Beat the Heat Without Screens
Last winter, extreme cold forced many indoors. Now, scorching temperatures and poor air quality have again chased us inside at summer's peak. But you don't have to binge-watch Love Island USA or doomscroll for hours. Over the past year, experts tested 80 jigsaw puzzles, 35 board games, and other creative activities. Here are seven ways to enjoy summer from the comfort of air conditioning.
Hot Streak Party Game
For families needing to blow off steam, Hot Streak is recommended by experts. Nicole Lee, a Filter contributor and board game enthusiast, said: “If you want a raucous family game night, Hot Streak is where it’s at.” Players bet on a mascot race that descends into mayhem. Available for $39.99 at Amazon.
Piecework Court Classics 1,000-Piece Jigsaw Puzzle
In the Do not disturb series, this puzzle is a top pick. Piecework’s eclectic aesthetics and sturdy quality make it a favorite. The Court Classics puzzle costs $40 at Piecework or Anthropologie. Other options include Happy Camper (20% off) and Dino Discotheque for kids.
Oxo Grilling Skewer Set
Grilling isn't just outdoor. Use these stainless steel skewers for kebabs under the broiler. Sal Vaglica, a culinary journalist, recommended them, saying their sturdy material “keeps food locked in like players on a foosball table.” Available for $17.99 at Oxo or $14.39 at Amazon.
No Particular Order Guided Journal
This journal offers 200 unique prompts, such as “What makes a house a home?” and “I would have these bumper stickers on my car.” Priced at $34 at No Particular Order, it's perfect for contemplation indoors.
Gritin Skin-Friendly Resistance Bands
Replace outdoor workouts with these bands. Caroline Idiens, founder of Caroline’s Circuits and author of Fit at 50, said: “They come in five different strengths, are cheap, easy to transport, and perfect for a full-body workout.” Available for $15.99 at Amazon.
Ravensburger 1,000-Piece Jigsaw Puzzle
Another puzzle option, Ravensburger offers consistent quality. Tim Stevens wrote: “The fit, feel, and overall quality of their pieces is consistently among the best. It’s 70% recycled cardboard.” Prices start at $24.99 at Ravensburger or $32.99 at Amazon.
Winsor & Newton Watercolor Paint Set
Part of the “analog bag” trend, this watercolor set is small and easy to clean. Colors can be mixed in the included palette. Available for $23.81 at Amazon.
Kobo Libra Colour E-Reader
Take your beach read indoors. Jenny McGrath, after testing six models, deemed this her favorite: “It has more fonts and font sizes than Kindles, and subtle adjustments to brightness and warmth.” Priced from $259.99 at Kobo or Amazon.
