We know it’s summer and it’s supposed to be hot, but seriously, we’re sweating like crazy. It’s been about 90 degrees for the past several days, and the forecast calls for even more heat this week. If you’re like us and looking for something to cool you off, well, look no further.
WHAT IS IT?
Slip ‘n Slide
A thin plastic sheet that you soak with a garden hose, take a run at, dive onto and slide. Or slip, if you prefer.
Crown Fountain
Two steel and glass brick fountains that show faces on giant LED screens and then soak Millennium Park visitors.
WINNER: Crown Fountain. A sheet of plastic and a garden hose are no match for twin 50-foot towers that took years to complete.
WHAT IT COST
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Slip ‘n Slide
Usually less than $20, although some new models can be almost twice that much.
Crown Fountain
The project ran over budget and came in at a cool $17 million.
WINNER: Slip ‘n Slide. Most of us have $20 to spare. Very few of us have $17 million lying around the house.
WHO USES IT
Slip ‘n Slide
The ads say “ideal for ages 5–12,” but we’ve all taken a spin on one as adults.
Crown Fountain
Mostly children, as well, but adults are no strangers to its refreshing waters.
WINNER: Push. Both are fun for all ages.
POTENTIAL DANGERS
Slip ‘n Slide
– Overshooting the runway and tumbling onto the lawn.
– Crashing into a tree, fence or friend.
– Massive friction burns on your belly.
Crown Fountain
– Running into someone else who is splashing around in the water.
– Slipping on the wet ground.
– Having your face on the screen.
WINNER: Crown Fountain. Thanks, but we’ll pass on the belly burns.
SOUNDS A LITTLE LIKE
Slip ‘n Slide
– Rip ‘n Ride
– Flip ‘n Fried
– Henry Hyde
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Crown Fountain
– Brown Mountain
– Frown Countin’
– Clown Found Tin
WINNER: Slip ‘n Slide. There are about a million words that rhyme with “slip” or “slide.” Not so with “fountain.”
OVERALL WINNER: Crown Fountain. As much as we love old-school fun, we’ve got to side with the new kid on the block. The fountains are just way cooler.