These unseasonably hot temperatures really threw us off, especially after 45 days of all those grey skies and rain! It’s definitely going to be a hot week, but the splash pads don’t usually open until Memorial Day weekend… so now what?! We compiled a list of places to cool off! Each of these ideas have water features that kids can enjoy. So pack some towels and sunscreen and have fun. If you have any other ideas, let us know in the comments!
Creek Stomping in the Fox River
Head to downtown Oswego for some creek stomping! Jamie took her kids there towards the end of last summer and they didn’t want to leave.
Find a Waterfall
Some of the waterfalls on our list accommodate stepping on rocks to splashing at the bottom, but please enjoy at your own risk.
The Morton Arboretum Children’s Garden
May is tadpole season at The Morton Arboretum! Head to the wading pond in the Children’s Garden to cool off.
Bison’s Bluff Nature Playground
There’s plenty of water play at this nature playground in Schaumburg! Water tables, a pond, and waterfall and the main attractions during a hot day.
Harvester Park
Harvester Park in Burr Ridge has a stream to play in in the middle of the playground. The water is not always on, so we recommend checking with Burr Ridge Park District before venturing out with water play in mind. We just talked to them today and the water is on this week, starting May 9, 2022!
Hawks Hollow Nature Playground
Hawks Hollow in Geneva encourages children to wade in the water (we recommend wearing water shoes because of the rocky bottom). Off to the side are a few smaller water spouts for additional water play. The water features are not always on, so please check with the Geneva Park District before you go. As of May 11, 2022 they are on!
Naper Settlement Playscape
The water features in the splash pad are turned on between May 15 and September 30 on days that the temperature is above 70 degrees, but we talked to them today and they are opening one day early- May 14, 2022.
Water Table Play
We love this water table by Step 2! It provides hours of entertainment in the backyard or wherever you set it up.
Fun with Water Pipes
Buy some PVC pipe and fittings to let your kids’ imagination run wild! We’ve spent hours making bike washing stations, water marble machines, and fun sprinkler configurations.
Make Your Backyard a Summer Oasis
We compiled more ideas to make your backyard super fun this summer! Click here for numerous ideas for water play and more.
