How The 51st (and our readers) stay cool in D.C. summers

Last week, D.C. experienced its first sweltering heatwave of the summer. For several days, heat indexes soared well into the triple-digits. The Washington Monument closed, local leaders warned residents to stay inside, and it was a generally miserable time.

D.C. summers have always been notoriously brutal; if the temperatures alone aren't in the 90s, the humidity is thick enough to leave you sweaty and irritable after just a short walk. And it seems they're getting worse: Meteorologists have predicted this may be one of the city's hottest, most humid summers to date.

It's basically a local tradition at this point to complain about the steamy state of the city. Aside from the rare nonconformist who "really doesn't think it's that bad," (they say, dripping sweat on the floor!) most residents can agree: at a certain temperature, and after so many days at that temperature without a break, it's unworkable.

But, we have each other. The 51st team members shared how they like to stay cool in these oppressive temps – and so did some of our readers.

Maddie heads to Banneker Pool

It’s finally the glorious (hot) pocket of time where D.C. public pools are open allllll week long, and not only during the weekend. My favorite way to cool down is going for a dip at Banneker Pool. It’s always a fun time. The water is crisp, the lifeguard DJs are curating incredible vibes, and you’re running into at least three people you know. If that doesn’t sound quite your speed, don’t worry. There are 22 other outdoor public pools in D.C. to choose from — something for everyone! - Maddie Poore

Martin gets out of the house EARLY

For me, managing the worst of Washington’s heat isn’t just about what you do – but rather when you do it. That’s why I’m a man of the dawn, waking at ungodly hours for a hike, bike, or a simple walk around my neighborhood just as the sun is rising and the temperatures aren’t yet infernal. And there’s an additional benefit: D.C. truly is a city that sleeps, and catching it on the early end can make you feel like it’s yours alone. I know, this advice isn’t helpful for the night-owls among us, nor does it address the reality that going out really early still means you’ve got the rest of the steaming day to deal with. But you’ll feel refreshed and accomplished, and honestly, in those daytime hours when D.C. is at its summer worst, do you even want to go outside anyhow? - Martin Austermuhle

Colleen goes to Matapeake

A common complaint even the biggest D.C. defenders have of this otherwise perfect city is its lack of beach access. Fair! It's at least a two-hour drive to the actual ocean. But if you're willing to indulge in some tranquil wading rather than surfing, check out Matapeake Beach, just across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge from Sandy Point State Park. I actually found Matapeake after my friends and I showed up to Sandy Point on a particularly sweltering Saturday and were turned away by park rangers; it had reached capacity by 11 a.m.! We pulled over and debated bagging the whole beach day and just heading to Banneker (shout out Maddie!) until Matapeake showed up on Google Maps. We decided to check it out, and when we arrived, we felt as though we'd found a hidden gem. Nestled in a forest shoreline, it's quaint, quiet, and completely free. The trees lining the beach provide plenty of shade for hot days, and the calm, shallow waters make it potentially the most kid-friendly beach I've ever visited. Now living in New York, I've been taking a convenient 30-minute subway ride to the Atlantic Ocean to cool off – but it doesn't beat the Chesapeake Bay days! (And if you stay long enough, you'll be able to catch the sunset over the bay on your drive home; a sight to behold!) - Colleen Grablick

Eric just tries his best to stay positive

As the tenacious perfection of D.C. spring gives way to 96% humidity, hold your loved ones close. Remember the good times. It will get better. Embrace your metamorphosis into a puddle as soon as you walk outside. Invest in some moisture-wicking shirts from Fleet Feet. Survive on "brain-freeze cold" drinks, as I heard a water vendor yell near the Supreme Court once. Visit your favorite ice cream shop if you dare — Larry's in Dupont for me! Or Pitango, or Dolcezza. And make damn sure you know how to hold your landlord accountable if the AC goes out. We'll get through this, friends. See you in September! - Eric Falquero

Christina looks for some shade

I live in a garden-style apartment complex that was built in the 1930s. While it certainly has historic charm, it lacks amenities like a swimming pool, in-unit washer, and gym that are common in new builds. What it does have, though, is a beautiful courtyard with towering oak trees that offer the perfect outdoor respite in the summer months. We’ve had birthday parties and cookouts on 90 degree days under the shade, and it easily felt 10 degrees cooler. So, my advice is to find some shade in nature to cool off or hang out. As a mom of a toddler, I’d also advise parents to seek out playgrounds with shade during the summer months. It’s complete torture going to parks with no sun protection in D.C. heat. - Christina Sturdivant Sani

Natalie literally moves

I can't say this is advice. I don't endorse most of you moving away just to escape the sweltering climes. But the truth is that in 2025 I am beating the D.C. heat by leaving it. After a decade in the city, I'm moving to Portland, Oregon later this year with my partner. (We want to be closer to our families and, yes, escape this infernal humidity). In the event that you're not planning a cross-country move to a totally different biome, idk ... go to the movies? -Natalie Delgadillo