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The sun is shining, the days are long, and the temperatures are soaring! But don't let the heat wave put a damper on your summer fun in Washington County, MD. Here are some cool ideas to keep you entertained and refreshed all season long:
1. Underground adventure at Crystal Grottoes Caverns in Boonsboro, Maryland.
Escape the high temps by exploring the wonders that lie beneath the surface. Take a guided tour through Crystal Grottoes Caverns, Maryland's only show cave. With a constant year-round temperature of 54 degrees Fahrenheit, it's the perfect place to chill out and marvel at the natural beauty of these ancient formations.
2. Go Jump in a lake!
Cool off in the lake at Greenbrier State Park in Boonsboro, Maryland. This beautiful park boasts a 42-acre freshwater lake, perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddleboating, or simply relaxing on the beach. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season, so you can splash around with peace of mind.
3. Indulge in farm-fresh local ice cream along the Washington County Ice Cream Trail.
From the Meadows Custard Frozen Custard in Hagerstown to Misty Meadow Farm Creamery in Smithsburg, Maryland you'll find ways to take a sweet detour to indulge in delicious, locally made ice cream, many made with fresh ingredients right from the farm.
4. Make a splash!
Float or paddle the scenic Antietam Creek with River & Trail Outfitters in Knoxville, Maryland. Whether you’re interested in rentals or a guided trip, River & Trail has a variety of options available for tubing, kayaking and canoeing as well as shuttle service to get you to the start and pick you up from the end point of your journey. Named the “Best Summer Outdoor Activity” by Washingtonian Magazine, the River Tubing Antietam Creek Adventure is a popular way to spend 4-5 hours on the Antietam Creek. River & Trail also offers specialty trips during certains times of the year.
5. Ignite your curiostiy at the Discovery Station in Hagerstown.
This interactive science museum offers hands-on exhibits for all ages, from exploring the wonders of the human body to tinkering with robots. The air-conditioned environment provides a welcome respite from the summer sun.
7. Grab a picnic lunch and take a drive tour.
Get some of the fried chicken to-go from Bonnie's at the Red Byrd or a deli lunch from Battleview Market in Sharpsburg, and take a driving tour of Antietam National Battlefield. The Battle of Antietam proved a strategic turning point. It halted Lee's northern invasion and provided President Lincoln the opportunity to issue the Emancipation Proclamation, forever changing the course of the Civil War.
8. Have some fun at Full blast at Tilt Studio - Hagerstown Valley Mall.
This action-packed entertainment center offers something for everyone, with attractions like laser tag, mini golf, bumper cars, and over 150 arcade and video games. They even have mini bowling, virtual reality experiences, and a Himalaya ride!
9. Cool Hsitory & Art.
We have diverse range of museums for visitors with various interests. History buffs can delve into the city's namesake's home at the Jonathan Hager House, or explore the role of railroads at the Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum. Art lovers can admire over 6,000 works at the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, while the Hagerstown Aviation Museum takes visitors on a journey through flight history. Another museum to see is the Washington County Rural Heritage Museum, with displays of rural life from the late 1800s.These are just a few of the options, making Hagerstown a great place to spend a cultural afternoon.
10. Go to A Revival - The Revival of Fort Ritchie, our newest village.
Mission Impossible: Explore the world of espionage at the Ritchie Museum, with exhibits on the fort's role in World War II, the Cold War, and the National Security Agency. Explore the grounds of this revitalized Army post with a hon the trails that weave through the serene grounds, offering breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For a touch of the contemporary, visit the on-site cafe, brewery and art gallery,
Bonus Cool-Down Tips:
Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.
Seek shade, especially during the hottest part of the day (usually between 10 am and 4 pm).
Wear loose, lightweight clothing made from breathable fabrics.
Have a fantastic Summer!
