Above: I’m offering some options for avoiding the hot sun or the rain this summer. (images L-R cropped from pic by Luis Graterol on Unsplash and ℳ adeline on flickr)

The weather report is calling for a hot afternoon today in Southborough followed by heavy rain tomorrow. Both forecasts may have you looking for indoor options to entertain yourself/your family – beyond staring at your own screens.

I also understand that those without A/C (or with inefficient ones) may be less interested in entertainment than simply escaping the heat on hot afternoons this summer.

(For those who aren’t put off by fun in the hot sun, as long as there is water to play in, click here for my post on nearby splash pads, wading pools and lakes.)

Most of the local options below are geared to families with kids. But there are also ones good for teens and adults (especially if you’re young at heart!) 

The Southborough Public Library is open today until 5:00 pm. In high heat, it can be a little warmer than usual – but certainly better than outdoors. Find a comfy chair and a good book to curl up with. The “Teen Space” is a good area for young adults to hang out. And the Children’s Room offers lots of summer reading activities for younger kids. (Hours are 10-5 on Monday and Friday, 10-9 Tues-Thurs.) This morning is their annual 4th of July parade for kids beginning at 11am.   Unfortunately, our Library is closed on weekends in July & August. Fortunately, Northborough, Marlborough, Westborough, Hopkinton and Hudson are all open on Saturdays this summer – and on the same library card system as Southborough. So you can check materials out there and return them in Southborough (or vice versa). (Framingham and Ashland are also open, but they’re not on the same lending system.)

Indoor Play for a price

Now – where do you like to find indoor fun for kids? Post your favorite places below.

(I’m especially curious if anyone knows of drop in or one-day-at-a-time gymnastics options for toddlers and preschoolers. I haven’t seen any options in recent years.)

Here's an easy way to stay up to date with Southborough happenings.