Summer in the East Valley means one thing: finding creative ways to stay cool. Whether you’re looking for a full water park experience or a quick way to let the kids burn off some energy, there are some great local options to check out.
Here are some of the best water parks, aquatic centers, and splash spots around the East Valley.
Gilbert Regional Park
Gilbert Regional Park has quickly become one of the East Valley’s most popular spots to cool off. The splash pad area is huge, with plenty of interactive features for kids to run through and enjoy.
It’s also surrounded by playgrounds, open space, and shaded areas, making it easy to turn a quick stop into a full morning outing.
Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center
Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center is a great option if you’re looking for something a little more structured than a splash pad but still affordable and easy to access.
You’ll find water slides, a play pool, and plenty of shaded seating. It’s especially popular with families in Chandler and Gilbert thanks to reasonable admission and a layout that works well for younger kids.
Hamilton Aquatic Center
Hamilton Aquatic Center offers a mix of lap swimming, water play areas, and slides, making it a good all-around option.
There’s also a current channel you can walk into and let it carry you along one side of the pool before it drops you near the whirlpool, giving it a bit of that “mini lazy river” feel without being a full loop.
Golfland Sunsplash
Golfland Sunsplash is the closest thing to a full-scale water park in the East Valley.
With larger slides, a wave pool, and a true lazy river, it’s more of a “plan your day around it” destination. If you grew up in the area, there’s a good chance you’ve been here at least once.
Oasis Water Park
Oasis Water Park at the Arizona Grand Resort is more of a staycation option than a quick drop-in spot.
If you grab a resort pass or plan a daycation, you get access to a full resort-style experience with a lazy river, slides, and cabanas. It’s a great way to mix things up if you want something a little more elevated without leaving town.
Free Splash Pad Options
Riverview Park
Gilbert Water Tower Plaza
Located right in the heart of Downtown Gilbert, Water Tower Plaza recently received a major refresh and has become an even better spot to cool off during the summer. The updated splash pad area includes shaded seating, water features, and a clean modern park environment built around Gilbert’s iconic water tower.
One of the best parts is the location. After the kids cool off, you’re within walking distance of some of Downtown Gilbert’s best restaurants, coffee shops, and local shopping, making it an easy way to turn a quick splash pad stop into a full afternoon downtown.
Whether you’re planning a full day at a water park or just looking for a quick way to cool off for an hour, there are plenty of solid options around the East Valley.
If you’ve got a favorite spot I missed, let me know! I’m always looking to add to the list of ways to beat the heat!