toed sloth, this exhibit will make you feel like you’ve been transported to Central America. 11 W. Jones St.

• Splash Pads at John Chavis Memorial Park: With fun water features and splash pads, John Chavis Memorial Park is a fabulous place to cool off and enjoy your day. Their playground is perfect for all ages to enjoy and even features adult exercise equipment! 505 Martin Luther King Junior Blvd.

• Raleigh Popsicle Co.: There’s no better way to cool off than a fresh and frozen popsicle! Made with fresh the freshest ingredients and local fruits, Raleigh Popsicle Co. is always a delight. 119 E. Hargett St.