
1 minute read
Beat the heat with these cold summer retreats
By Maya Gelb @mayagelbie
As triple digit-temperatures arrive this summer, here are a few things you can do to keep cool.
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Salt & Straw
We’ve all had ice cream on a hot summer day before. Vanilla, chocolate, strawberry… take your pick. But for anyone who wants to try something new, Salt & Straw is for you. Their range of flavors is broad: you can have Double Fold Vanilla or Chocolate Gooey Brownie, Arbequina Olive Oil or Pear and Blue Cheese. You can also try one of their limited edition flavors — they change about every four weeks, their current flavors being Pistachio with Saffron & Rose Water and Black Olive Brittle & Goat Cheese. You can get a pint for $12.50, or up to four scoops of your choice for $14.95.
Santa Monica Pier

While the Santa Monica Pier originally gained its reputation for being the best fishing spot in Santa Monica, it is now known for its family-friendly activities, street performers, restaurants and stores. Access to the pier is free but places such as the amusement park cost money. Plus the pier is, as the name suggests, on the beach, so if you want to cool off you can just hop in the ocean!
Heal The Bay Aquarium
Located on the Santa Monica Pier, the Heal the Bay Aquarium is home to over 100 local species and was founded to protect the animals that call the West Coast home. The aquarium boasts hands-on activities where you can touch sea life and experience educational programs. It’s right by the beach too so it’s nice and cool. Adults (anyone 13+) can get in for only $10.00, while those 12 and under get in free (as long as an adult accompanies them). For groups of five or more adults, it’s $7 each and for 10+ children its $3.00 each.
Cinespia outdoor movies
Recently, we’ve all been heading back to movie theaters after a year of being stuck at home with our streaming services. For those who enjoy the cool, open air, there is Cinespia, a Los Angeles-based organization showing classic films throughout the whole year. They have showings at many locations, including the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, which will surely make for a unique movie-viewing experience. Tickets range from $20.00 to $22.00, which includes a picnic beforehand and on-site parking costs extra.