When the NYC weather gets unpredictable—or you’re just craving some splashy fun without the sunburn—indoor water parks are the perfect solution. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a rainy-day adventure, or a birthday celebration, these indoor spots promise year-round fun with wave pools, water slides, and lazy rivers. Here’s my handpicked list of the 15 best indoor water parks in New York City for 2025, complete with all the info you need before you dive in.
1. DreamWorks Water Park – American Dream Mall (East Rutherford, NJ)
This is North America’s largest indoor water park, and it’s just across the Hudson River. Featuring record-breaking water slides, a massive wave pool, and DreamWorks-themed attractions (like Shrek and Madagascar), this is the ultimate water park for thrill-seekers and families alike.
The world’s tallest indoor body slide
Lazy river & surf simulator
Private skybox cabanas
Toddler play areas
- Distance from NYC: ~25 minutes by car
- Visit DreamWorks Water Park
- Tip: Weekdays are way less crowded than weekends.
2. AquaPlay Water Park – Brooklyn, NY
AquaPlay is a cozy, family-friendly indoor water play zone that’s perfect for younger kids. It features interactive fountains, mini water slides, and a warm water pool, making it a great choice for toddlers and early swimmers.
Great for ages 1–8
Swim lessons & birthday party packages
Heated indoor water temperature
Easy parking
- Location: Aviator Sports & Events Center, Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn
- Explore AquaPlay at Aviator
- Tip: Call ahead to confirm open swim hours, especially on holidays or event days.
3. Splashers of the Harbor – Staten Island, NY
This lesser-known gem is a great indoor water play option for hotel guests and local families. With a heated pool, kid-friendly splash zones, and water jets, it’s ideal for a quick, low-key escape.
Clean, calm, and crowd-free
Affordable rates for locals
On-site dining & lodging options
Warm water year-round
- Location: Located inside the Staten Island Hilton Garden Inn
- Tip: Book a weekend staycation with the water park access included.
4. Kalahari Indoor Water Park – Pocono Mountains, PA
While not technically inside NYC, Kalahari Resorts is a favorite weekend destination for New Yorkers and one of the largest indoor water parks on the East Coast. From extreme slides to a relaxing spa, it caters to all ages.
FlowRider surfing experience
Kids’ splash areas and toddler zones
Swim-up bar for adults
Day passes available
- Distance from NYC: ~2 hours by car
- Visit Kalahari Resorts
- Tip: Book online early—Kalahari can sell out fast during peak weekends.
5. Empire Water Park (Coming Soon to NYC – 2025 Opening)
Slated to open in late 2025, this ambitious project aims to bring a massive, state-of-the-art indoor water park directly to Manhattan. Early renderings show multi-story slides, a rooftop lazy river, and climate-controlled water zones.
Designed for urban families
Sustainable, energy-efficient water systems
Partnership with NYC Parks
Year-round public access
- Visit NYC Parks for Updates
- Tip: Sign up for opening updates and early bird tickets once available.
6. Great Wolf Lodge – Poconos, PA
Great Wolf Lodge is a beloved family indoor water park resort, and the Poconos location is popular among NYC families looking for a weekend getaway. The park is packed with interactive splash zones, multi-level water forts, and family tube rides.
Kid-friendly water playgrounds
MagiQuest scavenger game throughout the resort
Adult-only hot springs
On-site dining and themed suites
- Distance from NYC: ~1.5–2 hours by
- Visit Great Wolf Lodge Poconos car
- Tip: Sign up for their newsletter for special discounts on family packages.
7. Clementon Park Splash World – NJ (Indoor Water Zone)
While the outdoor attractions open in summer, Clementon Park also has an indoor water zone for younger kids and families open in shoulder seasons. It’s less crowded, more affordable, and perfect for a half-day trip.
Slides and water jets for toddlers
On-site amusement rides and arcades
Budget-friendly pricing
Easy parking access
- Distance from NYC: ~1 hour 45 minutes
- Explore Clementon Park
- Tip: Check their event calendar for off-peak deals.
8. Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark – Monticello, NY
New York’s largest indoor water park, Kartrite is a hidden gem located in the Catskills. The park is fully climate-controlled under a transparent roof, so you get the sunlight without the UV rays—perfect year-round.
84°F indoor tropical environment
Waterslides, boogie boarding, and lazy river
Luxury suites and cabins
Arcade, bowling, and climbing walls on-site
- Distance from NYC: ~2 hours by car
- Tip: Day passes available, but staying overnight gives you early access to the water park.
- Visit The Kartrite Resort
9. Hotel Pool & Water Club at The Williamsburg Hotel – Brooklyn, NY
While not a full water park, The Williamsburg Hotel has an indoor rooftop water club that features a stylish heated pool and spa-style amenities. It’s ideal for couples or adults looking for a chic indoor water experience without leaving the city.
Heated indoor rooftop pool
City skyline views
In-house bar & dining
Great for a relaxing “daycation”
- Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn
- Tip: Book a “pool pass” for weekday relaxation if you’re not staying overnight.
10. Island Water Park at Showboat – Atlantic City, NJ
Opened in late 2023, Island Water Park is one of the largest indoor beachfront water parks in the world, and it’s a must-visit in 2025. With water slides, a surf machine, and even a swim-up bar, it’s designed for both families and adults.
Glass-domed indoor water park with Atlantic Ocean views
Surf machine, lazy river & wave pools
Swim-up bars & adult zones
Arcade and nightlife at Showboat
- Explore Island Water Park
- Tip: This spot is great for a weekend beach escape—even in winter.
11. Skyline Hotel Indoor Pool – Manhattan, NYC
Tucked away in a popular NYC hotel, the Skyline Hotel offers a glass-enclosed indoor pool with Manhattan skyline views. While not a full water park, it’s one of the rare heated indoor pools in Manhattan with a welcoming atmosphere for both guests and day visitors (upon request).
Spacious, heated indoor pool
Family-friendly atmosphere
Short walk from Times Square
Budget-friendly hotel rates
- Location: Midtown West, Manhattan
- Tip: Call ahead to confirm guest-only vs. day-pass policies.
12. Asphalt Green – AquaCenter – Upper East Side, NYC
This Upper East Side favorite is a well-equipped indoor aquatic center offering open swim, splash play for kids, and fitness-focused water classes. While not a theme park, it’s one of the top indoor water play areas available to NYC families year-round.
Olympic-sized pool + warm-water teaching pool
Family swim and play sessions
Swim lessons for kids & adults
Easy subway access
- Location: 555 E 90th St, Manhattan
- Visit Asphalt Green AquaCenter
- Tip: Memberships are available, but non-members can book family swim sessions.
13. Chelsea Piers Field House Pool – Manhattan, NYC
The Field House at Chelsea Piers offers a family-friendly indoor pool with splash play, water slides for kids, and open swim hours. It’s a great urban escape for NYC families who want to get wet without the chaos of big water parks.
Heated indoor pool
Youth aquatics programs
Birthday party bookings
Great Hudson River views nearby
- Location: Pier 60, Chelsea Piers
- Explore Chelsea Piers Pool
- Tip: Best for ages 1–12. Book birthday parties early—they fill fast.
14. YMCA Vanderbilt Indoor Pool – Midtown East, NYC
One of NYC’s best-kept secrets, the Vanderbilt YMCA offers a clean, spacious, indoor heated pool for swim lessons, lap swimming, and family water play. It’s a no-frills but ultra-convenient option for Manhattan families.
Clean, regulated indoor pool
Swim lessons and aqua fitness
Free swim for members
Budget-friendly day passes
- Location: 224 E 47th St, Manhattan
- Visit Vanderbilt YMCA
- Tip: Check the schedule online—family swim slots are limited.
15. Harbor View Indoor Pool – Queens, NYC
The Harbor View Pool Club in Queens is a local favorite, especially in cooler months. While not a giant water park, it provides a spacious indoor heated pool with swimming lessons, family fun sessions, and clean facilities in a quieter borough.
Heated indoor pool
Swim classes and private lessons
Great for families with young kids
Relaxed, community feel
- Location: Bay Terrace, Queens
- Tip: Non-members can often book trial swims or guest passes.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline-pumping slides or want a relaxing float down a lazy river, New York City and nearby areas have indoor water parks that deliver serious fun year-round. These picks are all about accessibility, safety, family fun, and a splash of luxury. With new parks like Empire Water Park on the way, NYC is set to become a premier water adventure hub in 2025.
Looking for something seasonal instead? Stay tuned for my upcoming post on NYC’s best outdoor splash pads and rooftop pools!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the biggest indoor water park near NYC?
A: DreamWorks Water Park at American Dream Mall is the largest and most feature-rich.
Q2: Are there indoor water parks within NYC limits?
A: Yes! AquaPlay in Brooklyn and Splashers in Staten Island are great options.
Q3: Can I visit Kalahari for just a day?
A: Yes, Kalahari offers day passes, but availability is limited—book in advance.
Q4: Is there a water park opening in NYC in 2025?
A: Yes, Empire Water Park is expected to open in Manhattan in late 2025.
Related Post you may like:
I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
