A short list of some of the Seattle area’s best places to splash around in the summer heat.
When it’s hot, kids (and parents!) can get cranky. Here are a few of our favorite places to keep it cool.
Lake Union Park
One of the newer splash parks in the city is found at this urban open space in bustling South Lake Union. Nearby: Museum of History & Industry and Center for Wooden Boats. 860 Terry Ave. N. (seattle.gov/parks).
Jefferson Park
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Summertime in Seattle is best known for its beauty. As an ode to the season, Seattle Times photographers seek out the elements that define its essence: earth, wind, water and fire, to pay tribute before the rain returns. Read more. (Marcus Yam, Bettina Hansen and Erika Schultz / The Seattle Times)The spray park on Beacon Hill is part of a playscape that features slides and a zip line. Nearby: Playground, skatepark, par-3 golf course. 3801 Beacon Ave. S. (seattle.gov/parks).
Town Square Park
This wet-and-wonderful water feature is located right in the heart of downtown Burien. Nearby: Burien Library, picnic areas, trails. 480 S.W. 152nd St., Burien (burienwa.gov).
Crossroads Park
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Spitting frogs, spouting orcas and squirting clams greet kids at this summertime fun zone. Nearby: A market stage with frequent performances and a farmers market on Tuesday afternoons. 164th Ave. N.E., Bellevue (ci.bellevue.wa.us).
Ballard Commons Park
This compact spray park is right in Ballard’s sweet spot, close to shops and restaurants. Nearby: A skate bowl and the Ballard Library. 5701 22nd Ave. N.W. (seattle.gov/parks).
Don’t overlook the fountain at Seattle Center, and for many more free splash zones, consult the websites for Seattle parks and King County parks.
Seattle Times staff