Everyone needs to take time to cool down on a hot summer day, and we have some great ideas that have never made it more fun to chill out. Some of the best things in Vermont are keeping warm in the winter and cooling off in the summer, and now that the warmer weather is here, it's time to have some fun in the sun! If you have been wondering about the best things to do when it's hot in Vermont and searching for "places to cool off near me," you're in the right place!

1. Quench your thirst for knowledge at the Montshire Museum of Science.

Want to stay cool and not let your brain melt in the hot weather in Vermont? Check out the Montshire Museum of Science which has many outdoor water-based learning exhibits.

2. Jump in feet first at the Bolton Potholes.

Vermonters love a good swimming hole when the sun is shining, and the Bolton Potholes are a popular go-to.

3. Deep in the heart of Texas … Falls.

An easy hike, a stunning sight, and a natural place to cool down, Texas Falls is a great place to check out this summer.

4. Harriman Reservoir

This pretty spot is great for swimming the day away, and while you’re at it – stay for dinner because you can find grills here for day use!

5. Hit North Beach!

Not only is this Burlington’s largest beach, but it’s also the only one with active lifeguards during the summer. Spend the day on the sandy shore, or take advantage of the rental kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards as well as the food concessions, a playground, restrooms with showers, picnic tables, and grills, North Beach has something for everyone.

6. Make a night of it — camp at North Beach Campground.

You'll find shady sites upon the sandy shores of Lake Champlain, this campground has 137 sites for a tent or RV, along with grills, BBQ pits, fire rings, picnic tables, a playground, and, obviously, North Beach.

7. Chill out with a Stowe Cider.

Grab an ice-cold cider in their new location on Mountain Road in Stowe. Cool down and see why SevenDaysVT has nominated them the best hard cider in Vermont. You’ve got to love the locals who use local ingredients!

8. Kayak and paddleboard at the Somerset Reservoir.

Along with flat waters for some epic paddling, this is a great area to spot moose, black bears, minks, otters, and beavers.

9. Get a rush river tubing.

Great River Outfitters is a four-season outdoor adventure mecca located in Windsor. Located on the Connecticut River, river tubing has never been so exciting! Also available are canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and deluxe camping next to the scenic Path of Life Sculpture Garden.

10. Spend the day on Burton Island.

What makes this state park so special is that it can only be accessible by boat or ferry. A great place to disconnect from electronics and enjoy the peacefulness of the island.

11. Dive into the Dorset Quarry.

A spectacular place for quarry jumping, this is a great place to cool down, but it’s not for the faint of heart! Please be respectful of the property here and take out what you take in. In fact, if you see any litter, please take it with you.

12. Enjoy a maple Creemee.

Treat your taste buds to a refreshing Vermont maple creemee from your local mom-and-pop shop.

13. Drop into a Vermont Brewery.

Drop in at the Drop In Brewery in Middlebury. Have a sample and see the operations all from the same spot. A great place to grab a quick cold one. Summer days call for an ice cold beer – make that an ice cold VT craft beer!

14. Take a Hike!

Stay shady underneath the shade of the leaves in the Groton State Forest, which is also a great place for remote camping and mountain bike trails.

15. Fore!

If you’re going to sweat, you may as well do it on the green! It’s more fun than a sauna and better exercise! If you like spending time in parks in Vermont, you'll like a golf course, too!

16. Mountain Bike to cool places.

Millstone Trails in Websterville has some of the best mountain bike trails in Vermont. Great for running, hiking, or biking, this place was created around 75 quarries, so you’ll find many places to cool down along your trails!

This summer in Vermont is about to be the best yet! If you're planning to take a road trip to see all of these fantastic places, take a look at The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List by OnlyInYourState. Stay cool, Vermont lovers!