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Local Los Angeles Splash Pads to Beat the Heat

By Faith Mellinger, Publisher & Family Fun Finder for NELA Macaroni Kid June 23, 2019
If trekking to the beach sounds like too much to handle, stay local and cool off at a free local splash pad.
Grand Park - Downtown
200 North Grand Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Year Round

Pros: This large fountain splash pad on the south side of Grand Ave is everyone's favorite! Kids of all ages love the water. Parents appreciate the nearby Starbucks, ample pink seating, and clean restrooms. Take the Metro Red Line for extra fun.
Cons: The nearby lots will set you back $7-$10.


Rio De Los Angeles State Park (A.K.A. Taylor Yard) - Cypress Park
1900 N. San Fernando Rd.
Los Angeles, CA 90065
Summer

Pros: Kids love the water guns! In addition to the splash pad, this bustling park has multiple sports fields, a partially shaded playground, walking trails and a nice urban wilderness vibe.
Cons: The splash pad can get crowded.


Cerritos Park "Rocket Park" - Glendale
3690 San Fernando Road
Glendale, CA 91204
June - Sept

Pros: Fun water features! They have buckets that tip every few minutes. Hear the squeals? Yup, another kid just got drenched. This local favorite has shaded tables, bathrooms, and easy parking. Rolling Robots is across the street if anyone is in need of a battle. 
Cons: The large rocket play structure can be intimidating for younger kids and downright scary for parents. Risk is good, right?

 
Pacific Park - Glendale
501 S. Pacific Avenue
Glendale, CA 91204
June - Sept

Pros: It is adjacent to Pacific Park Library (air conditioning) and the Pacific Community Pool. You can stay cool all afternoon at Pacific Park. Find the recreational swim schedule here.
Cons: Limited shade by the splash pad.


Glendale "Wading Pools" - Glendale
Locations: 
Brand Park 1601 W. Mountain St. Wednesday & Friday
Glenoaks Park 2531 Glenoaks Blvd. Monday & Tuesday
Dunsmore Park 4700 Dunsmore Ave. Monday & Thursday
Fremont Park 600 W. Hahn Ave. Tuesday & Thursday

Times: 12 noon - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Thursday
1:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
June 17, 2019 - August 17, 2019
(818) 937-7433

Pros: These small wading pools are perfect for toddlers. They are shallow, fun and safe for the younger set. Inflatables and pool toys are allowed at the discretion of the lifeguard on duty. 
The are for children 8 years of age and younger. Parent participation is required.

Favorites are Glenoaks Park and Brand Park. Glenoaks is tucked away in a peaceful neighborhood. The park itself is shady and cool with picnic tables, a fenced in play area and clean bathrooms. It does have woodchips. You may want to throw some extra sneakers into your bag.

Brand Park is gorgeous and serene. It has a library, teahouse, and trails. It's the perfect spot for a family picnic.

City Terrace Park 
1126 N. Hazard Avenue
Los Angeles 90063

Pros: Those who can swim can also use the pool!




BONUS PARK:

Reese's Retreat "Pirate Park"' in Brookside Park - Pasadena
360 N. Arroyo Blvd.
Year Round
(626) 744-4321

Pros: We love Pirate Park! This isn't exactly a splash pad, but kids get wet and sandy.  The huge pirate ship is ADA friendly and comes complete with ramps and a cannonball climber. It's a pirate lover's dream. The water/sand area is great for toddlers and preschoolers. Bring an extra set of clothes.

First timers: Reese's Retreat is located in the southeast corner of Brookside Park, just behind the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center. Walk to the Aquatics Center and keep on following the path...until you discover the huge pirate ship!



Am I missing any of your favorite local spots to cool off? Leave a comment or email me at faithm@macaronikid.com



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