Five Places to Beat the Heat in St. Louis Park

Most people don't equate the Twin Cities with a tropical rainforest, but over the past few days, the heat and humidity have sure felt Amazonian.

Because of the muggy conditions, the National Weather Service has an excessive heat warning in effect through Wednesday, meaning it is advised to stay in an air-conditioned room and drink plenty of fluids. Perhaps the best bet is to wait until later in the week—when temperatures should be in the "frigid" low-90s and upper-80s—to enjoy these five great St. Louis Park cool-down spots:

• : No, we're not recommending that you get coffee (though an ice mocha does sound mighty fine). Rather, we think you should get some of the best ice cream in the Twin Cities, courtesy of Sebastian Joe's.

• Oak Hill Park: From 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, kids can run around and enjoy the splash pad. St. Louis Park residents get in free; non-residents need to pay $1.

• : First off, there is plenty of shade. Secondly, you can rent a canoe and head out on the lake for a relaxing time.

• A local fitness center: Whether you stop at , or , you're sure to get a good workout without the sun's glare. You can cool off afterward in a pool at all three gyms.

• St. Louis Park Aquatic Park: Speaking of pools, this is the place to be in town. 20,000 square feet of water—plus four water slides—await you. The park is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.