Best Water and Pool Activities for Kids in Philadelphia This Summer

Philadelphia has one of the larger free public water-play networks on the East Coast, with spraygrounds and spray plazas spread across neighborhoods alongside city pools.

Most of what makes Philly's summer water options good is close-in and free — no car required. Here are the venues worth knowing for the full range, from quick plaza stops to full swim days.

Splash Pads & Spraygrounds

Love Park

1515 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19102

Iconic public plaza with the famous LOVE sculpture, splash pad in summer, and family-friendly events throughout the year.

Dilworth Park

1 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Constantly updated park with seasonal events, splash pads, ice skating in winter. Central location at City Hall with family fun.

Public Pools & Aquatic Centers

Adventure Aquarium

1 Riverside Dr, Camden, NJ 08103

Interactive aquarium with over 8,500 animals, touch pools, shark encounters, and underwater viewing tunnels.

Sister Cities Park

1600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Interactive park with water fountains, wading pool, and Children's Discovery Garden. Perfect for warm days.

More Water Play

Navy Yard Adventure Park

3001 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19148

Waterfront adventure park with roller coasters, bumper cars, water slides, arcade games, and family rides.

Rittenhouse Square

1801 Rittenhouse Sq, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Beautiful urban park with playgrounds, dog park, fountains, and plenty of green space for picnics and outdoor activities.

Franklin Square

200 North 6th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Historic park with carousel, mini-golf, playground, fountains. Great for families with kids of all ages.

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 Philadelphia open in late May or early June and run through Labor Day weekend.