Alameda Community Center

Watching kids splash and squeal under these souped-up shower heads reminds me of the photos I've seen of kids in NY boroughs, dancing in the spray of a wrenched hydrant, in the midst of a hot, humid summer day. I did grow up with humidity but we kids didn't have to rely on fire hydrants, I could go swimmin' in many of the 10,000 lakes. Anyway, when I'd see those pictures, I always wondered why the kids looked like they were having so much dang fun. It's just a fire hydrant on blacktop, for God's sake.Now I get it. Now that my kiddo loves it, I get it. Spray parks are totally carefree, mom and dad don't need to do much monitoring, and they're a way to simultaneously stay hot and cool, as opposed to the cool down/warm up routine of a pool. This is a terrific spray park with capacity for easily 40 or 50 kids, I'd guess, and it's a terrific way low-cost alternative venue for birthday parties. Lifeguards around here seem to have just one responsibility: (blows whistle) "No running!" Tough job, guys.

This park is tucked away off 4th near Alameda. It is connected to the rec. center. I was a little put off that there is a charge to attend spray park. However, the fee was only a few dollars (3) for my 1 and 3 year old and there are friendly lifeguards on duty. There are two restrooms and two shower stalls. I'd suggest wearing your suit to the park. There isn't really a great place to change. The building is older and looks a bit run down. You are able to bring in snacks and /or a cooler. The spray park is on a small slab of concrete. There are 6 water features and about a dozen covered picnic tables around the perimeter. I really enjoyed this enclosed park. It was small enough to watch my daughters splash and splash from my shaded seat. I like splash parks because they are more relaxing than taking little kids to the pool (less worry) and the kiddos have just as much fun. My family will definitely make this a regular activity. Behind the splash pad is a park with a full basketball park, baseball field and what looks like a petting zoo (?) that you can see from behind the fence. There are painted murals as well.

This is a review for the spray park at this location.We had a great time. Ended up staying much longer than planned. There were chairs and plenty of shade but there were so many people that there was nowhere to sit. I would suggest bringing some chairs of your own if you have them, just in case. You can also bring your own drinks or snacks which is really nice especially if you plan to stay a while.