BOWLING
Long a staple for kids on summer vacation, bowling has been experiencing a renaissance of sorts lately. And why not? You’re indoors, enjoying frosty drinks and not-so-healthy food (in moderation, of course). Plus, hurling a 12-pound ball at innocent pins is a great stress relief.

While the majority of swimming pools are of the outdoor variety, if you’ve got a membership at a fitness center or country club with an indoor pool, don’t let it go to waste. You get all of the fun and exercise of swimming outdoors without having to slather on the sunscreen.

VISIT A MUSEUM

Srolling by artifacts and exploring interactive displays at a museum, such as the Children’s Museum of Houston, is a great way to spend a summer afternoon, plus you might just learn something if you’re not careful.

ROLLER SKATING
Countless childhood memories have been forged at the local roller rink over the years. While skates have morphed from models using unforgiving steel wheels to smooth sailing urethane wheels to high tech inline skates, you can still lace up that old pair in the closet and head to the rink for a calorie-burning good time.

ICE SKATING
It could be the ultimate respite from the searing summer sun: gliding along a huge slab of ice as you get in touch with your inner Tara Lipinski. You might even have to put on a sweater. Imagine that!

While your favorite gym is always there for you, its air-conditioned splendor is especially appreciated this time of year.

INDOOR TENNIS
Venturing outdoors to play tennis during a Houston summer can be akin to trading forehands while standing on a hot waffle iron, but if you have access to an indoor court, suddenly all is right in the world.

INDOOR GO KARTING
Burning a few laps on an indoor go kart track is a great adrenaline rush and a surprisingly stout physical and mental workout. Find a facility near you and drive like Dario Franchitti is chasing you down the front stretch at Indy!