Beat the summertime heat Great Ways to Stay Cool in Austin

Archer's welcoming patio with a Lone Star-adorned splash pool, fabric-laden cabanas and a 14-foot TV — made even better by gourmet poolside eats and drinks, all at Archer's luxe hotel.

Get to Barton Creek Farmers Market early before the temps rise and then retreat inside to cook something fresh and seasonal.

Viva Day Spa is a relaxing hideaway just steps from our luxe hotel — try one of its famous spa packages.

Paddleboard, kayak, canoe — get out and hit Lady Bird Lake to beat the heat.

Cool, dark and afternoon matinee prices make the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema the best place to stash away for a few hours on those scorching afternoons.

Looking for a great family activity near you? Let the kids splash and run wild at Beachside Billy's— a beloved water park at Lake Travis.

Step off North Lamar in downtown Austin, grab a Vietnamese iced coffee and discover your next favorite book at BookPeople.

After exploring all the fun things to do in Austin, the sweetest way to beat the heat is with a cold treat. Luckily, this town has options. Some of our favorites:

• Frost Gelato — more flavor, creamier and healthier than traditional ice cream
• Amy’s Ice Creams — famous for its Mexican Vanilla flavor
• Cow Tipping Creamery — serious soft serve

Peruse beautiful works of art and Texas treasures — in air conditioning, no less:

• Blanton Museum of Art — new and old favorites from across the ages through a year-round schedule of traveling exhibitions
• Bullock Texas State History Museum — the story of Texas via ever-changing exhibitions, innovative films and unique programs and events

Rediscover what you missed in history class with great exhibits and compelling relics at the LBJ Presidential Library.