Splash Pad Atlas
Interactive Fountains

Steven L. Schainker Plaza Spray Pad

Downtown Ames, Ames, IA

Downtown Ames interactive spray pad with water features, shade structures, benches, restrooms, and a plaza setting near other downtown activity.

Official master plan image for Steven L. Schainker Plaza in downtown Ames showing the plaza layout with interactive water features.

Official City of Ames master plan image for the downtown plaza and its interactive water area.

Photo 1 of 3. Official City of Ames master plan image for the downtown plaza and its interactive water area.

Editorial notes

What stands out

Good fit

  • Quick splash breaks during downtown outings
  • Mixed-age groups meeting in a central public space
  • Families pairing water play with nearby events or food stops
  • Parents who prefer nearby restrooms and benches

Consider another option if

  • Families wanting a bigger dedicated spray-ground layout
  • Kids expecting a large park playground attached to the water play
  • Visitors who prefer a quieter neighborhood-park setting

Know Before You Go

Bring
Quick-dry clothes
Bring
Towels
Bring
Sun protection
Bring
Sandals or water shoes
Hours vary with season or weather
Yes

What to Expect

For kids

  • Toddlers
  • Preschoolers
  • Big kids
  • Mixed ages
  • Ground sprays
  • Drop-in visits

For caregivers

  • Benches
  • Partly shaded
  • On site
  • Open access
Visit type
Short urban splash stop
Read more about this location

The spray pad at Steven L. Schainker Plaza is a downtown Ames interactive water-play space built as part of the city's new plaza between Fifth and Sixth streets across from City Hall. The City of Ames describes the plaza as including interactive water features, native landscaped green space, public art, shade structures, benches, restrooms, open gathering areas, food truck space, and winter ice skating. This is a good fit for families who want a central, walkable stop that can pair with downtown errands, events, or time in nearby public spaces rather than a neighborhood park-only outing. Its plaza setting makes it especially appealing for quick splash breaks and mixed-age community use.

Hours & Admission

Admission

Published admission prices
VisitorPrice
AdmissionFree

Admission details can change. Confirm current fees before visiting.

Location

Between Fifth Street and Sixth Street across from City Hall

Ames, IA

Get directions

Other options nearby

Rendering of the planned Daley Park Splash Pad in Ames with children playing among interactive water features.

New city splash pad at Daley Park with 30+ interactive water features, outdoor showers, shade structures, and bench seating.

View details

Sources & Updates

1 public source on record ยท Last checked Apr 10, 2026. Time-sensitive details may have changed.

View source and update details
Last check on record
Apr 10, 2026
Sources reviewed
1 public source

Public sources

  • City of Ames Downtown Plazacityofames.org

    Official page describes interactive water features and related plaza amenities.

    Checked: name, downtown location context, interactive water features, shade structures, benches, restrooms

What changed

  • April 10, 2026

    Created listing from official City of Ames downtown plaza page.