Everyone knows that Arizona is hot. It can be really hot in July and August and sometimes it feels like it is unbearable. The heat is sometimes an understatement, especially when you are trying to do things outside. When temperatures rise into the 110s, one of the best ways to stay cool and have fun is by spending time in the water. Whether you’re swimming, boating, or just relaxing in a pool, being in the water is a great way to beat the heat.
There are plenty of amusement parks, water parks, and splash pads in Arizona to help you beat the heat during summer. With an endless amount of activities, water parks are the perfect place to cool off during the summer heat. Water slides, wave pools, diving boards, swimming pools, and kid-safe splash pads are just a few of the many attractions that water parks have to offer. No matter your age, you’re sure to find something to enjoy at a water park.
To make it even more thrilling, here are some free waterparks you will see in Tucson:
Rancho Sahuarita Water Park
Rancho Sahuarita has a private splash park which is the largest in Southern Arizona, making it the perfect place to cool off & have some fun. With so many features and water activities, this splash pad is sure to be a hit with everyone in the family. This waterpark has numerous features that will keep you cool, including large and small water slides, spraying fountains, a shaded area, and a giant bucket that pours water on everyone below. Children will love playing in the spraying water and sliding down the slides, while adults can enjoy the shade and relaxation. Rancho Sahuarita should be used as an example by new home developers and city officials when planning future spaces for families.
Other features at the facility include the main lap pool with recreational swim space, shaded pavilions, a spa, clean restrooms, tanning chairs, a tot pool with a shaded canopy, picnic tables, and an air-conditioned clubhouse.
- Cost: Residents can use the facility for free, but it is not open to the public. Guests can use the facility by using guest passes.
- Note: Rancho Sahuarita also has a Splash Pad with flamingos at one of their neighborhood park facilities. It features jets that shoot water upwards and two giant flamingos that pour water from their bills. The lap pool and tot lagoon are accessible year-round. Splash Park is available during the summer months.
Marana Heritage River Park Splash Pad
The Marana Heritage Splash Pad is a wonderful place for families to enjoy some free fun. The contemporary equipment is all agrarian-themed and comprises a tractor, a watermill, and spraying horses. This is sure to be a hit with the kids, so make sure to check it out next time you’re looking for something fun to do!
The splash pad is conveniently located next to other community facilities, such as baseball fields, a playground, a community garden, walking trails, and grassy multi-use areas. This makes it easy for residents to enjoy all that the community has to offer!
- Cost: Free Admission
- Note: Metal cubbies are available for shoes and bags. Open April 1 to October 31.
Brandi Fenton Splash Pad
Brandi Fenton Memorial Park, operated by Pima County Natural Resources, is undoubtedly the best free splash pad in the area. The park features a large splash pad with numerous water features, as well as a playground, picnic tables, and grassy areas. With its convenient location and numerous amenities, it’s no wonder that this splash pad is so popular! The park itself is a beautiful oasis in the desert, and the splash pad is a wonderful addition that kids and adults alike can enjoy.
The splash pad is designed for children 12 and under, as well as the caregivers who accompany them. The pad has water features such as spray arches and water geysers.
The park has several features that make it enjoyable for people of all ages. In addition to the covered ramadas and shaded playground, there are also lighted soccer fields, two basketball courts, and restrooms. This makes the park a great place to come for a picnic or to play some sports with friends.
- Cost: Free Admission
- Note: Opens on the 3rd Saturday in April. Closes October 31.
Oro Valley Aquatic Center
The Town of Oro Valley has an excellent splash pad that is situated inside the modern Oro Valley Aquatic Center. This top-notch facility includes an Olympic pool, a recreational pool, a water slide, diving boards, changing rooms, and sheltered bleachers. Families and children of all ages will enjoy spending time at this one-of-a-kind splash pad! The OV Aquatic Center is an ideal place to host parties, with its indoor classroom and outdoor shaded ramada offering perfect spaces for hosting guests. The small, colorful splash pad has water apparatuses and fountains in the shape of flowers that flow upward from the ground. Best of all, kids 3 and under are always free.
- Cost: Free for 3-year-olds and younger; $5 drop-in fee for individuals (children & adults); $14 for families (up to 6 people). Monthly memberships are also available
- Note: The time for using the splash pad is different than the time for using the aquatic center.
Zion City Splash Pad
The Zion City Splash Pad, which is located at 2561 W. Ruthrauff and is operated by Zion City Church, can accommodate up to 75 children and adults at a time. Best of all, it is completely free to the public! So come on down and cool off this summer!
- Cost: Free
- Note: The splash pad is open from late March to late October.
Tucson Jewish Community Center
The Tucson Jewish Community Center is a facility that is open to people of all faiths. It is 110,000 square feet and located in north-central Tucson. The J strives to provide a warm and welcoming environment for everyone who comes through its doors. Whether you’re looking to take a fitness class, participate in an art or culture program, or just relax and socialize with friends, the J is the place for you! The JCC also offers a sculpture garden, a new indoor play area, a swimming pool, and a toddler pool. The splash pad is especially popular among the kids and has various spraying features as well as a mini slide.
- Cost: Tucson J members can enjoy the pool for free, and day passes are available for $10 per person.
- Note: The Tucson J Splash Pad is available to rent for birthday parties by both members and non-members. The Splash Pad at the Tucson J is usually open, except for a brief period during colder months.
Ott YMCA
The Ott YMCA, on Tucson’s east side, is the only one in Southern Arizona with a splash pad. The vibrant and child-friendly area is ideal not only for youngsters but for anyone who wants to escape the heat on a hot day. With its convenient location and ample parking, the Ott YMCA is the perfect place to take your family for a day of fun in the sun.
- Cost: Free for members or you can purchase a $ 10-day pass. The cost of a membership is $38 per month for adults or $62 per month for a family. There is also a one-time “joining fee” of $50. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.
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