Kids Corner: Making a Splash!

By: Kate Alexander

It’s winter, but soon the the heat of summer will return, and finding kid-friendly outdoor activities can be tough in that kind of weather. So, why not try a splash pad? These water playgrounds offer a great way to cool off – no swim lessons or entry fee required. 

Here’s a list of my kid’s favorite, free splash pads in the area that you can take your little ones to this summer (distance calculated from Hyde Park Square). 

Oakley Playground (1.4 mi) 3900 Paxton Avenue, 45209

Run by CRC, Oakley offers 2 playgrounds for older and younger children, a free splash pad and a pool (membership or daily pass required for the pool). The splash pad is open daily from 10am-9pm regardless of pool hours.

For the parents: You can grab a refreshing bubble tea from The Milk Jar, just one minute away in the Hyde Park Shopping Center, or snag a coffee from Awakenings in Hyde Park Square. 

Pleasant Ridge Park (3.8 mi) 5915 Ridge Avenue, 45213

Another CRC park, this location offers a castle-like playground, splash pad and pool. Splash pad is open 10am-9pm and is free outside of pool hours, otherwise a membership or daily pass is required. Pool Hours: Su (1-6pm), M, Tu, Th (1-7pm), W (1-5pm)

For the parents: The Coffee Exchange is 2 minutes up the road if you need a little something to sip while the kids play. 

Washington Park (6.3 mi) 1230 Elm Street, 45202

Located in the heart of Cincinnati with a stunning view of Music Hall, Washington Park is packed with all sorts of activities from the playground and splash pad to lots of family-friendly events. 

For the parents: Plenty within walking distance, but if you’re looking for an easy meal or beverage, check out The Porch located within the park. Open: M-Sa (11am-10pm) and Su (11am-9pm).

Beech Acres Park (6.9 mi) 6910 Salem Road, 45230

Run by the Anderson Park District, Beech Acres has plenty to do for all ages. With numerous playgrounds, a make-believe train station, rock walls, sand pit (pack clothing accordingly) and of course, splash pad, you can easily spend hours here. Open 10am-8pm daily. 

For the parents: From Hyde Park you’ll pass right by Lookout Joe in Mt. Lookout. In addition to their delicious coffee, they also offer pastries and hearty breakfast sandwiches.  

Julifs Park (8.9 mi) 8249 Clough Pike, 45244

Also part of the Anderson Park District, Julifs Park has a large playground, giant sandbox (pack clothing accordingly) and a farm-themed splashpad. Open 10am-8pm daily. 

For the parents: Just 2 minutes down Clough Pike you’ll find your caffeine or iced beverage fix at Luckman Coffee. 

Summit Park (11mi) 4335 Glendale Milford Road, 45242

While a little more of a trek, this park is worth the trip. It’s multiple playgrounds offer something for every age, and the waterscape is truly unique in its realistic design. Your kids will feel like they are exploring a pond while also looking out onto the actual pond which features plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. 

For the parents: Summit Park offers 4 dining options – Tahona (Mexican), Nanny Belle’s (ice cream), Senate (gourmet street food), The Brown Dog Café (new American). 

Don’t forget to pack: towels, sunscreen, a change of clothes, hats, and sunglasses.

There are plenty of splash pads to discover around Cincinnati! Check out the links below to find more great options. 

For CRC (Cincinnati Recreation Committee) splash pads and facility information visit: www.cincinnati-oh.gov/recreation/Great Parks has some fun splash pads, however, please note there is an entry fee. For more information visit: www.greatparks.org/recreation/playgrounds