Ultimate Guide to Burlington’s Playgrounds & Splash Pads
July 7, 2025
Summer is here, and your kids need a place to play hard and splash harder. This ultimate guide will help you keep them active, cool, and entertained. Featuring top playgrounds, splash pads and parks including spots that offer both, giving you everything you need to plan the perfect summer day in Burlington.
Playgrounds & Splash Pads in Burlington
1. Hidden Valley Park
Hidden Valley Park is a summer daydream. With a fun playground, creek access, and woodland walking trails, it is the perfect place to spend a full day outdoors. Kids can cool off at the splash pad featuring ground jets, then head over to the playground equipped with swings, slides, and monkey bars. The park also offers family-friendly amenities like seasonal washrooms, ample parking, picnic tables, and benches. Hidden Valley strikes the perfect balance of play, splash, and shade, an ideal spot for an all-day summer adventure for free.
2. Spencer Smith Park (Dofasco Waterjet Plaza)
Located along the lake front, Spencer Smith Park has an impressive playground featuring slides, swings, climbing walls and even a zipline. Perfect for giving you a break while tiring out the little ones. The nearby snack bar and public washrooms make for a convenient location with tranquil views. The Dofasco Waterjet Plaza is an iconic splash pad featuring ground-level water jets that make for a fun run through after playing at the park.
Note: Parking can be limited and often paid; arriving early or walking from nearby areas is ideal, but entry is free.
3. Beachway Park
Beachway Park is the city’s sandy waterfront playground located along Lake Ontario, it’s perfect for building sandcastles, wading in the shallow water, or relaxing under the sun. While there’s no splash pad here, the beach itself offers plenty of space for kids to play and cool off.
The wide shoreline and gentle waves make it easy for younger kids to enjoy the water safely. You will also find seasonal washrooms, a snack bar, and some shaded grassy areas for a break from the sun. A paved trail runs alongside the beach, connecting you to Spencer Smith Park and the waterfront pier.
Parking may be paid or limited, but the beach is always free.
You can see weekly or monthly water tests all summer from Halton Region’s water safety guide.
4. Mountainside Pool and Splash Park
Mountainside Pool and Splash Park is a recently renovated outdoor facility that is a true standout. It features a beach-entry pool with three 50 m lap lanes, a waterslide, climbing wall, and a splash park with sprinklers and a big tipping bucket. This updated spot provides a safe, clean place for families to cool off on a warm summer day. Mountainside Park rests just around the corner, offering a full-size playground and green space. As well as an entry level skatepark and basketball rim.
Note: Drop-in pricing and hours may vary, check the Burlington Drop-In Programs website for the most up-to-date information. Mountainside is also part of the Summer/yearly Swimming Pass program, which gives you free access to lap swims and recreational swims all summer long.
5. Nelson Park Pool and Splash Park
Nelson Park Pool and Splash Park is located within the Nelson Recreation Centre and offers a full day of fun for families. The outdoor pool is fifty metres long with eight lanes, plus a beach-entry leisure area perfect for younger kids. It also features a climbing wall and two diving boards for extra excitement. An accessible ramp makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the pool.
Beside the pool, the large splash park has ground jets, sprinklers, and a huge yellow dumping bucket, a hit with kids of all ages. You will also find plenty of seating areas, shaded spots, and extra play equipment to round out your visit. Open during the summer months, Nelson Park is the ideal place if you want a good swim and splashpad experience in one convenient spot.
Note: Follows same pricing system as Mountainside Pool, drop in fees and times can be found at the Drop In Website.
6. DesJardines Park Splash Pad
DesJardines Splash Pad is a neighbourhood gem, perfect for a quieter summer outing. Tucked away in a peaceful residential area, it is great for skipping bigger crowds and enjoying a relaxed vibe. The splash pad sits in a recessed green space, giving kids plenty of room to play safely.
Families will appreciate the thoughtful touches like benches, shady spots, and a drinking fountain with a pet bowl. Paved paths are stroller-friendly, and there’s a small playground for extra fun.
DesJardines Park is an easy, laid-back spot to cool off close to home with no need for full-day planning all for free.
Want to Explore More?
Check out our Burlington Visitor Guide to make the most of your visit to Burlington.
