Beat the Heat: Bradenton’s Best Spots to Swim, Splash, and Cool Off
By Amanda Gray
Whether you’re after a colorful splash pad for the kids, a shaded park with water features, or a relaxing place to cool off, here are some top spots:
Splash Pads: Free, Fun, & Family-Friendly
Cool down and have fun at one of these three free splash pad locations. They’re convenient, kid-approved, and open to all:
Bayfront Splash Pad
Located in scenic Bayfront Park, this splash pad features interactive water controls that let kids choose how the water flows. With a nearby playground and ADA accessibility, it’s a perfect spot for families.
Bradenton Riverwalk Splash Pad
Situated along the Riverwalk, this splash pad is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. — a great way to cool off during a stroll downtown.
750 3rd Ave. West on Bradenton Riverwalk
Lincoln Splash Pad/Lincoln Aquatic Center
A community favorite, Lincoln offers plenty of space to splash and relax.
715 17th Street E, Palmetto
Parks & Pools for a Full Day of Water Fun
Looking for more than a quick splash? These parks offer pools, water features, and shaded spaces to hang out while the kids play:
G.T. Bray Park
G.T. Bray Park is a local hub for swimming lessons, pool time, and summer fun. From kiddie pools to splash pads to lap pools, there’s something for everyone.
5502 33rd Avenue Drive West, Bradenton
Bayfront Park
Beyond the splash pad and playground, enjoy shaded areas with waterfront views –
perfect for a picnic or gathering. Bayfront Park is close to downtown Sarasota, giving you the option to venture for an ice cream cone or snack after the park.
5 Bayfront Drive, Sarasota
Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch
Waterside Place is a vibrant new destination with modern amenities, waterfront dining, and outdoor fun against the backdrop of Kingfisher Lake. You can enjoy summer activities like splashing, volleyball, lounging in a hammock, or enjoying the green space of the event lawn, which regularly hosts events and community gatherings. After cooling down and relaxing, enjoy a meal out at the many dining options here, as well as some shopping and strolling. There’s even a water taxi service!
7500 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch
Payne Park (Circus Park)
This playful, circus-themed park features interactive water elements like cooling mists on the playground, allowing kids to explore their inner circus performers while staying cool. There are lots of shaded canopies and the park is open until 10 p.m., which allows you to enjoy the park during the not-so-hot hours of the day.
2010 Adams Lane, Sarasota
With so many options to choose from, why not try them all? This summer, make the most of Bradenton’s (and a couple of Sarasota’s!) water spots. Just grab your sunscreen, pack a towel, and dive into the fun!