Splash pads in Springfield, Massachusetts

Forest Park is Springfield's 735-acre crown jewel and the spray feature is the summer family staple. Designed in part by Olmsted, the park has zoo access, paddle boats, gardens, and the spray deck near the playground. Springfield Parks runs the spray late June through Labor Day, daytime only, with the typical 70F minimum to turn on. Parking is free, restrooms are at the picnic groves, and the Zoo at Forest Park admission combo is the legendary Pioneer Valley summer day. October return visit for foliage and the Bright Nights setup later in the season is worth marking the calendar for.