The Best Ways to Stay Cool in Concord

For some, relief cannot come soon enough from the heat that has settled in across much of the Northeast. True Bay Staters, however, are taking it in stride, as temperatures in the mid to upper 90s — hovering around 100 — are to be expected from a New England summer.
Here are some ways to stay cool when it's super hot:

Concord Recreation Day Camp
Kids from kindergarten through seventh grade can still sign up for camp at the Hunt Recreation Center on Stow Street, with sessions running July 25-29, Aug. 1-5, Aug. 8-12. Post Camp, for those who attended at least one of the earlier sessions, will be held Aug. 15-19. Rates vary dependent upon age and the camp sessions selected.
Camp Director Molly Frank said when the temperatures rise like this, camp is all about staying cool.
"We have the fountains, and we have the pool where the kids have swim lessons and free swim," Frank said.
Earlier today, a group of youngsters were jumping around on a homemade slip and slide during the sports and games portion of the day.
After playing in the water, kids can participate in arts and crafts under a shaded tent, or hang out inside in the air conditioning. Best of all, you don't have to be a Concord resident to attend camp.
"We have a lot of parents who work in Concord," Frank said. "It's open to everybody."
For more information on the Concord Recreation Day Camp or to register a child call (978) 369-6460, or click here.

Walden Pond
In addition to offering pristine scenery and wildlife, historic Walden Pond — perhaps most importantly on days like these — provides a place to take a dip as well.
For the cost of $5 per vehicle to park, folks can enjoy a swim along Walden's public beach. There is a 1,000 person capacity to the site though, according to the state Department of Conservation and Recreation, so it may fill up fast on especially hot days. The DCR also reminds people that there are no trash cans on the public beach, so be prepared to take out whatever you bring in.
For more information on Walden Pond State Reservation, click here.

South Bridge Boathouse
On Main Street in Concord, the South Bridge Boathouse offers canoe and kayak rentals for excursions on the Sudbury River.
Dock helper Sam Jaris said while sometimes activity on the river slows down when it's really hot out, those who do brave the sun to spend a day on the water typically head for a spot downstream known as Egg Rock near the mouth of the Assabet River.
"That's where most of the people go swimming," Jaris said.
For rental rates or to learn more about the South Bridge Boathouse, click here.

Take in a Movie
Whether you're into action and adventure, or romantic comedies are your cup of tea, nothing beats a good flick on a hot day. Not only do the best blockbusters come out in the summer, but theaters are air conditioned. Take a break from the heat — get out of the sun and take the family out for an afternoon at the movies.
See listings and show times for movies at the Maynard Fine Arts Theatre, Flick Theaters in Lexington, and AMC Theaters in Burlington here.

Remember, extending at least through today and tomorrow, the Harvey Wheeler Community Center on Main Street in West Concord will be open from noon until 9 p.m. for anyone looking to escape the heat and enjoy the air conditioning.
Both branches of the Concord Public Library — Main and Fowler — are also air conditioned and open to the public. Tomorrow, a family-friendly movie will be shown at the Main branch at 1 p.m.
See the library's website for more information on programs and hours of operation.