Five Ways to Beat the August Heat in Montclair
Image courtesy of Rachel Dykstra
by Ryan Siss
Let’s face it, the temperatures this summer have been brutal, and it shows no signs of slowing down. With countless power outages due to above-average temperatures and multiple heat advisories, I can’t imagine too many people are excited that we’re entering the month of August - traditionally one of the hottest, muggiest, and humid months of the year for us in the northeast.
Here are a few things that are fun, entertaining, and are sure to keep you cool if we’ll be getting the August heat we’re expecting:
Image courtesy of Mountainside Pool
Duh, right? Pools are synonymous with summer weather but hear me out. The great thing about the Mountainside Pool is its location - right on Upper Mountain Ave next to a ball field, tennis courts, and park - not to mention Presby Iris Gardens is across the street. So, if you’re like me and need to be continually moving instead of laying out, you have options. Maybe get some exercise or smell some flowers beforehand to really earn that pool time. The park has a good amount of shade, so if you want to get out of the sun just bring your towel and walk across the street.
2. Bars and Restaurants
Image courtesy of Just Jakes
Montclair is known for its exciting bars, restaurant, and downtown scene, so just add “escaping the heat” as another reason to check out some new places and frequent some of your favorites. We all know the hospitality industry got demolished by COVID, and Montclair is no exception. Now, I’m not telling you to hit the bars in the middle of the day and throw some back - well, I guess am - but enjoy responsibly and know that you’re making a difference by supporting local businesses. If you’re looking for suggestions, you should check out Just Jake’s for sports and live music, Egan & Son’s for large outdoor patio space, and/or Tierney’s for that authentic Irish pub experience. Either way, you get great food and drink options that people travel for, most, if not all, the bars and restaurants are temperature controlled, and you’re financially backing your community. Win-win-win.
Image courtesy of Floyd Hall Arena
The Ice Arena, located on the edge of MSU’s campus, offers a range of activities based on your interests. Maybe you don’t know how to skate and want to learn a new skill - take a lesson! Have kids that need to burn through some energy? Hit Open Skate and let them loose. Want to relive the glory days of when you played hockey? Sign-up for Stick and Puck to practice or shootaround, and/or join an adult league and get some exercise while increasing your social circle.
Image courtesy of Montclair Public Library
Yes, physical books still exist, and they’re located in buildings that generally have good A/C (two thumbs up for government-funded buildings). Bring your headphones and listen to music, write that novel you know that’s inside you or, I don’t know, read a book?! Libraries by nature (and constant librarian enforcement) are also very quiet, so if you’re looking to get away from the noise while staying cool at the same time, this is your place. Also great for students who haven’t started their summer reading or homework yet. The Montclair Public Library is on S. Fullerton St., only moments away from downtown Montclair. Check out their website to find out their hours of operation during the week.
5. Ice Cream
Image courtesy of Kreme & Krumbs
I’d be remiss if this wasn’t included on the list. Montclair has some of the best ice cream and gelato shops around. In fact, a pop-up shop just opened on Bloomfield Ave, Kreme & Krumbs, that has incredible flavors as well as hand-crafted waffle cones made right when you order (2-3 minutes additional wait time). Check out their ice cream sandwiches, which are noted to be their staple. Also, their tagline is “A Dope Ass Ice Cream Shop,” so there’s that.
Have any suggestions on other activities or places to go? We’d love to hear them! Follow us on Instagram at @montclair.NEWJERSEY and subscribe to our newsletter (bottom of the page) to stay up-to-date on all things Montclair!
