Rose Kennedy Greenway Rings Fountain (pictured): While the Greenway in the heart of Downtown Boston boasts a staggering seven (!) water features, the enormous Rings Fountain—with its powerful jets of spray that constantly change pattern—inspires the most frivolity from young and old alike.

 

Christopher Columbus Park: Adjacent to the Greenway, this gem on the North End waterfront is home to a pleasing spray fountain along with gorgeous views of historic Boston Harbor. Enjoy live music, kids games and more on August 7 from noon–4 p.m. at North End Family Pride Day, and stick around in the cooler air after sunset for free movies Sunday nights through August 21.

 

Christian Science Plaza Children’s Fountain: Even while a nearly completed, multi-year renovation and restoration of the plaza and churches remains in progress, the beloved spray fountain near the corner of Huntington Avenue and Belvidere Street is open for the season as a refreshing and fun respite for children of all ages.

 

Carson Beach: A Southie favorite that is part of a sizeable stretch of coastline overlooking Dorchester Bay, Carson Beach is one of the area's best places to take a dip in the ocean. Also check out nearby Pleasure Bay and Castle Island, home to historic Fort Independence and longtime fast-food fixture Sullivan's Castle Island. If you're in the area the weekend of August 20 & 21, check out the Columbia Threadneedle Investments Boston Triathlon. A free kids day takes place on Saturday, while both Olympic and sprint versions of the run/bike/swim race are contested on Sunday. 

 

The Colonnade Hotel Roof Top Pool: The luxurious Back Bay hotel—site of a recent, multi-million dollar renovation—houses the city's only rooftop pool that is open to the public. From Monday–Wednesday, non-hotel guests can lounge by the soothing waters 12 stories above Huntington Avenue for a $60 entry fee. Food and drink—including grilled fish tacos, lobster rolls, flatbreads and tempting frozen cocktails—are also available.