Visit Furman Aquatic Center. This aquatic center has everything to offer, including a zero-entry pool for the little ones, water slides, a 50-meter pool and a lazy river. It is located on 13th Street, just east of Frederiksen Court. The cost for ISU students is $4.50 and the hours for open swim are 1 to 8 p.m.

Eat some Tropical Sno, frozen yogurt or ice cream. If you’re into snow cones as much as I am, you’ll definitely want to check out the Tropical Sno stand on the corner of Grand Avenue and 30th Street, in the parking lot of North Grand Mall. They have a huge variety of flavors and combinations to help you beat the heat this summer. If you’re not into snow cones as much as I am, perhaps you’d prefer some frozen yogurt or ice cream. Ames provides many places to get these frozen treats such as Dairy Queen, Coldstone Creamery, Orange Leaf and Aspen Leaf.

Make your own slushes, smoothies or popsicles. There are many different recipes online for these cooler treats that cater to any and every kind of diet including sugar-free, fat-free, gluten-free and lactose-free.

Run through a sprinkler. Find a hose, a fun sprinkler and the nearest hydrant and away you go. Add a Slip ‘n Slide and you’ll definitely have some fun in the sun!

Take advantage of area creeks, lakes and rivers. There definitely isn’t a shortage of outdoor recreation areas, especially ones that contain creeks, lakes or rivers. Check out Kalyn Gallup’s story in this issue of Welcome Home about outdoor recreation areas for a list of places to go.