J.F. Hurley YMCA – Have a Blast in the Splash Pad!

Splash Pad at Salisbury YMCA © Katrena

The J. F. Hurley YMCA, located at 828 Jake Alexander Blvd in Salisbury, NC, is one of my kids' favorite destinations when the weather gets warmer. Their splash pad is fabulous!

Water Activities in Rowan County © Katrena

This colorful fun water play area typically opens around Memorial Day and is a favorite cooling off spot for quite a few kids and adults. If you happen to be the first group to arrive, the kids might be disappointed if they don't see any water. It is motion-activated, so once everyone is walking around the splash pad area, everyone is likely to get wet quickly. Summers in the South can get as hot as corn on the cob cooked on a grill, and a playground that spouts water can entertain and cool the group as nicely as a glass of lemonade with ice on a front porch swing.

Fun Things to do in Salisbury NC © Katrena

Splash pads can be a little intimidating for smaller kids, but there are several spots that have shorter sprays that might beckon the little ones more readily. They have a nice variety of different types of sprays, from one that shoots a stream almost across the splash pad to shorter ones that seem to make a tunnel.

Water Fun at J.F. Hurley YMCA © Katrena

Some jets shoot water straight up in a circular fashion, and it can be fun to stand in the middle and watch the fountain rise around you. If you happen to have children who want to get drenched, they quickly discover that the buckets in the middle will fill that request.

Ways to Cool Off on Hot Summer Days © Katrena

Those who would rather watch have lots of choices for seating, from lounge chairs to picnic tables. Several large umbrellas provide shade for ones who need a little less sun. Some seating areas are completely dry while a few are in range of some mist. And then of course there are the kids that learn they can angle the spray at Mom!

Splash Pad in Piedmont of North Carolina © Katrena

Those who have a membership at another YMCA might wish to inquire about the A.W.A.Y. program. This and many other Ys may offer free or reduced entry into the facility if you have a Y membership elsewhere. Many YMCAs also offer financial assistance. My kids have particularly enjoyed this splash pad in addition to their indoor pool.

Looking for more splash pads in the area? Dan Nicholas Park and Village Park also have splash pads. Find even more fun family-friendly summer destinations at the Travel NC With Kids site map.

Fun Summer Activities in Salisbury NC © Katrena