The old fountain at Ann Morrison Park in Boise, Idaho was a place to take a family picture, not to splash and play. Today, the area features a stunning new water spray park with jets and waterfalls, offering a chance for every Boisean to cool off in the summer.
A ribbon cutting ceremony in May of 2023 was a festive celebration where hundreds came together to enjoy the fun of water play. Hundreds of ice cream cones were handed out to the excited crowds, who were eager to take part in the new destination near the heart of their city.
The 70-foot-long, fully inclusive water play environment features 69 LED Arch Jets that dance and transform through a series of arches, sprays and splashing designs. 
With the push of a button, the water jets activate and stream water to initiate the fun. Children and adults alike – even visitors with mobility devices – can enjoy the splashing fun for free, all summer long.
In addition to the jets, the splash pad features 14 custom water weirs – like waterfalls – that cascade out of the concrete benches at the edges of the water play area. These are ideal for visitors looking to just wet their toes and not get fully immersed in the water experience.
Beyond daytime splashing, the spray park transforms into a colorful spectacle at night. The water jets are decked out with LED lights that can be programmed to rotate through a full spectrum of bright colors. The park is planning a stunning red, white and blue water spray show for the Fourth of July.
On one end of the water park, an art installation features a circular pattern that recognizes park donors. The feature is wheelchair accessible and plays upon the circle theme that pervades the park. The large formation frames the water spray jets like a picture, and is an ideal spot for a family photo.
The park is named for the beloved wife of construction entrepreneur, Henry W. Morrison, who built such landmarks as the Hoover Dam and the San Francisco Bay Bridge. A native of Boise, Ann Morrison was adored by many as a deeply engaged citizen, dedicated to the prosperity of the city. After her death, the park was built by her husband and donated to the city in 1959.
The fountain has always been a centerpiece of the 153-acre park, but it has never been interactive. After the most recent cement fountain fell into disrepair, the city decided to revamp it, but with a twist – the new fountain area would be an invitation to engage and interact, not just view.
The completely renovated fountain-turned splash pad is something Ann Morrison would have wanted – a way for Boiseans to come together and enjoy their city to the fullest.
Watch the full news story here.
