The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S.
By Caroline Alden | March 21, 2025
Exploring water parks across the United States is an adventure, excitement, and refreshing fun journey. These parks offer a perfect escape for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking to cool off and enjoy watery thrills.
Whether it’s racing down towering water slides or drifting along a lazy river, these 28 best water parks promise unforgettable experiences and memories filled with laughter and splashes. Each park has charm and unique attractions, offering something special for every visitor.
Schlitterbahn, New Braunfels, Texas
Our Rating: 9.5/10
Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels, Texas, offers a thrilling escape for adventure seekers. It’s known for its extreme water slides and expansive wave pools. Visitors can splash through the exciting Not-So-Lazy Rivers or plunge high-speed slides designed for adrenaline rushes.
Families love the variety of attractions that cater to all ages. Parents can unwind in the calmer areas while kids explore the action-packed sections. The resort combines thrilling rides with convenient accommodations nearby, making it perfect for extended stays. Parking is free, adding an extra layer of convenience to a memorable visit. Schlitterbahn’s reputation as the world’s best water park ensures that every visit has unforgettable moments.
Noah’s Ark Waterpark, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Our Rating: 9.3/10
Noah’s Ark Waterpark in Wisconsin Dells is a splash-tastic paradise for adventure seekers. Spanning a vast 70 acres, this water wonderland boasts over 50 water slides that cater to thrill-seekers and families alike. Families can drift along two lazy rivers or plunge down the park’s exhilarating water coaster. A wave pool also sends waves of excitement across its shimmering surface.
From toddlers wobbling in kiddie areas to adults chasing adrenaline, Noah’s Ark offers something for everyone. Whether looking to relax or seeking thrills, the vibrant variety ensures an unforgettable day.
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, Orlando, Florida
Our Rating: 9.3/10
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon in Orlando is a splashy paradise that brings fun to thrillers and relaxation lovers. At the park’s heart is the Surf Pool, where guests can catch massive waves. For a more laid-back experience, visitors float down the tranquil Castaway Creek, surrounded by lush greenery.
Families explore the Ketchakiddee Creek, designed with younger adventurers in mind, offering mini-slides and water cannons. Thrill-seekers race down Crush ‘n’ Gusher, a water coaster with unexpected twists and turns. All these features make Typhoon Lagoon a must-visit haven for water park fans.
Universal’s Volcano Bay, Orlando, Florida
Our Rating: 9.1/10
Volcano Bay, located in the heart of Universal Orlando Resort, offers an escape into a water-filled wonderland. Its stunning central volcano, Krakatau, provides a dramatic backdrop for thrilling water slides that twist and turn throughout the park. Adventurous souls can brave the Ko’okiri Body Plunge, a daring drop through clear tubes.
Families love Waturi Beach, where gentle waves lap against white sands. The lazy river provides a relaxing float with scenic views, perfect for unwinding under the sun. Children will delight in the Runamukka Reef and Tot Tiki Reef, creative play areas with sprinklers, slides, and fun water activities. Each visitor receives a TapuTapu wearable, allowing seamless access to rides and other interactive features across the park.
Cowabunga Bay Water Park, Henderson, Nevada
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Cowabunga Bay Water Park in Henderson, Nevada, is a vibrant destination for summer fun. The 23-acre park is a splashy paradise with over 20 thrilling water slides and various attractions. Families and thrill-seekers can glide down the “Wild Surf” or unwind in the lazy river. The park’s retro theme adds a touch of nostalgia to its adventurous spirit.
It is just 15 minutes east of the Las Vegas Strip and offers an incredible escape from the Nevada heat. Refreshing snacks and delightful eats are available to keep energy levels high throughout the day, making any visit a complete experience.
The Boardwalk at Hersheypark, Hershey, Pennsylvania
Our Rating: 8.5/10
The Boardwalk at Hersheypark is a vibrant splash zone in the heart of Hershey, Pennsylvania. It’s perfect for family fun, with exhilarating water rides and relaxing pools. Spread over 11 acres, this water park has 16 thrilling water attractions.
Visitors can enter the excitement with attractions like Tidal Force, known for its heart-pounding descent and massive splash. The lazy river offers a more leisurely experience, perfect for drifting while soaking in the sun. Located within the famous Hersheypark, entry to The Boardwalk is included with park admission, making it an irresistible destination for water lovers.
Kalahari Resorts, Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania
Our Rating: 9.0/10
Kalahari Resorts in the Pocono Mountains is a haven for adventure seekers and families. The resort boasts the largest indoor waterpark in the U.S., with over 220,000 square feet of fun. Guests can enjoy thrilling water slides, a relaxing lazy river, and a wave pool. Beyond the water, there’s the Gorilla Grove Adventure Park, offering ropes courses and zip lines for those looking for a different thrill.
Whether soaking in a private cabana or dining at one of the numerous on-site restaurants, visitors are sure to create lasting memories. It’s a vibrant oasis of entertainment and relaxation right in the heart of Pennsylvania’s scenic Pocono Mountains.
Aquatica Orlando, Orlando, Florida
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Set in the bustling heart of Orlando, Aquatica Orlando offers a splashy adventure that beckons thrill-seekers and families alike. Its exhilarating water slides and relaxing wave pools draw visitors far and wide.
Guests can enjoy Beach Nights in February, with movies and free popcorn for pass members. The unique blend of relaxation and excitement makes it a must-visit for any water park enthusiast.
Six Flags White Water, Atlanta, Georgia
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Six Flags White Water in Atlanta is a paradise for thrill-seekers and families alike. Nestled in Marietta, this water park features over 50 attractions, offering something for everyone.
Visitors can enjoy a day packed with fun on the park’s exhilarating water slides. Wave pools provide a refreshing escape from the summer heat, and young guests can splash around in play areas designed just for them. Whether they want to relax or make a splash, visitors are in for an unforgettable aquatic adventure.
Raging Waters Los Angeles, California
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Raging Waters in Los Angeles is a sprawling water park in San Dimas that offers excitement for everyone. It has over 50 thrilling attractions, including the Aqua Rocket, a high-speed hydromagnetic water coaster.
Family-friendly fun awaits at the enormous wave pool and lazy river. For adventurous guests, Bomb’s Away features adrenaline-pumping drop slides. There are also plenty of tube and body slides ranging from mild to wild, promising an unforgettable day in the sun.
Water Country USA, Williamsburg, Virginia
Our Rating: 9.1/10
Water Country USA shines as Virginia’s most prominent family water park. It is in Williamsburg and offers a refreshing escape with thrilling water slides and immersive wave pools. Guests can enjoy the twists and turns of the water slides, perfect for adrenaline seekers.
Families love the relaxing lazy rivers and large splash zones. Younger visitors can splash in designated areas designed with safety in mind. There’s something for everyone, making it perfect for people of all ages. In addition to rides, Water Country USA offers swimming lessons and lifeguard training. Visitors can improve their water skills while having fun. The park’s lively atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for a summer getaway.
Splashin’ Safari, Santa Claus, Indiana
Our Rating: 9.0/10
Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana is a wave of excitement in water parks. Known for its thrilling rides and family-friendly atmosphere, it attracts visitors from all over. Cheetah Chase, the world’s first launched water coaster, is a standout feature. It offers a heart-pounding adventure with high-speed twists and turns, leaving guests eager for more.
Along with thrilling rides, the park provides a relaxing experience with its lazy rivers and wave pools. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely float while basking in the summer sun. Families appreciate the perks like free parking, soft drinks, and sunscreen, which make the visit even more enjoyable and stress-free.
Adventure Island, Tampa, Florida
Our Rating: 9.0/10
Adventure Island in Tampa, Florida, is a splash-filled paradise next to Busch Gardens. It boasts a range of fun attractions, catering to thrill-seekers and families alike. Visitors can zoom down high-speed water slides or relax in the lazy river. The serene wave pool offers the perfect spot for those looking to unwind.
Kids will love the kid-friendly play areas with splashing fountains and gentle water slides. For more adventurous guests, the four-lane racing mat slide promises a competitive splashdown. With its diverse attractions, Adventure Island offers a mix of relaxation and excitement for all ages.
SeaWorld’s Aquatica San Antonio, Texas
Our Rating: 8.3/10
Aquatica San Antonio stands out with its tropical setting and a wide array of water adventures. Visitors can enjoy everything from gentle, winding rivers to thrilling high-speed water slides. The park offers an inviting beach atmosphere and a wave pool that simulates ocean waves.
Animal encounters add a unique touch. Guests can interact with graceful stingrays and vibrant tropical birds. Aquatica provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for families and thrill-seekers alike. With its diverse attractions, the park is a top destination for water fun.
Hurricane Harbor, Jackson, New Jersey
Our Rating: 8.8/10
At Hurricane Harbor in Jackson, New Jersey, thrill-seekers can plunge the King Cobra slide, feeling the rush of the final spiral. Families enjoy cruising along one of the world’s longest lazy rivers under the warm sun.
The wave pool pulsates with excitement, offering waves that mimic the ocean, perfect for relaxation and play. With over 25 attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Dollywood’s Splash Country, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Our Rating: 9.1/10
Dollywood’s Splash Country is nestled in the picturesque foothills of Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains. This vibrant water park offers a thrill for every visitor with its giant water slides, relaxing float trips, and expansive play areas.
Guests can plunge jaw-dropping water slides or enjoy the tranquil vibes of a poolside retreat. Little ones will love the interactive play areas while adults unwind on the lazy river, soaking in the beautiful surroundings. From adrenaline-pumping adventures to laid-back lounging, Splash Country provides an unforgettable escape for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Wet’n’Wild Hawaii, Kapolei, Hawaii
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Wet’n’Wild Hawaii is a vibrant oasis tucked into the lush landscape of Kapolei, Oahu. It boasts over 25 thrilling attractions, offering fun for everyone. From adrenaline-pumping slides to relaxing wave pools, there’s something for every adventurer.
Families can enjoy the Kapolei Kooler, a gentle, lazy river perfect for floating and unwinding. For thrill-seekers, the Tornado ride offers a heart-pounding plunge through a swirling funnel. Keiki Cove, a splash zone for younger guests, ensures that even the littlest visitors have a memorable day. Set against stunning Hawaiian backdrops, this park provides an exciting escape where visitors can swim, slide, and splash in an island paradise.
Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark, Grand Prairie, Texas
Our Rating: 9.0/10
Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark in Grand Prairie, Texas, is a splash-filled adventure waiting to happen. As the largest indoor waterpark in Texas, it boasts over 80,000 square feet of excitement. From thrilling water slides to gentle lazy rivers, there’s something for kids and adults alike.
Families can face the wave pool or relax and float in the lazy river. For thrill-seekers, there are towering slides that drop and twist. Epic Waters is designed to entertain guests year-round, with glass walls letting in natural light. It offers a mix of adrenaline-pumping and relaxing activities perfect for any weather.
Knott’s Soak City, Buena Park, California
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Knott’s Soak City in Buena Park is a haven for fun-seekers under the California sun. This 15-acre water park is right next to Knott’s Berry Farm. It offers a wide range of thrilling water attractions. Visitors can enjoy 23 exciting slides, each offering a unique splash adventure. The Shore Break features six different slides, including the exhilarating family raft ride, The Wedge.
The lazy Sunset River lets guests drift peacefully along a winding path for relaxation. Meanwhile, the Tidal Wave Bay provides ocean-like waves in a massive pool, perfect for relaxation and fun. Kids will enjoy the interactive three-story Beach House with surprises and water play areas.
Zoombezi Bay, Powell, Ohio
Our Rating: 8.6/10
Zoombezi Bay is a thrilling water park in Powell, Ohio. Visitors can enjoy an array of activities, from conquering 17 exciting water slides to relaxing in the soothing currents of the lazy river.
The wave pool offers guests a taste of the ocean, while the multi-level play structure promises endless fun for families. The park also features private cabanas for those looking to unwind in comfort. Kids can splash around in the kiddie play pool, making memories under the sun. Located next to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay is perfect for a full day of adventure.
Splish Splash, Calverton, New York
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Splish Splash in Calverton, New York, offers a refreshing escape on hot summer days. Visitors are welcomed with over 20 water attractions, including thrilling high-speed slides and relaxing lazy rivers. Families can enjoy the Octopus Pool in Kiddie Cove, where little ones can splash and play safely.
RiverView offers adults a chance to relax with refreshing microbrews. Known for its impressive mix of exciting and soothing rides, Splish Splash invites guests to explore its 96-acre water wonderland. With adrenaline-pumping rides and serene pools, it’s a beloved destination for all ages seeking summer fun.
Legoland Water Park, Carlsbad, California
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Located in sunny Carlsbad, Legoland Water Park is a must-visit destination for families. Designed with kids aged 2 to 12 in mind, this park is full of splashy fun and exciting rides. Kids can play in the Joker Soaker, a water playground with slides and a giant water bucket that tips over, creating a refreshing splash.
The Build-A-Raft River lets everyone float on rafts they create using LEGO bricks. Creativity and adventure blend perfectly here. Other attractions include the Duplo Splash Safari, perfect for younger children who want a gentler water play area. It’s a delightful experience for the whole family.
Sandcastle Water Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Sandcastle Water Park is nestled alongside the scenic Monongahela River. This thrilling destination boasts exciting waterslides catering to daring thrill-seekers and families looking for a splash of fun. Visitors can enjoy a lazy river ride or unwind in the serene Mushroom Pool.
The Mon Tsunami Wave Pool is a must-visit for those looking to experience waves without venturing to the coast. Sandcastle offers a picturesque boardwalk, perfect for families who prefer to stay dry. The vibrant atmosphere, with enticing food options and intriguing games, makes it a favorite summer spot for locals and tourists alike.
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Arlington, Texas
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in Arlington, Texas, is a thrill-seeker’s paradise, boasting various water attractions. Families can blast at the multi-level water play structure that keeps visitors entertained with slides and a giant 1,000-gallon tipping bucket. It’s the perfect spot for those wanting a fun-filled, cool-down day with little ones.
Adventurers will not miss plunging the sky-high water slides that offer heart-pumping excitement. With each ride designed for maximum fun, there’s never a dull moment. Whether you’re drifting lazily or conquering towering slides, this park promises unforgettable wet and wild experiences for everyone.
Boardwalk & Surfside Beach, Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Visitors to Cape Cod should not miss the chance to explore Surfside Beach and its nearby boardwalks. They offer stunning views of the salt marshes and vast marshland, perfect for leisurely walks. Relax while gazing at the ocean waves crashing against the shore.
Visitors can enjoy picnics in this serene spot or explore the unique wildlife. Walking along these boardwalks, they might spot ospreys or even a sunset over Cape Cod Bay. This tranquil area invites everyone to enjoy the perfect mix of nature and relaxation.
Lost Island Waterpark, Waterloo, Iowa
Our Rating: 9.0/10
Lost Island Waterpark in Waterloo, Iowa, is a paradise of aquatic adventures. The park boasts a lazy river, perfect for drifting the day away under the sun. With 11 thrilling waterslides, adrenaline seekers can dive into an exhilarating experience at every twist and turn.
The wave pool offers splashing fun for families, while the children’s play areas are filled with pint-sized water slides and interactive attractions. Mini golf lovers can enjoy two challenging courses amid volcanoes and dinosaur fossils. With six on-site dining spots, visitors can relax and refuel, ensuring a full, fun day. Lost Island is a must-visit for anyone who loves excitement and adventure.
Cedar Point Shores, Sandusky, Ohio
Our Rating: 9.0/10
Cedar Point Shores in Sandusky, Ohio, is a haven for thrill-seekers and families. Nestled on Lake Erie’s picturesque peninsula, this sprawling 18-acre waterpark offers endless fun. With its heart-racing slides and wave pools, adventurers are in for a wild ride.
Kids and adults can enjoy splashing together in the wave pools, which mimic ocean waves. Cozy cabanas and chill zones are perfect for unwinding. Cedar Point Shores is a must-visit for anyone seeking a refreshing escape in the summer.
Deep River Waterpark, Crown Point, Indiana
Our Rating: 8.7/10
Deep River Waterpark in Crown Point, Indiana, promises a splash-filled adventure for families and thrill-seekers alike. As the largest waterpark in the Chicagoland and NW Indiana region, it offers a variety of attractions suitable for everyone.
Visitors can enjoy a lazy river ride, thrilling waterslides, and a wave pool. Kids will love the dedicated play areas and adventure zones designed just for them. The park is conveniently equipped with cooler-friendly policies, free parking, and complimentary tubes. It’s the perfect destination for an exciting day in the sun.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker chasing the tallest water slides or a family looking for a fun summer getaway, the U.S. offers a fantastic array of water parks to cool off and create lasting memories. So pack your swimsuits and sunblock and dive into the endless excitement that awaits at these top-rated water parks.