20 Alabama splash pads that are free to use, plus 7 budget-friendly options
Not much makes a kid happier in summertime than playing in a splash pad. Here are options for those who may be limited in time and/or money.
Mason Reed 
Summer heat is here, and there is no better way to keep the kids entertained than a trip to a local splash pad. Whether you are working with a tight schedule or a strict budget, Alabama is home to plenty of water-filled attractions that offer big fun without the high price tag of a full-scale water park.
205focus.com has compiled a guide to some of the best spots across the state where little ones can stomp through jets and soak up the sunshine. While this list is a great starting point, always remember to check your local city’s website for the most up-to-date information. Most of these locations typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Free Splash Pads Across Alabama
Dr. Richard Showers Sr. Splash Pad: Located at 4600 Blue Springs Road NW, this spot is completely free to use. Families can take advantage of a large pavilion, 12 picnic tables, and shaded benches. According to the Huntsville website, visitors also have easy access to locker rooms and bathrooms at the nearby pool.
Everybody Can Play Splash Pad at Brahan Spring Park: Situated at 3771 Ivy Avenue, this 6,000-square-foot facility is free to use. It features bathrooms, picnic areas, and a large pavilion available for rent. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Bridge Street Towne Center: Shopping and summer play go hand-in-hand here. This outdoor mall splash pad is free for the community. It operates Monday–Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.
River Heritage Park Splash Pad: Located at 15 Hightower Place, this destination offers music-synced jets and a light show. It is free to access. Water features run Monday–Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday–Sunday until 9:30 p.m. Check out the light shows on weekend evenings between 8:30 p.m. and 9:15 p.m.
Birmingham Area Favorites: Families in the Birmingham region have several great options. The Explore Playground & Splashpad at the Hoover Met Complex is free, as is the Leeds Splash Pad, the Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex splash pad, and the Pelham Splash Pad.
Additional Free Gems: You can also cool off at the Boaz Splash Pad at Old Mill Park, the Fort Payne Splash Pad at the Alabama Walking Park, the Riverfront Park Splash Pad in Montgomery, the Fairhopers Community Park splash pad, and the Wetumpka Sports Complex Splash Pad.
Mobile's Offerings: The City of Mobile maintains seven free splash pads, including Baumhauer-Randle, McCants-Chavers, Medal of Honor, Public Safety Memorial, Sullivan, James Seals, and Tricentennial parks.
Budget-Friendly Options ($5 or Less)
If you don't mind a small entry fee, these locations offer excellent amenities for just a few dollars:
- Melrose Park (Chelsea): Costs $3 for children ages 1 and older. Full hours and details are available online.
- Coaling Splash Pad: Access is $2 per person.
- Pell City Lakeside Park: This splash pad is $4 per person for ages 3 and up.
- Homewood Parks: Members enjoy free access to Central and Patriot Park splash pads, while guest memberships are just $5. Learn more about Homewood splash pads here.
- Moody Splash Pad: Entry is $2, with free admission for children 2 and under. Concessions are available on-site.
- Harrison Taylor Splash Pad (Tuscaloosa): Located in Palmore Park, entry is $5 per person, with children under 2 playing for free.
