The coolest free (or cheap) splash pads and wading pools in Canada
What’s the coolest spot when the weather is hot? These splash pads! They’re not only refreshing and fun, but also the coolest free (or cheap) options across the country. Will you visit any of Canada’s splash pads or wading pools this summer? Make sure to check out at least one of these epic, over-the-top spots if they’re near you.
Splash Island, Toronto, Ontario
This epic splash pad at Toronto Zoo is (of course) animal-themed. An orca sprays water out of its blowhole, an elephant sprays water from its trunk, and many other animals are featured too. To cap it all off, two water slides and several waterfalls make for a wet and wild adventure. This splash pad is huge, and surrounded by plenty of spots to sit and lounge. Tip: Try to go during slower times to keep an easier eye on your kiddos. (Note: This is only free with zoo entrance fee or a zoo membership.)
Kildonan Park Pool and Spray Pad, Winnipeg, Manitoba
In the heart of Winnipeg, this pool and splash pad is the perfect full-day outing for families. Not only does the pool have two slides and three diving boards, it also has gradual depth increase, so kids can test their skills without worrying about a sudden drop into the deep end. The big splash pad section is full of fun water features. The adjacent park also has washrooms and walking paths—and in the summer there’s a restaurant and ice cream shop nearby too.
Broadmoor Lake Spray Park, Sherwood Park, Alberta
Nestled amidst the picturesque surroundings of Sherwood Park, part of the appeal of this spray park is the amazing playground structures next to it. Kids will be in awe of the two-storey slide, fake rock park, and fun sand area. The splash pad itself boasts a variety of interactive water play features, including water cannons, sprays, and giant tipping buckets. Washrooms are in a nearby arena. While there are plenty of picnic tables and picnic areas, most of them are not shaded (so bring your umbrella!).
Brewer Park Splash Pad, Ottawa, Ontario
Have you ever been to a two-storey splash pad? Now’s your chance! This splash pad has two levels, connected by a tube slide that’s nestled into a hill surrounded by evergreen trees. Need we say more? This park is a local favourite—for good reason. It has a little bit of everything that makes summer special: big trees, a pond, a boardwalk, three playgrounds, bathrooms, baseball fields, a basketball hoop, and nearby (excellent) coffee options.
Stanley Park Variety Kids Water Park, Vancouver, B.C.
Located next to the Seawall at Lumbermen’s Arch, this water park has multiple water slides, fountains, and misting tunnels. It’s also a short walk from popular family-friendly attractions like a miniature train ride, playground, and beautiful little beach. An extra fun feature that kids will enjoy is the “kids’ dryer,” which they can walk through to get a blast of warm air.
Lake Road Park, Montreal, Quebec
This splash pad has a feature few can resist: a giant bucket that dumps water on whoever stands underneath! Plus, with water cannons, sprayers, and a section just for toddlers, there’s something for every kid to enjoy. It’s also all wrapped up into a jungle theme, which makes it extra fun for the littlest ones.
Sackville Splash Pad, Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia
If you’re in the Lower Sackville area, you may want to pop by the largest splash pad in the municipality. The Sackville splash pad has 21 water features, including water jets, misters, geysers, structural loops, tunnels, and more for little ones to enjoy. Plus, as a bonus, you’ll also be able to swim at the nearby sandy, shallow beach, play on the playground, and enjoy the kid-friendly trails nearby.
Have you been to a free or inexpensive splash pad or wading pool in your community? Please share it in the comments below!
