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You don’t need to travel far or overspend for summertime fun! Keep reading for inspiration on FREE events and attractions for all ages.
Joan and John Evans Legacy Sundial
Close by Lions Beach, the Joan and John Evans Legacy Sundial is such a fun and free activity for all ages, especially those with a love for science! Installed in 2022, this sundial was created to spark a curiosity about the planets, sun, and universe.
Here’s how it works: all you have to do is stand on the current month. When the sun is out and shining, your shadow will cast to the current time!
This project was inspired by John, a retired professor of physics and astronomy at UW-Oshkosh. One day, John decided to calculate the movement of the sun to mark the hours of the day for an analemmatic sundial, also known as a “human sundial,” for the exact location of Janesville on the Earth’s surface—which was used to create this fascinating interactive installation.
Splash Pads
Janesville has two different splash pads that are completely free to escape from the summer heat! Riverside Park Splash Pad opens from May to September, with hours everyday from 10 AM to 8 PM. The nature-themed splash pad features areas for teens, toddlers, and families.
Nestled in the heart of downtown, the Bubbler is part interactive splash pad and part art installation. Open from mid-May to mid-September from 10 AM to 10 PM, the Bubbler is the perfect place to cool off during summer’s downtown events like the Janesville Farmers Market.
Camden Playground
One of the most unique and beloved playgrounds in the area is Camden Playground in Palmer Park. When the playground was first built in 1993, it was the largest and most accessible playground in the world. This play area remains an accessible and inclusive space for kids of all abilities to explore, imagine, and play together.
Designed with thoughtful details like wide ramps, sensory-friendly features, and supportive swings, Camden Playground is more than just a play structure—it’s a place that encourages connection. The vibrant murals, cheerful colors, and whimsical castle layout spark creativity and joy at every turn, and the surrounding Palmer Park amenities (think picnic spots, restrooms, and a brand new splash pad and wading pool!) make it easy to spend the whole day here.
Rock Aqua Jays
The Rock Aqua Jays have been a Janesville summertime tradition for over 60 years—and their shows are just as thrilling today as ever! From Memorial Day through Labor Day, catch them in action at FREE water ski shows every Sunday and Wednesday along the Rock River.
Grab a seat on the bleachers or bring a lawn chair or blanket and get ready to cheer on jaw-dropping jumps, high-speed barefoot skiing, and those signature towering pyramids. It’s one of the most exciting (and totally unique!) ways to spend a summer evening in Janesville.
Hedberg Public Library
Hedberg Public Library is one of the best places in Janesville to spend the day as a family. Start your visit by saying hello to the library’s resident giraffes, Jamilla and Spotty, before diving into all the activities, materials, and programs waiting inside. For kids ages 6 and under, the Imagination Station and indoor Bookmobile in the Play Area offer hands-on fun and plenty of room to explore. Kids ages 7–11 will love KidSpace, a spot designed just for them with games, creative activities, and cozy places to hang out. The library also offers special programming like storytime to keep little ones engaged.
Teens ages 12–18 have their own dedicated area too—Teen Central—complete with seating, computers, and age-specific programming. From group game nights playing Dungeons & Dragons or Magic to crafts and even yoga sessions, there’s always something going on. Whether your family is stopping by for a quick visit or spending the whole afternoon, Hedberg Public Library is a welcoming and fun space for all ages to enjoy.
