Best Wichita Splash Pads for Summer Fun
With summer in Kansas bringing the hottest temperatures of the year, many residents of Wichita search for the best ways to cool off. Fortunately, the area has parks, splash pads, and public pools with different features that give residents of all ages places to enjoy during the summer months.
From splash pads located within residential neighborhoods to more expansive aquatic centers, Wichita has plenty of spots to stay active despite the heat. Whether residents want a quick visit to a splash pad or plan to spend a weekend rotating between splash pads and public pools, there are several places worth adding to summer plans.
Wichita Splash Pads Residents Love
Riverside Park Splash Pad
One of the most popular splash pads in Wichita is located at Riverside Park. Riverside Park includes not only the splash pad, but also playgrounds, walking trails, and areas for residents to spend time outdoors.
Residents often visit this park to walk along the Arkansas River or explore other attractions within the Riverside neighborhood.
Best for: residents who want splash pad time plus trails and a longer park visit in one stop.
Buffalo Park Splash Pad
Another popular splash pad that residents of Wichita, KS enjoy is Buffalo Park. Buffalo Park includes areas to relax, play near the park's playground, and spread out in the park's open space.
The park is located roughly 15 minutes from Eastgate Apartments, making it one of the more convenient splash pads for residents who live on the east side of Wichita.
Best for: those wanting a shorter, easy cooldown trip without making it an all-day outing.
Fairmount Park Splash Pad
For those searching for a more localized splash pad that features multiple water play elements, Fairmount Park is a popular spot for Wichita residents. Fairmount Park includes the splash pad, basketball courts, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Best for: groups with mixed ages, since not everyone has to do the same activity to have a good time.
Public Pools Near Wichita
While many residents flock to splash pads throughout Wichita during the summer, there are also public pools in the area that residents may enjoy during summer break.
Minisa Pool
Minisa Pool is one of the most visited public pools in Wichita. The pool includes water slides, areas for residents to swim laps, and other recreational areas to enjoy during the summer season.
Minisa Pool is located approximately 18 minutes from Eastgate Apartments.
Best for: residents who want more than one type of swim experience in the same place, especially on the hottest days.
College Hill Pool
Another popular pool that Wichita residents enjoy is College Hill Pool. College Hill Pool features areas for residents to relax and swim laps, along with the space to enjoy a longer pool visit throughout the summer.
College Hill Pool is located around 12 minutes from Eastgate Apartments, making it one of the closest public pools for apartment residents.
Best for: those wanting a straightforward pool day closer to home.
Why Splash Pads Continue Growing in Popularity
Many people prefer splash pads to pools due to their lower cost. When local authorities want to invest in a way to help residents beat the heat, a pool has a higher upfront cost in many cases and also creates larger long-term maintenance costs. The need for lifeguards and chemical management of the pool water can generate unpredictable annual expenses. Splash pads often require a smaller footprint than a pool when looking at the land used. They are also safe and sanitary with the water that comes from municipal pipes, instead of requiring regular testing and the use of chemicals.
Splash pads are also often preferred because they include shallow play areas rather than deep water. They pose less of a risk during operating hours and when closed to the public. There is no need to keep a lifeguard on duty. Many parks that include splash pads also include playgrounds, picnic areas, sports courts, and walking trails, which can give residents more than one way to spend the day.
The City of Wichita Parks and Recreation Department continues to invest in the construction of parks, splash pads, and other outdoor areas throughout Wichita. Residents appreciate having splash pads and pools in different neighborhoods throughout the city, which reduces the distance residents must travel to cool off during the summer months.
Cool Off at Eastgate Apartments
In addition to visiting the splash pads Wichita has to offer, residents of Eastgate Apartments can also cool off at home with the community pool. Central air conditioning also makes it possible to beat the heat without ever leaving home!
Whether you prefer to visit Wichita splash pads and spend the day with friends or explore other attractions near the apartments, Eastgate Apartments places residents close to many popular summer spots in Wichita. Keep us in mind the next time you move, as you may find that home begins here!