Summer in the south can get hot. REALLY hot. But Washington has your cool-off and chill-out adventure covered. Here are some ways to beat the heat while having fun.
Rent a kayak or paddle boat
To get out on the water easily and feel that river breeze, rent a kayak, paddle boat, or standup paddleboard.
Inner Banks Outfitters has a great selection of kayaks for rent or sale. Single or tandem are available. They even have stand up paddle boards and offer SUP yoga classes. https://www.innerbanksoutfitters.com/
River Vibes also rents kayaks and paddle boats. After your adventure on the water, have a fruit smoothie or refresher from their smoothie bar. https://rivervibes.wixsite.com/smoothiesandrentals
Splash pad
Washington’s newest hot weather-buster is the city owned splash pad at 214 E. 6th Street. Kids of all ages will enjoy the cool sprayers and whimsical atmosphere. Plenty of shade is on hand for parents.
https://www.washingtonnc.gov/departments/parks___recreation/parks_and_recreation_facilities.php
Charter a boat
Washington has several options for boat charters.
Across the Sounds Charters has charter tours with Captain Bobby on the Dauntless.
Captain Mike Bateman can take you out for fishing or leisure on the Foxy Lady.
If fishing is your main goal, get in touch with FishIBX – Captain Mitch Blake or Tar-Pam Guide Service – Captain Richard Andrews.
https://www.easternncfishingguide.com/
Goose Creek State Park
Situated right on the Pamlico River, Goose Creek State Park’s swim beach is perfect if you’re looking for a beach-like experience without driving all the way to the ocean. Bring your lounge chairs and picnic baskets. Family-friendly with plenty of riverfront beach, picnic tables, and even public grills, the park is the perfect way to cool out on hot summer days. Be sure to check out the educational nature center while you’re there. https://www.ncparks.gov/state-parks/goose-creek-state-park
NC Estuarium
An educational environmental showcase that teaches about the Pamlico-Albemarle Estuary system, this is the first of its kind in the world. Get out of the heat and enjoy interactive exhibits, a film about the history of the estuary, and see some of the estuarine life in the center.
A roving riverboat tour runs Wednesday through Saturday. The boat tour is free, but reservations are required as seats fill up fast. https://www.ncpfs.org/nc-estuarium
Catch a show at the Turnage Theatre
If you want to beat the heat inside with air conditioning, seeing a show at the Turnage Theatre may fit the bill. The Turnage houses one of the oldest arts councils in the state. The theatre regularly presents art exhibits in its gallery, and features everything from musical concerts, classic and children’s movies, plays, karaoke and open mic nights. https://artsofthepamlico.org/
Ice Cream from Scoops on Main or Dairy Palace
Nothing beats warm temps like a cold, sweet treat. Visit Scoops on Main for ice cream, sundaes, and milkshakes. https://www.facebook.com/MainStreetScoops
Also, The Dairy Palace on Bridge Street is a walk-up ice cream stand and grill.https://www.facebook.com/DairyPalaceWashington/
Enjoy a cold adult beverage at one of the pubs downtown
For grown-ups looking to cool off and relax, there are some great pubs and breweries downtown that offer inside and outside seating, as well as river views. Washington has a social district so you can sip, shop, and explore at your leisure. Look for the signs for social district parameters and participating businesses.
Whether you want to be on the water, in the water, or just chill inside with fun activities, Washington has something for everyone to beat the heat this summer.
Plan your summer adventure now at https://visitwashingtonnc.com/#/.