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As the hot sun radiates during these lovely summer days, there is no better place than to cool off with a refreshing dip! Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing, or a quick way to beat the heat, our local splash pads and pools have got you covered this season! 

⛲Splash Pads

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Splash pads are perfect for little ones and those who want a nice cool escape from the sun. With fountains, sprays, and various water features these local splashpads provide a fun and entertaining way to cool down on a hot day. 
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Waterworks Park 

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📍2 South Edgeware Road, St. Thomas, ON, N5P 3H4

Being the first publicly owned park in St. Thomas, many locals have rooted memories of its beautiful water gardens, tranquil atmosphere, and spectacular wildlife.
 
This park emphasizes a quieter form of family recreation where you can enjoy pleasant strolls to see wildlife swimming around exotic water lilies, drop a fishing line in the reservoir, or have a picnic surrounded by acres of local flora. 

For a cool escape, Waterworks park provides a large playground and splash pad open in July and August. This interactive water play allows for a quick and refreshing cool down, which is much needed on a hot summer day. Experience a nice splash around Waterworks where you can plan a day full of fun outdoor activities with reservable shelters among cooling shade trees and fine picnic facilities throughout!

Within Waterworks Park, there are 2 pavilions that can be rented for family reunions, birthday parties, and more. Both pavilions offer access to water and hydro. For booking information, please call 519-633-7112.

pinafore park

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📍95 Elm St, St Thomas, ON N5R 1H7

Pinafore Park is oriented for the active outdoor lover with various hiking trails, tennis courts, pickleball courts, playgrounds, the Rotary Splashpad, and a first-class ball stadium. 

The Rotary Splashpad features dumping buckets, spray nozzles, and sprinkle arcs on a random spray sequence, which adds to the refreshing watery fun! This timeless park is a local favourite, and is a fantastic way to bring out the family for a fun day full of activities and entertainment. 

In addition to its beauty and accessible layout, Pinafore boasts a small lake, the magnificent Morris F. Jones Memorial Bandshell, and 6 park pavilions that can be rented! Each pavilion is unique and all offer access to water and hydro. To book one of these facilities please call 519-633-7112.

1password park

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📍355 Burwell Rd, St Thomas, ON N5P 4M3

1Password Park is the city’s newest and most dynamic outdoor sports and recreational complex built for active families, athletes, and community gatherings. With interactive water play areas, 1Password Park’s splashpad is a refreshing, new, and exciting escape from the sun.

Offering endless entertainment, little ones can experience a vibrant and engaging water play during a nice summer day out! 

Not only is there a splashpad to cool off in, but the park offers a modern and inclusive playground built for children of all ages, multi-use basketball courts, paved walking trails for leisurely strolls, and manicured soccer pitches.

🛟 Pools​

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​For those who love swimming and diving into the deep end, St. Thomas has fantastic pools to stay cool in that are fun for swimming laps or splashing around with friends and family!
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jaycees pool

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📍93 Inkerman Street, St. Thomas ON
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What better way to beat the summer heat than lounging poolside? As St. Thomas’s only outdoor public pool, Jaycees is a local favourite for seasonal fun! For 2026, enjoy leisure swims, aquafit, Life Saving Society lessons, lane swims, and more. ⁠
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⏰ Hours: Mon–Fri: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Sat–Sun: 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM⁠
🎉 Private Rentals: Available outside regular weekend hours (call 519-633-7112 to reserve)⁠
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🔗 View schedules and details.

ymca pool

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📍20 High St, St Thomas ON

Prefer swimming indoors? Check out the St. Thomas Elgin YMCA!
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While we love exploring our local outdoor spots, the YMCA is your go-to destination for year-round indoor pool fun. Head to their website for up-to-date schedules on lane swims, recreational swimming, aquatic fitness classes, and water programs!

​🔗 View pool schedules and programs.

🌳 beyond the pools

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⛱️Beyond just cooling off, these local spots are fantastic areas that bring the community together to create unforgettable summer memories. You will often find families picnicking, friends catching up, and children playing on playground equipment nearby! There is something for everyone when it comes to enjoying the vibrant summer atmosphere. Many of these locations offer shaded areas, benches, and picnic tables that make it a perfect place to take a break from the beaming sun or while supervising little ones. 
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🌐 Reminder: a quick check of the City of St.Thomas Aquatics website, Events & Happenings through the Railway City Tourism page, or local community boards will ensure you have the most up-to-date information on hours, accessibility, local events, activities, and any potential entry requirements. 

Whether you are a local or just visiting for the summer, dive into the fun of the outdoors and make the most of the refreshing spots St. Thomas has to offer!

So grab your swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and loved ones to beat the heat this summer in some of The Railway City’s cool escapes!
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Author

IZABELLA GONZALEZ

​​​Born and raised in St. Thomas, and currently studying at Western University for BMOS Accounting, Izabella is excited to help reveal the wonders of this amazing city. Izabella shares the love of bringing cultures together and understands the importance and impact of what a small-town community can accomplish. ​

Helping out with the Horton Market and various events grew Izabella’s love for her hometown. Being the Railway City Tourism Assistant has encouraged Izabella to bring that enthusiasm of sharing diverse and unique experiences to others wanting to experience the Railway City.

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Reporting from the L&PS Station - home of Railway City Tourism. Join us as we explore a city where nature, culture, and rail heritage come together.​