It's almost summertime, and it's sure to be a season filled with fun, thanks to Lafayette's many water-based attractions. Our real estate agents and their families head to these wonderful parks and recreation centers when they want to beat the heat.
- Girard Recreation Center - 500 Girard Park Dr., Lafayette, LA 70503
Girard Recreation Center is located in the largest municipal park near Lafayette homes for sale, making it the crown jewel of the city's recreation facilities. The park's splash pad is a local favorite. Other outdoor activities include a 1.25-mile walking trail, stocked fishing pond, basketball and volleyball courts, workout station, nine-hole disc golf course, and playground area that accommodates special needs. Hours are 2 p.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday. - Moncus Park - 2913 Johnston St., Lafayette, LA 70503
Named for the local philanthropist whose gift provided the funding, Moncus Park features a uniquely whimsical splash pad. The Our Lady of Lourdes Interactive Water Adventure measures 5,100 square feet, highlighted by a large alligator sculpture. "Breathing" water arches make up its abdomen, while custom jets create bald cypress "knees" out of water sprays. Kids can have some fun on dry land in the Savoy Family Treehouse, two stories tall and lined with cargo nets for safety. Moncus Park is open daily from 5 a.m. - 10 p.m., and Water Adventure hours are 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. - Parc Sans Souci - 201 E. Vermilion St., Lafayette, LA 70501
Kids will be happy to go shopping with you if it means a stop at Parc San Souci. This charming downtown spot is home to the colorful and iconic "Y LAFAYETTE" sign, which has been the subject of countless photo opportunities for locals and visitors alike. The splash pad is a magnet for kids, and the park's concrete benches double as seating and skate platforms. Plans are underway to add a state-of-the-art accessible playground and more skate-friendly features. Park hours are 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday. - Martin Luther King Recreation Center - Dorsey-Donlon Park, 309 Cora St., Lafayette, LA 70501
Cool off in the outdoor pool at Martin Luther King Recreation Center. With 15 acres containing tennis and basketball courts, ball fields, a walking and jogging trail, and a kids' playground, the family can make a whole day of it. Pack a lunch to enjoy in the picnic area, which also includes grills. Find your next summer read in the Butler Memorial Library Branch, located inside the center. Hours are 2 p.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday. The pool is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. and Saturday from 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for ages 17 and under. - Palmetto Island State Park - 19501 Pleasant Rd., Abbeville, LA 70510
A short 30-minute drive from Lafayette takes you to a whole different world at Palmetto Island State Park. Situated alongside the Vermilion River, not far from Abbeville homes for sale, the park is covered with lush greenery, including the distinctive namesake trees. A water playground and bathhouse are available for day use, while canoers and kayakers can explore plant and animal life in the lagoons. If you want to extend your trip, the park has six vacation cabins and 96 campsites for RVs. Park hours are 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily. Admission is $3 per person, with free entrance for ages 3 and under.
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