Kennedy Water Playground
This zero-entry water playground is geared for toddlers through elementary-aged children. This pool is 18 inches at it’s deepest point, and is perfect for children to come play in the water.
Reservations to the Kennedy Water Playground can be made in advance or upon arrival. Concession stands are available inside Kennedy Water Playground and outside food and beverage (non-alcoholic and non-glass) is permitted. Dogs are not permitted at Kennedy Water Playground during the summer season. However, Drool in the Pool will take place on the closing day of Kennedy Water Playground. The date for this pup-friendly event is TBD.
Get unlimited access all Summer long to Kennedy Water Playground! Check out our pool pass options for both individuals and families.
2022 Season PassPotawatomi Pool
South Bend Venues Parks & Arts is proud to have many options to stay cool in the summer heat and is committed to having a safe and delightful summer season! VPA has nine splash pads across the city in addition to the water playground in Kennedy Park.
Potawatomi Pool is currently under evaluation for 2022 and following seasons. During the course of opening the pool this season, our staff uncovered some major foundational issues which will preclude us from opening while we undergo further investigations. Thank you for your flexibility as our department navigates the current closing of our favorite pool.
In response to Potawatomi Pool’s closure for further evaluation and repairs, VPA is extending Kennedy Water Playground’s hours to be open from 11am to 7pm. Additionally, the summer season will be extended, starting on Aug. 8 and ending on Labor Day. Hours of operation for the extended season are Saturdays and Sundays, 11am – 7pm.
Splash Pad Locations
Southeast Park
Southeast Park has the largest splash pad in the city. It is located between Fellows and High Street on the South side of South Bend. This splash pad stands near the Southeast Park’s pavilion and playground.
Coquillard Park
This small splash pad is next to the half court basketball and tennis courts. There is also a pavilion with some picnic tables nearby.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Park
The splash pad at Martin Luther King, Jr. is located outside the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center and is adjacent to the playground area.
Charles Black Community Center
In the spacious LaSalle Park, there is splash pad near the playground area and not too distant from the pavilions that can be rented for parties and special occasions.
O’Brien Park
The splash pad in O’Brien Park is right beside the skate park. It has a small covered area with a picnic table for the parents to sit and enjoy the weather while the children play in the jets of water.
Pulaski Park
Enjoy this beautiful new park full of great amenities along with a fun new splash pad!
Potawatomi Park
Among the picnic tables and beside the universally accessible playground, the newest splash pad in the system is placed between the shaded trees of Potawatomi Park and within walking distance from Kids Kingdom.
Fremont Park
Fremont Park is considered a block park, which is a smaller location containing limited amenities such as playgrounds.
Howard Park
The Rask Family Fountains are a 1,500- square foot interactive series of water fountains and jets. In regular mode, the fountains doubles as a play area where people can interact with the water. When in show mode, the water feature transforms into a nighttime attraction with a colorful light show and impressive bursts of water.