The best US waterparks offer thrilling adventures through record-breaking slides, serene lazy rivers, and everything in between. From coast to coast, these top-rated waterparks in America deliver excitement and relaxation in equal measure. Get ready to discover the top 10 popular waterparks in the USA, where fun and splashes await!
Located just south of Salt Lake City, Cowabunga Bay is a groovy 1960s-themed water park that brings retro vibes to life. The park is decorated with vibrant surfboards, beach furniture, and other fun décor that transport you back in time. Cowabunga Bay boasts an elaborate water playground with bridges and tunnels spanning 12 different levels. In addition to this massive playground, you'll find multiple water slides for both adults and children. There’s even a second Cowabunga Bay location near Las Vegas!
Just 35 miles north of downtown San Diego, Legoland Water Park is a unique and fun destination, especially for families with young kids. Located within the Legoland California Resort, this water park is primarily geared toward children aged 2 to 12. It features Lego-themed rides, slides, and splash pads throughout the park. Kids can use their imaginations in various interactive areas, including one where they can design and build dams and bridges. There’s even a lazy river where kids can customize their floats with Lego bricks!
Part of the iconic Cedar Point Amusement Park, Cedar Point Shores is a spectacular water park that overlooks Lake Erie. Spanning 18 acres, this park offers a variety of attractions for all ages. Whether you're looking for thrilling slides or relaxing pools, Cedar Point Shores has something for everyone that makes it one of the most popular waterparks in the USA.
No list of the best US waterpark would be complete without mentioning Disney! Typhoon Lagoon, part of Walt Disney World Resort, is set in a tropical paradise filled with caves, waterfalls, and rock formations. The park features multiple water slides and a water playground for the kids, called Ketchakiddee Creek. Typhoon Lagoon is the perfect place to beat the Orlando heat, especially during the hot summer months.
Dolly Parton’s Splash Country pays tribute to the beautiful green forests of the Tennessee wilderness where she grew up. The park features a variety of themed rides and slides, including raft rides, play structures, and RiverRush, Tennessee's first-ever water coaster. With its stunning natural setting, Splash Country offers a unique blend of thrill and tranquility, making it one of the top-rated waterparks in America.
Affiliated with California’s famous Knott’s Berry Farm, Knott’s Soak City is a sprawling 15-acre water park located just 5 miles west of Anaheim. The park features a three-story water playground for kids, two dozen water slides, a lazy river, and a massive 750,000-gallon wave pool. With so much to offer, Knott’s Soak City is a must-visit destination for water park enthusiasts and ranks among the most popular waterparks in the USA.
Located in the "Water Park Capital of the World," Noah’s Ark Water Park in Wisconsin Dells is one of the largest water parks in the country. The park is home to the Black Anaconda, a thrilling water coaster that reaches speeds of up to 30 mph, as well as Monkey Rapids, where you can choose from three slides to glide down. The park also features Scorpion’s Tail, America’s first nearly vertical looping water slide, and the brand new Chameleon, the Dells’ first slide with vibrant light and dynamic sound.
Universal Orlando’s Volcano Bay, unveiled in 2017, is a South Seas-themed water park centered around a massive 200-foot volcano. Known for its extreme thrills, the park offers a huge water coaster, multiple drop slides, and a large rapids river. Guests are provided with a waterproof bracelet that holds their spot in virtual queues, pays for meals, and even opens lockers, making the experience seamless and fun. Volcano Bay is undoubtedly one of the best US waterparks for thrill-seekers.
Despite its German-sounding name, Schlitterbahn is an American brand of resorts and water parks, currently owned by Six Flags. The original Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels opened in 1979 and has since become a legend in the water park world. The park features a variety of innovative rides, including the Boogie Bahn, the world’s first inland surfing ride, the Dragon Blaster, the first uphill water coaster, and The Falls, the world’s longest tubing river. The park has won Amusement Today's Golden Ticket Award for Best Water Park 24 years in a row, solidifying its place as a top destination.
Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana, stands out as a top-tier water park and is definitely worth a visit. This park is famous for its world-class water coasters, including Cheetah Chase, Wildebeest, and Mammoth—the world’s longest water coaster at a third of a mile long. In 2023, Mammoth won the Water Park Ride of the Year Golden Ticket Award from Amusement Today, taking over from Wildebeest, which held the title for a decade. The park also offers the eight-slide Tembo Falls and the Tembo Tides wave pool. With its thrilling attractions and unique features, Splashin’ Safari consistently ranks among the best US waterparks.
That concludes our journey through the top 10 water parks in the United States! Thanks for joining us at AAA State of Play—until next time, stay cool and have fun!
Kelly has been a CPSI-certified playground inspector for several years. Her passion for play and attention to detail bring immense value to every playground she brings to life, and with her years of experience, every playground she visits is made better for her having been there. In her leisure time, Kelly enjoys spending time with her family.
