The temperature is rising, it’s hot as can be and we are looking for any way to stay cool in this Arizona heat (for free, that is!) Lucky for us, there seems to be a splash pad and park on every corner calling our name. Featuring everything from playgrounds and basketball courts to grills and open grassy areas, these splash pads are exquisite and quite over the top. Remember not to forget your sunscreen!
Here is the lineup for the top splash pads in the Valley.
Photo by frank mckenna
Edison Park
With fountains, spray gadgets and jets, this splash pad offers something for everyone. Including a basketball court, playground and softball/volleyball fields, this family-friendly park in Phoenix will be your new go-to spot for Saturday afternoons with the kids. Open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Mountain Vista Park
Known for its dolphin arch, this splash pad at Mountain Vista Park is located in central Phoenix with loads around it. In addition to the splash pad, there is a playground, park, and restrooms all within walking distance. This is the perfect location for some summer fun, a family get-together, or even a birthday party. Open now until Oct. 1, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Desert Ridge Marketplace
This is one for the parents. A splash pad next to the AMC Theatre in the District, Desert Ridge Marketplace splash pad is a renovated, clean splash pad with an abundance of adult seating outside and is the perfect place for the parents to hang and the kids to play. With longer hours than other parks, this marketplace splash pad is open 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. It’s the perfect post-matinee, movie hang-out with the whole gang.
Tempe Marketplace
In the middle of some of the greatest shopping, TMP’s splash pad’s convenience can’t be beaten. There are multiple umbrellas so you will stay cool at Tempe Marketplace this summer (and you may even get lucky with live music on the weekends.) With frozen yogurt and ice cream stores steps from the splash pad, Tempe Marketplace is one to add to your summer list. Visit its Website for more information, www.tempemarketplace.com
Photo by Andrew Seaman
Water Tower Park
A 9-ton granite kugel ball that is spinning on top of water? Sign us up! The water tower park in Gilbert is known for its water ball that is a splash pad destination. With open grass nearby, pack a picnic and make an afternoon out of it. With the occasional Artwalk event the first and third Saturday of each month, check the Website for the days and hours it may be closed. Visit gilbertaz.gov for more information.
Founders Park
One of the biggest splash parks in Arizona, this 4,000-sq. ft. play zone in Queen Creek is filled with buckets, spray cans, fountains and open areas to run and play. With multiple shade structures and umbrellas, there is always a cool place to sit, read and of course bring a summer treat. Open daily May through August, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Visit queencreek.org for more information.
The Outlets at Anthem
This is the perfect spot for young children. Surrounded by shopping, food and loads of seating, time at this splash pad is a great reward for good behavior at the mall. With restrooms nearby and shaded areas as well, The Outlets at Anthem splash pad is open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Sunday early closure at 7 p.m.) Check out the Website for future events and upcoming contests and games at Anthem.
Scottsdale Quarter
The Quad splash pad is a great spot to let the kids cool off after a day at The Quarter. It has one of the largest pop-up jet fountains in the region and is conveniently located with food, parking and lounging areas nearby. Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and, Sunday, 12 to 6 p.m. Click here for more information.
