3 Ways to Cool Off This Summer

Audubon’s Cool Zoo Splash Park
The new attraction at the Audubon Zoo features kid-friendly “splash zones” for cooling off in the scorching heat. Attractions include jumping waterspouts, an alligator water slide, water-spitting snakes, shaded seating and a “Snack ‘N’ Splash” concession stand. Cost is $4 for Audubon members and $5 for nonmembers. Visit auduboninstitute.org for more information.

Snowballs
 The New Orleans summertime staple is the perfect way to stay refreshed in the heat and humidity. Whether you prefer condensed milk, light on the syrup, gummy bears or stuffed with ice cream, everyone has a favorite. My personal choice? Lemon Meringue Pie from Williams’ Plum Street (1300 Burdette St.), though other popular local picks are Hansen’s (4801 Tchoupitoulas St.) and Sal’s (1823 Metairie Road).

Go to the Movies A timeless summer tradition to escape the heat and humidity is to duck into a dark, air-conditioned movie theater. New Orleans offers a wide variety of options, including the dinner-and-a-movie setup at The Theatres at Canal Place (333 Canal St., thetheatres.com), where you can order hors d’oeuvres, gourmet popcorn, meals and cocktails at the press of a button at your seat. For a more old-school experience, catch a classic movie screening at The Prytania Theatre (5339 Prytania St., theprytania.com).

Sizzling Summer Deals
Auraluz, 4408 Shores Drive, Metairie, 888-3313, auraluzlinensgifts.com
Auraluz, a linen, gift and children’s boutique, has been creating hand-embroidered children’s clothing for more than 42 years. The store in Metairie sells quality items, including gifts for every occasion such as christenings, birthdays, graduation, weddings and anniversaries, from its own line as well as others. The store is currently offering weekly specials all summer long and new items arriving daily. Some recent items include fragrances like Mandarin Coriander from Thymes, watches from S.T.A.M.P.S. and shoes from Monkey Toes.  The store is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

– Samantha Hyde

Summer at the Beach
The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, (850) 267-9500, hiltonsandestinebeach.com
The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is offering special rates and packages for the summer months. The full-service beachfront resort offers an array of amenities available to guests including 15 tennis courts, four golf courses, 24-hour self-service business center, 11,000 square-foot spa and fitness center and a variety of dining options, including the AAA Four-Diamond restaurant Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood. In August, the resort is offering special value rates and end-of-summer packages including Labor Day savings.

– S.H.

 

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