The top splash pads in Toronto are not only perfect for kids to cool down on a hot summer day, but they also offer a break for parents - no lifeguarding required. A scenic park with a shady space for drying off after is a bonus, as is the guarantee that your kid won't be soaking in a urine filled trough disguised as a wading pool.

Here are my picks for the top splash pads in Toronto.

Corktown Common
This contemporary east side park boasts a rubberized field with automated sprinklers set on timers, promising unsuspecting wee ones a wet surprise while you watch from the rocky sidelines.

The Paul Quarrington Splash Pad at Sherbourne Common
An ice rink in the winter and splash pad in the summer, this huge space allows for some serious frolicking in the water. There's also a washroom and changing facility on site and pockets of shade and seating around the perimeter.

Sugar Beach Park
On the other side of the Corus Quay building from Sherbourne Common, Toronto's faux beach features a massive granite maple leaf emblem stuffed with 27 sequencing jets and plenty of seating courtesy of the Muskoka style loungers. Against the Grain is steps away for a post splash pad meal or snack.

Hendon Park
Soaker style palm trees squirt water from above at this tropical pad near Yonge and Finch. It's home to two splash pads, with one set positioned a little shorter for the lil' tykes.

Christie Pits
The maze theme of this splash pad adds another dimension of fun for the kids. The older ones will dig the onsite pool and waterslides.

High Park
Boasting a pool and a splash pad, this gem of a park is a great place to spend the entire day. The splash pad is its most recent addition, with a canopy of umbrellas and multiple misters to cool your kid off.

Centre Island
Franklin reigns supreme at this frog themed water feature on Centre Island. Gentle mists and heavier flows rain down on kids - a great way of washing away all the sand from the nearby beach.

Glendora Splash Pad
The renovated splash pad at Glendora Park near Yonge and Sheppard is a wide open space of sprinklers with a playground right across for drying off.

June Rowlands Park
Midtowners celebrate the music of Sharon Lois & Bram via this micro-park tucked inside June Rowlands Park. The well appointed water area is aptly named the Splish Splash splash pad.

Marie Curtis Park
The beauty breezes coming in off the lake near Marie Curtis Park in Etobicoke provide a cooling backdrop to the adjacent splash pad. Dr. Suess-style flowers sprinklers dot the pad dousing kids while grown-ups can stay dry on the sidelines.

Did I miss a great splash pad? List your favourites in the comments.