Silver Spring Kids Fountain
Swimming hole in Washington Dc, Maryland · Other
Silver Spring Kids Fountain is a fountain swimming hole. It is near Washington Dc, Maryland. Access is free. Best season: Late spring through early fall, particularly during summer evenings for cooler temperatures and vibrant surroundings.
Typical season: Late spring through early fall, particularly during summer evenings for cooler temperatures and vibrant surroundings
About Silver Spring Kids Fountain
Silver Spring Kids Fountain is a Fountain swimming destination near Washington Dc in Maryland. The setting stays informal and low-key.
In the heart of downtown Silver Spring, Maryland, a burst of cool water cuts through the summer heat in the most delightful way.
The Silver Spring Kids Fountain is a beloved urban water play area set right in the middle of a bustling pedestrian plaza, where the sounds of splashing children mix with the hum of city life, the aroma of nearby restaurants drifting through the warm air. This isn't a remote wilderness . It's a city oasis, and it wears that identity proudly. Shops and restaurants frame the space on all sides, giving the plaza a festive, social atmosphere that feels a world apart from the ordinary. The fountain sits at ground level, integrated into the plaza's hardscape design, making it feel like a natural gathering point for the neighborhood. On a summer evening, as the golden light softens and the air cools just slightly, the plaza comes alive with families, friends, and the unmistakable joy of kids running through water jets. Water jets shoot up from the ground at ground level, meaning there's no standing body of water, no depth to worry about, and no currents. Just unpredictable, exhilarating bursts of water that kids absolutely love. Younger children and toddlers can splash freely in a safe, flat environment, while older kids dart between the jets in impromptu games of their own invention. Parents and caregivers can watch comfortably from the surrounding plaza space, often finding a shaded bench or a nearby cafe table to settle into.
Swim at your own risk at Silver Spring Kids Fountain. Check conditions after rain and respect any posted closures.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Fountain
- Water body
- Fountain
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Washington Dc
- State
- Maryland
- Coordinates
- 38.99585, -77.02658
- Best season
- Late spring through early fall, particularly during summer evenings for cooler temperatures and vibrant surroundings.
- Access difficulty
- Extremely easy access with nearby parking and public transportation options.
- Parking
- Roadside / pull-off
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Activities
- Water play
- Facilities
- All necessary facilities are available nearby, including restrooms, dining options, and parking.
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Late spring through early fall, particularly during summer evenings for cooler temperatures and vibrant surroundings.
- Access Extremely easy access with nearby parking and public transportation options.
- Facilities All necessary facilities are available nearby, including restrooms, dining options, and parking.
Highlights & features
- Interactive water jets for kids
- Central urban location
- Surrounded by restaurants and shops
- Accessible via car and Metro
- Seasonal operation during warmer months
- Man-made water play area designed for kids
- Located in a bustling urban plaza
- Surrounded by dining and entertainment options
How to get there
Silver Spring Kids Fountain lies in Maryland near Washington Dc, Silver Spring Md. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
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Driving Directions
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From Washington, DC, take the I-495 Beltway heading north.
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Take Exit 30 for Route 29 South (Colesville Road).
Continue south on Route 29 (Colesville Road) for about 1 mile.
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Turn left (east) onto Georgia Avenue (MD-97).
After about 0.2 miles, turn left again onto Ellsworth Drive. Look for parking options in the area. Public parking garages are available nearby, including the Ellsworth Drive Garage and other parking facilities in downtown Silver Spring. Follow posted signs for parking. Once parked, walk toward the downtown plaza area. The Silver Spring Kids Fountain lies in the center of the plaza, near shops and restaurants. Look for the fountain surrounded by seating areas and open space. Public Transit Directions:
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Take the Metrorail Red Line to the Silver Spring Metro Station.
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Exit the station and head northeast on Colesville Road.
Walk about 4 blocks to Ellsworth Drive. The plaza and fountain are located along Ellsworth Drive, in the heart of downtown Silver Spring.
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Helpful notes
The fountain lies in a pedestrian-friendly plaza, so plan to park and walk if driving.
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Parking garages in downtown Silver Spring typically charge a fee, but street parking may also be available depending on the time of day.
The plaza is surrounded by restaurants, shops, and other attractions, making it a convenient spot for families to enjoy the area.
Plan your visit
Silver Spring Kids Fountain works well as a day trip from Washington Dc or Silver Spring Md. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Nearby options include Camp Harding Park and Beaver Dam. For the full list in Maryland, see our state directory.
Access & fees
The fountain is located in a public plaza. There is no fee to access the fountain itself. Public parking garages and street parking are available nearby for a fee. The area is accessible via the Metro Red Line Silver Spring station.
Top picks for this trip
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
For most swimmers, the Earth Pak is the easy default — tough, affordable, and it comes with the phone case you were going to buy anyway.
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Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle
A do-everything bottle that holds ice through a full hot day at the water.
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What to pack for Silver Spring Kids Fountain
Gear we compare side by side for other swims like this one — water access, sun, and the hike in.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Silver Spring Kids Fountain a swimming hole?
No. It is a man-made splash fountain with interactive water jets for children in downtown Silver Spring — not a lake, river, or quarry swim.
Is the Silver Spring fountain free?
Yes. Plaza access is free. Supervise kids closely; it is not a lifeguarded pool.
How do you get to Silver Spring Kids Fountain?
In downtown Silver Spring, Maryland, near the Metro and pedestrian plaza. Easy by car or Red Line Metro from Washington, DC.
When is the fountain running?
Typically warm-weather months on a posted schedule. Confirm with Montgomery County / downtown Silver Spring event info if jets are off.
Explore more nearby swimming guides
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Map & location
Culture & history
Silver Spring is named after a mica-filled natural spring discovered in the 19th century, reflecting the area's historical significance.
Conservation
The fountain uses recycled water and demonstrates sustainable urban design. Visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles.
Sources & updates
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.