Cooling Off

BEST PLACES TO COOL OFF AROUND ATLANTA

Atlanta and the surrounding metro area have plenty of places to stay cool this summer. Check out our list to make a splash this season.

SHOOT THE HOOCH!

The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area makes up a series of parklands along the Chattahoochee River, roughly 48 miles. This river flows through the northern metro area of Atlanta. Float down the river (or shoot the ‘hooch) with help from these outfitters. Nantahala Outdoor Center Outposts: The locations of Powers Island and Johnson Ferry along the river have rental outposts for tubing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and inflatable kayaks. Azalea Park and Don White Memorial Park along the Sandy Springs and Roswell border offer craft and equipment rentals.

High Country Outfitters Paddle Shack at Morgan Falls Overlook: This Sandy Springs location offers stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and programming such as Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga. Well-behaved dogs are welcome. www.highcountryoutfitters.com

The Chattahoochee Nature Center offers guided canoe trips, suitable for all levels. The nature center provides all equipment for guests. River Canoe Trips are for all skill levels (ages 6 and up) and take 2.5 hours. Family canoe days and date night canoe trips are offered. www.chattnaturecenter.org

CHASING CREEKS AND WATERFALLS

Hike or run the Morningside Nature Preserve featuring a sandy beach and tall swing bridge on South Peachtree Creek. Hike Cascade Springs Nature Preserve to a beautiful waterfall and a historic springhouse. In Roswell, the Roswell Mill Waterfall is a popular place for locals to get wet.

LAKE LANIER

About an hour north of the city is Lake Lanier. Margaritaville at Lanier Islands has a water park, marina, sunset cruises and pontoon boat rentals, a beach and several restaurants. Don Carter State Park is located on Lake Lanier and offers aqua cycling, fishing, biking, a beach and paddleboard and kayak rentals. www.lanierislands.com

MAKE A SPLASH AT ATTRACTIONS

Splash pads can be found at Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta Botanical Garden, the Fountain of Rings at Centennial Olympic Park, Old Fourth Ward playground and Piedmont Park. Water parks around town are located at Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags Over Georgia in Austell and Six Flags White Water in Marietta.

Please check online before going for COVID-19 requirements.