Ultimate Guide: 9 Must-Visit Seattle-area Splash Parks

June 14, 2022

Last updated on May 25th, 2023

When the weather heats up, there’s no better place to cool down than at one of the many splash parks in the Greater Seattle area. Skip the backyard hose and save water by venturing out to some area favorites (not in any particular order). If we’ve left any of your favorites off the list, please share in the comments!

Spray parks are typically open from Memorial Day to Labor Day but be sure to check before you go. In the city of Seattle, spray parks are open daily from 11am – 8pm.

Enjoy some of our 360 vitural tours below!

1. Lake Union Park | Seatle, WA

860 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109

Take in one of the best views from the Lake Union Park splash pad in South Lake Union, Seattle. Kids love watching the sea planes landing just as much as they love splashing! Extend your visit to South Lake Union and roam the park’s open space, cross the footbridge, stop by the model boat pond, visit MOHAI, visit the Center for Wooden Boats (and don’t forget to rent a free peapod Wed – Sun)

The Cafe at MOHAI is great for a bathroom break and a quick bite to eat.

2. International Fountain | Seattle, WA

305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109

Are you up for the International Fountain challenge? Run to the big silver ball and back before the water gets you. This Seattle Center icon is a summer draw on hot days for those getting wet and those just watching (maybe cooling off by the mist). We love that this fountain uses recycled water, but don’t worry, it’s treated with three types of treatment before it even reaches the public.

Make sure you pack extra clothes to extend your time at Seattle Center with a stop at the Space Needle, Seattle Children’s Museum, and Artists at Play Playground. Grab a bite at the Armory if you get hungry.

3. Yesler Terrace Park & Spraypark | Seattle, WA

903 Yesler Way, Seattle, WA 98122

Don’t push the orange button. Actually, push it. It will activate the water at the splash park. What makes this splash park extra special are two things: 1) the playground; 2) the view. It’s a destination playground all year round, but especially on the sunny summer days.

4. Jefferson Park (Beacon Hill) | Seattle, WA

3801 Beacon Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108

Jefferson Park is a must in the summer, this is the sixth largest park in Seattle, this park features two playgrounds and a large splash pad that draws the kids on warmer summer days. Check out the lookout point above the splash pad for breathtaking views.

5. Northacres Park & Spraypark | Seattle, WA

12718 1st Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125

The spray park at the Northacres Park in North Seattle’s Haller Lake neighborhood is one of the more popular spots to visit in the summer because of the fun splash park and lots of shaded areas to keep cool. There are trails to stroll, a playground to play, and an off-leash dog park for your four-legged family members.

6. Redmond Town Center | Redmond, WA

7525 166th Ave NE, Redmond, WA 98052

Right at Center Court of the Redmond Town Center is the splash pad that kids of all ages love. The water is heated to a perfectly refreshing temperature for those hot summer days. Bring extra clothes so you can shop and dine at this lovely outdoor shopping center.

7. Redmond Downtown Park | Redmond, WA

16101 NE, Redmond Way, Redmond, WA 98052

The Redmond Downtown Park is a newer space, created to serve as a destination for residents. The splash pad in the plaza definitely draws the kids on the warmer summer days. Close to the bathroom and picnic tables, it’s a great spot to picnic and relax with the kids. We love that the water isn’t too cold, but cool enough on those hot days.

8. Crossroads Park | Bellevue, WA

16140 NE 8th St, Bellevue, WA 98008

You can’t Google “splash park near me” without Bellevue’s Crossroads Park splash park coming up. This Northwest theme spot features the “iconic” climbable orca whale and spitting frogs and clams. The water here is on the colder side compared to other parks, but on those hot days, does it really matter? Not to most kids.

When they get tired of the splash park, there’s so much more at this park to enjoy from the playground to trails and even a nine-hole golf course.

Note – there’s not much shade at the playground so bring a small beach tent to keep covered. We love the California Beach Co. Pop N’ Go Playpen (bonus, it goes on sale often)

9 - Inspiration Playground | Bellevue, WA

10201 NE 4th St, Bellevue, WA 98004

The splash park at Inspiration Playground in Bellevue downtown is on the smaller side and makes the list because of the clean bathrooms and stellar playground within steps of the water play area. The splash zone features a fun little waterfall, boulders, and a stream. We love that all the sitting areas are covered – perfect for those hot sunny days.

The playground and splash park are enough to keep you busy all day, but don’t miss a nice stroll around the rest of the Downtown Bellevue Park.

Bonus Fountains and Splash Pads

Greenlake Village | Seattle, WA

The plaza at Greenlake Village has water features with cascading water on their benches just outside of PCC Community Market. A family and toddler-friendly favorite.

Thornton Place | Seattle, WA

Thornton Place fountain is small but another great hit for the toddlers. Located just outside of the Thornton Place Plaza in northeast Seattle with lots of eateries nearby for the whole family.

Kirkland Urban | Kirkland, WA

The plaza at Kirkland Urban has another little toddler-friendly splash pad. The perfect spot to cool off while you are shopping or eating in the newly developed Kirkland Urban shopping center near Peter Kirk Park.

Other City of Seattle Spray Parks

~ Tukwila Community Center

~ Judkins Park, Playfield, & Spray park

~ Highland Park Playground & Spray park

~ Miller Community Center & Spray park

~ Pratt Park & Spray park

~ Miller Community Center/Playfield

~ Georgetown Playfield & Spray park

*Spraypark and wading pool schedules are subject to change (due to weather or damage to the facilities)

Summer Splash Park Must-Haves

Keep a few summer necessities in your car during the hot summer months so you’re always prepared. Don’t forget to pack your picnic blanket and cooler full of snacks.

~ Wet/Dry bag for the wet clothes

~ UV protection hat to protect your little one from the harmful rays

~ Sunscreen to protect their delicate skin. We like that you can apply this one to wet skin – makes reapplying so much easier.