ENID, OK. - JULY 1, 2017 - I originally wrote this article in July of 2012 but looking at it again I thought it still fit pretty well for today. The temps in Enid over the next few weeks will climb into the 90's and 100's. If you're looking for way to cool off read what I wrote back then, a few things have been updated.
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Fortunately for the city of Enid there are several ways for residents to keep cool this summer. Enid has a hidden jewel of a waterpark called Splash Zone. This family fun water park has plenty of wet areas in which to stay cool including water slides, a lazy river and a pool. The park is perfect for adults with kids. Adults can hide under the shade areas while the kids can waste the day away in the water fun.
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Enid also features other wet refuges from the summer heat. Champlin Swimming Pool is a 500,000 gallon Olympic size pool located in the middle of town. Champlin Pool was built in 1956 and has served as a recreational hub for Enid's youth since that time. Champlin is the only public pool left in Enid today. It is an affordable alternative for families that are unable to travel to of town.
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In addition to these water resources, Enid has added two splash pads on each side of town that offer free relief from the sweltering sun. Parents can watch as the kids spend hours jumping around in the assorted water toys and fountains. The splash pads have become very popular. One is located on west Hoover (open even days) while the other is at 10th and Chestnut (open odd days). Hours for the splash pads are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
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If you really want to get out of the sun you can head on over to the local YMCA which has its own indoor swimming pools. The Denny Price YMCA has very affordable rates for families and also has scholarships for kids that cannot afford the monthly fees. The swimming facility at the Y is top notch and includes a slide, a fountain and other fun areas.
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For those Enid residents that don't want to get wet there's always the Garfield County public library. The library has recently gone through a renovation and is now a quality addition to the city. With plenty of air conditioning, seating and books to read, a relaxing afternoon at the library could cool anyone off.
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Other alternatives for staying out of the heat in Enid include Oakwood Mall on the west side of town. Oakwood is a large indoor mall with a food court and walking track inside. Spend a few hours in the cool while shopping or watching a movie in the theater located by the food court.
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These are only a few ways that Enid residents can stay cool. Country club members can enjoy a swim at the Oakwood Country Club pool while military members can stay cool at the base pool located at Vance Air Force Base.
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And if you don't mind driving, Enid also has several surrounding lakes. Many can be reached within a 45-60 minute drive. Canton Lake is to the southwest, the Great Salt Plains is to the northwest, Sooner Lake is straight east, while Kaw is just the other side of Ponca City and Arcadia Lake is a quick jump to the southeast by Edmond.
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So there you have it. The temps may hit the century mark but Enid has found ways to beat the heat. If you're looking for a quick vacation spot and a short drive, add Enid to your list of alternatives. Enid has a great selection of brand new hotels, some with swimming pools, and many other entertainment alternatives to see while you're here. Stay cool and have a great summer.
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How Enid Keeps Its Cool
