Rochester’s Newest Splash Pad is Opening Soon
Have you spotted the brand-new splash pad on Marion Road? It looks totally finished, yet there’s not a kid in sight. If you’ve been wondering what the hold-up is, I have the inside scoop, and some great news. The wait for Rochester’s newest summer hot spot is almost over!
According to a recent press release from the City of Rochester, McQuillan Splash Pad is basically done, but there is one last piece of standard red tape keeping it closed to the public.
After wrapping up construction, the Minnesota Department of Health stepped in with a few extra water safety requirements. The good news is that the city is already working on installing those upgrades right now. Once that's all set and passes a final inspection, the water is officially getting turned on for the summer!
What to Expect at McQuillan Splash Pad:
The city didn't hold back on this build. It’s a massive 2,480-square-foot facility packed with 19 interactive water features.
Zoned for All Ages: The layout is split into dedicated toddler, family, and teen bays.
Built for Everyone: Accessibility was a major priority here. The pad includes two wheelchair-accessible activators and is surrounded by accessible sidewalks.
Parent-Approved Amenities: They’ve included a new restroom facility, shade elements to hide from the midday sun, and plenty of benches/picnic tables for us to sit on while keeping an eye on the chaos.
A tiny bit of that final work depends on Mother Nature cooperating, but city officials are highly optimistic that we’ll be splashing around for one of the busiest, hottest holiday weekends of the summer - that's right, 4th of July weekend!
Once they are officially open for the season, McQuillan Splash Pad will be open daily from 10a-8p. It's absolutely free to go.
If the kids are already bouncing off the walls and you can't wait until July, Rochester has a few other excellent spots worth checking out:
Lincolnshire Park Splash Pad: Completely free to use and open daily.
Silver Lake Pool & Splash Pad: Newly improved, free to use, and a local favorite.
Soldiers Field Aquatic Center: If you want a full pool day, their splash pad is included with your paid admission.
The Top Rated Outdoor Water Parks in MN, WI, and IA
Gallery Credit: Courtlin
