A few months ago, I think we all had a moment where we wondered if it would ever get warm again...or maybe that was just us? Now, in the thick of a hot and sticky summer, we’d do just about anything for an ice cream cone and a cool lake to jump into. Seriously though, Midwest summer is no joke. Today, we’re rounding up our favorite ways to savor summer while still keeping our cool.

Hit the lakes

This one is a pretty obvious choice for anyone who has spent any time in the area. With over 10,000 lakes to choose from, we love packing our bags up for a weekend at the lake in Minnesota. Find your lake today: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/lakefind/index.html

Head to Buffalo River State Park

On days when the lakes just seem too far away, we love to pack a picnic and head over to Buffalo State Park. Only a 25 minute drive from downtown, this park boasts miles of trails to be explored, a campground just waiting for your tent and a filtered, sandy pool ready for the kids...or adults, to splash around in. See all the the park has to offer: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/buffalo_river/index.html

Grab a cone at the iconic Moorhead Dairy Queen

Is there anything more quintessential in the summer than an ice cream cone from DQ? We think not. And with the newly coined title of “Small Business of the Year” by the Chamber, this is one sweets habit we can absolutely feel good about. Read the story behind a Red River Valley favorite here: http://moorheaddairyqueen.com/

Throw on your trunks & head to the pool

With nearly ten public pools and splash pads to choose from within a 20 minute drive, there’s really no excuse not to pack a lunch and hit the pool for the day. Check out your options here.

Retreat to the A/C & explore The Plains Art Museum

Some days are just too hot. We really never thought we’d say that, but it’s true, some summer days are just better spent indoors. Plains Art Museum is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Find out hours, admission fees and class schedules here: http://plainsart.org/

Brave the heat & hit the streets

This week, you can find us on Broadway slinging t-shirts, mugs and all things Fargo. We’re so excited to share that Fargo Stuff will have a booth at the street fair for the first time, ever. Stop by and say hi! We’ll be located at the corner of Broadway & 6th, so come find us! Get all your need to know info here: https://www.facebook.com/events/437536749920823/

Get all your local ingredients at the Red River Market

After a long, hot day we love cooling off with a delicious cocktail made with fresh herbs paired with our favorite veggies from the farmers market. Get the latest info on the market here: https://www.redriver.market/

Pack up your hammock & join the fun on Sway Day

After seeing huge success last year, Sway Day returns to Fargo once again. Grab your buds and head to Island Park for what’s sure to be the most Instagrammable event of your entire summer. Get all the details here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1797196733928275/

Feel Like a Kid Again at the Red River Valley Fair

Corn dogs, funnel cake, and country music. Now this is summer. There’s just something so nostalgic about the county fair. It brings back all those memories of sticky fingers from too much cotton candy and dirty feet from running around the dusty fairgrounds. See what it's all about here: https://redrivervalleyfair.com/

Well folks, there ya have it. Our favorite ways to enjoy the summer around the Red River Valley. Tell us in the comments below what your favorite summer activity is!