Make a Splash in Middle Tennessee

As the temperature continues to spike, there's no better time to ditch your chores and hit the water to cool off:

Percy Priest Lake - Nashville

Nashville's favorite watering hole is never as popular as these sticky afternoons of mid-summer. At 42 miles long, it's one of the biggest bodies of water in the region and a popular spot for boating, fishing and other active endeavors. Must-do: Rent a board from Nashville Paddle Co. and explore the waters surrounding Hamilton Creek Recreational Area, where the standup paddleboard company is headquartered. Looking for an even bigger challenge? Sign up for a SUP Yoga class and put your balance on the board to the test.

Tims Ford State Park - Winchester 

Spanning 2,200 acres, this oasis in southern Middle Tennessee draws weekend visitors from all over the state to its lush shores and ample cabins. In addition to an 18-hole, Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, Bear Trace, the state park has a pair of campgrounds with both tented and RV sites, in addition to boats, kayaks and canoes for rent.

Must-do: Belly up to the bar at Holiday Landing Marina's Bluegill Grill after a long day spent out on your pontoon.

Nashville Shores - Nashville 

The city's public water park, Nashville Shores hugs the northern border of Percy Priest Lake and is outfitted with a wave pool, kids' area (complete with water treehouse and playground), lazy river and eight snaking slides.

Must-do: Test your skills at Nashville Shore's Treetop Adventure Park, which includes ziplines, suspended bridges and challenges galore.

Harpeth River State Park - Kingston Springs 

The Harpeth River State Park is spread out along 40 of the Harpeth River's 125 miles. The linear park straddles both Metro Nashville and Cheatham County and boasts five areas listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the most popular of which is the Narrows of the Harpeth where Montgomery Bell's Pattison Forge is located.

Must-do: Hike out to prehistoric Native American complex, Mound Bottom, and rent a kayak from Foggy Bottom Canoe to take a scenic float through Tennessee's history.

Pinewood Social - Nashville 

One of Nashville's hottest restaurants, Pinewood Social comprises of an eatery serving three meals a day, a coffee shop, workstations, karaoke room and six bowling lanes. But during the summer months, you'll find the local glitterati clustered around the outdoor playground's pair of dipping pools, complete with Airstream bar, Bocce ball, Ping-Pong and seating options galore.

Must do: Arrive early and nab your cabana—and boat drink—before they're all spoken for.