Heat wave: what to do with kids when it's really hot? 10 cool ideas
When the thermometer climbs above 30 °C, kids don't handle the heat well. Here are ten outings to cool off: in the water, or somewhere air-conditioned.
In short: in the water, beaches, splash pads and the Olympic Park Sports Centre pool; in the cool, Atrium Le 1000 (a rink open year-round!), the Biodôme and the movies.
Swim
1. Olympic Park Sports Centre
Quebec's largest aquatic centre, with a wading pool and splash features during public swims.
- 3200 Rue Viau, Montreal
- See the listing
2. Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park
A beach on Lac des Deux Montagnes, in Montreal itself. Arrive early on heat-wave days.
- 20099 Gouin Boulevard West (Pierrefonds)
- See the listing
3. Oceania
A fully covered water park, out of the sun, with slides and a pool.
- 107 Rue de l'Industrie, Beloeil
- See the listing
4. Village Vacances Valcartier
The outdoor water park with 35 water slides, or the indoor Bora Parc, near Quebec City.
- 2280 Valcartier Boulevard, Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier
- See the listing
5. Splash pads
Free in most municipal parks. See also our articles Water parks and splash pads and Family beaches.
Stay cool
6. Atrium Le 1000
Skating in midsummer? Yes: this downtown indoor rink is open year-round.
- 1000 De La Gauchetière Street West, Montreal
- See the listing
7. Montreal Biodôme
Five ecosystems under one roof, including the polar regions.
- 4777 Avenue Pierre-De Coubertin, Montreal
- See the listing
8. Montreal Science Centre
Interactive exhibits and an IMAX theatre at the Old Port.
- King-Edward Pier, Montreal
- See the listing
9. Cosmodôme
Space missions and simulators, in Laval.
- 2150 Autoroute des Laurentides, Laval
- See the listing
10. The movies
The ultimate air-conditioned outing: see our article Family movie theatres in Greater Montreal.
Our tips
- Avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.: do outdoor outings early in the morning or late in the day.
- Have kids drink often, even if they don't say they're thirsty.
- Sunscreen, hats and light clothing; never leave a child alone in a car.
Frequently asked questions
Where can we go with kids during a Montreal heat wave?
The Olympic Park Sports Centre, the beach at Cap-Saint-Jacques, or somewhere cool like the Biodôme, the Science Centre and Atrium Le 1000.
Is there an indoor water park near Montreal?
Yes, Oceania in Beloeil, fully covered.
Can we skate in summer in Montreal?
Yes, at Atrium Le 1000 downtown, open year-round.
Information checked on October 13, 2026. Prices and hours may change: confirm with each place before you go.
