How to Beat the Heat

by Natalie Dean | July 23, 2026

Spearfish Summer Spots to Cool Off

Let’s face it, sometimes the heat is just not fun. When it reaches up to the high 80s and 90s, all you want to do is stay inside with the AC unit running. But here in Spearfish there’s plenty of places to go and treats to try that will help you beat the climbing heat. Grab a bowl of ice cream downtown or check out the pool. Maybe spend your day in a hammock in the park under the shade of a big oak tree. Don’t let the heat get in the way of a great day. Spearfish has your itinerary covered during those warmer days.

Spearfish Rec Center

Let’s Go Swimming

Iron Creek Lake isn’t just a place where you can go fish or swim, but they also offer various boat rentals as well.

Try out a canoe, kayak, or paddle boat. Try it for half hour or maybe even four! After a energizing paddle around the lake be sure to take a dip in the water or relax on the beach area with some lemonade or iced tea. Don’t want to travel to the lake, no problem! 

When the sun’s out and the temperature is high, that means a pool day is calling. Spearfish Rec and Aquatics Center is a perfect spot for your kids to have fun splashing around and cool off while you relax on a lounge chair nearby.

The Spearfish Rec and Aquatics Center offers a lazy river, water slides, climbing wall, a 400-gallon dump bucket that’s sure to help you beat the heat. Plus, there’s concessions stand where you can grab a quick snack before getting back in the pool.

Spearfish City Park

A Place in the Shade

Spearfish City Park has plenty of shady spots for you to enjoy the outdoors while also staying clear of unnecessary sunburns. Tie up your hammock and relax in the shade. The Spearfish Creek runs right along with plenty of spots for you to sit down and dip your feet in the water. Bring your favorite dog along with you and let them enjoy the cool creek water too!

But you don’t just have to visit Spearfish City Park. There’s plenty of parks with shaded areas and picnic tables where you can spread out your blanket, read a book, listen to music and just relax.

High Plains Western Heritage Center

Art, History and More!

Too hot for the outdoors? Spearfish has plenty of areas for you to check out. Grab a book from the Grace Balloch Memorial Library or check out Henry’s Books on Main Street. Walk around Downtown and see all the local boutiques and antique shops that offer plenty of décor and outfits perfect for the summertime.

Interested in checking out local art? Visit the Termesphere Gallery and see all the unique pieces of Termesphere art all crafted by Dick Termes.

This local artist has been painting Termesphere since 1968, and since then has painted over 400 Termespheres. His art is displayed all around the world and is recognized in the South Dakota Hall of Fame as well as by various universities and publications.

If you’re more of a history buff, escape the heat and be taken back in time into the rich history of the American West.  The High Plains Western Heritage Center has a wide selection of artifacts and displays that showcase various aspects of the American West, such as pioneering, gold mining, rodeo, Native American history and ranching. Maybe even stop by to see the Cowboy Supper Show with cowboy music and an authentic cowboy supper served right from an 1800s chuckwagon. A fun way to experience a taste of the western way of life.

Always Room for a Sweet Treat

If you’re tired of the sun and heat and just want an easy way to cool off, then a sweet treat run is calling! Have an ice cream crave and don’t know where to go? Want a smoothie or lemonade? Spearfish has plenty of spots to help you satisfy your cold sweet treat crave.

Ice cream stops that serve a wide selection of flavors. Coffeehouses with cool drinks and refreshers. Whether you’re on the go or wanting to sit down inside, check out our Deserts & Treats page to find all the local spots to help you beat the heat with a sweet treat.

So, you see, no matter how hot the day is, there’s something for everyone in the family to do and see while keeping cool.

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