It's a sure sign of summer when the pools and splash pads begin to open. After all, is there a better way to cool down then to splash in the water? If you're looking for just such a place around The Bend, here are some of your best options.
Outdoor Pools
Kennedy Water Playground
Although not a pool in the traditional sense, Kennedy Water Playground is one of The Bend's most unique water features. The pool is 18 inches at its deepest point, so it's great for children of all ages. There are water slides and other fun features. Entry is $5 for children 11 and older (and adults), $4 for kids 3-10 years old and $2 for infants.
Merrifield Pool
The City of Mishawaka operates Merrifield Pool, which features a long water slide, two diving boards, concessions and more. The pool is open from June through August, but does not offer a single-day pass for visitors. Season passes are available at different rates. Guest passes are available for those that join a season pass holder (max two guests per pass holder).
Splash Pads
Looking to cool off and let the kids run around for free? Splash pads can be found at parks all around The Bend, including several in South Bend and Mishawaka. The Rask Family Fountains at Howard Park (pictured below) are a local favorite with an interactive series of water fountains and jets. The fountains are a well-used play area in the summer time with the playground right next door.
Over in Mishawaka, the splash pad at Central Park is always a summer hot spot for families.
Here are other splash pads in the area:
- South Bend: Coquillard Park, Charles Black Community Center, Fremont Park, Howard Park, LaSalle Park, O'Brien Park, Potawatomi Park, Pulaski Park, Southeast Park
- Mishawaka: Battell Park, Crawford Park, Central Park, Mary Gibbard Park, Rose Park and Twin Branch Park.
- New Carlisle: Memorial Park
- North Liberty: Town Park
- Walkerton: Scarborough Park
