Cooling Resources for Columbus Heat Waves
It's hot out there -- let's take care of each other
Please share these Columbus resources and check in on your neighbors.
π‘οΈ Community Cooling Centers
Beginning Tuesday, June 30, 2026 Columbus Recreation and Parks Department will open five regional cooling centers, operating daily from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., until the heat subsides:
Dodge Community Center – 667 Sullivant Ave., 43215
Driving Park Community Center – 1100 Rhoads Ave., 43206
Glenwood Community Center – 1888 Fairmont Ave., 43223
Linden Community Center – 1350 Briarwood Ave., 43211
Marion Franklin Community Center – 2801 Lockbourne Rd., 43207
All other community centers remain open for regular programming and are available for residents to cool down during hours of operation.
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π Full list and hours:
https://columbusrecparks.com/wellness/keep-cool-with-us/
Below is a map and list of the nearest cooling centers:
https://www.columbus.gov/Government/Mayors-Office/Find-Nearest-Cooling-Centers
π Pools & π¦ Spraygrounds
Beginning Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Outdoor Pools will extend hours from 1– 8 p.m. daily starting June 30. Admission is FREE until the heat subsides. A Leisure Card is still required.
Spraygrounds and Fountains at Barnett, Blackburn, Linden, and Scioto Southland will operate 12 – 8 p.m., FREE of charge.
π Full list and hours:
https://columbusrecparks.com/wellness/keep-cool-with-us/
(Please check pool status and capacity limits before visiting and remember to follow all posted rules for safety.)
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π Columbus Metropolitan LibrarieS
All library branches are open until 8 p.m. or 9 p.m. (please check location) and provide a safe, air-conditioned space for cooling off.
π Find your nearest branch: Library Locations | Columbus Metropolitan Library
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π Free COTA Rides
COTA will waive all fares through Thursday, July 2 to ensure residents can access cooling centers and essential services safely.
Free service includes:
Fixed-route bus lines
COTA Mainstream
COTA//Plus
https://cota.com/blog/cota-announces-no-fares-for-june-30-july-2-after-national-weather-service-issues-heat-advisory/
cota.com (updated info here)
π΅ Resources for SeniorS
Franklin County residents 60+ can request a FREE box fan through the Office on Aging.
Request online:
officeonaging.org/boxfan
Or
call: 614-525-6200
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