Splash pads in Urbana, Illinois

Crystal Lake Park is Urbana's centerpiece and the splash feature is the cool-down ritual of a campus that includes a small lake, walking trails, the Anita Purves Nature Center, and a destination playground. Ground sprays for toddlers and arching jets for older kids. Free parking, clean restrooms. Parent gotcha: central-Illinois summer storms roll in fast off the prairie — check radar; the pad closes during lightning. Best on weekday mornings. Pair with a stop at the nature center for hands-on exhibits. Walk to Pekara Bakery in Urbana or grab Jeni's at Lincoln Square. The most charming Urbana family afternoon.