Things to Do When Chico Is Hot
The Creek at One Mile Recreation Area
Alec (the kid of the mom who runs ChicoKid.net) is officially a creek kid, having spent at least two or three days a week splashing around in Big Chico Creek near One Mile. There are many spots to choose from, some adjacent picnic spots. Stake out one with a nice bit of shore and enjoy water that’s just shallow enough for the little ones.
Sycamore Pool
The city maintains this cement-lined “pool” with Big Chico Creek running through it at One Mile Recreation area. During the summer months, it’s staffed with lifeguards . Don’t go on Thursdays until about 3 p.m., however, as parks staff scrapes and cleans the pool starting at 7 a.m. Actually, it’s pretty cool to watch. Click for more information about Sycamore Pool cleaning. (Also, you should know that during the summer, fecal coliform testing is done every day.)
Pools at Chico and Bidwell junior high schools
The Pleasant Valley Pool (at Bidwell Junior High) and Shapiro Pool (at Chico Junior) are open for recreational swimming Mon-Fri 1-3:45pm and Sat 1-4pm June 6-Aug. 9. Lap swim is Mon-Thurs noon-1pm and 7-8pm. Family swim Mon-Thurs 7-9pm. It’s $1 per visit or pay $75 for a family pass that lasts all summer and covers recreational and family swim times. Hosted by the Chico Area Recreation District www.chicorec.com
Water at Five Mile Recreation Area
Making the short drive (or bike ride) to Five Mile is well worth it, as you’ll find another great swimming area that’s family-friendly. It’s also a great place for a picnic or party.
Downtown Plaza Park Fountain
I like to joke that there are two kinds of parents in Chico: those that let their kids play in the plaza fountain and those who don’t. I won’t reveal which side of the aisle our family falls on, but judging from the sheer number of kids who show up to Thursday Night Farmers’ Market and Friday Concerts in the Park in their swimsuits (and plenty in street clothes) this is an experience that can’t be beat.
Air-conditioned Shopping
Part of me hates to say it, but honestly some summer days it’s so hot in Chico that outdoors just doesn’t cut it. That’s when it’s time to take advantage of indoor spaces cooled at no expense to you. On really hot days, Alec and I (who normally gravitate downtown) will hit the Chico Mall, Toys R Us and Barnes & Noble.
$1 summer movies at Tinseltown
Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10am (over for 2008 season)
Do you have summer cool-down ideas to add to this section? Please email them to info@chicokids.net.
