11 free Philly spraygrounds you can’t miss this summer

Are you looking for ways your kids can cool off this summer? Last year’s summer was the second-hottest since 1991, an Inquirer analysis found, with an average temperature of 79.3 degrees. And after a not-so-snowy winter, another hot summer is probable.

Local public pools can help, but they won’t be opening until July and it’s unclear how many pools will open. There are alternatives: Dozens of splash pads and water play areas throughout Philadelphia, and most are free.

Spraygrounds, splash pads, or spray parks — whatever they are called on your block — usually offer sprinklers, water jets, or misters. Some have bigger water areas than others.

Parks and Recreation has openedmore than 93 spraygrounds, available through Labor Day. All are open seven days a week, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays, and noon to 5 p.m. weekends.

There are no specific rules for spraygrounds, says Parks and Recreation spokesperson Maita Soukup. “Swimwear is recommended but not required,” Soukup said. “Be safe and bring a towel!”

Parks and Rec has a comprehensive map to the city’s extensive network of spraygrounds so you can find a one near you. To get you started, here are 11 free, wheelchair-accessible spraygrounds not to miss this summer.

If you are in Center City on a hot day, Dilworth Park water jets might be the first place to come to mind. It isn’t the only option, though. These three water jet spraygrounds are within a two-mile radius of City Hall:

Water jets can sure be cooling, but why not add to the fun with other recreational features?

In Pennsport, the 1.1-acre Herron Playground is big enough to cool off under long pole water splashers while kids run around. Shaded seating and picnic areas are available, and the restrooms are open seven days a week.

📍213 Reed St. (at the Nelson M. Herron Playground and Recreation Center)

For Spring Garden families, Clemente Playground’s flower-themed spray park is a draw. Oversize concrete flowers splash water with the city skyline in the background. Benches are available for lounging, for a day surrounded by trees and flowering bushes.

📍1800 Wallace St.

In East Mount Airy, Finley Recreation Center has a section dedicated to splashers. Long pole water sprayers, arches to play under as you cool off, and a tall palm tree-shaped sprayer are among the features. Something cool (besides the water): The water pressure changes from low to high.

📍 7701 Mansfield Ave.

Water will cool you off no matter the sprayer’s shape, but wouldn’t it be fun to splash around on a fish-shaped space? Fishtown Recreation Center, has just that. Additionally, once pools open, you can cross the street for a swim at Lederer Pool.

📍 1202-32 E. Montgomery Ave.

According to the city, Parks and Rec adds and upgrades spray features at specific locations each year. This season, the following playgrounds have newer or updated misters and time-controlled water pressure: