Cool Off in the North Shore: Best Spots to Beat the Summer Heat
Summer in the North Shore is beautiful — but let’s be honest, it can also be hot. When the temps rise and you need a break from the blazing sun, we’ve got you covered. From frozen treats and shady parks to splash pads and air-conditioned escapes, here are some of the best places to chill out and beat the heat right here in the North Shore.
🍦 Frozen Treat Stops
Nothing says summer like something sweet and icy. These local favorites will help you cool off in the most delicious way.
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Kopp’s Frozen Custard (Glendale)
A North Shore staple serving rich, creamy custard in rotating flavors. Grab a cone or sundae and enjoy it in the shade. -
Fitzy’s Cafe (Shorewood)
A cozy neighborhood spot serving scoops of Cedar Crest ice cream alongside a full café menu. Stop in for a cone, sundae, or even an ice cream float. -
Goody Gourmets (Glendale)
While they’re known for their gourmet popcorn, they also offer chocolates and other cool snacks. Bonus: it’s always delightfully cool inside.
🌳 Shady Parks & Lakefront Escapes
Looking for a breezy picnic or shady stroll? These parks offer natural relief from the summer heat.
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Doctors Park (Fox Point)
Winding wooded trails lead to the Lake Michigan shoreline. Enjoy the shade and a breeze off the water. -
Estabrook Park (Shorewood/Glendale)
A mix of wooded trails, green space, and a riverside beer garden. Cool down with a walk or a local brew in the shade. -
Schlitz Audubon Nature Center (Bayside)
Not your typical “cool down” spot, but perfect for walking shaded forest trails that lead to a peaceful, breezy lakeshore.
💦 Splash Pads & Water Fun
Let the kids run wild (or join in yourself!) at these splash zones and waterfront spots.
- Schulz Aquatic Center (Lincoln Park, Glendale)
This water park has it all — giant slides, a lazy river, a zero-depth entry pool, and fun features for younger kids. It’s the ultimate way to cool down on a hot day. - Atwater Park (Shorewood)
Follow the staircase or bluff path down to the beach and enjoy direct access to Lake Michigan. Whether you dip your toes in or go for a full swim, the lake is always refreshingly cool.
❄️ Air-Conditioned Indoor Fun
When it’s just too hot to be outside, escape to one of these cool (literally) indoor spots.
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Bayshore Mall (Glendale)
Plenty of shopping, snacking, and even a movie theater to beat the heat for a few hours. Don’t miss Crumbl Cookies or Kilwins for a cool treat. -
Whitefish Bay Public Library
Quiet, calm, and air-conditioned — perfect for kids, families, or anyone who wants to relax with a good book. -
Nicolet High School Pool (when open to the public)
Check the community schedule — this is a great local option for cooling off with a swim.
☕️ Cafés & Cool Hangouts
Beat the heat with an iced latte or cold brew in these cozy indoor (or shaded outdoor) coffee spots.
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Colectivo Coffee (Shorewood)
Enjoy a refreshing iced drink on their shaded patio or escape inside for some AC and good vibes. -
Stone Creek Coffee (Glendale)
Spacious and cool, with plenty of seating and a full menu of chilled coffee and tea drinks. Great for working, reading, or relaxing.
☀️ Stay Cool, North Shore
You don’t have to suffer through the summer sun — not when the North Shore has so many ways to cool down in style. Whether you’re grabbing a custard cone, strolling through the woods, or ducking into a coffee shop, your perfect summer escape is just around the corner.