Last updated July 16, 2026

 

Summer in Rowan County means sunshine, outdoor adventures, and plenty of opportunities to cool off. Whether you're searching for the best splash pads near Salisbury, looking for a public swimming pool, or planning a family day trip filled with water fun, you'll find plenty of places to stay refreshed throughout the season.

From splash pads and waterfalls to historic community pools and family recreation centers, Rowan County offers water attractions for every age. Here's your guide to the best places to beat the heat this summer.

 

Splash Pads in Rowan County

 

Little girl playing on splash pad

Photo taken at the Dan Nicholas Park Splash Pad.

 

Dan Nicholas Park Splash Pad

6800 Bringle Ferry Rd., Salisbury, N.C. 28146

One of the most popular family attractions in Rowan County, the splash pad at Dan Nicholas Park is the perfect place for younger children to cool off while parents relax nearby. Water sprays, fountains and interactive features make it one of the area's favorite summer destinations.

The fun doesn't stop there. Spend the rest of your day riding the playing mini golf, visiting the gem mine, renting paddle boats or exploring the wildlife exhibits. If you're planning your first visit, be sure to read our Guide to Dan Nicholas Park for everything you need to know before you go.

For more information about Dan Nicholas Park, be sure to visit Rowan County Parks & Recreation's official website.

 

Bell Tower Green Waterfall & Splash Pad

120 S. Church St., Salisbury, N.C. 28144

Located in the heart of Downtown Salisbury, Bell Tower Green combines beautiful green space with one of Rowan County's most unique splash areas. Children can play among interactive fountains while the park's cascading waterfall creates a relaxing backdrop for parents.

After drying off, explore downtown restaurants, local shops, ice cream stops and the award-winning playground located inside the park.

For more information about Bell Tower Green, be sure to visit Rowan County Parks & Recreation's website.

 

Kannapolis Cannon Ballers Playground & Splash Pad

1 Cannon Baller Way, Kannapolis, N.C. 28081

*Please note that as of June 30, 2026, the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers Splash Pad is closed due to drought restrictions.

This adventurous splash pad sits inside Atrium Health Ballpark in nearby Kannapolis and offers a fun stop whether you're attending a Kannapolis Cannon Ballers game or simply spending the afternoon outdoors.

The adjacent playground gives kids plenty of room to climb and play between splash sessions. If you're planning a game day, check out our What to Bring to a Kannapolis Cannon Ballers Game guide.

For more information about the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers Splash Pad, be sure to visit the City of Kannapolis' website.

 

Village Park Splash Pad

700 West C Street, Kannapolis, N.C. 28081

Also in nearby Kannapolis, Village Park offers far more than just water fun. After cooling off at the splash pad for just $2 per person, families can enjoy the double decker carousel, miniature train, playgrounds, walking trails and seasonal concerts, movies and festivals.

During the summer, Village Park also hosts Discover Fun events that make it one of the busiest family destinations in the region.

For more information about the Village Park Splash Pad, be sure to visit the City of Kannapolis' website.

 

Royal Giants Park Splash Pad 

200 Robinson Rd., Salisbury, N.C. 28144

Baseball fans will love the splash pad at Royal Giants Park. The sports-themed design features water cannons, sprinklers, slides and even a giant tipping baseball bucket that quickly becomes every child's favorite attraction.

Shaded seating makes it easy for families to spend several hours enjoying the park.

For more information about Royal Giants Park, be sure to visit the Town of East Spencer's website.

 

Carlton Family Water Feature at Spencer Town Park

470 S Salisbury Ave., Spencer, N.C. 28159

Located within the newly developed Spencer Town Park, the Carlton Family Water Feature offers a refreshing and thoughtfully designed space for families to cool off during the summer months. This interactive splash area features ground-level bubblers and a recirculating water system, all surrounded by green space, seating and picnic areas that make it easy to spend a relaxing afternoon at the park. The water feature provides a convenient and welcoming option for warm-weather fun right inside downtown Spencer.

For more information about Spencer Town Park, be sure to visit the Town of Spencer's website.

 

 

Public & Community Pools in Rowan County

 

People flaoting and swimming in Blue Waters Pool

Photo by Blue Waters Pool.

 

Blue Waters Pool

6930 Faith Rd., Salisbury, N.C. 28146

Celebrating more than 60 years of summer traditions, Blue Waters Pool remains one of Rowan County's most beloved places to cool off. Families return year after year to swim, relax poolside and continue traditions that span generations.

Whether you're floating in the water or soaking up the sunshine, Blue Waters delivers a classic summer experience.

For more information about Royal Giants Park, be sure to visit the Blue Waters Pool's website.

 

Fred M. Evans Pool & Splash Pad

110 Old Concord Rd., Salisbury, N.C. 28144

As Salisbury's public swimming pool, Fred M. Evans Pool offers affordable family fun throughout the summer. Recent improvements added a splash pad, giving younger children an extra place to play while older swimmers enjoy the pool.

Its convenient location and budget-friendly admission make it a favorite for both residents and visitors.

For more information about Fred M. Evans Pool, be sure to visit Rowan County Parks & Recreation's website.

 

Landis Pool

301 W. Rice St., Landis, N.C. 28088

Serving the community for nearly 100 years, Landis Pool remains a summertime tradition in southern Rowan County. Open seasonally, the pool offers a refreshing escape and plenty of nostalgic charm for families looking to spend the day together.

For more information about Landis Pool, be sure to visit the Town of Landis' website.

 

 

Membership Pools

 

Kids Playing on YMCA Splash Pad

Photo by the JF Hurley YMCA on Facebook.

 

JF Hurley YMCA Pool & Splash Pad

828 Jake Alexander Blvd. W., Salisbury, N.C. 28147

The J.F. Hurley YMCA features both indoor and outdoor aquatic facilities, including a family splash pad, making it a great option regardless of the weather. Membership or guest access requirements apply.

For more information about the JF Hurley YMCA, be sure to visit the JF Hurley YMCA's website.

 

Eaman Park Pool Club

123 Eaman Ave., Salisbury, N.C. 28144

For more than 65 years, Eaman Park Pool Club has been helping families create summer memories. The recently renovated pool offers a relaxing atmosphere for members looking to swim, lounge and enjoy the season.

For more information about the Eaman Park Pool Club, be sure to visit the Eaman Park Pool's website.

 

Make Your Summer Getaway Even Better

Planning a weekend getaway? Stretch your summer adventure by spending the night in Rowan County. When you book your accommodations through the booking widget below, you'll receive 50% of your hotel stay back as a VISA e-Gift Card through our Summer Fun in Rowan County Stay & Play Package. It's an easy way to enjoy even more attractions while saving on your overnight stay.

 

There’s no better way to embrace summer than by cooling off at one of Rowan County’s original water attractions. Whether you're exploring a splash pad for the first time or revisiting a pool packed with memories, these spots guarantee fun for all ages. So dive in, stay cool, and make a splash - Rowan County is ready to help you beat the heat in style.

 

Looking for more things to do with your family this summer? Check out our Things To Do page.

 

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