10 Great Places to Cool Off in Longmont This Summer
When the Colorado sun turns up the heat, there’s no need to stay indoors. Whether you’re looking for a shady park, a refreshing swim, or a cool drink on a patio, Longmont has plenty of ways to beat the heat. Even better, several exciting new cooling projects are making the city even more comfortable for residents and visitors alike.
Here are 10 places to stay cool in Longmont this summer.
- Cool Down at Lanyon Park’s New Mist Sprayer
Need a quick way to escape the afternoon heat? Head to Lanyon Park, where a new cooling mist sprayer was installed earlier this year. It’s the perfect stop for families with a playground, nearby seating, shade, and refreshing mist that’s sure to delight kids and adults.
- Relax Under the Trees at Collyer Park
One of Longmont’s oldest neighborhood parks is also one of its coolest, literally. Collyer Park features towering, mature trees that provide plenty of shade, along with pickleball and tennis courts, shaded picnic areas, and an accessible playground. It’s a great place to spend a summer afternoon without baking in the sun. - Visit the Cooling Tent at Unity in the Community
If you’re attending Unity in the Community on August 28 from 4–8 p.m. in downtown Longmont, be sure to stop by the Cooling Tent. You’ll find refreshing giveaways (yes, literally!) along with practical tips for keeping your home cooler while saving energy and money. - Get Ready for the Kensington Park Splash Pad
Phase 2 construction of the “Resilient Together” Neighborhood Cooling Project is expected to begin later this summer. The project includes a brand-new splash pad at Kensington Park. Once complete, it will feature interactive water play for children of all ages and shaded seating, making it an even better cool community space. - Support Local Sustainable Businesses
Cooling off can be as simple as grabbing an iced coffee, enjoying a cold craft beer, or browsing your favorite local shop. More than 150 Longmont businesses participate in the Sustainable Business Program, committing to reduce energy use, conserve resources, and help build a more sustainable community. Your next cool treat can also support local businesses making a positive impact. - Watch for Longmont’s First Fruit Tree Hub
The Sustainable Business Program is partnering with TLC Learning Center to plant Longmont’s first Fruit Tree Hub, an orchard open to the public, later this year. In addition to providing apples, plums, pears and an assortment of berries to the community, the trees will create much-needed shade and help reduce neighborhood temperatures which is a win for both people and the environment. - Escape to Button Rock Preserve
Looking for a naturally cooler getaway? Button Rock Preserve sits about 1,500 feet higher in elevation than downtown Longmont, meaning temperatures are often 5 to 6 degrees cooler. Shaded forest trails and the beautiful reservoir views make it an ideal destination for a summer hike. - Dive Into Longmont’s Public Pools
Nothing says summer like a day at the pool. Longmont operates five public pools, including Centennial Pool, Sunset Pool, Roosevelt Activity Pool, Kanemoto Activity Pool, and the Recreation Center Pool. Whether you want to swim laps, splash with the kids, or simply cool off, there’s a pool for everyone in Longmont. - Paddle at Union Reservoir
Although the swim beach remains closed this season, Union Reservoir is still a fantastic place to spend a warm day. Bring your paddleboard or kayak, enjoy the breeze on the water, and soak in the beautiful mountain views. - Keep an Eye Out for Longmont’s First “Cool Stop”
A unique new public art installation is coming to the bus stop at 3rd Avenue and Martin Street. Called Sunbelt, the project will provide much-needed shade for transit riders while drawing attention to the growing impacts of extreme heat. It’s an innovative example of how public art can make everyday spaces more comfortable and resilient.
Stay Cool All Summer Long
From shady parks and mountain trails to splash pads, pools, and innovative cooling projects, Longmont offers plenty of ways to beat the summer heat. Whether you’re exploring somewhere new or revisiting an old favorite, you’ll find that staying cool can also mean supporting local businesses, enjoying public spaces, and helping build a more resilient community.
What’s your favorite way to cool off? Let us know on our Summer Heat and Cooling Solutions webpage, where you can learn more about how the City is preparing for rising temperatures and cast a vote for your favorite way to keep cool.
