6 Best Water Parks in the US for a Refreshing Summer (2025)

Posted on May 05, 2025

A group of four people enjoys a thrilling ride on a bright yellow inflatable raft down a twisting blue water slide. The slide is surrounded by cascading water, creating an exciting and fun atmosphere. The riders are holding onto the handles, laughing and experiencing the excitement as they splash through the curves of the slide. The vibrant colors and energetic scene capture the joy and adventure of a water park experience.

Skies are getting brighter and the breeze is getting warmer. Summer is just around the corner, and we know you're more than excited to have fun under the sun. So, as advocates of fun, we have prepared a list of the best water parks in the US for you. We answered some of the Frequently Asked Questions from our FunExplorers who are planning a spectacular summer getaway.

Grab your sunscreen, pack your chic summer outfits, and get ready to cool off this summer. FunEx has lots of sweet summer deals for your favorite attractions. Be sure to check them out and grab your discount tickets for the best summer getaways!

Are water park escapades worth it?

Of course! Water parks offer a wide range of attractions, rides, and activities that are perfect for families and solo travelers. Whether you choose to spend your summer escapade at an indoor lagoon or an outdoor waterpark, you can definitely make the most of this hot season.

You can explore thrilling slides with your friends or take a plunge into the waterslides with your little ones. Whatever your summer plans are, the best water parks in the US got you covered.

Enjoy cool summer adventures at the best water parks in the US.

Looking for the best waterpark on the West Coast?

The West Coast is known for giving the best Vitamin Sea every summer. But what about their parks? Here are two of the best waterparks on the West Coast every summer explorer should not miss:

1. Knott’s Soak City

Four people enjoying a slide race down a water park slide on blue mats. Each person slides in their own lane, smiling and splashing water as they go. The sunny day and clear blue water add a fun and refreshing atmosphere to the scene. The slides are light blue, with a few plants visible in the background.

Conveniently located adjacent to Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, California, Knott's Soak City Park is a 15-acre water adventure park. The separately gated park boasts 6 different waterslides, 23 speed, tube, and body slides, and a thrilling family raft ride. The 750,000-gallon Tidal Wave Bay wave pool and the one-third-mile Sunset River are summer favorites too.

It also features a three-story Beach House with 200 water guns, nozzles, and sprayers - all for interactive summer escapades.

Must-have items:

Don't forget to pack your towels, slip-on shoes, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. You can also bring a waterproof pouch for your phone or handy cameras!

When does Knott's Soak City open?

Knott's Soak City is a seasonal waterpark. It will be open on select dates from May 17 to September 7, 2025. Kick-start your dream summer escape, get your Knott's Soak City discount tickets at FunEx now.

What age group will enjoy Knott's Soak City the most?

This waterpark is designed for all ages to enjoy! From toddlers to adults, Knott's Soak City offers an incredible summer experience for everyone. For families, we highly recommend the kid-friendly areas like the Gremmie Lagoon and the lazy river.

Is parking free at Knott’s Soak City?

No. Parking at Knott’s Soak City requires nominal fees that vary per vehicle type. There is a metered lot offering complimentary parking for the first hour, with following hours subject to the standard rate.

2. Raging Waters

The image shows a towering waterslide attraction at a theme park surrounded by trees and a clear blue sky. The waterslide features multiple twisting and colorful tubes winding around a tall metal structure. Palms frame the scene, adding to the tropical atmosphere. Red and blue umbrellas can be seen at the base, indicating visitor areas.

California isn't playing when it comes to summer fun. Raging Waters is the state's largest water park and it has everything you need to cool off this summer. The 60-acre park boasts an array of chilling and thrilling slides and rides for all ages. For the ultimate water thrill, Thunder Rapids and High Extreme are among the most-loved rides.

Don't forget to try the newest pulse-pounding plunge action with Bombs Away. If you're just looking for a relaxing ride to beat the heat, Amazon Adventure and Little Dipper Lagoon would be perfect.

What to bring to Raging Waters:

Always pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, towels, water shoes, and of course, swimwear. You might also want to consider bringing a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated while having fun at Raging Waters.

Are the Raging Waters cabanas free?

No. The cabanas inside Raging Waters are available for rental. Note that cabana rental fees are not included in your Raging Waters discount tickets from FunEx. Coordinate in advance with the park for cabana rentals.

What is the Raging Waters tallest slide?

The tallest slide in Raging Waters is the High Extreme. It's a 15-story toboggan that will send riders through 600-foot flumes at a whopping 35 miles per hour! It's one of the top slides and attractions at the park, offering an ultimate summer thrill experience.

Does Raging Waters provide towels?

No. Raging Waters does not provide towels. It's always best for guests to pack their own towels to make sure that they dry down well enough after some thrilling water rides.

It's easier to cool off this summer at these East Coast waterparks.

Exploring the East Coast? Have your dream summer vacation at these lovely waterparks:

3. Adventure Island

A vibrant water park scene with children and families enjoying a large splash pad. The area is surrounded by colorful water slides and play structures with water sprayers. Palm trees and lounge chairs with people relaxing border the scene, adding a tropical feel. The sky is clear with a few clouds, creating a bright, sunny atmosphere.

What is Adventure Island Tampa?

Located across from Busch Gardens in Tampa, Florida, Adventure Island is the city's largest waterpark. The 30-acre waterpark offers fun for everyone, with lots of family water rides and attractions. Adventure Island features 11 exciting water slides and attractions. Guest favorites include the high-speed Colossal Curl and Caribbean Corkscrew. The park also has safe and fun kid-friendly zones and relaxing rides like lazy rivers.

Things to bring:

Throw a refillable water bottle, water shoes, a good pair of sunglasses, and a hat in your summer bag. You can also bring your phone or a camera to take photos. Just note that most water rides don't allow loose items.

Can you bring food into Adventure Island?

Outside food is generally not allowed inside Adventure Island, except for baby food and food items for special dietary needs.

Is Adventure Island family-friendly?

Absolutely! Adventure Island in Tampa is considered a family-friendly summer destination. The park offers a great mix of high-thrill and relaxing rides perfect for guests of all ages. It's also great that Adventure Island has a dedicated area for children to play without compromising safety and fun.

4. Aquatica San Antonio

A vibrant water park scene featuring two side-by-side pink water slides with riders enjoying the thrilling descent. Each slide has two people, sitting on blue inflatable tubes, laughing and splashing amidst the rushing water. The bright colors and lively atmosphere capture the excitement and fun of a water park adventure.

What is Aquatica San Antonio?

Aquatica San Antonio is a waterpark in San Antonio, Texas. It's one of the most family-friendly theme parks in the state. Beaming in 59 acres of attractions specially built for ultimate family fun and adventure, Aquatica San Antonio gives guests the best water world experiences. Its companion, SeaWorld San Antonio, offers a unique amusement park experience with roller coasters and thrilling rides. While Aquatica San Antonio is mainly focused on water attractions.

Things to pack for Aquatica San Antonio:

Grab and go with your summer must-haves like towels, swimwear, sunscreen, waterproof sandals/flip-flops, a water bottle, and sunglasses. You can also bring a small backpack to hold your essentials while exploring Aquatica San Antonio's fun rides.

Are there thrill rides at Aquatica San Antonio?

Yup! Aquatica San Antonio features a couple of exciting rides for thrill seekers. The most popular ones include Taumata Racer, a high-speed mat racing slide, and Ihu's Breakaway Falls, which is the tallest drop slide in Texas.

Is Aquatica San Antonio open during the rainy season?

Yes! Aquatica San Antonio is open even when the weather isn't cooperating. In fact, the park offers a "Weather-or-Not Assurance" program to its guests. This program allows visitors to return on another date, in case their original visit is disrupted by weather issues like rain, lightning, extreme heat, wind, snow, and hail.

This means that even after severe weather, you can still come back to enjoy Aquatica San Antonio (and no park passes will be wasted).

Want to make your Midwest summer memorable?

The Midwest is known for its mellow and cozy vibes. But that doesn't mean they don't take summer getaways seriously. Don't miss these waterparks as you head over to the Midwest:

5. DreamWorks

A bustling indoor water park features a large wave pool filled with visitors. A twisting blue slide descends from the top left, while colorful character balloons hang from the ceiling. A vibrant play area with slides and climbing structures is in the background. Sunlight filters through the arched glass roof, illuminating the lively scene.

If you want to spend summer in the most colorful waterpark inspired by tropical islands, DreamWorks is the place to be. Meet Shrek and other iconic DreamWorks characters and dive into the newest water rides and attractions at this super cool and fun waterpark. DreamWorks Water Park in American Dream houses some of the largest collections of water rides in the world. From water coasters and a variety of river rides and slides, DreamWorks will surely make your dream summer come true.

Don't forget to bring these to DreamWorks:

Swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, extra clothes, and a reusable water bottle are the usual must-haves for fantastic summer escapades. Make sure to bring a waterproof pouch or case for your phone and camera too, so you have no worries capturing summer memories.

Is DreamWorks an indoor water park?

Yes! In fact, the DreamWorks Water Park is one of North America's best and largest indoor water parks. DreamWorks is a massive, interconnected complex with themed areas inspired by popular DreamWorks films like Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, and Madagascar.

Where is DreamWorks water park located?

This dreamy summer sanctuary is located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, within the American Dream complex.

Where to park for DreamWorks water park?

For water park guests, the American Dream Mall offers plenty of parking options, including parking decks and parking lots. Prepaid parking is also available, and the first 15 minutes of parking are free. A flat fee applies for each vehicle for the entire duration of your visit. You can download the ParkMobile app to reserve your DreamWorks Water Park parking in advance.

6. Typhoon Texas

A group of seven people enjoy a thrilling ride on a large, inflatable raft down a winding water slide. The slide has red and blue sections, and water splashes around them as they descend. The sky is clear and blue, adding to the sense of excitement and fun on a sunny day. Everyone on the raft is smiling and holding onto the handles as they navigate the slide together.

Looking for a premier waterpark destination? Typhoon Texas offers a unique twist to your favorite water rides in its two parks located in Katy and Pflugerville. Now open on weekends, Typhoon Texas can give you and your family the ultimate water park experience this summer. Its signature attractions and rides include Lone Star Racers, The Gully Washer, and Howdy Hallow. Loved by kids and the kids at heart, this awesome park also features cozy cabanas available for rental.

Stuff to pack for Typhoon Texas Katy and Pflugerville:

You can bring a small backpack with essentials like a hat, sunglasses, comfortable water shoes, a water bottle, and of course, sunscreen! A towel and extra clothes can make your Typhoon Texas adventure more comfortable too.

Can you bring food to Typhoon Texas?

Bringing outside food is not permitted in Typhoon Texas. A factory-sealed water bottle is allowed for each guest. Coolers and grills are also prohibited.

Does Typhoon Texas take Apple Pay?

Yup! There are many ways to pay at Typhoon Texas. Payment methods include Apple Pay, credit cards, and a cashless wristband system for in-park purchases.

How many water slides does Typhoon Texas have?

Typhoon Texas is a haven for summer explorers. The water park has over 30 water slides.

Tips for hassle-free water park escapades:

  1. Get your tickets early.

    Summer season is considered PEAK SEASON at these parks. Purchase your water park tickets in advance to get the sweetest summer deals on your favorite attractions. Follow FunEx for affordable fun!

  2. Prepare your summer essentials.

    From picking your swimwear to choosing the best sunscreen, getting your summer essentials ready will save you a lot of time. Have a packing list prepared so that you won't forget any important stuff before your summer getaway.

  3. Be mindful of the crowd.

    Make sure to follow the crowd calendar for your favorite summer destinations. Keep in mind that crowds vary per season, and summer is usually a time for huge crowds. Planning ahead is necessary to enjoy a relaxing summer vacation.

Don't let the summer season pass without visiting these amazing water parks.

So, would you let summer be over without diving into these cool water parks? Join the ultimate summer fun in the best indoor and outdoor waterparks in the US. Get that spectacular summer experience without breaking the bank! Follow us here at FunEx for exciting deals on your favorite attractions, all year round. See you this summer, FunExplorers!