Splash Into Summer: Cary’s Water Play Features Are Officially Open!

• Cary's splash pads, spraygrounds, and water play features have officially opened for the 2026 season, giving families fun and free ways to cool off at park facilities; hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily through September 21.
• Cary's water play features are available at Downtown Cary Park, Jack Smith Park, Marla Dorrel Park, and Neighborhood Park on Carpenter Fire Station Road.
• Residents are encouraged to check operating status online before visiting, as hours and availability may change due to weather, maintenance, or repairs.

Cary, NC - As temperatures rise, Cary's spraygrounds, splash pads, and misting stations are now open for the 2026 season, inviting residents and visitors to cool off and play all summer long. These outdoor amenities offer a fun and refreshing way to beat the heat while creating opportunities for families, friends, and neighbors to connect, play, and make lasting memories.

Located in parks across Cary, these water play features support the town's continued investment in unique, accessible amenities that enhance quality of life and encourage healthy, active lifestyles. From interactive spraygrounds to artistic misting stations, there are a variety of experiences designed for all ages and abilities.

At Jack Smith Park, visitors will find Cary's first sprayground, which features water elements designed for children ages 12 and under. The sprayground is typically open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., mid-May through September 21, with one scheduled maintenance closure each month. Routine maintenance at the Jack Smith Park Sprayground takes place on the second Monday of each month; this park amenity will be closed on June 8, July 6, and August 10.

In the heart of downtown, Downtown Cary Park offers two distinct water play features. The sprayground at Academy Plaza provides an open space for interactive water fun, while the splash pad in The Nest play area integrates water elements into a nature-inspired playground setting.

For a lighter way to cool off, misting stations are available at Marla Dorrel Park and Neighborhood Park on Carpenter Fire Station Road, which features a push-button-activated installation. Both misting stations operate on the same seasonal schedule as the spraygrounds and are typically open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

"We encourage everyone to come and enjoy these spaces all summer long," said Community Recreation and Services Manager Andrew Marsden.

All water play areas operate without lifeguards, and visitors are reminded to follow posted rules for safety. Guests should supervise children closely, stay hydrated, and help keep parks clean, safe, and welcoming for all. Proper swim attire is required, and children who are not potty-trained must wear swim diapers. Running, rough play, food, pets, and wheeled toys are not permitted in splash areas. For more information on Cary's spraygrounds, water play features, and rules, visit carync.gov/sprayground.

Water features may occasionally close due to weather, maintenance, or system outages. Guests should check Cary's Weather Delays & Cancellations webpage or the Downtown Cary Park's Splash Pad and Sprayground webpage for the most up-to-date operating information before heading out. Make a splash this summer and discover all the ways to stay cool in Cary!

Primary Contacts

If you have specific questions, visit carync.gov/311, dial 311 anywhere in Cary, (919) 469-4000 outside Town limits, or email [email protected].

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