Since my toddler had so much fun at the splash park on our vacation, I decided to add that activity to our summer repertoire.
I did my googling diligence and found several (FREE) Splash Parks in our surrounding area.
Excited for an exhausted kid and a guaranteed nap, I decided to slather my son in sunscreen, pack snacks and towels, and go check it out.
Of the two closest choices (Catherine Strong Park in Delray and Barrier Free in Boynton), We chose Catherine Strong. This park is nestled between Atlantic Ave and SW 10thStreet and can be seen from 95.
Easily accessible, but fully gated all the way around, with one main entrance/exit. This breezeway is where the restrooms, water fountain, and main office is located. There is a pavilion area with picnic benches that looks out over the splash park and 2 benches between the play areas that is beautifully shaded by tall bamboo trees. It’s really quite nice!
Plenty of parking and not only do they have a large splash park area, they have a regular playground too! Options are always a bonus. The only thing was, that the playground had wooden mulch pieces, so I made Kayden put his shoes and socks on for the playground then take them off for the splash park. Water shoes would have alleviated this issue.. but of course, I didn’t have those.
Aside from that nuisance, my kid and his buddy had an amazing time! They were running around, laughing and playing for a good 2 hours. I got to sit in the shade, chat with my mommy-friend, and we were easily able to keep an eye on the boys! Playdate super success!!
The site is closed to the public on Sundays – offering a perfect place for an outside birthday party or event!
For more information on Pavilion Rentals at the Catherine Strong Center, please visit the Permit and Rental page to print Permit Applications.
They also have basketball courts, a multipurpose field and a leisurely fitness trail. The trail is located in a safe enclosed environment with a number of rest areas, pavilion and 6 fitness stations along the perimeter of the trail including; chin-up bar, push-up/sit-up bench, step-ups, balance beam, parallel bars, and horizontal ladders.
A little Delray History --- Who is Catherine E. Strong?
Catherine E. Strong contributed unselfishly of her time and leadership ability in the development of the City over the years, serving with distinction as Mayor in 1954, and as a member of the City Commission during the years of 1955, 1956, and 1957.
Councilwoman Strong was a clear-thinking, outspoken and kindly woman. She is best known for her tireless efforts and ultimate success in defeating adoption of an ordinance segregating our beaches.
March 8, 1964 Mrs. Strong was memorialized in a dedication ceremony for the former civic center which used to stand at this site.
