Get a lucky strike. If you’re looking for an inexpensive, social activity to let off some summer steam, bowling might be, ahem, right up your alley. St. Louis offers no shortage of excellent bowling alleys where the beer is always flowing and the vibe is always summery. Novice bowlers, start with Pin-Up Bowl on Delmar, Saratoga Lanes in Maplewood or Flamingo Bowl downtown.
Catch a movie at the Hi-Pointe Theatre. You just may find yourself ordering a hot tea in the middle of July—that’s how cold they keep it at the Hi-Pointe. Arguably one of the best theaters in the city for its historic charm (and amazing buttery popcorn), it’s also an ideal place to dip into a well-air conditioned, dark room for a few hours and actually feel great when you walk back outside into the blazing heat. You might even want to bring a sweater. 1005 McCausland.
Float the lazy river at The Lodge in Des Peres. The Lodge welcomes non-residents and residents alike to its Aquatic Center, which is a fun attraction for kids—and perhaps even a sweeter treat for adults who want to melt into The Lodge’s lazy river. The Lodge also features a beautiful indoor lap pool for a summer workout that won’t cause overheating. Adult admission is $9 for non-residents, $7 for residents. 1050 Des Peres Road.
Go on a poolside staycation the Cheshire Inn. A poolside bar, live music, and tasty hors d’oeuvres: You’re definitely not roughing it at the Cheshire Inn’s Poolside Terrance. The pubic is welcome to use the pool for a $30 food and beverage minimum, which still beats the cost of a night out with dinner and entertainment. Relax with a cocktail, and enjoy poolside live music, which is scheduled most weekends of the summer.
Photography courtesy of Narwhal's Crafted Urban Ice
Sip on a boozy slushie. It’s not day drinking when you’re just trying to stay cool, right? With nautical décor, comfy chairs on the back patio, and inventive twists on tropical slushies, going to Narwhal’s Crafted Urban Ice is a little like a going on a beach vacation. Sip on any of the dozen creative concoctions “on tap”—from the Pineapple Cilantro Margarita, to Elderflower Gin Fizz, or the Rhubarb Paloma—or get a flight to mix it up. Want a more traditional smoothie? Try these six other local joints for fruity beverages. 3906 Laclede.
