Warmer weather is finally here and we are excited to get outside and PLAY! Here are a few places to run, jump and splash around Portsmouth. Due to the variable weather, each the splash pads and pools are seasonal. Be sure to check for official operating hours before heading out!
Here’s seven great playgrounds and splash pads to check out this summer:
Jamaica Island Splash Pad/Playground
near Goodrich Ave. Bldg. H-10 Kittery, ME 03904
Jamaica Island offers the perfect waterfront picnic area, small beach to explore, playground and splash pad (open only during the season from 1000 – 1900). Jamaica Island has three pavilions, various sizes. All pavilions have picnic tables and the large pavilion has a built in counter, perfect for serving food. Reservations can be made through Gear Rental by calling (207) 438-1514. Open to Active Duty, Retirees, NAF or DoD civilians and sponsored guests. Jamaica Island also includes a bocce court and cornhole court! We love to grab some treats from Lil’s or Beach Pea Baking Co and walk from exploring the coastline then playing on the playground. Base access is required if you are planning a play date with others.
Peirce Island
Peirce Island, Portsmouth, NH 03801
The island is 27 acres in size and is owned by the city of Portsmouth. It separates the Piscataqua River from the “South End” of Portsmouth. It holds many aesthetic views including salt marshes, tidal pools, rocky cliffs, and meadows. There are also several activities such as outdoor pool, walking paths, playgrounds, and boat launches.
Moharimet Elementary School
10 Lee Rd, Madbury, NH 03861
The playground offers different structures, slides and areas to play. The trees offer shade on hot days. There is no bathroom access so plan accordingly. Playground access limited to after school hours and weekends but defiantly worth the trip.
Planet Playground
4 Hampton Rd, Exeter, NH 03833
Planet Playground was constructed in 1998 and is one of the largest wooden playground in the Seacoast area. The playground offers slides, monkey bars, swings, bridges and jungle gyms. Make sure to check out Ani’s Bagel Café, Capital Thai Kitchen and Bar, or Donut Love for some treats while you are out there.
Harvey Playground
100 Lafayette Rd, Portsmouth, NH 03801
This community playground offers something for every age. The playground has a soccer field, basketball hoops of various heights, and different playground equipment. It is the perfect place to bring scooters, bikes, basketballs and a picnic lunch.
Dover Adventure Playground at Henry Law Park
50 Henry Law Ave, Dover, NH 03820
The playground a giant boat structure, mini Garrison Tower, musical instruments, and splash pad with water pump. Street parking is metered Monday – Saturday and you can try to find free parking can be found a few blocks away. The playground near some of my favorite downtown eats and treats such as La Festa, Hong Asian Noodle Bar and Harvey’s Bakery (make sure to try their famous maple square).
Aqua Land Splash Pad at Newmarket Rec
1 Terrace Drive, Newmarket, NH 03857
Aqua Land is free to residents and visitors. The newly remodeled space offers bucket dumpers, rainbow sprayers and moveable spray nozzles. Both the toddler playground and splash pad are enclosed making it easier to manage the littles. It would be the perfect place a for a summer birthday party or FRG even. Gazebo rentals with access to the Splash Pad are available through the recreation department at recdesk@newmarketnh.gov.
Let us know if you find any other hidden gems or playground paradise as you are exploring the Seacoast. Follow our contributor @aloha.mama.cat for all her family friendly and foodie finds as well!
South Street Playground in Portsmouth is shady and perfect for toddlers – lots of push toys to use.