Best Water and Pool Activities for Kids in Columbus This Summer

Columbus has a surprisingly deep public water-play network — spraygrounds across neighborhood parks, multiple city aquatic centers, and a few larger destination options.

Most families use the Columbus Recreation and Parks system as their summer foundation. Here are the specific venues worth knowing.

Splash Pads & Spraygrounds

Dorian Green Park

333 West Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

6.5-acre park near COSI with splash pad, playground, picnic areas, and green space for running and relaxing. Free

Public Pools & Aquatic Centers

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

4850 Powell Rd, Columbus, OH 43219

One of the best zoos featuring 10,000+ animals from around the globe, aquarium, sea lion shows, and stingray touch pools. $$

Planning notes

Check facility hours before you go — city and county aquatic centers often shift schedules for maintenance, weather, or staffing. Most public pools in Columbus open in late May or early June and run through Labor Day weekend.