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On a hot summer day, a dip in the pool is fun. But, depending on your family, it can also be a bit of a production. Splash pads can be a low-key, but fun alternative: they're accessible to kiddos of all ages, swimming lessons aren't required, and each trip can be as short—or as long—as you need it to be.
For even more ways to cool off, check out these guides:
A guide to public pools, swim clubs, and water parks in the St. Louis region
10 top swimming holes worth exploring near St. Louis
Anne O’C. Albrecht Nature Playscape: Forest Park has something to offer everyone. Complete with a wetland, spring, hand water pumps, and much more, the Anne O'C. Albrecht Nature Playscape opened last spring. Whether you're there to just explore the new Forest Park development or you truly are letting the kids release their energy, this is a necessary location to frequent this summer and fall. Concourse Drive, in Forest Park.
Kades Playground: Volcano education is a part of a visit to Kades Playground, as the play area features a replica of a volcanic mountain and "lava" etched on the ground. For some summer weather relief, head to the park's Kades Splashpad. 776 Joachim Avenue, in Herculaneum.
Photography via Flickr//Veterans Tribute Park
Veteran's Tribute Park in Weldon Spring
Veterans Tribute Park: Across the Missouri River, you’ll find more than water. This park is complete with a silo, slides, swings, turf, and of course a wet zone. Stop by or stay awhile; this park is a one-stop family-fun destination for the whole crew. Sammelmann Homestead Drive, in Veterans Tribute Park.
Courtesy of Gateway Arch Park Foundation
The splash pad at Kiener Plaza in St. Louis
Kiener Plaza
Kiener Plaza: Want to stay a bit closer to the city? No problem. Admire the gateway to the west while the kids splash around in Kiener Plaza. Once they’ve had their fix, have the kids dry off at the dry playground area complete with swings and climbing nets also located on the Plaza. 500 Chestnut Street, downtown St. Louis.
Photography by Ann White
Zachary's Playground at Hawk Ridge Park in Lake St. Louis
Zachary’s Playground: Known for its wheelchair accessibility, Zachary’s Playground in Lake St. Louis is a must-visit at some point over the summer. Its castle theme allows kids’ imaginations to run wild as the form fun, lifelong memories. The splash pad is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Couple your visit with a scenic drive by Lake St. Louis—or, if you’re lucky, maybe even a day on the boat. 1229 Ridgeway Avenue, in Hawk Ridge Park.
Brendan’s Playground: If you’re a fan of the movie A Bug’s Life, Brendan’s Playground is a must-see. The play area was built and modeled after the movie, sending all visitors into a wonderworld of fascination (any Mario Kart Wii fans will see the giant mushroom and immediately be reminded of racing at Mushroom Gorge). The water area here is on the smaller side, but there's still plenty of room to splash around. 810 Sheppard Drive, in Westhoff Memorial Park.
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Photography via Flickr//Kelly Teague
Children's Garden at Missouri Botanical Garden
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Photography via Flickr//Timber Tank
Fountain at Missouri Botanical Garden
Children’s Garden at Missouri Botanical Garden: The splash pads at the Children’s Garden inside the Missouri Botanical Garden are open on any day above 70 degrees through October 30. The pads are accessible during regular Children's Garden hours (Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and are included with admission. 4344 Shaw Boulevard.
Vlasis Park: Located in Des Peres, Vlasis Park offers a wide array of play options for children. Its lake includes a walkout pavilion great for catching shade and escaping the blistering heat. Vlasis is unique because it has a splash pad near the playground (operating from noon to 6 p.m.) as well as ponds for kids to explore. If you’re in Des Peres, this is a great stop-by for the kids to burn their energy. 300 Park Drive, in Ballwin.
Photography via Flickr//Eric Weisser
Willmore Park in St. Louis Hills
Willmore Park: Looking to stay south of Interstate 44? Willmore Park has you covered. It contains a beautiful lake adjacent to the playground containing an interactive helicopter on which kids can play. The water activities are a bit less extensive at this location. However, Theresa’s Splash Pad is definitely a place to check out. 7200 Hampton Avenue, in St. Louis Hills.
Central Park: Take a stroll around the lake’s pathway, climb on the giant at The Awakening, and cool off by playing in the creek that streams into the Central Park lake. The nearby Chesterfield Aquatic Center has pools and splash pads galore, but if you’re wanting a more natural feel, exploring the lake and creek by the Chesterfield Amphitheater might be the way to go. You can find the official show schedule here and pair your visit with a concert night. 16365 Lydia Hill Drive, in Chesterfield.
Shaw Park: After enjoying the treetop-themed playground, let your littles run among the jets on this splash pad. Here, grownups might look silly frolicking among the 3-year-olds. Set a 15-minute timer, then lure your kid back into the air-conditioning with the promise of popsicles. 27 S. Brentwood.
Not sure where any of these are? We've plotted them out on a map:
For more summer family fun, read our story here.
