Summer in Cape is beautiful – there’s no debating that. With lush grass, bright sunshine and colorful flowers along quiet hiking trails, early mornings and late evenings are perfect for getting out and about. But when the midday temperature rises to triple digits, the Southeast Missouri heat isn’t for the faint of heart.

Fortunately, you don’t have to limit summer activities to 70-degree weather. We know a few spots to enjoy fun while staying near an air conditioner. 

Cape West Cinema

Grab a tub of rich buttered popcorn, lean back in a leather recliner and embark on adventure with the characters on screen. Whether you’re taking the kids to watch a cartoon, enjoying thrills at the latest horror flick or laughing during a comedy, Cape West Cinema has all the latest releases. 

Pro tip: Movie tickets are just $5 on Tuesdays. Plus, the Kids Dream Family Film Series offers admission to select 10 am shows for just $3 throughout the summer. 

Discovery Playhouse

Perfect for children six months and older, two floors of exhibits engage kids while keeping them cool. They’ll cruise to Montgomery Bank to withdraw cash, grab snacks at Schnucks grocery store, learn about farm animals at Grandma Ruth’s and so much more. You’re welcome to embrace your inner child and join in as well. Why should kids have all the fun?

Pro tip: You can host birthday parties in a private room, including all-day admission for up to 36 guests. 

Escape Cape

Leave the kids at home while you and a group of friends figure out how to escape a zombie before time runs out. Currently, Escape Cape offers three room options. The classic Great Scavenger Hunt is the tamest; you follow clues to solve a puzzle. Or you and your group can pull off a Casino Heist. Only the most fearless enter the Extermination room where zombies are waiting. Bond with your team while enjoying just plain fun. 

Pro tip: If you and your group want to play alone, you can book a private room in advance. 

Ultimate Air Trampoline Park

Remember that feeling of flying through the air while perfecting flips and tricks on the backyard trampoline? Ultimate Air offers the same carefree excitement – only more of it. Jump into a sea of foam blocks, or get enough air to slam dunk a basketball. Plus, your little ones will run off some energy in special areas designed for their age groups. 

Pro tip: Thursday and Saturday fitness classes are available to help you get in shape while having a blast. 

West Park Lanes

You stand with your toes at the line, holding the ball in front of your face as you center it. Slowly, you lower it to your side, move your arm back and release it with full force, giving it just the right amount of spin. The orange ball barrels down the lane, sending pins flying in all directions. STRIKE! And the crowd goes wild. Well, it’s actually just the kids cheering, but still. 

Whether you’re honing your skills or kicking back for some stress-free family bonding, West Park Lanes is the ideal place to do it. 

Pro tip: West Park Lanes breaks out the disco ball at 10 pm on Friday and Saturday nights for Cosmic Bowling – complete with neon, glowing lanes and balls. 

For a complete list of Cape hot spots for family fun, click here. Or find the best places for grown-ups.