When summer heats up, a great park with water features is the perfect escape—but not all splash pads are created equal. We’ve rounded up some of the best splash pads in the GTA, from Toronto favourites to hidden gems just east or west of the city. Grab your sunscreen and go—you won’t be disappointed by any of these picks. 

  1. Marie Curtis Park 

2 Forty Second St 

(Open 24 hours) 

This beachfront park has a wading pool and a large splash pad with fun, colourful, animal-themed water sprayers throughout. There are benches and picnic areas to the side as well as trails and outdoor volleyball courts nearby. It’s scenic, family-friendly and perfect for a summer afternoon. 

  1. Centre Island 

9 Queen's Quay W 

(Open 9am —8:30pm) 

If you're up for a trip to Centre Island, there's plenty to do with kids including the amazing splash pad in Centreville Amusement Park. Be sure to look up at the modern, tree-like structures among the fountains-they're pretty artistic for a splash pad. 

  1. Corktown Common 

155 Bayview Ave, Toronto 

(Open 24 hours) 

This beautiful park in the east end has a playground, grassy areas for relaxing and a simple but appealing splash pad that's got a natural, somewhat adventurous feel to it. It's not as large or brightly coloured as other splash pads on this list, but Corktown Common has a unique charm that makes it worth a visit. 

  1. Jack Darling Park 

1180 Lakeshore Rd W, Mississauga 

(Open 8am—11pm) 

Located in a sprawling, tree-lined green space next to Lake Ontario, this Mississauga splash pad is just steps away from an excellent playground. It's great for younger kids, and there's lots of room for older kids to run around or kick a ball. Jack Darling Park also offers beach access. 

  1. Coronation Park 

1426 Lakeshore Rd W, Oakville 

(Open am —10pm) 

Another lakeside gem, Coronation Park in Oakville has a great splash pad that's amusingly on theme (picture a massive crown pouring water onto your kids next to a castle-like entrance). This park also offers walking paths, large shady trees and beach access. 

  1. Nelson Pool 

4235 New St, Burlington 

(see facilities.burlington.ca for hours of operation) 

This huge, freshly renovated splash pad is great for kids of all ages. There's also a full-size pool on site complete with a large climbing wall and diving boards. The splash pad is fully accessible and the surrounding area offers plenty of shade to relax in. 

  1. Milton Community Park 

805 Santa Maria Blvd, Milton 

(Open 9am —9pm) 

Featuring a spacious, colourful splash pad surrounded by green space, Milton Community Park also has public sports facilities, an awesome playground with a huge climbing structure, and lots more to keep kids busy this summer. 

  1. Pickering Waterfront 

501 Liverpool Road, Pickering 

(Open 9am—9pm) 

If you can resist the sandy beach nearby, check out this great splash pad along the Waterfront Trail in Pickering. Located in a sunny spot overlooking the water, this is an awesome spot for families to spend a few hours playing and relaxing. Add it to your list—you’ve got no shortage of ideas now! 

Photo: Freepik