Kid-Friendly Fun: Wading Pool and Pingree Park

Pingree Park: Tucked in the shade off Route 1A, Wenham's has arguably the best play structure in the two towns.

While often lost to the specter of and its tank, Pingree Park has just as much to offer. The main play structure seems newer and in better shape. And kids may tell you it is more fun.

The best part is that there's always plenty of room to park  and it's free. In addition, there's the fields to toss around a ball or kick a soccer ball.

Wading Pool at Bradley Palmer State Park

There's no better quick, inexpensive way to stay cool with the kids than wading pool. It's just $5 a car to park. Once inside there's the pool and playground and plenty of shady areas to relax.

There's a lifeguard on duty and a restroom too. The pool is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day during the summer.

While technically there's no snack bar, local ice cream trucks know that and make occasional stops at the pool so bring some cash to get the kids a treat.

Another tip: Get there early. The pool is only so big and there's not a limitless amount of parking, so it's not uncommon for people to get turned away at the gate on a busy day.

Check out your Patch Passport to