Beat the Heat
The Ohio Valley summer is here, and we all know what that means: hot, humid days and kids with endless energy. When the backyard sprinkler just won't cut it, it's time to pack up the towels and sunscreen and head to one of the area's fantastic splash pads or water parks. Whether you're looking for a completely free outing or a special treat, Cincinnati has a perfect spot for your family to cool down and have a blast.
Here are some of our top picks for every budget and level of adventure.
Awesome and Always Free
These spots offer incredible water fun without costing a dime, making them perfect for any summer afternoon.
Washington Park A true gem in the heart of Over-the-Rhine, Washington Park boasts a massive 7,000-square-foot interactive water park. Kids go wild for the 130+ pop-up jets that are synchronized to music and lights. With cascading water steps and a gentle waterfall flowing over a large boulder, it's an urban oasis that provides hours of entertainment.
Cost: Free
Location: 1230 Elm St.,Over-the-Rhine, Cincinnati,
Smale Riverfront Park With stunning views of the Ohio River and the Roebling Bridge, Smale Park is a family favorite. It features multiple water play areas, including the Main Street and Walnut Street fountains and a dedicated water play zone. After splashing around, you can enjoy the playgrounds, giant swings, or take a ride on Carol Ann's Carousel.
Cost: Free
Location: 166 W Mehring Way, Downtown Cincinnati
Clippard Park This Colerain park is a local favorite for a reason. The sprayground features motion-activated jets and colorful tipping buckets that guarantee shrieks of delight. Parents will appreciate the ample shaded seating and picnic tables, making it a comfortable spot to spend the afternoon.
Cost: Free
Location: 3500 Bevis Lane, Colerain Township,
Beech Acres Park Located in Anderson Township, this park features a wonderful splash pad that's part of an “all-children's playground,” designed for kids of all ages and abilities. It’s a fantastic, inclusive space for younger children and toddlers to cool off safely.
Cost: Free
Location: 6910 Salem Road, Anderson Township,
Juilfs Park Also in Anderson, Juilfs Park offers a charming farm-themed playground complete with a water play area. Kids can splash around among fun, themed sprayers. It's another excellent free option for a low-key, fun-filled day.
Cost: Free
Location: 8249 Clough Pike, Anderson Township,
Cincinnati Recreation Commission (CRC) Spraygrounds The CRC operates numerous free, stand-alone spraygrounds in neighborhoods all over the city, making it easy to find one close to home. These spots are perfect for a quick and easy way to cool down.
Cost: Free
Locations: Multiple neighborhoods including Caldwell, College Hill, Dyer, McKie, North Fairmount, Oakley, Oyler, Pleasant Ridge, and South Fairmount. (Note: Some spraygrounds are adjacent to CRC pools and may have different access rules during pool hours, so it's always a good idea to check first!)
Great Parks Wet Playgrounds
For a themed adventure that's a step above a standard splash pad, the Great Parks of Hamilton County are a fantastic choice.
Winton Woods & Woodland Mound The Great Parks system offers incredible "wet playgrounds." Head to Parky's Ark at Winton Woods or Parky's Wetland Adventure at Woodland Mound for a themed experience with slides, sprayers, and tons of interactive features.
Cost: $6.75 per child. A valid Great Parks Motor Vehicle Permit is also required for park entry.
Location: 10245 Winton Road, Winton Woods (Springfield Township) & Woodland Mound (Anderson Township)
Destination Water Parks (Ticket Required)
When you want to go all out for a day of thrilling water fun, these destinations are the place to be.
Kings Island's Soak City Included with your admission to Kings Island, Soak City is a massive, full-scale water park with more than 50 water activities, including dozens of slides, a wave pool, and lazy rivers. From the heart-pounding drop of Tropical Plunge to the family-friendly fun of Coconut Cove, it's the ultimate water park experience.
Cost: Included with Kings Island admission (Daily tickets start around $45 online).
Location: Mason, Ohio
Ziegler Park Pool While Ziegler Park offers a wonderful free sprayground, it's also home to a large public swimming pool for those who want to take a real dip. The pool features lap lanes, a diving board, and a super fun climbing wall that arcs over the water.
Cost: Daily admission required for the pool area.
Location: 216 Woodward St., Over-the-Rhine, Cincinnati,
Great Wolf Lodge Beat a rainy day or a heat wave with a trip to this incredible indoor water park. Kept at a balmy 84 degrees, it’s packed with slides, pools, and play areas for all ages. It'‘s a resort, but day passes are often available for purchase online, giving you access to all the aquatic fun without an overnight stay.
Cost: Day passes vary in price; check their website for availability.
Location: 2501 Great Wolf Drive, Mason, OH
No matter where you live in the Cincinnati area, you’re never too far from a great place to splash and play. So grab the kids, and get ready to make some wonderful, water-soaked memories this summer!
– Shae Huth