Latest news with #waterparks
Yahoo
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
12 Bucket-List Waterpark Resorts Every Family Should Visit in the U.S.
No matter your family's speed, these parks provide the ultimate aquatic enjoyment. One of my fondest childhood memories is spending Florida summers at the waterparks. Whether it's the serenity of floating down a lazy river, the adrenaline rush of torpedoing down a water slide, or the communal joy of a wave pool, waterparks continue to be a family staple during the summer months because they offer something for everyone. While some of the most well-known waterparks are attached to the larger theme parks, there are plenty others across the country that deserve not only your attention, but your vacation time. Here are 12 waterpark resorts you should add to your list. Okana Resort & Indoor Waterpark Location: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Great for: Luxury and fun Okana Resort & Indoor Waterpark beautifully combines the waterpark and beach resort experiences. From an indoor park geared toward high-energy fun, to outdoor resort-style amenities designed for luxury and relaxation, this one has it all. Stand-outs include Okana Beach, The Spa at Okana, and the arcade at Okanarama! And for families who love a little culture while on vacation, Okana Resort & Waterpark is near the First Americans Museum. Aquatica Location: Orlando, Florida and San Antonio, Texas Great for: Teens and young adults Aquatica was recently voted the #1 water park by USA Today–and one could assume a lot of its appeal has to do with how it caters to the young folks. For the littles, there's 'Walkabout Waters,' which is specifically designed for smaller children, and 'The Ultimate Playdate', where select Mondays throughout the summer are reserved for younger kids. For tween and teen thrill-seekers, Aquatica offers water rides like 'Reef Plunge', 'Tassie's Underwater Twist', and 'Riptide Dance." For others who want to kick back and just chill, there are relaxing water experiences like 'Loggerhead Lane' Lazy River and the wave pool. For young adults, there's also an after-hours water party, AquaGlow, from 8 pm to 11 pm, where guests can enjoy as the park is lit up with neon lights. Camelback Resort Location: The Poconos Mountains, Pennsylvania Great for: Families who like to choose their own adventure While the Camelback Resort is highly popular for winter sports, its waterpark resort is top-notch for adventurous families. Offering both an indoor (Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark) and (Outdoor Camelbeach Waterpark) park option, you shouldn't need to worry about space or weather. Guests can choose from a 'Flowrider Session' and surf like a pro, get splashed in a splash zone, or sleep in a cabana. And if you want to skip the water rides but still have fun, there's also 'Mountain Adventures' available with over 13 rides and activities for a wide age range. The Boardwalk at Hersheypark Location: Hershey, Pennsylvania Great for: Families with tweens who love chocolate The Boardwalk Waterpark at Hersheypark has 16 water attractions. From thrilling water slides like the 'Whitecap Racer'–one of the longest mat slides in the world, to jumping waves in 'The Shore'–a massive wave pool, this park is full of fun tradition. Waterpark access is included with admission to the theme park, so it's an economical option. Parents will also be pleased to know there are fun-filled water spaces set aside for the little ones, such as 'Shoreline Playground' and Sand Castle Cove. At the nearby Hershey Story Museum, kids can learn about the history of chocolate and how to make it. You can also see animals at the ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park. Discovery Cove Location: Orlando, Florida Great for: Independent explorers who love marine life Discovery Cove offers a truly unique waterpark experience that aquatic life enthusiasts will adore. Guests can purchase day passes to swim with dolphins, feed stingrays, and interact with otters and marmosets. Or, for an even closer look at aquatic life, there's SeaVenture, an underwater walking tour that takes place at The Grand Reef. Though these experiences are for "confident swimmers" ages 10 and up. Due to the immersive nature of most of the activities, parents and guardians will have to sign a waiver on behalf of their kids. While Discovery Cove is best for attendees who can roam freely about the park, there is Animal Trek, Flamingo Mingle, and the Dolphin Swim, which are for ages 6 and up. Raging Waves Location: Yorkville, Illinois Great for: Big family groups As the largest waterpark in Illinois, Raging Waves boasts a variety of unique, family-friendly attractions for different age groups. The Kangaroo Falls play area is filled with kid-friendly slides and other shallow water play. For older kids who love a good adrenaline rush, there are rides like 'The Cyclone', 'The Wonambi', and the 'Aussie Mat Dash' that offer fun drops and many unsuspecting twists. Adults can relax on the lazy river or in a large wave pool. And there are lots of shaded seating areas for napping littles and breastfeeding families. In addition to great food options, this park offers free parking and you can bring your own unopened water bottles into the park. Sealife Park Hawaii Location: Oahu, Hawaii Great for: Intimate, hands-on experiences with grandparents Dubbed a 'marine wonderland', Sealife Hawaii is great for all ages, but especially young kids and grandparents. It boasts a small and intimate setting, which is a great change of pace for families wanting to avoid beach crowds. And if you love marine life, the hands-on experiences are a big plus. While the younger kids will enjoy seeing penguins, and sea lions up close, older kids can enjoy swimming with dolphins and feeding sea turtles. There's lots of fun cultural entertainment too, like coconut weaving, fishnet throwing, hula lessons, dinner hulas, and so much more. Wet'n Wild Emerald Pointe Waterpark Location: Greensboro, North Carolina Great for: Teen group visits without parents Make your way through dozens of rides with your family or a group of your friends at Wet'N Wild Emerald Point Waterpark. There are several themed areas, such as 'Happy Harbor,' and breathtaking slides like 'Bermuda Triangle', 'The Edge', and 'Riptide'. While you're there, make sure you check out "Daredevil Drop," a near-vertical free-fall slide. Teens 13 and older can be dropped off–so they can get a group together and make memories for the day. Raging Waters Los Angeles Location: San Dimas, California Great for: The epic waterpark experience Your family can easily fill a full day at the iconic Raging Waters Waterpark in Southern California. With over 50 attractions across 60 acres of land, there is something for all ages. The 'Little Dipper' is a smaller version of a conventional water slide, perfect for children who are new to sliding. 'Volcano Fantasea' is a themed area with small slides and water play features that are also great for young ones. And you definitely have to try the only hydromagnetic water coaster in California, "Aqua Rocket"–15 stories of adrenaline. Blizzard Beach Water Park Location: Lake Buena Vista, Florida Great for: Themed experiences and Disney lovers Geared toward younger kids who love engaging with Disney's trademark world building, Blizzard Beach brings snow to summertime. It's adorned as a melting ski resort, featuring cool slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Visit "Summit Plummet," the fastest and tallest free-fall slides. If you prefer a theme more aligned with summer, check out the neighboring Typhoon Lagoon, which has a tropical storm atmosphere. The "Crush 'n' Gusher" water coaster gives the appearance of a tropical fruit-packing plant run amok. Water Country Park Location: Portsmouth, New Hampshire Great for: Thrill-seeking families Water Country Park is the largest water park in New England, with some large thrills to go with it. "Thunder Falls,' one of the park's largest attractions, is a high-speed raft ride with unexpected drops that is sure to make your heart rate spike. There's also an entire area designed for the younger thrill-seekers, who aren't quite ready for that speed. This park is perfect for families with multiple kids in different age brackets. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Location: Valencia, California Great for: A waterslides and roller coasters double feature Fresh off of its 30th anniversary, Hurricane Harbor underwent a massive renovation, which made the most ascetically-pleasing waterpark in the state even prettier. With its SoCal location and proximity to Six Flags Magic Mountain, it's a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking a full day of action for families. With the exception of having to wait in long lines for the more popular rides, families should enjoy the diverse selection of experiences. The "Tornado' and 'Wahoo Racer' waterslides should appeal to older kids, and 'Splashwater Island' should please the littles. A family favorite is 'Hurricane Bay,' the massive 7,000-foot wave pool. Safety and Other Waterpark Tips Brian Szydlosk, manager of the Okana Resort & Indoor Waterpark, spoke to the importance of water safety as families plan to attend waterparks this summer. 'Whether it's a backyard pool, a lake, a beach, a waterpark, a responsible adult should always keep an eye on the water," says Szydlosk. "Drowning can happen silently and in seconds, even with strong swimmers.' He further stresses that no one should swim alone, no matter their age; and the posted rules at pools/waterparks should always be followed. "Respecting the water means understanding it first. And [always remember], pool toys like floaties or noodles are not safety devices.' Parents should also remember to have a game plan for navigating the waterparks. This will help you maximize the time and also help prevent meltdowns. Be sure to pack the following: Sunscreen and hats. Especially for the little ones! I love the Greensprouts collection for toddlers, and the Coolibar collection for teens. Water diapers. Most water parks require them. My new favorite brand for my toddler is HealthyBaby swim brand, because it has adjustable buttons for all sizes, and dries very quickly. Dry snacks. First, check with the waterpark's website to see if outside food is allowed. My new favorite when attending parks is the Amara Snack Brand, because they minimize mess. Secure and age-appropriate swimwear. You'd be surprised what can be lost on a water slide. Check height, weight, and wardrobe requirements for each ride in advance to avoid accidents. Read the original article on Parents Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Have you been to all the big New York state waterparks? See top 10 list
From water-filled rides like the Hydro Racer and Rip Tide Tube Slide at Seabreeze Amusement Park in the Rochester area to The Megalodon and Cowabunga Falls at SplashDown Beach in the Hudson Valley, there's fun for everyone. Here are 10 water parks to check out across the state this summer. Six Flags Darien Lake Theme Park Where: 9993 Allegheny Road, Darien Center Hours: Monday-Tuesday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Wednesday-Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Cost: Tickets start at $35 online More information: Seabreeze Amusement Park Where: 4600 Culver Road, Irondequoit Hours: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Cost: Ticket prices range from $43.99 to $31.99; 2 & under are free More information: Roseland Waterpark Where: 250 Eastern Blvd., Canandaigua Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Ticket prices range from $39.95 for regular admission to $29.95 for youth admission; 2 & under are free More information: Six Flags Great Escape Where: 89 Six Flags Drive, Queensbury Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Cost: Tickets start at $35 online More information: SplashDown Beach Where: 16 Old Route 9 West, Fishkill Hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., typically; Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m.-7p.m. Cost: Ticket prices range from $59 for adults to $54 for children and those 62 and older More information: Enchanted Forest Water Safari Where: 3183 Route 28, Old Forge Hours: 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. starting July 1 Cost: Ticket prices range from $44.99 for adults to $41.99 for children; 2 & under are free More information: See the list: 7 natural swimming spots in NY worth the summer road trip Zoom Flume Water Park Where: 20 Shady Glen Road, East Durham Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Ticket prices range from $44.99 to $37.99; 2 & under are free More information: Splish Splash Water Park Where: 2549 Splish Splash Drive, Calverton Hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Cost: $74.99; 2 & under are free More information: What to know: How much does a typical day at Seabreeze cost? Greek Peak Cascades Indoor Water Park Where: 2000 NY-392, Cortland Hours: Monday, Thursday and Friday 4-7 p.m.; Friday 4-8 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Tickets are $44; 23 months & under are free More information: Splash Indoor Water Park Resort Where: 92 East 1st St., Oswego Hours: Friday 4-8 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: Ticket prices start at $20, depending on the day; 2 & under are free More information: Emily Barnes reports on consumer-related issues for the USA TODAY Network's New York Connect Team, focusing on scam and recall-related topics. Follow her on X and Instagram @byemilybarnes. Get in touch at ebarnes@ This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: SplashDown, Six Flags and 8 other NY state water parks worth checking out Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
10 best water parks in New York to visit this summer: See the list
From water-filled rides like the Hydro Racer and Rip Tide Tube Slide at Seabreeze Amusement Park in the Rochester area to The Megalodon and Cowabunga Falls at SplashDown Beach in the Hudson Valley, there's fun for everyone. Here are 10 water parks to check out across the state this summer. Six Flags Darien Lake Theme Park The Wahoo Wave waterslide is 60 feet tall and will be added to Six Flags Darien Lake for the 2022 season. Where: 9993 Allegheny Road, Darien Center Hours: Monday-Tuesday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Wednesday-Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Cost: Tickets start at $35 online More information: Seabreeze Amusement Park Where: 4600 Culver Road, Irondequoit Hours: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Cost: Ticket prices range from $43.99 to $31.99; 2 & under are free More information: Roseland Waterpark Roseland Water Park is located just off of Eastern Boulevard in Canandaigua. Where: 250 Eastern Blvd., Canandaigua Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Ticket prices range from $39.95 for regular admission to $29.95 for youth admission; 2 & under are free More information: Six Flags Great Escape Where: 89 Six Flags Drive, Queensbury Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Cost: Tickets start at $35 online More information: SplashDown Beach Where: 16 Old Route 9 West, Fishkill Hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., typically; Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m.-7p.m. Cost: Ticket prices range from $59 for adults to $54 for children and those 62 and older More information: Enchanted Forest Water Safari Where: 3183 Route 28, Old Forge Hours: 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. starting July 1 Cost: Ticket prices range from $44.99 for adults to $41.99 for children; 2 & under are free More information: See the list: 7 natural swimming spots in NY worth the summer road trip Zoom Flume Water Park Where: 20 Shady Glen Road, East Durham Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Ticket prices range from $44.99 to $37.99; 2 & under are free More information: Splish Splash Water Park Where: 2549 Splish Splash Drive, Calverton Hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Cost: $74.99; 2 & under are free More information: What to know: How much does a typical day at Seabreeze cost? Greek Peak Cascades Indoor Water Park Where: 2000 NY-392, Cortland Hours: Monday, Thursday and Friday 4-7 p.m.; Friday 4-8 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Tickets are $44; 23 months & under are free More information: Splash Indoor Water Park Resort Where: 92 East 1st St., Oswego Hours: Friday 4-8 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: Ticket prices start at $20, depending on the day; 2 & under are free More information: Emily Barnes reports on consumer-related issues for the USA TODAY Network's New York Connect Team, focusing on scam and recall-related topics. Follow her on X and Instagram @byemilybarnes. Get in touch at ebarnes@ This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: 10 best water parks in New York to visit this summer: See the list
Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Yahoo
10 must-visit water parks to cool off in NY this summer: See the list
If you're looking to beat the heat this summer, New York state has many water parks to cool down at. From water-filled rides like the Hydro Racer and Rip Tide Tube Slide at Seabreeze Amusement Park in the Rochester area to The Megalodon and Cowabunga Falls at SplashDown Beach in the Hudson Valley, there's fun for everyone. Here are 10 water parks to check out across the state this summer. Six Flags Darien Lake Theme Park Where: 9993 Allegheny Road, Darien Center Hours: Monday-Tuesday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Wednesday-Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Cost: Tickets start at $35 online More information: Seabreeze Amusement Park Where: 4600 Culver Road, Irondequoit Hours: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Cost: Ticket prices range from $43.99 to $31.99; 2 & under are free More information: Roseland Waterpark Where: 250 Eastern Blvd., Canandaigua Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Ticket prices range from $39.95 for regular admission to $29.95 for youth admission; 2 & under are free More information: Six Flags Great Escape Where: 89 Six Flags Drive, Queensbury Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Cost: Tickets start at $35 online More information: SplashDown Beach Where: 16 Old Route 9 West, Fishkill Hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., typically; Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m.-7p.m. Cost: Ticket prices range from $59 for adults to $54 for children and those 62 and older More information: Enchanted Forest Water Safari Where: 3183 Route 28, Old Forge Hours: 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. starting July 1 Cost: Ticket prices range from $44.99 for adults to $41.99 for children; 2 & under are free More information: See the list: 7 natural swimming spots in NY worth the summer road trip Zoom Flume Water Park Where: 20 Shady Glen Road, East Durham Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Ticket prices range from $44.99 to $37.99; 2 & under are free More information: Splish Splash Water Park Where: 2549 Splish Splash Drive, Calverton Hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Cost: $74.99; 2 & under are free More information: What to know: How much does a typical day at Seabreeze cost? Greek Peak Cascades Indoor Water Park Where: 2000 NY-392, Cortland Hours: Monday, Thursday and Friday 4-7 p.m.; Friday 4-8 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Tickets are $44; 23 months & under are free More information: Splash Indoor Water Park Resort Where: 92 East 1st St., Oswego Hours: Friday 4-8 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: Ticket prices start at $20, depending on the day; 2 & under are free More information: Emily Barnes reports on consumer-related issues for the USA TODAY Network's New York Connect Team, focusing on scam and recall-related topics. Follow her on X and Instagram @byemilybarnes. Get in touch at ebarnes@ This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: 10 must-visit water parks to cool off in NY this summer: See the list Solve the daily Crossword
Emirates 24/7
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates 24/7
Dubai's waterparks promise fun-filled moments for families this summer
Dubai's ability to create vibrant leisure experiences for residents and visitors continues to reinforce its position as a leading destination for family-friendly experiences. As part of the #DubaiDestinations summer campaign launched by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, the emirate's waterparks are in the spotlight for offering families and thrill-seekers an exciting mix of adventure, relaxation and fun in the sun. With state-of-the-art rides, scenic settings and dedicated areas for all age groups, Dubai's waterparks combine world-class infrastructure with imaginative design to create truly memorable outings. Whether you're looking for high-speed slides, floating obstacle courses, or safe splash zones for little ones, the city's diverse range of attractions promises something for everyone. Dubai is home to some of the region's largest and most iconic waterparks, each designed to provide a one-of-a-kind experience. Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm remains a top attraction with its ever-evolving rides and new offerings, including surf simulators and a wide range of high-speed slides, and designated play areas for children that guarantee unforgettable moments for families. Also among the city's most popular and long-standing attractions is Wild Wadi Waterpark, located near the Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Home to more than 30 rides and attractions ranging from adrenaline-pumping slides to relaxing wave pools, the park features a surf simulator and offers scenic views of some of Dubai's most iconic landmarks. For adventure lovers seeking a different kind of water experience, AquaFun Waterpark at Jumeirah Beach Residence offers a unique floating playground set directly on the sea. Its inflatable obstacles, climbing frames and slides provide a challenging adventure for all age groups. Families with young children have plenty of options across Dubai's waterparks. LEGOLAND Water Park, located within Dubai Parks and Resorts, offers an imaginative and interactive water play environment designed for children aged 2 to 12. It blends creativity and entertainment with water-themed attractions made for the entire family to enjoy. Located along the Jumeirah coastline, Aqua Parks offers a floating water playground with a variety of inflatable games set directly on the sea — making it an ideal destination for those seeking a distinctive and adventurous experience. Another family favourite is Splash 'n' Party Kids Waterpark, a colourful water playground tailored to younger visitors, featuring child-safe slides and splash zones. Nature lovers can head to Al Barari Playground, located within the green community of Al Barari. The park includes open-air splash areas and water swings surrounded by trees and shaded spaces — creating a relaxing outdoor setting for children and parents alike. Jungle Bay Waterpark next to the Mina Seyahi resort brings a tropical vibe to Dubai's coast, offering rides and slides for both children and adults, with a panoramic view of the sea. Adding to Dubai's diverse offering is Grand Hyatt Dubai Waterpark, a tranquil water retreat located within the Grand Hyatt Dubai. With exclusive areas designed especially for children, the venue provides a calm and luxurious experience for families staying at the hotel. Blending fun and education, OliOli – Water Gallery in Al Quoz introduces children to water through interactive exhibits that inspire learning, experimentation and creative play. These waterparks are more than just places to cool off — they are fully equipped leisure destinations featuring dining options, themed retail stores and relaxation zones. With integrated services and a focus on safety, comfort and entertainment, they form an integral part of Dubai's family tourism landscape during the summer. Many of the parks also feature cutting-edge water attractions and technology-enhanced experiences, ensuring that guests can enjoy interactive fun as well as classic water rides. Beyond waterparks, Dubai offers an extensive range of water-themed activities across the city, from jet skiing and wakeboarding to diving, flyboarding and paddleboarding. With its consistent investment in leisure infrastructure and visitor experiences, the emirate continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for family entertainment and adventure tourism. The latest edition of the #DubaiDestinations campaign runs until 31 July 2025, encouraging residents and visitors to discover the city's vibrant summer offerings — from indoor escapes and cultural highlights to waterfront adventures. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
