MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Boulevard Plaza Splash Pad Reopens After Brief Weekend Closure, Restoring One of Coon Rapids’ Most Popular Summer Destinations

COON RAPIDS, MN (June 23, 2026)  Summer fun is once again flowing freely at Boulevard Plaza after City of Coon Rapids officials announced that the park’s popular splash pad has reopened following an unexpected weekend shutdown caused by a minor mechanical issue.

City officials confirmed Monday that the malfunction has been repaired and that normal operations have resumed, allowing families to return to one of the community’s most heavily used warm-weather recreation amenities. The closure lasted only a short time, but the reopening comes as temperatures rise and residents increasingly seek outdoor spaces to cool off during the early weeks of summer.

Located at 11002 Crooked Lake Boulevard NW, on the grounds of the Coon Rapids Ice Center, Boulevard Plaza has become a centerpiece of the city's seasonal recreation system. The facility combines a splash pad, playground equipment, picnic areas, walking paths, open green space, and covered seating into a single family-oriented destination that draws visitors from across the north metro.

According to the city, the splash pad and park are open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with operations continuing throughout the summer season. Shelters and picnic tables remain available on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations are not accepted.

For many Coon Rapids families, Boulevard Plaza represents more than simply a place to cool off. Since its opening, the facility has evolved into one of the city's signature gathering spaces, providing a free recreational option for residents of all ages. The splash pad is particularly popular among families with younger children because it offers water-based play without the standing water associated with traditional swimming pools.

The site itself emerged from a broader effort by the city to expand and modernize public recreation amenities. Community leaders envisioned Boulevard Plaza as a year-round destination that would complement activities at the adjacent ice center while creating a central outdoor gathering space for residents. Over the years, the area has hosted community events, seasonal celebrations, and family activities that help strengthen neighborhood connections.

The reopening also restores an important no-cost recreational resource at a time when many families are looking for affordable summer activities. Municipal splash pads have become increasingly common throughout Minnesota as cities seek to provide accessible outdoor recreation opportunities that require fewer staffing and operational resources than traditional aquatic centers while still offering relief during hot weather.

Visitors arriving at Boulevard Plaza will find more than just water features. The park includes playground equipment, picnic facilities, restrooms, parking, open space, and walking access throughout the grounds, making it a destination where families can spend an entire afternoon rather than simply making a quick stop.

The city thanked residents for their patience during the temporary closure and emphasized that the issue has been fully corrected.

With the repair complete and the water flowing again, Boulevard Plaza has returned to its normal summer rhythm, welcoming children racing through spray features, parents gathering under shaded shelters, and families enjoying one of Coon Rapids’ most popular seasonal attractions.

Residents seeking additional information about splash pad operations or park amenities can visit the City of Coon Rapids parks and recreation resources or contact the Coon Rapids Ice Center.

MinneapoliMedia | Community. Culture. Civic Life.