Whether you’re at home or out and about, enjoy these things to do when it’s hot outside and escape from the rising temperatures.
We’re no strangers to heat and humidity in Hong Kong, which makes chilling with the AC the main event when summer hits! However, doesn’t matter if you’re a homebody or a social butterfly, there are still plenty of things to do in Hong Kong, whether it’s with your kids, with a date, or even when it’s raining cats and dogs. If you need some inspo for your summer schedule, here’s my list of things to do when it’s hot outside.
10 Fun things to do when it’s hot outside
1. Dive into Nintendo Switch adventures
When Hong Kong’s heat is getting too much for outdoor excursions, journey into the digital world on your Switch 2! Just launched this June, this console is your ticket to endless adventure, multiplayer challenges, or even active workouts – all achievable in air-conditioned comfort. With a varied catalogue of games for everyone, boredom doesn’t stand a chance. My go-to is the Taiko no Tatsujin: Drum ‘n’ Fun rhythm game, which is great to play with friends, kids, and even solo. Here’s a tip: grab the real drum for the game to really level up your game sessions! Next thing you know, the scorching summer day will have flown by.
Where to buy: The Switch and Switch 2 are available at Nintendo stores across Hong Kong.
2. Break out the skates at Cityplaza or Festival Walk
As one of the most popular summer activities in Hong Kong, ice skating is a no-brainer when you’re seeking to pass time on a sweltering summer day. For families with younger kids, I recommend checking out Cityplaza’s Ice Palace. Having spent many childhood weekends skating there, I can attest to the safety standards and attentiveness of staff patrolling the rink. For older kids and adults, check out Festival Walk’s Glacier in Kowloon Tong. This rink is a fave among residents and students of surrounding schools, and is ideal for those seeking an adrenaline-fuelled skate sesh.
Opening hours: 9:30am – 10pm (Ice Palace); 1 – 7pm (Glacier)
Price: From $90 per person per hour (Ice Palace); from $100 per person per hour (Glacier)
Address: Ice Palace, 1/F, Cityplaza, 18 Taikoo Shing Road, Taikoo Shing, Hong Kong
Glacier, UG/F, Festival Walk, 8 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
Cityplaza website Festival Walk website
3. Unleash your creativity at Studio 83
Don’t have art supplies at home but itching to create your next masterpiece? Make your way to Studio 83 for an art jamming session. With branches in Central and Kwun Tong, Studio 83 is a convenient choice for fellow artists looking to stretch their creative muscles. From my experience, the studio is incredibly accommodating to skills of all levels, and with a wide range of classes on offer, there’s bound to be something for everyone. And if you’re looking for an art jamming sesh for your kiddos, check out our list of the best creative classes for kids in town.
Price: From $500 per session
Address: Studio 83 has locations in Central and Kwun Tong.
4. Learn how to bake at ABC Cooking Studio
When it’s hot outside, baking up a storm at home doesn’t sound too appealing. That’s why I always turn to ABC Cooking Studio when I get the urge to bake. The baking studio’s spacious and air-conditioned kitchen can comfortably accommodate students for each class, ensuring everyone gets ample counter space for mixing and decorating. Plus, ABC does a wide variety of classes, from those dedicated to cakes and breads to niches like the Wagashi Course, where you’ll learn how to make the traditional Japanese dessert.
Price: From $2,940 for six lessons
Address: ABC Cooking Studio, Shop 705 – 708, 7/F, Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
5. Dive into your summer read
Another great pass time on a summer day is diving into a new book. Currently on my to-read list is Small Pleasures by The School of Life, an enlightening compilation of short stories that cultivates an appreciation for the little things in life. Don’t know where to start with your book hunt? The upcoming Hong Kong Book Fair is a great place to start! Returning on 16 July 2025 with the theme Food Culture • Future Living, the fair will showcase a curated selection of literary works that explore culinary traditions and histories from diverse perspectives. Readers are invited to understand the connection between diet and healthy living and discover how technology is shaping future eating habits and lifestyle. Expect book launches, intimate conversations with authors and publishers, as well as an eight-part seminar series.
Additionally, I always turn to various bookstores around town for new releases and popular reads, while these hidden book shops always deliver quality gems not usually found in your mainstream stores. And if you don’t want to invest in a volume just yet, read it on loan from a public library near you.
6. Throw your own crockery at Terracotta Ceramics
Hong Kong has no shortage of creative classes, and I particularly love the pottery sessions at Terracotta Ceramics. This Stanley establishment is your friendly neighbourhood studio, where creative spirits gather for a hands-on experience like no other. As a former sculptor that’s more used to free-hand building than throwing, I find Terracotta’s classes intuitive and easy to follow, with friendly instructors to help you navigate the wheel. If you’re looking to expand your ceramics collection or pick up a new skill, Terracotta is a great place to start!
Price: Courses from $2,500
Address: Terracotta Ceramics, G/F, 10 – 12A Stanley Main Street, Stanley, Hong Kong
7. Binge a new show
I trust you’re well-versed in all the streaming services available in Hong Kong. Beyond rewatching your favourite shows this summer, why not venture into new territory and add something fresh to your watch list? Spice up your home theatre experience with the best cartoons with dark humour or these edge-of-your-seat true crime thrillers. Trust me when I say the hours fly by when these shows are on.
8. Cultural adventures at the HKMOA and the Space Museum
With so many museums and galleries across Hong Kong, there are many ways to idle a hot day away while AC-ed up and getting cultured. In my experience, the museum and gallery cluster in Tsim Sha Tsui are the easiest to tackle. Your journey from the Hong Kong Museum of Art to the Hong Kong Space Museum requires minimal time spent walking in the sun. While the MOA offers a comprehensive look at arts development in the city and around the Canton region, the Space Museum is a favourite among families for its interactive and kid-friendly exhibits. And if you’ve got time left in the day, consider checking out performances at the nearby Hong Kong Cultural Centre.
Opening hours: Mon, Wed – Fri, 10am – 6pm; Sat – Sun, and public holidays, 10am – 9pm (HKMOA). Mon, Wed – Fri, 1 – 9pm; Sat – Sun, and public holidays, 10am – 9pm (Space Museum).
Address: Hong Kong Museum of Art, 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Hong Kong Space Museum, 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
HKMOA website Space Museum website
9. Jump for joy at Kidztopia
As outdoor playgrounds get increasingly warmer around town, take your kiddos to these indoor playgrounds instead! Kidztopia is by far the most popular location in town. Hailing from Singapore, this establishment brings quality edu-tainment facilities to local families. With four locations in Sha Tin, Kai Tak, Tseung Kwan O, and Wan Chai, there’s bound to be one near you!
Address: Kidztopia has multiple locations across Hong Kong.
10. Workout without breaking a sweat
A hot day is no excuse to skip the gym! With many indoor boutique fitness studios on offer, you can still get your workout done even if it’s scorching hot outside. If you want to spice up your workout routine, sign up for an energetic spin class or a mindful yoga session.
Did I miss your favourite? DM @honeycombershk on Instagram or drop me an email at celia.lee@thehoneycombers.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Beyond simply staying indoors, what are some practical tips for truly staying cool and comfortable during Hong Kong's hot and humid summers?
For ultimate comfort, make sure your air conditioning filters are clean for optimal performance. Consider using a dehumidifier to combat humidity, and stay hydrated with plenty of water and cool beverages. If you’re braving the heat, wear light, breathable clothing.
Are there specific suggestions for keeping children entertained indoors when it's too hot to play outside?
Beyond screen time, engage your kiddos with creative indoor activities like doing arts and crafts projects or playing board games. Educational apps, virtual museum tours, or creating a mini home theatre for a movie marathon can also keep them happily occupied without exposure to the heat.
