How to Cool Off This Summer In Northern Virginia

Memorial Day marks the beginning of summer in my eyes, regardless of what the calendar says. Soon the sweltering days will arrive. Instead of staying cooped up inside, find new ways to stay comfortable. Here are a few of our favorites, what are your family's?

 1. Starting on June 22, gather at the Historic Vienna Library on Wednesday at 1pm for story time. Afterwards, run through the sprinklers on the Town Green.

 2. Head to the local spray ground at Fairfax Corner to get soaked.

 3. Try one of the MANY frozen treats we now have in Vienna! Plush and serve delicious gelato. Red Mango's yogurt is great and their topping bar is packed with options. Don't forget the original favorite: Nielsen's Frozen Custard.

4. If you want a complete chill-out day, visit a local waterpark. If you think you will be going a lot, definitely invest in a bounce pass, which we will get you free, unlimited admissions into any of the Northern Virginia Regional Parks.

 5. If you need air-conditioning and to get out of your house, visit a local indoor playspace: Mobu Kids in Falls Church, Fair Oaks Mall, or that other nearby mall that I refuse to say aloud until the traffic situation gets better. In case you haven't heard the popular At Play Cafe in Reston closed in Early May.

 6. Go see a kid-friendly movie at University Mall Theatre beginning June 20. Shows are Monday-Friday at 10 a.m.. Tickets are $2, and you can get a season pass to "Summer Cinema Camp" for $11.

 7. When it gets really bad, go underground. The Shenandoah Caverns in Quicksburg, Va are less than 2 hours away, but feel like another planet. They stay a comfortable 56 degrees year round.

8. If even getting into the car sounds too hot, here are a few ideas for keeping cool around your house.

Stay cool! Come visit me at Fun Mama for fun ideas everyday! I'm also on Facebook and Twitter.