Now that my little guy is on the move we are starting to get into play parks, wading pools and splash pads. Last weekends we went with some friends to check out Dundas Driving Park. My first mental note was that the Driving Park was an idea location because there is lots of parking available, much of it in the shade, and in close proximity to the play structures and wading pool. Definitely a bonus compared to Gage Park where parking is a little further away!
We arrived around 9:30am and found the wading pool already filled and lifeguards on duty, ready for little splashers! One of the nice things about the wading pool is that it’s surrounded by benches that are shaded by pergolas, so there’s plenty of space if you want to get your little one out of the sun for a little bit.
The wading pool itself was a little chilly, as it’s obviously filled with groundwater, but the shallower parts warmed up quickly with the hot sun shining down on it. At its deepest, the wading pool was up to my toddler’s armpits, which meant it was below the bottom of my shorts and I didn’t have to get my clothes wet chasing toddler around. I did have to keep a really close eye on him though, since he’s not used to walking in deeper water and a few times he lost his balance and went under.
Toddler was thrilled that there are some splash pad elements next to the wading pool, and loved the surprise of various fountains spraying up from the ground. The splash pad area is not nearly as extensive as Gage Park, but it’s a good diversion from the wading pool for a bit.
When you’re done using the wading pool or just need a little time out, there’s plenty of grass surrounding the area where you can spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy a snack. This is also perfect for letting little ones dry off before changing them back into their clothes. A stop on the play equipment or swings is a nice way to round out a morning at Dundas Driving Park. By noon it was time for us to head home for a nap! My little guy passed out in the car and I was able to put him right in his crib– that literally never happens, but I guess he tired himself out running between the wading pool, splash pad and to get snacks from our bench in the shade.
For kids a little bit older, you could make a day of it, starting at Dundas Driving Park in the morning, maybe make a stop at our favourite place for sweet treats, Dyments Market and Bakery, and then head to the petting zoo at the Dutch Mill Country Market.
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