Squeals and shrieks come pouring out of my girls’ mouths anytime I mention making a trip to Martha’s Park in Morganton, NC. Located at the 200 block of Collett Street, Martha's Park is an awesome gated and fenced park to visit on hot summer days when the kids just want to run and play in the water.
The blue and yellow splash pad is the most popular feature of the 1.4 acre park that opened in 1972 and underwent renovation in 2004. Splash pads are the equivalent of placing multiple, mega sprinklers underground for kids (and adults!) to run through and get sopping wet. At most local pool facilities, “No Running!” is often heard for safety reasons, but at Martha’s Park kids can run, hop and skip freely across the squishy mat that randomly shoots up streams (sometimes gushes!) of water. When the water sprays begin to slow down to almost nothing, the kids race to push a button on the edge of the pad that starts a whole new sequence of squirting and splashing. You never know where the water will shoot out, so the anticipation makes it all the more exhilarating for the children.
If the kids need a break from the water, they can run down to the playground that offers several slides, climbing areas, swings and other child-friendly equipment. Once everyone has worked up an appetite, there are three covered picnic shelters to set up food and drink. The largest shelter can be reserved for birthday parties or other celebrations-- $50 for 2 hours. Or, you can bring a blanket and lounge in the grassy areas with a picnic basket. There are also handicapped accessible restrooms and water fountains within the park. Benches are placed around the park for seating, as well as a low wall around the splash pad area for parents needing to stay close to little ones playing in the water.
The park is well-maintained with lovely landscaping and unique sculptures scattered around the park. It is open daily from 10am to 8pm. Call 828-438-5350 for more information.
Check out these other reviews of local splash pads in our area:
- Conover City Park - Conover, NC
- Kiwanis Park - Hickory, NC
- Lowes Foods City Park - Hickory, NC
and don't miss our huge list of local places to get wet with info on local splash pads, pools, lakes, water parks and more!
