Backyard Getaways: Discovering Local Splash Pads
Parents and children can find low-cost fun this summer by way of splash pads in Robbinsdale, Champlin, and Maple Grove.
“In Minnesota you should be here as often as you can,” said Carla Nelson of Maple Grove. “It’s awesome.”
CCX News checked out three in the Northwest suburbs and discovered that these pads are a great way to escape the blazing summer sun.
Robbinsdale’s Manor Park
Our first stop was Manor Park in Robbinsdale, which opened in 2009. This pad has become a magnet, pulling in plenty of kids who enjoy playing in the dancing water.
“Mothers are sitting there and they can enjoy watching their kids have a safe option,” said Pam Schmitz, Robbinsdale’s Recreation Programs Manager, “and they keep cool.”
By mid-morning Friday, crowds were building and it was time for fun in the sun.
“This one’s great,” said Jessica Voerding, who was visiting the splash pad from New Brighton with her kids. “They can explore and I don’t have to worry about them and they can just do their thing. Get as wet as they want, or not, which is nice too.”
Champlin’s Andrews Park
There are plenty of cool features at Champlin’s Andrews Park, which was voted best water park by a local newspaper.
“This is one of the best ones,” said Carla Nelson of Maple Grove. “The moms can sit and just relax. We don’t have to get in the water. It’s wonderful.”
Andrews also has a concession stand and a playground.
Maple Grove’s Central Park
The incredibly popular interactive fountains at Central Park have been popular since they opened a few years ago.
“This splash pad is a fantastic addition to the city,” said Jeanne Vestal of the Maple Grove Park and Recreation department. “We’ve got 49 jet sprays and one of the arch sprays.”
Vestal says many people from cities all around the metro for Central Park’s unique playground and splash pad.
