Beat the summer heat with some splashing fun! Pennsylvania is home to fantastic water parks and splash pads perfect for cooling off and having a blast with the family. This July, dive into these top spots for a memorable summer adventure. Whether you’re looking for thrilling water slides, relaxing lazy rivers, or interactive splash pads, Pennsylvania has it all.
Top Water Parks in Pennsylvania
Hersheypark’s The Boardwalk (Hershey, PA)
Hersheypark’s The Boardwalk is a summer paradise within the famous Hersheypark. With a lazy river, wave pool, numerous water slides, and interactive play areas, this water park offers endless fun for all ages. Kids can enjoy the East Coast Waterworks, an elaborate play structure with seven slides and nearly 600 interactive water features. For a more relaxing experience, families can float along the Intercoastal Waterway or catch some waves in the Shoreline Sprayground. Plus, being located in Hersheypark means you can enjoy all the amusement rides and chocolate-themed attractions.
Link: Hersheypark’s The Boardwalk
Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark (Tannersville, PA)
Located in the picturesque Pocono Mountains, Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark boasts over 37 rides and attractions. Highlights include the FlowRider surfing simulator, high-speed water slides, and the Kahuna Lagoon wave pool. The Pharaoh’s Phortress play structure is perfect for younger kids, with smaller slides and interactive water features. For those seeking a thrill, the Triple Venom slides offer a heart-pounding experience. The scenic backdrop of the Pocono Mountains makes Camelbeach a beautiful and exciting destination for family fun.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom (Allentown, PA)
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom offers two parks for the price of one, combining a classic amusement park with a fantastic water park. Wildwater Kingdom features a wide range of water attractions, from family-friendly rides to high-speed slides. Highlights include the Aquablast, one of the longest elevated water slides in the world, and the Runaway River, a winding lazy river perfect for relaxation. Kids will love the Lollipop Lagoon, a water play area designed just for them, while thrill-seekers can take on the Python Plummet body slides.
Best Splash Pads in Pennsylvania
Bell Tavern Park (Downingtown, PA)
Better known as “Bell Tavern Park,” this community park features a host of recreational facilities, including a playground and a tot lot with water features. The water features are open daily from 11 am to 5 pm, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Other highlights at this park include a 4.5-mile paved walking trail around the perimeter, an outdoor hockey rink, sand volleyball courts, tennis and basketball courts, and restrooms.
Bell Tavern Park
Freedom Playground at Haverford Reserve (Haverford, PA)
Freedom Playground is part of Haverford Township’s Community Park at Haverford Reserve and is a free playground open daily from dawn to dusk. Parents love this safe playground with its single entrance and the fantastic splash pad with misting stations for keeping cool. The playground is fully accessible and features a soft-surface play area, a sandbox for imaginative play, and climbing walls for your little adventurers. Freedom Playground also has a sensory cave, swings, slides, and more.
John O. Greene Memorial Park (West Chester, PA)
John O. Greene Memorial Park is a fantastic spot for family fun, featuring a variety of engaging play structures and water features. The park includes two tot swing sets, two youth swing sets, and a three-bay swing set, ensuring plenty of swings for kids of all ages. Children can climb on the three Dino Climbers or cool off under the three frog sprinklers and other water features and poppers. The castle play structure adds an element of imaginative play, while the funnel ball goal and additional play structures provide even more options for active fun. This park is an ideal destination for a fun-filled day with the family.
Venice Island Spray Garden (Philadelphia, PA)
Located just over the Green Lane Bridge in Manayunk, the Venice Island Spray Garden is a short drive for many Main Line area families. Part of the Venice Island Performing Arts Center, this little park offers free splash pad fun in a wooded setting adjacent to the Schuylkill River. You can also enjoy serene views of the canal and river from the quiet meditation sitting area situated below the spray garden.
Link: Venice Island Spray Garden
Montgomery Township Spray Park (Montgomeryville, PA)
Montgomery Township Spray Park is a free public splash pad located in a spacious park with walking trails and sports fields. The spray park includes various spray features and fountains that provide refreshing fun for kids of all ages. It’s an excellent place for families to cool off and enjoy a summer day without spending a dime.
Link: Montgomery Township Spray Park
Rodney Park Sprayground (Lancaster, PA)
Rodney Park in Lancaster offers a fun and interactive splash pad that’s perfect for cooling off on a hot day. The splash pad features various water sprays and fountains, providing a refreshing break for kids during playtime. The park also includes playground equipment and picnic areas, making it a great spot for family outings. The park also offers a free 8-week program that offers a nutritious lunch and snack each day. They are served free of charge at all playground sites daily to all children 18 and under. Lunchtime is at 11:30 a.m. and snack time is at 3 p.m. The wading pools close for snack to be served. The recreation program asks that you register your child on your first visit to the Sprayground.
Herron Playground (Philadelphia, PA)
Herron Playground in South Philadelphia offers a fantastic splash pad with numerous water features, perfect for children to cool off and have fun. The playground also has various play structures, swings, and open spaces for kids to enjoy, making it a great spot for family visits.
Herron Playground
Tips for a Fun Day Out
Planning a day at a water park or splash pad? Here’s a handy checklist to ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic time:
- Swimwear: Pack swimsuits for the whole family.
- Swim Diapers: Essential for infants and toddlers.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin with water-resistant sunscreen.
- Towels: Bring enough towels for everyone.
- Extra Clothes: Pack dry clothes for the trip home.
- Water Shoes: Helpful for walking on hot surfaces.
- Snacks and Water: Stay hydrated and energized with plenty of water and snacks.
- First Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor cuts and scrapes.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Keep your phone dry and protected.
- Goggles: Great for kids who love to swim.
- Hats and Sunglasses: Extra sun protection for everyone.
Ready for your splish-splashy adventure? Whether you’re seeking thrilling water slides or a relaxing day by the pool, these destinations offer something for everyone in the family. Dive into summer fun and make unforgettable memories at these top water spots!
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