When the summer heat hits, nothing beats the excitement and refreshing fun of a water park. Across the United States, there are incredible water parks that offer thrilling rides, relaxing lazy rivers, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re looking for high-speed slides or a place to unwind, these ten water parks are among the best in America.
Universal’s Volcano Bay | Orlando, Florida
Universal Orlando unveiled its third theme park, the all-water Volcano Bay, in 2017. Paying homage to the South Seas, the park features a 200-foot volcano at its center, which serves as both an iconic landmark and the launch point for some of the park’s most exciting rides. With attractions like the Ko’okiri Body Plunge, a 125-foot slide that drops riders through a trapdoor, and the serene Kopiko Wai Winding River, Volcano Bay offers a perfect blend of adrenaline and relaxation.
Schlitterbahn New Braunfels | New Braunfels, Texas
Claiming the title of the World’s Best Waterpark, Schlitterbahn New Braunfels packs more than 51 attractions into 70 acres. This Texas water park is famous for its innovative rides and extensive river system. Highlights include the Master Blaster, an uphill water coaster, and the Torrent River, which mimics ocean waves. Schlitterbahn’s unique use of natural spring water and extensive variety of rides make it a standout destination for water park enthusiasts.
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park | Orlando, Florida
No one does a theme quite like Disney, and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park is no exception. This tropical-themed park features a massive wave pool, one of the largest in the world, and exciting attractions like the Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster and Miss Adventure Falls, a family-friendly raft ride. With its lush landscaping and immersive theming, Typhoon Lagoon transports guests to a storm-ravaged paradise filled with thrilling adventures and serene relaxation spots.
LEGOLAND California Resort | Carlsbad, California
Bare feet and LEGOs finally go hand-in-hand at LEGOLAND California’s water park. Interspersed with the park’s waterslides and wave pools are interactive play areas where kids can build their own rafts using soft LEGO bricks. The park’s Imagination Station and Build-a-Raft River encourage creativity and fun, while rides like the Splash Out and Twin Chasers offer plenty of excitement for all ages. LEGOLAND California is a unique destination where imagination and water adventures collide.
Noah’s Ark Waterpark | Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Wisconsin Dells may be known as the Waterpark Capital of the World, but one rises above the rest with an impressive record: it claims America’s Largest Waterpark. Noah’s Ark Waterpark boasts over 50 rides and attractions, including the Black Anaconda, a water coaster that combines speed and dark tunnels, and the Time Warp, the world’s largest bowl ride. With its wide array of attractions, Noah’s Ark provides endless fun for visitors of all ages.
Six Flags White Water | Marietta, Georgia
Six Flags Over Georgia has a dedicated water park onsite, Six Flags White Water. As its name suggests, there are plenty of adrenaline-inducing rides like the Tornado, a funnel slide that swirls riders around before dropping them into the pool below, and the Dive Bomber, a high-speed body slide. For those looking to relax, the park also features the lazy river and wave pool, making Six Flags White Water a well-rounded destination for thrill-seekers and chill-seekers alike.
Splashin’ Safari | Santa Claus, Indiana
Part of Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, this Indiana water park is known for its extensive and thrilling attractions. Highlights include the Mammoth, the world’s longest water coaster, and the Wildebeest, another award-winning water coaster. Splashin’ Safari also offers family-friendly attractions like the Bahari River and Kima Bay, ensuring there’s something for everyone. With free soft drinks, sunscreen, and parking, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari offers excellent value along with its top-notch attractions.
The Boardwalk at Hersheypark | Hershey, Pennsylvania
The sweetest waterpark around, The Boardwalk at Hersheypark is the waterlogged counterpart to the adjacent candy-inspired amusement park. It features attractions like the Breakers Edge Water Coaster and Whitecap Racer, the longest mat racing slide in the world. The park’s Shoreline Sprayground and Sandcastle Cove are perfect for younger children, while the Intercoastal Waterway lazy river offers a relaxing escape. Combining sweet treats with water fun, The Boardwalk at Hersheypark is a unique and delightful destination.
Great Wolf Lodge | Multiple Locations
We’d be remiss not to mention the largest chain of indoor waterparks in the country, Great Wolf Lodge. These parks, located in various states including Texas, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, stay open year-round and offer a plethora of attractions. From the thrilling Howlin’ Tornado funnel slide to the relaxing Crooked Creek lazy river, Great Wolf Lodge provides fun for the entire family regardless of the weather outside. Their signature indoor water park experience includes themed rooms and numerous family activities.
Cowabunga Bay | Multiple Locations
There are two outposts of Cowabunga Bay, a retro surfer-inspired waterpark in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Draper, Utah. Skip the strip and head to the Nevada location for a splash of vintage fun with attractions like the Surf-A-Rama Wave Pool and the Beach Blanket Banzai water slide. The park’s bright colors, classic surf tunes, and laid-back atmosphere make it a unique and enjoyable destination for water park enthusiasts of all ages.
