Splash pads are the latest rage and Cincinnati has a good variety. The Great Parks Of Hamilton County have theme-based ones with different water stations and slides. Beechwood Acres in Anderson has fun old-town themed one. Home of the Brave in Symmes has squirt guns and a rainbow where water pours out. Washington Park is all the rage, and Hamilton hosts a recently dedicated splashpad called Marcum Park near Front Street. Although there are lots of options, sometimes these splashpads can be rather busy and active for my little toddlers. I love going to these different places but can feel a bit on edge trying to keep track of both kids. When they get a bit older these places will be great, but I have found that I really like taking the kids to the Liberty Center and letting them play in the fountains there.
The fountains are in the middle of the green space at the mall near Graeter’s (who doesn’t like ice cream?). There are benches and tables with umbrellas to set out your belongings and eat a lunch or snack. The fountains shoot out water at different heights and intervals but there are no squirt guns or slides to climb on. My kids love bringing things like buckets and paint brushes. Sometimes my daughter will lay on the fountain and likes the sensation of the water pressing against her chest. It is also fun to put a cup or bucket on the fountain and watch it take off! In addition to the fountains kids can play in the green space or run up to the wishing well and press a button for water to squirt out of the animals. Off to the side there is a large train display that the kids can enjoy!
The Liberty Center itself is a fantastic place as it boasts great stores and restaurants. The open mall concept gives it a unique feel and really brings people together. The mall hosts movies, concerts, and a weekly farmer’s market in the summertime. There is always something happening at the mall!
Learn more at liberty-center.com.