When summer rolls around, there’s nothing quite like packing up the car and heading to a water park. Whether you’re looking for heart-pounding slides, wave pools, or a relaxing lazy river, the U.S. is home to some truly world-class water parks. After visiting a few myself and doing tons of research, here are my top 3 picks for the best water parks in the USA that you absolutely need to check out.
1. Noah’s Ark Waterpark – Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Noah’s Ark is America’s largest water park—and it lives up to the hype. Spread across over 70 acres, this park has more than 50 attractions, including some of the most iconic water rides in the country.
Must-try attractions:
Black Anaconda – A water coaster that feels like a roller coaster (trust me, it’s wild).
Scorpion’s Tail – A nearly vertical drop through a looping slide that gives you a serious adrenaline rush.
Big Kahuna Wave Pool – Massive waves and room for everyone.
Good to know:
Great for families with kids of all ages.
They have cabana rentals if you want to chill in the shade.
Best time to visit: Late June to early August for ideal weather.
- Website-Noah’s Ark Waterpark
2. Schlitterbahn Waterpark – New Braunfels, Texas
Schlitterbahn isn’t just a water park—it’s practically a waterpark resort. Located in the Texas Hill Country, it combines natural river rides with high-tech water slides in a way no other park does.
Unique features:
The Falls – The world’s longest water park ride.
Master Blaster – An uphill water coaster that’s been ranked the best in the world.
Torrent River – A wave-filled lazy river that’s both relaxing and exciting.
Insider tip:
Book early if you’re going on a weekend in the summer. Also, the park allows you to bring your own food, which is rare these days and great for families.
Website – Schlitterbahn Waterpark
3. Volcano Bay – Orlando, Florida (Universal Orlando Resort)
Volcano Bay is Universal’s answer to the traditional water park—and it’s truly next level. From the TapuTapu virtual queue system (no more standing in line) to the immersive Polynesian theme, everything here feels high-tech and thoughtfully designed.
Highlights:
Krakatau Aqua Coaster – A high-speed coaster that races through the park’s centerpiece volcano.
TeAwa The Fearless River – A fast-paced lazy river (yes, that’s a thing).
Waturi Beach – A massive wave pool with real sand and unbeatable views.
Why it’s great:
Perfect if you’re already visiting Universal Studios.
Best for thrill-seekers, teens, and adults who want something more modern and sleek.
4. Kalahari Resorts & Conventions – Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania
Kalahari Resorts in Pennsylvania boasts one of America’s largest indoor water parks, providing year-round fun regardless of the weather. The resort features a diverse array of attractions suitable for all ages.
Highlights:
FlowRider Surf Simulator – Experience the thrill of surfing indoors.
Anaconda Water Roller Coaster – A high-speed ride combining the excitement of a roller coaster with water park fun.
Lazy River & Wave Pool – Perfect for relaxation and family enjoyment.
Good to know:
The resort offers luxurious accommodations, making it ideal for extended stays.
On-site dining and spa services enhance the overall experience.
Official website: Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
5. Island Waterpark – Atlantic City, New Jersey
Island Waterpark, part of the Showboat Resort, is the world’s largest beachfront indoor water park, covering 120,000 square feet. Its retractable roof allows for year-round enjoyment, regardless of the weather.
Highlights:
11,000-foot Lazy River – One of the longest in the world.
1,000-foot Cloud Coaster – Offers panoramic views of the Atlantic City boardwalk and ocean.
Multiple slides, pools, and splash zones suitable for all ages.
Good to know:
Located adjacent to the Atlantic City Boardwalk, making it easily accessible for visitors.
The park’s design and attractions cater to both thrill-seekers and families looking for relaxation.
Official website: Island Waterpark
6. Holiday World & Splashin' Safari – Santa Claus, Indiana
Located in the charming town of Santa Claus, Indiana, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari offers a combination of a theme park and water park, providing a diverse range of attractions.
Highlights:
Wildebeest – Recognized as one of the world’s longest water coasters.
Mammoth – A massive water coaster offering a thrilling group ride experience.
Bahari Wave Pool – A large wave pool perfect for relaxation and fun.
Good to know:
The park offers free soft drinks, sunscreen, and parking, adding value to your visit.
It’s ideal for families looking for a mix of dry and wet attractions.
Official website: https://holidayworld.com/
7. Great Wolf Lodge – Multiple Locations Nationwide
Great Wolf Lodge is renowned for its indoor water parks, making it a year-round destination for families. With over 20 locations across the U.S. and Canada, it’s accessible to many. The newest addition in Mashantucket, Connecticut, opened in April 2025, featuring a 92,000-square-foot indoor water park with attractions like the Pequot Plunge, a dramatic drop slide, and 13 other water slides.
Highlights:
Indoor water park maintained at a constant 84°F.
Attractions include water slides, lazy rivers, and interactive play areas.
Additional amenities like high-ropes courses, mini golf, arcades, and themed suites.
Good to know:
Ideal for families with children of all ages.
Offers various promotions and discounts throughout the year.
Convenient locations, often within driving distance for many families.
Official website: https://www.greatwolf.com/
8. Typhoon Lagoon – Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Located within Walt Disney World Resort, Typhoon Lagoon offers a tropical paradise theme with a variety of water attractions. It’s known for its massive wave pool and unique water rides.
Highlights:
North America’s largest wave pool.
Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster.
Lazy river and sandy beach areas.
Good to know:
Free admission for Disney Resort hotel guests during their stay in 2025.
Ideal for families and Disney enthusiasts.
Offers a mix of thrilling rides and relaxing spots.
Official website: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/typhoon-lagoon/
9. Dollywood's Splash Country – Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Adjacent to the Dollywood theme park, Splash Country offers a Smoky Mountains-themed water park experience. It’s designed to blend with the natural surroundings, providing both excitement and relaxation.
Highlights:
RiverRush, Tennessee’s first and only water coaster.
Mountain Waves wave pool.
Lazy river and multiple water slides.
Good to know:
Ideal for families visiting the Dollywood theme park.
Offers a variety of attractions suitable for all ages.
Set in a scenic mountain environment.
Official website: https://www.dollywood.com/water-park/
10. Water World – Federal Heights, Colorado
As one of America’s largest water parks, Water World spans over 70 acres and offers a vast array of attractions. It’s known for its variety and family-friendly environment.
Highlights:
Voyage to the Center of the Earth, a unique dark water ride.
Mile High Flyer, a water coaster.
Multiple wave pools, lazy rivers, and children’s play areas.
Good to know:
Located just outside Denver, making it accessible for locals and tourists.
Offers picnic areas, allowing guests to bring their own food.
Suitable for visitors of all ages.
Official website: https://www.waterworldcolorado.com/
11. Mystery Cove – Bloomington, Minnesota
Set to open in 2025 next to the Mall of America, Mystery Cove is a $422 million project poised to become a premier indoor water park destination. Its design emphasizes sustainability and year-round fun.
Highlights:
Largest indoor pool hall in North America.
Longest indoor beachfront with a retractable roof for open-air experiences on warm days.
Various slides, loungers, and family-friendly attractions.
Good to know:
Being adjacent to the Mall of America offers visitors additional entertainment and shopping options.
The park aims to be the first-ever LEED-certified water park, focusing on environmental sustainability.
Official website: https://www.mysterycovemn.com
12. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Chicago – Gurnee, Illinois
Located within the Six Flags Great America complex, Hurricane Harbor Chicago offers a Caribbean-themed water park experience with a variety of attractions for all ages.
Highlights:
Tsunami Surge – Recognized as the world’s tallest water coaster.
25 water slides, two large pools, and two dedicated children’s areas.
Riptide Bay – A themed area with interactive water features.
Good to know:
The park operates from May to September, making it a summer hotspot.
Separate admission is required for Hurricane Harbor, distinct from Six Flags Great America.
Official website: https://www.sixflags.com/hurricaneharborchicago
13. Water Country USA – Williamsburg, Virginia
Water Country USA is the largest water park in the Mid-Atlantic region, offering a blend of thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions. Its 1950s and ’60s surf theme adds a nostalgic touch to the experience.
Highlights:
Cutback Water Coaster – The first RocketBLAST coaster on the East Coast, providing high-speed thrills.
Hubba Hubba Highway – A fast-moving lazy river for a relaxing float.
Surfer’s Bay – A massive wave pool generating waves up to four feet high.
Good to know:
The park offers cabana rentals for private relaxation.
Various dining options are available, catering to different tastes.
Located near Busch Gardens Williamsburg, allowing for combined visits.
Official website: https://watercountryusa.com/
14. Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom – Allentown, Pennsylvania
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom offers a two-in-one experience with both amusement park rides and a full-fledged water park. It’s one of the oldest operating amusement parks in the U.S., providing a mix of classic charm and modern thrills.
Highlights:
Aqua Racer – A six-lane mat racing slide for competitive fun.
Wildwater River – A relaxing lazy river winding through the park.
Lollipop Lagoon – A children’s area with interactive water features.
Good to know:
Admission includes access to both the amusement park and water park.
Season passes offer great value for frequent visitors.
Various dining and shopping options are available within the park.
Official website: https://www.dorneypark.com/
15. Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park – Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Mt. Olympus combines a water park with a theme park, offering a variety of attractions for all ages. It’s home to the tallest waterslide in the U.S., providing adrenaline-pumping excitement.
Highlights:
The Rise of Icarus – A 145-foot-tall waterslide, the tallest in America.
Poseidon’s Rage – A surf pool generating waves up to nine feet high.
The River Troy – A fast-paced lazy river for a thrilling float.
Good to know:
The park offers both indoor and outdoor attractions, making it a year-round destination.
On-site accommodations are available for extended stays.
Located in Wisconsin Dells, known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World.
Official website: https://mtolympuspark.com/
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.
