Splash pads in Montclair, New Jersey

Mountainside is a tucked-away Montclair gem most out-of-towners miss. The sprayground is small but well-shaded and feels neighborhood-y — locals wave, a few strollers parked along the fence. Ground jets and a low arch keep it safe for crawlers, and the adjacent playground gives bigger sibs something to do when they're bored of the water. Street parking on Bellevue is the play; it's tight but turnover is steady. Restrooms are basic. The Watchung-edge elevation means a touch of breeze even on humid northern Jersey afternoons. Walk up to Bloomfield Avenue afterwards for ice cream at Applegate Farm. Roughly Memorial Day to Labor Day, daytime.