Boston has no lack of cooling oases. When the mercury rises, escape to any of these 10 attractions for a soothing summer respite.
Frosty treats abound at this Vermont-based purveyor of frozen goodness. Chill with ice cream, frozen yogurt, smoothies and more at one of its four local outposts. 174 Newbury St., 617-536-5456; 20 Park Plaza, 617-426-0890; plus two more locations, Benjerry.com
Christopher Columbus Park
Named for the famed explorer, his green space on the North End waterfront features a spray fountain for the little ones, as well as a wisteria trellis and other shaded spots for keeping out of the sun. North End along Atlantic Ave., foccp.org
Boston Common Frog Pond
Perhaps better known for its wintertime skating rink, this area in the center of Boston Common converts to a wading pool and spray fountain in the summer, perfect for cooling overheated feet both large and small. 617-635-2120, bostonfrogpond.com
Christian Science Plaza
Part of the extensive Christian Science campus, the I.M. Pei-designed plaza is home to a cooling spray fountain as well as a smooth-as-glass, 670-foot-long reflecting pool. Leafy linden trees provide ample shade along Huntington Avenue and Belvidere Street. 210 Massachusetts Ave., 617-450-2000, christianscience.com
Carson Beach
Located in South Boston, this sandy beach is part of a three-mile stretch of scenic shoreline. Take a refreshing dip, travel down o the JFK Library or up to Castle Island, or simply just relax and enjoy the sea breeze. William J. Day Boulevard
Boston Public Garden
Plenty of shade, decorative fountains and a man-made lagoon aren’t the only highlights at America’s oldest public botanical garden. You can also take a breezy, relaxing ride on the venerable Swan Boats. Friendsofthepublicgarden.org
Malibu Beach
No, this isn’t California, but this gem in Dorchester does boast a protected, sandy shoreline overlooking the landmark gas tank containing Corita Kent’s colorful design, the largest copyrighted artwork in the world. Morrissey Boulevard, 617-727-5290
Boston Harbor Islands
Take a cruise from Long Wharf into Boston Harbor to visit one of the city’s hidden gems. The Harbor Islands are numerous, and are home to beaches, hiking trails, fishing and historic sites. Enjoy cool ocean breezes with the city skyline as a distant backdrop. 617-223-8666, bostonharborislands.org; ferry: bostonharborcruises.com
Frost Ice Bar
Cool not cold enough? How about ice cold? It’s always 21° F at the largest permanent indoor ice bar in the world. Everything—from the walls to the furniture to the glass-ware—is made from ice. Handy parkas and gloves are provided with admission. Faneuil Hall Marketplace, 617-307-7331, frosticebar.com