Places to Beat the Heat in Hillsborough County

When Hillsborough County is hit with heat advisories and excessive heat warnings,  it's important to take precautions. One of the most important actions a person can take is to remain in air conditioning, when possible. 

Below are free locations across the county where residents can beat the heat, as well as tips to stay safe in hot weather.

Hillsborough County public libraries

The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative has 30 libraries in its network.  

Libraries offer books, magazines, DVDs, ebooks, streaming music and movies, and audiobooks. You can also catch virtual and in-person educational classes and programs, use community meeting spaces, and enjoy computer and wireless internet access. 

Visit Hours & Locations to view a full list of locations and hours of operation. 

Hillsborough County senior centers

Hillsborough County Aging Services offers numerous centers and services designed to enhance the lives of older adults age 50 and over. 

• Brandon Senior Center 
• Lee Davis Community Resource Center 
• Lutz Senior Center 
• Oaks Senior Center 
• Plant City Community Resource Center 
• Progress Village Senior Center 
• Ruskin Senior Center
• Town 'N Country Senior Center 
• Wimauma Senior Center 

View a list of Hillsborough County senior centers and links to their locations and phone numbers. To learn more about what is offered, call the center nearest you. 

Seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income residents may be eligible for transportation to senior centers via the Sunshine Line. Transportation is provided for medical and social service appointments, grocery trips, health and wellness outings, personal business, and more. Find more information at Door-to-Door Transportation or call (813) 272-7272. 

Hillsborough County splash pads 

County splash pads are free and open to the public. All locations except All Persons Rotary Park operate 9 a.m. to dusk, seven days a week. All Persons Rotary Park is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week. 

• All Persons Rotary Park 
• Apollo Beach Park & Recreation Center 
• Branchton Park 
• Carrollwood Village Park 
• Emanuel P. Johnson Park & Recreation Center 
• Miller Park & Life Center 
• Northdale Park & Recreation Center 

See a complete list of Hillsborough County splash pads, their locations, photos, and more by visiting Hillsborough County Splash Pads. 

Rear Admiral Leroy Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum

The Veterans Memorial Park Museum showcases military artifacts, weaponry, uniforms, and miscellaneous items commonly used by U.S. armed forces personnel.

The museum is free and open to the public Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Veterans Memorial Park and Museum is at 3602 U.S. Hwy. 301 N., Tampa, FL 33619. 

Tips to stay cool and safe during extreme heat

• Drink plenty of fluids - Residents can hydrate at water bottle filling stations in County parks, libraries, or government buildings across the county. Find a Hillsborough County water bottle filling station near you.
• Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen - Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, and put on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out in the sun
• Do not leave children or pets in cars - Cars can quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures, even with a window cracked open. While anyone left in a parked car is at risk, children are especially at risk of getting heat stroke or dying. 
• Don't forget to look out for your pets - Keeps these Do's and Don'ts in mind when temperatures rise