Best US Water Parks

The 20 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

When it comes to beating the summer heat, nothing does the trick quite like a day at a water park. In 2024, the U.S. offers some of the most thrilling, expansive, and family-friendly water parks you’ll find anywhere in the world. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for the fastest slides or a family seeking a leisurely day in the sun, this guide will help you choose the perfect water park destination. Here’s a deep dive into the 20 best water parks in the U.S. for 2024.

1. Noah’s Ark Waterpark – Lake Delton, Wisconsin

Noah’s Ark is the largest outdoor water park in the U.S., boasting over 50 water slides spread across 70 acres. Key attractions include the Scorpion’s Tail, a near-vertical slide that drops you at lightning speed, and the family-friendly Paradise Lagoon. Open from late spring to early fall, it’s a must-visit for water park enthusiasts​.

2. Universal’s Volcano Bay – Orlando, Florida

At Universal’s Volcano Bay, you’re transported to a tropical paradise where the centerpiece is a towering 200-foot volcano. The park offers a perfect blend of thrill rides like the Krakatau Aqua Coaster and relaxation zones like Waturi Beach. Its unique TapuTapu wearable technology allows you to reserve ride times and enjoy a more seamless experience​.

3. Schlitterbahn Waterpark – New Braunfels, Texas

Schlitterbahn is legendary for its endless rivers, a combination of interconnected lazy rivers and whitewater rapids that can keep you afloat all day. The park’s massive Master Blaster uphill water coaster and the Torrent River are highlights. With areas dedicated to both thrill-seekers and families, Schlitterbahn offers something for everyone​.

4. Disney’s Blizzard Beach – Orlando, Florida

Inspired by a snow-covered ski resort, Blizzard Beach is one of the most unique water parks in the U.S. Here you’ll find the Summit Plummet, one of the world’s tallest and fastest water slides. For those looking for something milder, the park offers a variety of gentler slopes and a lazy river. It’s an ideal destination for Disney fans looking to cool off​.

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5. Aquatica – Orlando, Florida

Aquatica blends high-octane rides with serene, tropical vibes. The park’s star attraction is the Dolphin Plunge, where you slide through clear tubes in a pool filled with dolphins. It also features Roa’s Rapids, a faster-paced lazy river. This park is perfect for those who want both thrills and a relaxing beach-like environment​.

6. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor – Gurnee, Illinois

Located near Chicago, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor offers a range of attractions, from the terrifying King Cobra water coaster to the more relaxed Tornado ride. This park is well-integrated with the Six Flags Great America amusement park, making it a versatile option for thrill-seekers​.

7. Island H2O Live! – Kissimmee, Florida

Island H2O Live! is one of the most technologically advanced water parks, featuring wristbands that let you control park features like music and lights. It also has virtual queuing for rides, reducing wait times significantly. Attractions like the Profile Plunge and Live! Lagoon make this park a standout​.

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

This Smoky Mountains gem offers both thrills and scenic beauty. Highlights include the RiverRush, Tennessee’s first and only water coaster, and the relaxing Downbound Float Trip. Splash Country is an excellent choice for families who want a mix of adventure and natural beauty​.

9. Carowinds’ Carolina Harbor – Charlotte, North Carolina

Carolina Harbor has been entertaining guests for over 50 years, offering attractions like the Boogie Board Racer and two massive wave pools. It’s a great place for families and thrill-seekers alike, and its convenient location near Carowinds theme park makes it a popular summer destination​.

10. Lost Island Waterpark – Waterloo, Iowa

Lost Island offers a tropical escape in the Midwest. With thrilling rides like the Wailea Kupua and more relaxed options like the Kailahi River, this park caters to visitors of all ages. It’s a hidden gem that provides a refreshing break from the ordinary​.

11. Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari – Santa Claus, Indiana

Home to the world’s longest water coaster, the Mammoth, this park offers a blend of holiday-themed attractions and water rides. Splashin’ Safari is perfect for thrill-seekers and families, with attractions ranging from the Wildebeest to the more kid-friendly Jungle Racer​.

12. White Water – Branson, Missouri

White Water, part of Silver Dollar City, is known for its KaPau Plummet, a drop slide that plunges you 40 feet in just a few seconds. The park also features a 500,000-gallon wave pool and various family-friendly attractions, making it a must-visit in the Midwest​.

13. Water World – Federal Heights, Colorado

As one of the oldest and largest water parks in the U.S., Water World boasts over 50 attractions, including the Mile High Flyer and the Voyage to the Center of the Earth water coaster. This park offers a mix of classic rides and innovative experiences​.

14. Cowabunga Bay Water Park – Henderson, Nevada

Cowabunga Bay offers a retro vibe with attractions like the Wild Surf and Beach Blanket Banzai. The park is a refreshing oasis in the Las Vegas heat and is perfect for families looking to cool off and have some fun​.

15. Great Wolf Lodge – Multiple Locations

Great Wolf Lodge offers indoor water park experiences across various locations in the U.S. Highlights include the Howlin’ Tornado and River Canyon Run. These parks are designed for family fun, with plenty of attractions for younger children​.

16. Splash Lagoon – Erie, Pennsylvania

This indoor water park is perfect for year-round fun. Attractions like the Black Hole and Shark Attack provide thrills, while the lazy river and hot tubs offer relaxation. It’s a great option for those in the Northeast looking for a fun getaway​.

17. Raging Waters – San Dimas, California

Raging Waters is Southern California’s largest water park, offering attractions like the Aqua Rocket and the FlowRider. With its diverse range of slides and pools, it’s a favorite for both locals and tourists​

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18. Typhoon Lagoon – Orlando, Florida

Typhoon Lagoon is part of the Disney World Resort and features the world’s largest outdoor wave pool. The park’s Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster and Castaway Creek lazy river are highlights. It’s an excellent option for families visiting Disney World​.

19. Adventure Island – Tampa, Florida

Located next to Busch Gardens, Adventure Island offers a mix of thrilling rides like the Solar Vortex and more relaxing options like the Rambling Bayou. It’s a great add-on for those visiting Busch Gardens.

20. Kalahari Resorts – Multiple Locations

Kalahari Resorts offer some of the largest indoor water parks in the U.S. The park features everything from high-speed slides to surf simulators. It’s a perfect year-round destination for families​

Each of these parks offers a unique experience, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding thrills or a relaxing day with the family, these water parks are sure to make your 2024 summer unforgettable. So pack your sunscreen and water shoes, and get ready to dive into fun!

Best US Water Parks

Here’s a detailed comparison table of the 20 best water parks in the U.S. for 2024. The table highlights key aspects such as location, top attractions, unique features, and suitability for families or thrill-seekers.