Are you looking for places to stay cool in San Diego this weekend?
The current heat wave in Southern California has made it a record-breaking week. I can’t believe how hot it will be on Saturday, with some areas reaching up to 100 degrees! If you are looking for fun things to do with your kids in the heat, we have compiled a list of splash pads around San Diego for you to cool off.
The humidity numbers will be very unusual for San Diego and require somewhere to cool off.
We know planning a weekend getaway can sometimes take a bit of time; so here are our favorite splash pads that are near San Diego.
Viejas Outdoor Outlet Mall
Take a drive out Interstate 8 to get to the Viejas Outlet Mall. Older patrons can cool off in the casino while trying their hand at the card tables, but younger visitors will prefer the central splash pad.
While the splash pad is available most times, the mall does put on a coreographed water show that familes enjoy.
Viejas Outlet Mall is an east county family oasis with over 80 world-class brand-name outlets—everything from Nike, GAP and Levis to Banana Republic Factory Store, Ann Taylor Factory Store and so much more.
After you shop ‘til you drop, pick up some fresh flowers at our on-site flower shop, Déjà Florist. And with more than 40 eateries and a playground for the kids, Viejas Outlet Mall truly has it all.
Price: Free
Address: 5003 Willows Rd, Alpine, CA 91901
San Diego Waterfront Park
The San Diego County Administration Building is located on the waterfront between Harbor Drive and Park Boulevard in downtown San Diego, California. The county offices incorporated an area that is now known as Embarcadero Park. Our San Diego waterfront park is a serene setting at the foot of the County Administration building.
Much more enjoyable than a parking lot, the park collaboration provides climbing equipment and several water features for the entire family to enjoy.
In more social times the park also hosts several concerts a year ranging from rock, to jazz, to classical. Seomthing for the entire family as the county reopens.
While the park itself took over the county building's main parking lot, construction did provide underground parking for employees and visitors alike.
Price: Free
Address: 1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101
Horton Plaza Historic Park Downtown
A historic plaza that has been reopened as a park in the heart of Downtown San Diego. Here you can find a pleasant mix of old and new--you're close enough to the Gaslamp Quarter to take in a show, play a game of mini-golf, or get dinner at one of the many nearby restaurants.
You won't have to look far for transportation options, including rail, bus, ferry, and trolley lines. Horton Plaza is also home to many popular events held throughout the year, including classic car shows, live music, summer movies in the park, and holiday celebrations.
For the kids looking to cool off, the plaza also features an expansive splash pad in the center of the plaza. The confusing, labrynth of a parking plaza remains for all of your downtown adventures, including the splash pad.
The mall itself is being converted into a mixed use office park with affordable housing and a start up hub. It promises to be a hive of activity for the region. In the meantime the public park is a nice stop in downtown.
While you're there, check out the recently restored historic fountain that has been there since sugar magnate Horton established this competing downtown.
Price: Free
Address: 397 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101
Mountainhawk Park
For our friends in the South County, MountainHawk Park is available for cooling off in hot weather.
This neighborhood park in Chula Vista sits along the banks of Otay Lakes. Take advantage of the numerous amenities, including newly installed playground equipment with shade structures and a splash pad for kids of all ages.
The splash pad is directly adjacent to the parking lot, so make sure you keep a keen eye on the little ones.
Ample parking is available in the aforementioned horseshoe parking lot.
Price: Free
Address: 1475 Lake Crest Dr, Chula Vista, CA 91915
Conclusion
San Diego isn't really built for the level of heat and humidity the region is due over the next several days. And even with the region reopening with Gavin Newsom's June 15 declaration, many residents looking to stay cool may not be ready for an indoor air conditioned solution.
Hopefully these outdoor splash pads should be enough to weather the heatwave.