Family Fun Awaits: Top U.S. Water Parks You Need to Visit This Summer

[Mevish Jabeen]

Summer is the perfect season to cool down, laugh out loud, and make unforgettable memories with the family. And there’s no better place to do that than at a water park. Across the U.S., family-friendly water parks offer heart-pounding slides, lazy rivers, splash zones for little ones, and relaxation areas for parents to unwind.

Whether you’re looking for a full-blown resort-style park or a hidden local gem, here are the top U.S. water parks to consider for your summer family adventure.

1. Schlitterbahn Waterpark – New Braunfels, Texas

Often topping the list of the best water parks in the country, Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels, Texas is a water park legend. It sprawls across 70 acres and features over 50 attractions.

Why Families Love It:

• Tube chutes powered by natural spring water

• A massive kids' area with gentle slides and splash zones

• Free parking and the ability to bring your own food—budget-friendly!

Pro tip: Stay at the on-site resort for early park access and multi-day discounts.

2. Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon – Orlando, Florida

You can’t mention family vacations without Disney, and Typhoon Lagoon doesn’t disappoint. This tropical-themed water park feels like a sunken island adventure.

Family-Friendly Highlights:

• Huge wave pool with 6-foot swells

• Miss Adventure Falls: a long, story-driven family raft ride

• Ketchakiddee Creek for the littlest water lovers

Plus, it’s just minutes away from the rest of Walt Disney World, making it easy to combine with a longer trip.

3. Noah’s Ark Water Park – Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Known as “America’s Largest Waterpark,” Noah’s Ark is a must-visit. Set in the heart of Wisconsin Dells, a town famous for its family attractions, this water park features more than 70 acres of slides, pools, and rides.

Don’t Miss:

• The Scorpion’s Tail: a looping body slide with a near-vertical drop

• Two giant wave pools

• Tadpole Bay and Kiddie Kingdom for the younger crowd

If your family loves variety, you’ll find something for everyone here.

4. Aquatica Orlando – Florida

Owned by SeaWorld, Aquatica Orlando is known for combining animal encounters with splash-filled excitement. It's colorful, modern, and offers experiences tailored to all ages.

Family Favorites:

• Dolphin Plunge: slide through a tank of playful dolphins

• Walkabout Waters: a massive interactive water play structure

• Roa’s Rapids: a fast-paced lazy river with rapids

Parents will love the relaxing cabanas and ample shaded areas while kids race from slide to slide.

5. Splashin’ Safari – Santa Claus, Indiana

Yes, Santa Claus is a real place—and it’s home to one of the best water parks in the Midwest. Part of the Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari theme park, this water park offers world-record-breaking slides and a family atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Mammoth and Wildebeest: two of the longest water coasters in the world

• Safari-themed kiddie play zones

• Free soft drinks and sunscreen with admission

It’s the perfect combination of thrill and thoughtful extras.

6. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor – Arlington, Texas

If your summer travels take you near the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Hurricane Harbor is a great day trip. This Six Flags-affiliated park packs a ton of fun into one park.

Features Include:

• Typhoon Twister and Tornado slides

• Lazy river and family raft rides

• Splashwater Beach for younger children

Affordable season passes also make it ideal for local families who want multiple visits.

7. Great Wolf Lodge Water Parks – Multiple Locations

What if you could enjoy a water park without the scorching sun? Great Wolf Lodge offers indoor water parks across the country, making it a popular pick for year-round fun.

Perks for Families:

• Climate-controlled indoor facilities

• Giant tipping bucket, lazy river, and family raft rides

• On-site restaurants, arcades, and kids’ activities

Locations in states like Texas, California, Pennsylvania, and Colorado make it accessible from nearly anywhere in the U.S.

8. Kalahari Resorts – Sandusky, Ohio

Another resort-style water park, Kalahari in Sandusky is home to America’s largest indoor water park, paired with an outdoor water zone in the summer.

What You’ll Love:

• Extreme body slides, lazy rivers, and toddler-friendly splash areas

• FlowRider surfing attraction

• An on-site hotel, spa, arcade, and mini-golf

It’s a top pick for a full family weekend getaway under one roof.

9. Dollywood’s Splash Country – Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, Splash Country brings Southern charm to the water park world. Created by country music legend Dolly Parton, it’s a beautiful blend of nature and thrills.

Notable Attractions:

• RiverRush: Tennessee’s only water coaster

• Big Bear Plunge: white-water rafting style slide

• Little Creek Falls: a safe space for toddlers

You can pair your visit with a trip to Dollywood theme park for double the fun.

10. Raging Waters Los Angeles – San Dimas, California

Southern California is a summer dream, and Raging Waters is its biggest water park. With 60+ acres of fun, it's one of the West Coast’s top water attractions.

Must-Try Rides:

• Aqua Rocket: California’s only hydromagnetic water coaster

• The FlowRider surf machine

• Splash Island Adventure for young kids

The location is ideal for families visiting LA who want a refreshing break from the city’s heat.

Bonus Tips for a Perfect Water Park Day:

To make the most of your visit, here are a few expert tips:

• Arrive early to grab the best seats and avoid lines.

• Pack water shoes to avoid hot pavement and slippery surfaces.

• Bring a waterproof phone pouch so you can capture moments without the risk.

• Check park rules about outside food and drink.

• Consider a cabana rental for shade, comfort, and a home base.

Final Splash

From coast to coast, the U.S. is packed with incredible water parks that cater to families of all shapes and sizes. Whether you're riding a record-breaking water coaster in Indiana, floating through a dolphin-filled slide in Florida, or enjoying an indoor splash fest in Colorado, there’s a park out there ready to make your summer magical.

So gather your sunscreen, swimsuits, and sense of adventure—family fun awaits at these top U.S. water parks!