Free and fabulous splash pads in Los Angeles can be found at many parks and playgrounds across the city— and some of them are open year-round. Entire playgrounds (plus a few swimming pools and wading pools) are dedicated to ways to keep it cool, with plenty of fountains, geysers, pumps, and water sprayers. Kids adore these spraygrounds and splash pads, and parents love that they're a great way to beat the heat without a drive to a favorite beach (not to mention, the car won't get all sandy!).

If a pool or a water park sounds like too much work (or too expensive), cool those kids down at one of these (mostly) free splash pads. And check out all our wet and wild favorites in our Guide to the Best Pools and Splash Pads in Los Angeles. 

While Westchester and the Hudson Valley boast wonderful local pools and swimming lakes, local splash pads are also an easy way for kids to cool off in the summer. The setting is especially fun for younger kids, who can run through the sprinklers and water jets, no swim vest required.

We’ve rounded up the best splash pads and sprinkler parks to check out in the region, from Yonkers to Wappingers Falls, including some that offer FREE entry.

Find more outdoor adventures in our Guide to Parks and Playgrounds, and bookmark our Ultimate Westchester and Hudson Valley Kids Summer Vacation Guide for tips all season long. 

Hitting up a sprinkler park or splash pad on Long Island takes a lot less preparation than a trip to the beach: Just add sunscreen and let the adventures begin. They hit the spot, too, since there's nothing like jumping through a sprinkler to cool off. 

For other seasonal, kid-friendly activities, check out our Ultimate Long Island Kids Summer Vacation Guide, which includes our recommendations for the best beach playgrounds on Long Island.

If you're wondering, "Are there zoos near me in New Jersey?" then look no further: We've rounded up the best places in the Garden State for kids to have an up-close-and-personal encounter with animals of every kind.

At these day trip-worthy spots, little animal lovers can meet their favorite furry friends, check out exotic wildlife from other continents, or swim with the sharks (yes, really!). 

Looking for more animal encounters? Find the best zoo in all 50 states to inspire more exploration.

Stay cool this summer with one of these spraygrounds and splash pads in and around Houston.

Good restaurants are one thing, but for parents, kid-friendly restaurants in Chicago are something else altogether. A place where someone else cooks and cleans up while the little ones are entertained for long enough that a conversation between partners (and enjoying your dinner) is possible? Yes, these places exist! 

We found the best restaurants in Chicago and the nearby suburbs where kids can play or have something extra special to keep them busy while you dine. From playgrounds to bowling and even planes landing and taking off, whether you have a tot, a tween, or a teen, there’s something for everyone.

Making a quick trip to the nearest sprinkler or splash pad around Philly is a great way to cool kids off on a hot day! The water playgrounds and splash pads listed below are some of our favorite local splash parks to enjoy free water play and make the most of summer.

Headed to the shore this summer for some ocean play? Check out these 70 Things To Do With Kids at the Jersey Shore, and don't forget to visit our Summer Activity Guide for more summer fun!