It’s pretty easy to run out of things to do over the summer. The temps are too hot, the pools are too crowded, and you ran out of planned activities on, like, June 15th. What you could use right about now is a dedicated local spot where you can go to keep your cool when the temperatures have you sweating. If you are looking for the right place, you might want to consider grabbing some towels and sunscreen and heading down to a splash pad. These fun parks have interactive water sculptures where your child can run around, splash, and get out all their energy! As an Erie family photographer, I get the chance to chat with lots of parents who have found the perfect fit for their family. So, without further ado, here are the splash pads in Erie, PA I always recommend.
West Second and Walnut Streets, Erie, Pennsylvania 16509
Bayview Park is one of the newest splash pads in town! This large installation was completed in June of 2023 and gives your kids plenty of ways to stay cool. The splash pad is completely ADA-accessible, allowing kids of all abilities to have a great time. Your child will get the chance to get sprayed by the hoops, get splashed by the windmill, or dodge the toppling buckets as they fill up with water. The grounds of the splash pad are covered with soft turf that will make sure your child doesn’t take a trip if they get going too quickly. While water shoes are optional, the city recommends them. The splash pad has benches nearby so you can keep watch while enjoying the shade. Once you’re done, be sure to stop by the iconic Erie sign overlooking the waters!
8600 W Lake Rd #2104, Lake City, Pennsylvania 16423
The Greater Erie Camp Sherwin YMCA Campground has one of the coolest splash pads around! Here, you will find a friendly cartoon serpent that emerges from the ground and sprays water through its nostrils. Nearby, your child can run through the fountains or splash beneath the overflowing buckets. This splash pad features a few things that make it extra family-friendly. For starters, they built benches all throughout. While you are more than welcome to run around with your child, you can always hang out and watch them from nearby. Secondly, almost the entire splash pad is gated, so you don’t have to worry about losing track of your kiddo. The cement-paved play surface stays smooth, so your child will have the option of going barefoot or wearing shoes. Access to both the splash pad and the neighboring pool is included in your YMCA membership.
With these splash pads in Erie, PA, you will have the perfect way to stay cool this summer! But if you need a little bit of help making memories, just let me know! I am an Erie family photographer, and I positively love working with families to help them remember this season. So, if you have been considering booking a session, then send me a message! Then, we can start planning your dream session!