Lighthouse Point Splash Zone at Hogle Zoo
Rating
Family of 4
Zoo admission for 2 adults (~$22 each) + 2 kids (~$16 each) = $76 base.
Duration
1-2 hours
Best Ages
Best for ages 2-10
About
The Lighthouse Point Splash Zone at Utah's Hogle Zoo is one of the most beloved summer additions to an already excellent zoo experience. Located inside the zoo grounds on Sunnyside Avenue in Salt Lake City, this outdoor splash pad area has earned near-perfect ratings from the families who've visited.
The splash zone is included with your zoo admission — there's no separate ticket to buy, which makes it a genuine bonus on hot Utah summer days. Kids can run through interactive water jets, wade in shallow splash areas, and cool off completely while parents take a breather in the shade. The water features are designed with younger children in mind, making this a perfect spot for toddlers and elementary-age kids.
A few important planning notes: the splash zone is seasonal and typically operates during summer months only. Check the Hogle Zoo website before your visit to confirm it's open. Swimwear or a change of clothes is essential — kids will absolutely get soaked and won't want to leave.
The zoo itself is a full-day destination. Plan to arrive when it opens at 9AM to get the best experience at both the animal exhibits and the splash zone before crowds build in the afternoon. The zoo has changing facilities and dining options on-site, making it easy to spend 4-6 hours here with kids.
For families visiting Salt Lake City in the summer, the Hogle Zoo with its Lighthouse Point Splash Zone is one of the strongest half-day or full-day activity options available. The combination of world-class animal exhibits and a water play area that keeps kids refreshed makes it worth every dollar of admission.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Available
Kid Meals
Available
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Summer weekday mornings when zoo opens
Wait Times
10-20 min on weekends
Nearby Food
The Hogle Zoo has multiple dining options inside, including a cafe and snack stands. For more variety, the 9th & 9th neighborhood is about 10 minutes away with independent restaurants.
Why Kids Love It
The Lighthouse Point Splash Zone is a huge hit with younger zoo visitors — kids can run through water jets, splash in shallow pools, and cool off on hot Utah summer days. It's designed for younger kids so the water is safe and age-appropriate. The splash pad is a perfect mid-visit break when kids need to burn off energy between animal exhibits.
What Parents Say
“Closed because of snow and ice, however, it looked like a fun place for kids.”
Pro Tips from Parents
- Pack swimwear or a change of clothes — kids will get soaked and want to stay for a long time
- The splash zone opens seasonally (summer months only) — check hoglezoo.org for exact dates
- Visit the splash zone mid-morning before it gets crowded around noon
- Locker rentals are available nearby to store bags while kids play
- Combine splash zone time with nearby African Savanna exhibit for a full zoo day
What to Bring
- Swimwear or change of clothes
- Towel
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Zoo membership card if applicable
Cost Info
Admission Prices
- Child
- free
Tips to Save
- Buy zoo tickets online in advance to save $2-3 per person.
- Members get in free — a family membership pays for itself in 2 visits.
- Bring snacks and a water bottle to reduce food costs inside the zoo.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 9AM-6PM
- Monday
- 9AM-6PM
- Sunday
- 9AM-6PM
- Tuesday
- 9AM-6PM
- Saturday
- 9AM-6PM
- Thursday
- 9AM-6PM
- Wednesday
- 9AM-6PM