Whether you’re planning an activity for the kids, a family day or simply need to escape the house, Gainesville has a great variety of water adventures, splash pads, water sides and parks.
From Olympic-sized pool centers to small splash kids’ zones, here’s a guide to the water activities in Gainesville to keep you refreshed all summer long.
This list was compiled using Google Maps and research on splash pads and pool centers based on their proximity to Gainesville.
Depot Park
LOCATION: 874 SE 4th St., Gainesville
PRICING: Free
HOURS: Daily from 7 a.m. to sunset when it is above 70 F outside.
WHAT TO KNOW: Located right in Depot Park, this splash pad is designed to be inspired by Central Florida’s underwater caverns. It is the perfect spot for a family day, with restaurants and bars within walking distance, a view to search for alligators and a playground.
FEATURES: Ground jets, waterfall, water cannons, fossils and more.
Hal Brady Recreation Splash Park
LOCATION: 14300 NW 146th Terrace, Alachua
PRICING: Free
HOURS: Daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
WHAT TO KNOW: This splash park is great for littles and play dates to beat the heat. Don’t forget to check its website before visiting to see if it is reserved for a private event. There are also nearby picnic tables where you can eat lunch!
FEATURES: Sprinklers, water buckets, water fountains and an awning over concrete where you can place your own chairs.
H Spurgeon Cherry Westside Pool
LOCATION: 23400 NW 212th Ave., High Springs
PRICING: Resident adults aged 18 and older are $4.62, resident children aged 3 to 17 are $2.63 and non-residents are about $1 more.
HOURS: Monday to Friday 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday Noon – 5 p.m.
WHAT TO KNOW: This 50-meter Olympic-sized swimming pool is heated year-round and includes a splash pad with an aqua slide. The pool also offers locker rooms for showering and changing after a fun day at the pool, along with shaded tables and seating.
FEATURES: Short course lap lanes, diving boards, an ADA access ramp, diving towers, an aqua slide, a pavilion and plenty of deck space.
Dwight H. Hunter Northeast Pool
LOCATION: 1100 Northeast 14th St., Gainesville
PRICING: Resident adults aged 18 and older are $4.62, resident children aged 3 to 17 are $2.63 and non-residents are about $1 more.
HOURS: Monday to Friday 6 a.m. – 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday to Sunday Noon – 5 p.m.
WHAT TO KNOW: This 50-meter pool is cooled in the summer and offers short and long course lap lanes. Don’t forget to try out the splash pad or go down the aqua slide! The facility also offers picnic tables, locker rooms and great accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
FEATURES: Lap lanes, a shallow 1.5-foot to 4-foot pool section, diving boards, an ADA access ramp and lift, a splash pad and a water slide.
Kulaqua River Ranch Waterpark
LOCATION: 23400 NW 212th Ave., High Springs
PRICING: To view pricing and make a reservation, visit the water park’s website.
WHAT TO KNOW: This water park offers a Christian atmosphere for summer camps, Church outings, company picnics, field trips, birthday parties and more. It is available by reservation only for private and group events. This is the perfect spot for birthday parties and summer family gatherings.
FEATURES: 15,000-square-foot wave pool, 600 ft. lazy river, water slide, sand volleyball courts, shaded picnic areas, locker rentals, bathrooms and showers and more.
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