Let’s face it, summers in Georgia are HOT! They are! They are hot for Georgia natives and even more so for people not accustomed to the humidity combined with the heat. So…what do you do? Read further for tips on How To Beat The Georgia Heat.
Hydrate
Hydration is probably one of the easiest and most important things you can do to help beat the heat. Drink lots of water. Cool water is better than cold water to hydrate because your body has to bring the cold water’s temperature up before it is effective. Cutting back on sodas and caffeinated drinks helps too! If you know that you will be out in the heat, start drinking water the night before. When you are well hydrated, your body works more efficiently to cool itself off. It also replaces all the water your body will lose through sweat. Because (let’s be honest), getting ready in the morning here in the south is enough to make anyone sweat.
Nothing beats the refreshing taste of natural spring water, and Cave Spring has the purest water around. All year people from all over head to Cave Spring to fill up water jugs with the best water anywhere to be found. During the summer, you can cool off by splashing in the creek, or you can pay a small fee and swim in the pool.
Make A Splash
Water activities are always a good option in the south. Rome has plenty of excellent choices for getting cooled off with water. From a splash pad to kayaking down one of three of Rome’s famous rivers, there is something for everyone.
The Town Green is located in the heart of downtown and is an excellent place to take the kids to splash around. It is a tribute to the three rivers that run through Rome and has a splash pad and fountains. There are swings around the area for relaxing and grassy places where you can spread a towel or blanket out to sit in the shade or have a picnic. It is located downtown behind the Rome Area History Museum, in front of the Forum, and along the river. It is within walking distance of restaurants, ice cream shops, boutique stores, and a parking deck.
The Rocky Mountain Project is also a great area. It offers many outdoor options, including fishing, swimming, boating, and camping. We usually take one day to go to Rocky Mountain Project with the family in the summer. Granny fishes while the kids ride on the paddle boat or swim. You can bring a picnic lunch or bring along some hot dogs and cook them on the provided grills near the pavilion area. There are lots of shady areas around the recreation area to enjoy. There is also a sandy beach area with a roped-off designated swimming area. Remember, sunscreen and bug spray are essential when enjoying the outdoors in Georgia.
Northside Swim Center is a popular place to swim or host a private party. It is open daily during the summer. You can pay for a one-day pass, or they offer season passes.
A growing popular pastime in the area is enjoying time on the rivers that flow through the heart of Rome. If you don’t have a Kayak or you didn’t want to lug it around on your trip to Rome, don’t worry; there are a couple of options for getting out on the water. River Dog Outpost rents stand-up paddleboards. River Ratz offers tubes and kayaks for rental.
Museums
If water is not your idea of a good time, there are other options to keep cool. I have always been intrigued by museums. Yes, even as a kid, I found them fascinating. I love history and museums tell us so much information. Rome’s beautiful Berry College has the home of Martha Berry and Oak Hill Museum, and there is the Rome Area History Museum on Broad Street and the Chieftains Museum at Ridge Ferry Park.
Shopping
Broad Street is lined with all kinds of air-conditioned boutiques and restaurants that are unique to our town. There are a variety of shops for any taste.
Outdoor Activities
Morning and evening activities are always a good option for fresh air. Rome and Floyd County have several parks and walking trails that are well shaded. Some of the parks feature tennis courts, ball fields, and playgrounds.
While checking out Etowah Park, we ran into a group of guys skateboarding. They were excited when we asked if they could demonstrate their skills. Check them out!
Even though the summer heat is enough to make the devil find an air conditioner, there are ways to get around it. No promises that you will not still sweat, but you can make the best of it and have a great time.
The tips from water activities to finding shade to the indoors with air conditioning are so important. We live in Arizona and get to use these same tips. My favorite are water park activities. 🙂
We moved to Atlanta a couple years ago and while it’s been slow getting to know the area I’m excited to get to explore the many fascinating parts of Georgia. Rome will definitely be on the list to check out the downtown area. Thanks for the guide!!
With 3 rivers in Rome , many people are canoeing and kyacking . But the town green is awesome for the kids. Thanks for the information.