Photo: dave ingalsbe
Photo: Pauline Froehlig
Photo: Edward Jiménez
Bunker Hills Regional Park
★4.6(1,981 reviews)FreePark
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 1-10. Toddlers can safely enjoy the gentler spray features in shallow areas, while elementary-aged kids love running through the more active water zones and playing on the surrounding equipment.🧡 Saved by 28 families
About
Bunker Hills Regional Park offers a fantastic free splash pad that's become a summer favorite for Twin Cities families. Beyond the water features and spray zones, this expansive regional park provides a full day of outdoor fun with play equipment, open spaces for picnics, and plenty of room for kids to run and explore.
Highlights
- ✓Free admission to splash pad with multiple spray zones and water features
- ✓Adjacent playground equipment for non-water play
- ✓Shaded picnic areas perfect for breaks and lunch
- ✓Clean, well-maintained facilities with nearby restrooms
- ✓Large open spaces for additional activities like frisbee or ball games
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive before 10:00 AM on weekends to snag shaded picnic tables near the splash pad and avoid peak afternoon crowds
- 2.The splash pad typically operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day, but call ahead to confirm seasonal opening dates
- 3.Bring water shoes or sandals as the ground can get hot, plus towels and extra sunscreen for reapplication throughout the day
- 4.Pack your own lunch and snacks since there are no food vendors on-site, but plenty of picnic areas with grills available
- 5.The park bathrooms and changing areas are located nearby, making it easy to get kids ready for water play
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) during summer for the smallest crowds and cooler temperatures. Late afternoon after 5:00 PM also offers a quieter experience as families head home for dinner.
What to Know
Admission and parking are completely free, making this an excellent budget-friendly option. The splash pad operates during summer months only, and there are clean restroom facilities and changing areas adjacent to the water play area.
Seasonal Notes
The splash pad operates during summer months only, typically from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. The park itself remains open year-round with extended hours (6:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily), offering hiking, biking, and winter activities in colder months.
Nearby Eats
Head to Culver's (about 5 minutes away) for kid-approved burgers and frozen custard, or try Chipotle in the nearby Bunker Lake Boulevard commercial area for quick, customizable meals the whole family will enjoy.
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