Family Vacation

17 Water Parks in the USA That Will Make Your Summer Epic

Best Water Parks in the USA For The Best Thrills
Best Water Parks in the USA For The Best Thrills ( Source : instagram )

Best water parks in the USA for the best thrills are Aquatica San Antonio and Water World. Spend a summer day splashing at these aqua parks.

Aquatic gardens in the United States are known for their exciting and diverse attributes, offering extensive thrilling attractions. These aqua bodies, from lazy rivers and water coasters to towering slides, cater to visitors of all ages. 

The added convenience of on-site lodging options in some aqua gardens lures tourists from around the globe to explore the magnificent experience.

Whether you seek a seasonal park or a year-round complex, the U.S. is a beautiful destination to plunge into delightful aquatic playgrounds and unfurl your adventure spirit. 

Read on to explore some of the most exotic waterparks in the United States, where you can spend your vacation with friends and families for the aquatic surprises. 

1. Universal's Volcano Bay

The best amusement parks in the USA is Universal Orlando Resort. The Volcano Bay by Universal provides a fantastic adventure in Orlando.

It is not your ordinary aquatic garden; perhaps it's an aqua theme structure that offers an immersive adventure for visitors. The variety of aqua-based experiences at Volcano Bay makes it an amusing place.

From the adventurous slides at the Rainforest Village to relaxation at Wave Village and River Village for inclusive family fun, Volcano Bay boasts it all and provides memorable experiences. 

The Universal also features the Krakatau volcano, which towers around 200 feet, adding to the immersive ambiance. Advanced and innovative technology like TapuTapu wearable gadgets for virtual queues at the serene waterbody never fails to deliver thrill and tranquility to its guests. 

Universal Orlando Resort's Volcano Bay Amusement.
Universal Orlando Resort's Volcano Bay Amusement. ( Source : instagram )

Location: 6000 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819

Contact: (407) 363-8000

Opening Hours (Guest Contact Center): Monday - Friday: 7:30 am - 10 pm, Saturday - Sunday: 7:30 am -11 pm 

Hotels near Universal Orlando Resort

  • Grand Hotel Orlando at Universal Blvd
  • Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

2. Hersheypark

Best amusement park in the US is Hersheypark which delights chocolate enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. The park offers a wide range of roller coasters. 

The aquatic adventure in its attractions and family rides are the most beautiful parts of this park. In addition to that, it features Hershey's Chocolate World, where you can indulge in a wide range of delectable chocolate treats. 

Besides the marvelous adventure, you can also access the ZooAmerica, where you can encounter more than 200 North American Animals. It is awe-inspiring with diverse offerings and provides a perfect choice for an extended visit. 

The Boardwalk at Hersheypark is known for its exclusive aquatic fun. It has diverse options, from slides like Breakers Edge Coaster and Coastline Plunge to the relaxing lazy river and the exciting spray ground. 

Hersheypark Amusement decorated with lights during Christmas.
Hersheypark Amusement decorated with lights during Christmas. ( Source : instagram )

Location: 100 W. Hersheypark Drive, Hershey, PA 17033

Contact: 717-534-3900

Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Up to 10:00 PM occasionally)

Hotels near Hersheypark

  • Courtyard by Marriott Hershey Chocolate Avenue
  • Super 8 by Wyndham Hershey
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites Hershey Chocolate Avenue

3. Cedar Point Shores

Best water parks in the US include Cedar Point Shores. It is a thrilling amusement park that goes beyond a roller coaster. 

Nestled in a beautiful settlement of Sandusky, Ohio, the park has over 70 attractions and 18 world-class roller coasters designed to cater to the adventure spirit of all levels of visitors. 

From the exhilarating weightlessness experience of Steel Vengeance to the powerful drops and rolls of Valravn, a perfect adventure-fueled adrenaline rush awaits everyone.

Cedar Point also provides various aqua gadgets, with its pool for the little ones, to make exhilarating slides for the entire family and friends. With several accommodations options near the area, it is a place to enjoy a family outing, a romantic getaway, or a friend's gathering; it aims to provide lasting memories and connections with its splash-filled adventure. 

Cedar Point Shores with its magnificent structures and theme grounds.
Cedar Point Shores with its magnificent structures and theme grounds. ( Source : instagram )

Location: Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH 44870

Contact: (419) 627-2350

Opening Hours: 10 AM - 8 PM

Hotels near Cedar Point Shores

4. Noah's Ark Waterpark

Largest waterpark in the US is Noah's Ark in Wisconsin Dells. It is situated in a 70-acre area and boasts many attractions catering the visitors of all ages. 

Noahs Ark aquatic garden has 40 rides spread across different classes, such as thrill, kiddie, adventure, and family. With these variations, it has something for everyone. 

If you are seeking an adrenaline rush, the Black Anaconda at the aqua garden awaits you with an exciting aqua coaster. However, Wave Pool would be the best pick if you prefer a more laid-back adventure. 

It also boasts lazy rivers, kiddie pools, and splash pads where you can cherish and enjoy the gentle swells in the beautiful aquatic ambiance. With these soft quests, even younger children can have a blast too. 

Noah's Ark and its attractions.
Noah's Ark and its attractions. ( Source : instagram )

Location: 1410 Wisconsin Dells Parkway, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965

Contact: (608) 254-6351

Opening Hours: 10 AM - 5 PM (Occasionally 7 PM)

Hotels near Noah's Arc

  • Hilton Garden Inn Wisconsin Dells
  • Atlantis Family Waterpark Hotel
  • Shamrock Motel Resort & Suites

5. Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels

Largest outdoor waterpark in the US is Schlitterbahn. It is located in the picturesque city of New Braunfels, Texas. 

The aquatic garden boasts over 50 slides and attractions on its premises and is a perfect sanctuary for those seeking respite from the summer heat. It offers centerpiece rides such as adrenaline-pumping Master Blaster and rousing Boogie Bhan surf simulator. 

The park goes the extra mile by offering an indoor aquatic garden that lets guests cherish the year-round aquatic fun. Furthermore, it has various accommodation options, from modest hotel rooms to spacious vacation suites for families

It has multiple sections, each with attractive offerings, including captivating swim-up bars, not-so-lazy rivers, children's areas, and signature rides. The extensive collection of rivers, pools, slides, and play areas makes the experience more memorable for visitors of all ages.

Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels and attractions around.
Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels and attractions around. ( Source : instagram )

Location: 400 N. Liberty Ave., New Braunfels, TX 78130

Contact: (830) 625-2351

Opening Hours: 11 AM - 6 PM (Occasionally 10 AM- 8 PM)

Hotels near Schlitterbahn

  • The Resort At Schlitterbahn
  • The Faust Hotel
  • Hilton Garden Inn New Braunfels

6. Kalahari Resorts Sandusky

Biggest indoor water park in USA is Kalahari Resorts Sandusky. The park stands out as an extraordinary indoor garden with many attractions. 

Visitors can immerse themselves in the Leopard's Lair and spray park by visiting this aquatic foundation. Sliding and lazily floating along the meandering currents of Crocodile Cove and exploring signature slides like Tanzanian Twister and Swahili Swirl are some experiences to explore. 

It also offers basketball courts, simulated surfing, and rock climbing walls. Having the best amenities and offering a wide range of experiences, Kalahari Resort makes an exceptional destination for memorable experiences.

Additionally, it allows you to drive into unique experiences, including underwater virtual reality and mermaid training, ensuring an incredible touch of wonder to life.

Location: 7000 Kalahari Dr, Sandusky, OH 44870

Contact: 419-433-7200

Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm, Friday & Saturday: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm 

Hotels near Kalahari Resort

  • Tru By Hilton Sandusky, Oh
  • Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Sandusky
  • Hampton Inn Sandusky-Central

7. Splashin’ Safari

Biggest water park in USA is Splashin' Safari which is situated in Santa Claus, Indiana. It is a budget-friendly destination offering attractions for all ages.

It has thrilling rides like ZOOMbabwe, the world's giant enclosed aquatic slide, and adventurous Zinga. The ten-lane racing slide known as Jungle Racer is another attraction at this incredible aquatic fun land.

If you are visiting the place, you shouldn't miss the epic Mammoth and Wildebeest aqua coasters, two of the longest in the world. Also, if you want a more relaxed experience, enjoy the wave pools or take a leisurely float down the lazy river.

The Splashin' Safari has something for everyone, including activities for young children like Tempo Tides. So, you can visit the park to enjoy the splash adventures in a fantastic waterful backdrop. 

One of the best outdoor waterparks in United States - Splashin' Safari .
One of the best outdoor waterparks in United States - Splashin' Safari . ( Source : instagram )

Location: 452 East Christmas Boulevard, Santa Claus, IN 47579

Contact:  812-937-4401

Opening Hours: 11 am-6 pm (Occasionally 10 am-7 pm)

Hotels near Splashin’ Safari

  • Santa's Lodge
  • Baymont by Wyndham Dale
  • Comfort Inn

8. Cowabunga Bay Water Park

Top theme parks in the US include Cowabunga Bay aquatic garden. It offers numerous attractions, including the iconic Cowabunga Splash play structure. 

The Splash structure has nine water slides and over 300 interactive features where thrill seekers can explore the authentic water fun in a magnificent atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the fast-paced Bonzai body slide and the exhilarating Mondo-enclosed high-speed slide. 

Kids can have their fun with the dual-lane racing slide and open and enclosed body slides within Cowabunga Bay. In the meantime, if you want to relax, you can float along the 400-foot lazy Cowabunga River or soak up the sun on the beach.

Cowabunga Bay boasts eleven water slides, including the epic Mondo with 1,000 feet of twists and turns in total darkness, and ensures excitement and fun for all!

Cowabunga Bay Draper and its amenities including Monsoon Maggies Surfriders and Finn's on display.
Cowabunga Bay Draper and its amenities including Monsoon Maggies Surfriders and Finn's on display. ( Source : instagram )

Location: 12047 State St, Draper, UT 84020

Contact: 801-553-1000

Opening Hours: 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM or 2:30 PM - 6:00 PM

Hotels near Cowabunga Bay

  • SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salt Lake City Draper
  • Ramada by Wyndham Draper
  • Quality Inn

9. Six Flags White Water

USA best water park include Six Flags White Water, which is known for its thrilling slides, rides, and various other attractions and amenities. 

The park has something for everyone with its vast array of offerings. The Wildwater Lagoon at the park features a splashdown pool with raft and body flumes and slides.

Another attraction, Pine Valley, offers a relaxing experience with a wave pool and lazy river, making it an ideal choice for families. Slippery Ridge is the adrenaline junkies' paradise, with intense speed slides and towers. 

Furthermore, Flash Flood Canyon is an abode of Dive Bomber, the tallest single slide in the park. It offers unique experiences that begin with breathtaking slides and ranges to kid-friendly play areas. 

Take a plunge at Six Flags White Water and its incredible amenities.
Take a plunge at Six Flags White Water and its incredible amenities. ( Source : instagram )

Location: 250 Cobb Parkway N #100, Marietta, GA 30062

Contact: 770-590-4067

Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM

Hotels near Six Flags White Water 

  • Wyndham Garden Marietta Atlanta North
  • Hilton Atlanta/Marietta Hotel & Conference Center
  • Days Inn by Wyndham Marietta 

10. Chula Vista Resort

US water park resorts include Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells. It is a perfect aqua garden resort that has indoor and outdoor facilities. 

Chula Vista caters to the need of various visitors of all ages in its 200,000 square feet of aqua garden space. A mind-boggling 27 exhilarating slides stretching over 1.5 miles deliver an adventure-fueled stay at the resort. 

Besides the aquatic adventures, the accommodation options are equally impressive, with over 600 rooms, luxurious condominiums, and villas. You can also explore the expansive property, which spans hundreds of acres, and discover six excellent restaurants and bars, a rejuvenating spa, and an 18-hole golf course.

Whether craving breathtaking thrills or serene river views, Chula Vista has something for everyone, rain or shine. 

Chula Vista Resort Wisconsin Dells and its artificial waterstream.
Chula Vista Resort Wisconsin Dells and its artificial waterstream. ( Source : instagram )

Location: 1000 Chula Vista Parkway, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin 53965

Contact: 800-388-4782

Opening Hours: 10 AM - 7 PM (Up to 9 PM)

11. Discovery Cove and Aquatica

Best water parks in the East Coast include Discovery Cove and Aquatica. This all-inclusive aqua garden resort offers a wide range of marine life experiences. 

If you plan to visit the resort, this is an excellent choice, as it allows you to swim with dolphins and encounter sharks and sea otters. It features a scenic river with waterfalls where you can enjoy swimming. 

The Aquatica is a beautiful choice that offers a traditional aqua garden experience with aqua canals, heated pools, and exciting slides. Orlando's Aquatica is known for its incredible outdoor experience, providing high-speed slides, wave pools, tranquil beaches, and shady retreats. 

Furthermore, at Discover Cove, you can enjoy some delicacies such as gourmet lunch, endless snacks, and drinks. It allows you to venture beyond the aquatic attractions and explore hidden treasures like Freshwater Oasis and Aviary while exploring stunning coral reef habitats. 

Discovery Cove and Aquatica and its finest attractions in the natural atmosphere.
Discovery Cove and Aquatica and its finest attractions in the natural atmosphere. ( Source : instagram )

Location:  6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL 32821

Contact: (407) 513-4600

Opening Hours:  8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

12. Water Country USA

Water Country USA is a beautiful destination to visit in Williamsburg. It is a modern place designed to facilitate people of all ages with new experiences. 

The park boasts Aquazoid Amped, its newest and most thrilling ride. On this ride, you can splash down with a spectacular light show, music, and special effects. 

You can even try Colossal Curl for added excitement. It is an adventurous ride with turns, jumps, and twists. For the little ones, it boasts H2O UFO, a play area with interactive features and slides. 

Another attraction, Cow-A-Bunga, is a splash pad for younger participants. Missing out on Nitro Racer, a high-speed six-lane racing slide, would make it bitter. So, explore the adventures and enjoy what the Water Country USA offers!

The natural settlement and several structures for the enjoyment in the aquagarden. .
The natural settlement and several structures for the enjoyment in the aquagarden. . ( Source : instagram )

Location: 176 Water Country Pkwy, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Contact: 757-229-4386

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 11 AM - 7:00 PM

Hotels near Water Country USA

13. Water World

 Water World Colorado is a large aqua garden in Federal Heights. It has a variety of aqua-based attractions for people of all ages. 

It features various aqua slides, a lazy river, inflatable tube rides, wave pools, and a gondola. With its diverse attractions, you can enjoy adventurous aqua-surfing and explore over 30 sports types. 

The park is situated on about 70 acres, making it one of the largest aqua-based theme parks in America. It has various attractions such as Screamin' Mimi, a high-speed ride with a roller coaster-like track, and Journey to the Center of the Earth, a multi-passenger raft ride through an artificial cavern.

Participants enjoying the slides in the WaterWorld Colorado.
Participants enjoying the slides in the WaterWorld Colorado. ( Source : instagram )

Location: 8801 N Pecos St, Federal Heights, CO 80260

Contact: 303-427-7873

Opening Hours: 10 AM - 6 PM (Occasionally, 10: AM - 5 PM)

Hotels near Water World

  • La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Denver Westminster
  • The Westin Westminster
  • Double Tree by Hilton Denver Central Park

14. Raging Waters

Raging Waters is one of the most extensive aqua facilities in California. It offers a variety of adventurous rides, wave attractions, and spacious pools. 

The aquatic garden provides fun and entertainment to all ages with its diverse attractions. It features rides like Neptune's Fury, a 600-foot long wild ride with a 60-foot drop, and Ragin' Racer. 

Ragin is a fast-paced aqua slide that reaches 34 miles per hour and provides a breathtaking thrill to enthusiasts. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Splash Adventure Island offers lazy rivers and gentle waves. 

Raging also has a beach area that provides sunbathing experience. With 50 world-class attractions, including tube slides, aqua coasters, wave pools, and a lazy river, the wonderland has something for every fun aqua enthusiast.

Raging Waters Los Angeles and its attractions with people enjoying the fun!
Raging Waters Los Angeles and its attractions with people enjoying the fun!( Source : instagram )

Location: 111 Raging Dr, San Dimas, CA 91773

Contact: 909-802-2200

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday: 10 AM - 5 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 10 AM - 6 PM. 

Hotels near Raging Waters

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites San Dimas, an IHG Hotel
  • Best Western San Dimas Hotel & Suites
  • Red Roof Inn San Dimas - Fairplex

15. Dollywood’s Splash Country

Dollywood's Splash Country is a charming aqua garden inspired by the tranquil mountain damping holes that Dolly Parton treasured as a youngster.

It is nestled in the magnificent Great Smoky Mountains. It has a variety of activities for all ages, including the thrilling aqua coaster, RiverRush, and The Cascades, a large lagoon pool with interactive components. 

Dollywood's Splash Country, with its towering slides, dazzling pools, and family-friendly splash zones, is the ideal summer retreat for the entire family. Furthermore, it offers several ticket options, from single-day passes to season passes, guaranteeing each guest a customized experience. 

There are delicious eating alternatives delivering mouthwatering meals and cool beverages to enrich your visit. Private waterside retreats and warm canopies are offered for those looking for a more intimate getaway.

Dollywood’s Splash Country and its amazing attractions in the view.
Dollywood’s Splash Country and its amazing attractions in the view. ( Source : instagram )

Location:  2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 

Contact: 800-365-5996

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday: 10 AM - 6 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 10 AM - 7 PM. 

Hotels near Dollywood's Splash Country

  • Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Pigeon Forge
  • Dollywood's DreamMore Resort & Spa
  • Grand Smokies Resort Lodge

16. Aquatica San Antonio

Aquatica San Antonio is a water park nestled next to SeaWorld. This ideal oasis provides thrilling water rides and a kid-friendly fun experience.

It caters to both tranquil and adrenaline-seeking adventurers. You can discover a captivating world as you uncover majestic stingrays, vibrant tropical birds, and other beautiful creatures.

It would make an electrifying experience with its recently introduced Tonga Twister, an exhilarating attraction at Aquatica San Antonio. You can also take a plunge into excitement on Ihu's Breakaway Falls, an imposing slide that towers above the tallest drop in Texas. 

Furthermore, engage in an adrenaline-fueled race down the twisting lanes of the Taumata Racer and immerse yourself in the extraordinary Stingray Falls, a unique passage through underwater twists and turns alongside graceful stingrays and tropical fish.

Aquatica San Antonio and its attractions.
Aquatica San Antonio and its attractions. ( Source : instagram )

Location: 10500 SeaWorld Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251

Contact: 210-520-4732

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday: 10:30 AM - 6 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 10:30 AM - 8 PM.

Hotels near Aquatica San Antonio

  • Courtyard by Marriott San Antonio SeaWorld/Westover Hills
  • Holiday Inn San Antonio Seaworld, an IHG Hotel
  • Hilton San Antonio Hill Country

17. Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe

Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe will be a wonderful place if you are looking for a wet and wild adventure. It is a top-rated family playground in North Carolina

The aqua garden boasts over 36 rides and attractions, and there's something for everyone to enjoy. You can feel the rush as you slide down the triple-thrill Bermuda Triangle, with vibrant lights and sound effects. 

Furthermore, test your bravery on the Bombs Away dual-drop slides, where you can choose between two heart-pounding drop experiences. Take on Doctor Von Dark's Tunnel of Terror for a thrilling ride in total darkness with its 40-foot drop and dizzying spins. 

And if you need a break from the excitement, relax and float down the Lazy River.

Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe and its classic lazy river.
Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe and its classic lazy river. ( Source : instagram )

Location: 3910 S Holden Rd, Greensboro, NC 27406

Contact: 336-852-9721

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Occasionally up to 7 PM)

Hotels near Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe

  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Greensboro, NC
  • Bravo Inn Greensboro
  • Holiday Inn Greensboro Coliseum, an IHG Hotel