Best Water Parks in Texas
Have you ever heard of the popular saying: “everything’s bigger in Texas”? Well, their waterparks are no exception. Both locals and visitors alike can escape the Texas heat during the scorching summer months by visiting one (or more!) of the state’s fun and exciting waterparks.
This is one of the best ways to cool off and spend some quality time with the family. With so many locations to choose from, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for a wild adventure or a go-with-the-flow kind of person looking for a peaceful way to relax, you’re bound to find activities that suit your style at the various waterparks in Texas.
The Best Waterparks in Texas
Now that you know what to do to prepare for a fun time ahead, it’s time to break down some of the top spots to find the best waterparks in Texas.
Aquatica, San Antonio
Although it’s located within SeaWorld San Antonio, Aquatica operates as an independent, stand-alone outdoor park. This means that even if you have tickets to SeaWorld, you won’t be able to gain access to the attractions at Aquatica and vice versa.
Due to the changing seasons and extreme weather conditions, the waterpark itself is only open starting March to October every year. Within this time, you can explore Aquatica’s outdoor grounds and ride the tallest drop slide in all of Texas, Ihu’s Breakaway Falls.
When you try this out, here’s what you can expect: you’ll start by standing inside a tube. After a few seconds, the floor will fall, allowing you to experience an extreme drop at nearly an 80-degree angle into an abyss. This is a fast and adrenaline-high ride, so if you’re a thrill-seeker, this attraction must be on your bucket list.
Besides this, you can also try out other attractions, including The Tonga Twister, which is a body slide that features an interesting sound and light experience; the 400,000-gallon wave pool, which is perfect for relaxing and floating in the water with your toddlers; and the Stingray Falls, which takes you through an underwater grotto to come face-to-face with stingrays and other tropical fish.
Address: 10500 SeaWorld Drive, San Antonio, TX 78251 | Phone: (210) 520-4732 | Website: https://aquatica.com/san-antonio/
Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark, Grand Prairie
Next is the Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark located in Grand Prairie. This is the largest indoor waterpark found in North Texas, and the best part is, it’s open all year round! No matter if it’s in the dead of winter, you can experience the spirit of summer by visiting this waterpark.
One of the must-try attractions when you visit the park is the Yellowjacket Drop. Experience zero gravity and enjoy epic fun in this unique experience. It combines the best of Boomerango (a ride that swings you back and forth like a pendulum) and Constrictor (an enclosed slide that will make you feel as though you’re inside a boa constrictor). So, hold on to your seats as you plunge down the depths of the serpentine tubes and blast up the high walls.
Want to challenge your kids or new-found friends? Try out the E-racers attraction at Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark. Four players all slide down a long tube in a race for the finish line. Who will go for gold?
If you get the urge to go surfing one of these days, you don’t have to look far. The waterpark also features FlowRider, an attraction that simulates ocean waves. Don’t worry if you’ve never tried surfing before. There’s amazing staff on standby ready to teach you the ropes. In no time at all, you’ll be a pro at this sport.
Address: 2970 Epic Place, Grand Prairie, TX 75051 | Phone: (972) 337-3131 | Website: https://epicwatersgp.com/
Great Wolf Lodge, Grapevine
The Great Wolf Lodge in Dallas-Fort Worth is an indoor waterpark that pulls out all the stops, especially for families. The attractions range from a chill and laid-back Cub Paw Pool for the toddlers and the Fort Mackenzie for some playground fun to the Coyote Canyon and Howlin’ Tornado which include thrilling slides, drops, and whirlwind spins.
If you get tired of the waterpark extravaganza, you can take a detour to some of the park’s other on-land attractions like the Howlers Peak Ropes Course, Build-a-Bear Workshop, MagiQuest, arcade games, and mini-golf. As exciting as these activities are, they do require special passes. So, if you want to explore these attractions, be sure to grab a Pup Pass, Paw Pass, or Wolf Pass.
Among these three options, the Wolf Pass gives you access to the majority of the park’s top attractions.
Address: 100 Great Wolf Dr, Grapevine, TX 76051 | Phone: (800) 693-9653 | Website: https://www.greatwolf.com/grapevine
Hurricane Alley Waterpark, Corpus Christi
Hurricane Alley Waterpark in Corpus Christi, Texas, specializes in all things fun for the entire family, boasting various attractions for people of all ages.
One of their top attractions is called Cat 5. This is a thrilling six-story slide that reaches a height of more than 65 feet. Imagine being able to feel like you’re on top of the world only to take a mind-blowing plunge into a spiral tube. To take this experience one step further, you can even invite a friend or a family member to join you.
Since you’re already trying out the Cat 5, you might as well venture into other thrilling attractions the park has to offer — like the Momentum. While this attraction is only half of the height of Cat 5, it’s no less adventurous. You can twist and turn down serpentine slides and drop into a pool of cold water. If you’re not the biggest fan of heights but still want to experience a bit of an exhilarating rush, this ride is for you.
Finally, if you just want to cool off from the heat in Corpus Christi, you can make your way down to the Storm Surge. This is a 12,000-square-foot attraction full of exciting wave pool action! You can sit on your floaties and let the waves lull you or surf it up and experience the most epic waves.
These activities are 100% family-friendly. If you’re looking for something to do on a slow weekend, the Hurricane Alley Waterpark is an incredible option.
Address: 702 East Port Avenue, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401 | Phone: (361) 883-9283 | Website: https://www.hacctx.com/
Lubbock Water Rampage, Lubbock
Transport yourself to the great Caribbean wonders when you visit Lubbock Water Rampage in Lubbock, Texas. The waterpark is pirate-themed, so your pirate-loving family can take part in activities like treasure hunts, pirate ship playgrounds, and lazy river adventures.
Because the park has a fun and interesting theme going on, it’s one of the best places to host a kid’s birthday party. For sure, your children and their friends will have a blast playing in the many attractions in the park and exploring its various amenities, including the Pirate’s Cove, Caribbean Adventure, and the Lost World.
At the end of everything, you can relax by the pool and watch blockbuster movies on the big screen. This is an excellent way to cap off the night and call it a day.
Address: 6602 Marsha Sharp Freeway, Lubbock, Texas 79407 | Phone: (806) 771-5953 | Website: https://waterrampage.com/
NRH2O Family Water Park, North Richland Hills
Situated in North Richland Hills, the NRH2O Family Water Park is a city-owned establishment that’s open during the warmer months, usually between May and September. Compared to other waterparks in Texas in this list, this particular tourist destination is cheaper.
Children’s weekday tickets can start at less than $20. In addition, there are season passes that you can get your hands on to make your trip worth every penny. If you’re a resident of North Richland Hills, you also get to enjoy added discounts, which is a win-win situation for everyone.
Unlike some other top waterparks in Texas, NRH2O Family Water Park allows you to bring food and drinks (except alcoholic beverages, of course). The best part is: there are no size restrictions. This means that you can bring as many of your favorite snacks as you want! In doing so, you can save some money, which you can use to shop for souvenirs.
Before you get to the shopping, however, you have to experience the park’s attractions first-hand. These include the Tadpole Swimming Hole, a place where young swimmers can enjoy tiny slides; Frogstein’s Splshatory, a 5-story interactive playground in the water; Beachside Bay, a spot to relax by the pool and play beach volleyball by the sands; and Green Extreme, an impressive 81-foot high water roller coaster for thrill-seekers.
You can also reserve a cabana if you just want to have some alone time while your kids go wild.
Address: 9001 26 Blvd, North Richland Hills, TX 76180 | Phone: (817) 427-6500 | Website: https://www.nrh2o.com/
Pirates Bay Waterpark, Baytown
As you might have already guessed from the name alone, the park has an elaborate pirate theme going on in its eight acres of land, complete with parrots, rope ladders, and of course, pirate ships.
You’ll find many crowd-favorite attractions in this park as well, like the Boomerango, which drops you at high speeds only to shoot you up on a high wall. Another popular attraction is the Space Bowl. This is a spinning flume ride that will propel you as fast as 40 mph.
If fast-paced rides are not your style, there are also more laid-back options like the lazy river, which winds through more than half of the park. While you float away on the water, you can let your kids have fun at the various water playgrounds scattered around the park.
What makes this a great destination to cool off in Baytown is its reasonable price and manageable size. Compared to other parks that boast massive rides and countless attractions, the activities at Pirates Bay Waterpark can be completed in one day, with enough time to spare.
Address: 5300 E Rd, Baytown, TX 77521 | Phone: (281) 422-1150 | Website: https://baytown.org/877/Pirates-Bay-Waterpark
Schlitterbahn, Galveston
Schlitterbahn in Galveston, Texas spans over a 26-acre oasis. From mild activities to wild thrilling adventures, there’s something fun for everyone at this waterpark.
There are rivers that stretch over miles of fun. They also connect three distinct park sections, making them the best roads for complete exploration. Besides these, the park also features exciting rides to bring your heart rate up.
Schlitterbahn is the ultimate paradise for thrill-seekers; one of the most extreme rides you can find at the waterpark is the Dragon Blaster, which is a water roller coaster that propels you uphill and drops you 20 feet down. Go through tunnels, dips, twists, and turns when you take on this ride.
If you want to see how fast you can slide, take a chance on Infinity Racers. This is an eight-story tall space-themed ride that takes you through multi-colored fiberglass to create a unique light show. Race against a friend in this one-of-a-kind water slide experience.
Want to take the experience up a notch? Try Schlitterbahn’s iconic Massiv Monster Blaster. You’ll need to climb 123 steps to reach the top of this 81-foot record-breaking water slide. Apart from its impressive height, the ride also spans over 926 feet (which is equivalent to three football fields) full of drops, twists, turns, and splashes. Every second of this ride is jaw-dropping and scream-worthy. Be sure to buckle your seatbelts, because this is going to be a wild ride.
Address: 2109 Gene Lucas Blvd., Galveston, TX 77554 | Phone: (409) 770-9283 | Website: https://www.schlitterbahn.com/galveston
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Arlington
If it’s thrills and excitement that you’re after, look no further than Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in Arlington. The number of adrenaline-high rides this park has to offer is off the charts. However, some notable pieces include the Black Hole, a ride that immerses you in complete darkness so you can experience the ride like never before. Another is the Der Stuka, a steep seven-story body slide that takes you down a heart-stopping plummet.
Don’t worry. If you’re worried about the rides being too much, especially for the little ones, there are tamer options available in the park. For instance, you can take them to Hook’s Ship to play around with small slides and water sprays. You can also take a detour to the lazy river and wave pool for more simple outdoor water fun.
Just make sure that you plan ahead of time and mark the rides you want to try. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with so many choices on your plate.
Address: 1800 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington, TX 76006 | Phone: (817) 640-8900 | Website: https://www.sixflags.com/hurricaneharbortexas
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor SplashTown, Spring
Similar to Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, the Six Flags Hurricane Harbor SplashTown in Spring, Texas is filled with hair-raising and heart-pumping rides. From the Bamboo Chutes, which will drop you through a 95-foot semi-enclosed tube, to the Big Kahuna, which will take you through a mega-thrill raft adventure full of water blasts, this waterpark has no shortage of exciting activities.
Looking for family rides? You can also find several options here. Some examples include the Paradise River, which is a great way to just float away with the whole family, and the Runaway Rapids, which will help you escape boring slides through this ultra-fast tube ride.
Address: 21300 I-45, Spring, TX 77373 | Phone: (281) 355-3300 | Website: https://www.sixflags.com/splashtown
Splash Kingdom Waterpark, Canton, Greenville, and Nacogdoches
Among the five different Splash Kingdoms across Texas, Splash Kingdom Waterpark in Canton is the original. Here, you can find classic attractions like the lazy river and wave pool that are perfect for relaxing and cooling off.
If you want something more exciting, you can also find tube slides and body slides around the park. While these water activities are fun, you can explore on-land attractions like laser tag, arcade, and mini-golf. For more sporty activities, you can engage in a game of volleyball with new found-friends on the sandy courts.
If you’re not planning on visiting Canton, Texas, don’t worry. You can experience all the fun things the park has to offer at its other destinations, including Nacogdoches and Greenville.
Website: https://www.splashkingdomwaterpark.com/
Splash Kingdom Wild West, Weatherford
Splash Kingdom in Hudson Oaks, Weatherford follows an interesting wild, wild west theme. Many of their rides are patterned after symbolic elements of the great west, like the Gold Rush Falls, the Wagon Trail Springs, the Wrangler, and the Coyote.
The Gold Rush Falls is a premier area where kids can play around. Designed to embody what an abandoned mineshaft looks like, the whole attraction transports your kids to the era of cowboys, rodeos, and old-time Texas. The attraction features four different slides of varying heights ranging from 10 feet to 25 feet, which makes this ride a thrilling adventure.
But for much younger tots, perhaps a safer option is Wagon Trail Springs. It has smaller slides and only a couple of inches of water. If you have kids who don’t know how to swim yet, this is the place to hang out.
Both the Wrangler and the Coyote are tube slides that drop you at high altitudes for some heart-pumping excitement. To make the experience even better, you can choose a friend or a family member to ride them with you.
New to the Splash Kingdom Wild West is the Texas Tornado. This attraction was introduced in 2022 and is one of the most extreme rides in the park. You’ll go through quick accelerations, splashes, steep drops, and of course, a swirling deceleration that takes you through a four-foot drop.
Address: 1001 Cinema Dr, Weatherford, TX 76087 | Phone: (817) 598-0777 | Website: https://www.splashkingdomwaterpark.com/hudson-oaks-wild-west/
Splashway, Sheridan
Splashway in Sheridan is one of the top places to go to with the whole family. Not only do they have a wide spectrum of activities to choose from, but they also offer incredible discounts and ticket deals so you can get the most value for your money.
Apart from the classic rides you see in many of the best waterparks in Texas, Splashway has one crazy attraction that’s bound to turn heads and speed up your pulse: the Loco Mono. It has a high thrill level with a minimum height requirement of 48 inches. What makes this such a wild ride is its gravity-defying slide, revolutionary funnels, and surprising drops. There are twists and turns in every corner so your heart is bound to race during your ride on the attraction. If you want to share this thrilling experience with your family, the ride can accommodate two to four people per mat.
Another exhilarating ride for thrill-seekers out there is the Midnight Storm. In this ride, you’ll sail through enclosed tubes in total darkness, thereby heightening all of your senses. Before you know it, the ride takes you closer and closer to the unexpected plunge.
Can’t have enough of all the fun? Luckily, Splashway Waterpark has campsites you can rent. If you want to extend your stay and make the most of your weekend, you can choose to camp overnight and wake up to the call of the waterpark adventure.
Address: 5211 Main St, Sheridan, TX 77475 | Phone: (979) 234-7718 | Website: https://www.splashway.com/
Typhoon Texas, Austin
Typhoon Texas in Austin is the top place to be if you want to cool off during the warmer months of the year. As a premier waterpark destination, this park offers exciting rides, delicious food and drinks, comfortable private cabanas, and so much more.
Splash away at the Gully Washer that features 800 gallons of water and a four-story play structure for your kids. The fortress has over 100 spray areas and a wide range of slides, rope bridges, and elevated walkways to elevate the playground experience.
For older kids and kids-at-heart, there’s a ride called the Snake Pit that makes you choose the level of slide intensity you want to try. There’s The Rattler Slide, which shoots you through dark tunnels and blasts you into a refreshing pool of water. Then, there’s The Copperhead, which takes you through every twist and turn for a more exhilarating experience. Finally, there’s The Diamond Black, which winds down a spiral slide that’s perfect for all ages.
If you want to experience more thrill, try The Duelin’ Daltons. Each of the five options offers you a unique and unforgettable ride. From seven-story free falls to tight winding turns, you’re bound to test your courage and stamina in all these free falls.
With so many rides to explore, there’s never going to be a dull moment at Typhoon Texas.
Address: 18500 TX-130 Service Rd, Pflugerville, TX 78660 | Phone: (512) 212-7792 | Website: https://www.typhoontexas.com/austin/
Wet N’ Wild Waterworld, Anthony
Wet N’ Wild Waterworld in Desert Boulevard, Anthony, Texas is a waterpark wonderland for people of all ages. With over 25 attractions scattered throughout the massive 60-acre property, the Wet N’ Wild Waterworld is easily one of the biggest attractions in Texas.
One of the highlights of this park is its kids’ play area known as Atlantis Adventure. Here, your little ones can explore the numerous hidden slides and discover the secret fountains in the lost world of Atlantis. Every nook and cranny offers a brand new experience to make the experience that much more exciting.
Another top ride that you can’t miss out on is the Jaguar Falls. You can bring the whole family along to experience a one-of-a-kind rush of adrenaline in this epic attraction. Just make sure to hold on tight because this slide is going to be one heck of a wild ride.
These two activities are just the tip of the iceberg. Be sure to check out the list of activities beforehand so you can better plan your waterpark adventure.
Address: 8804 S Desert Blvd, Anthony, TX 79821 | Phone: (915) 886-2222 | Website: https://wetnwildwaterworld.com/
Water Works Park, Denton
As one of Denton’s favorite family-friendly destinations, Water Works Park is the place to bring the whole family to splash around while enjoying the bright summer sun.
You can choose from attractions ranging from the thrilling Orange Slide and Big Kahuna Slide to the mellow lazy river and wave pool. To cool off further, try Beth Marie’s Ice Cream, which is an award-winning dessert that you can get only at the Hula Hut Gift Shop.
Plus, if you want to host special parties and private events, there’s a party island in the park that you can use. This will give you and your guests easy access to all of the waterpark’s greatest attractions.
Address: 2400 Long Rd, Denton, TX 76209 | Phone: (940) 349-8800 | Website: https://www.dentonwaterworks.com/
A Helpful Guide To Visiting Waterparks in Texas
Before making your way to one of the top waterpark destinations, there are a few things you need to know to make your experience all the more enjoyable. So, without further ado, here are some tips to keep in mind.
#1 Get There Early
Rule number one for ultimate waterpark fun is to arrive at the destination early. The parks are usually less busy at the beginning of their operating hours, so you can have time to enjoy the amenities without having to line up with the crowds. Plus, if you get there ahead of everyone else, you can claim the perfect spot to lay out and unwind.
#2 Pack (and Wear) Sunscreen
Another tip: even if many of the waterparks have indoor activities, you still need to pack and wear sunscreen — this cannot be stressed enough.
You and your kids are bound to explore the park throughout the day, so it’s important to make sure that everyone is protected against the harsh sun. In addition, make sure to reapply sunscreen every few hours. Spending time in the water can wash it away, so make sure to wait about 15 minutes after applying sunscreen to get back in the water. Pro tip: this is the perfect time for a snack break!
While it does require extra effort to convince your kids to get out of the pool to reapply every once in a while, it will be worth it. After all, you don’t want to end your fun day with rashes and sunburns.
#3 Bring Your Snacks (If You Can)
Many waterparks in Texas don’t allow outside food, but some do. If you plan to visit the parks where you can bring snacks, be sure to do it. Oftentimes, park food can be pricey, so having snacks on hand can cut down your overall costs.
If they’re not allowed, at least pack a bottle of water. This can help you save a bit of money and keep your kids hydrated even on the go.
#4 Bring Swimming Essentials
Besides food and water, you also need to bring some swimming essentials like towels and life vests. Even if the parks provide these items, it’s good to have one of your own. Not only is this more sanitary, but you also make sure that everything suits your preferences.
Some water attractions also have height requirements. If your toddler or small child doesn’t meet their criteria, they might be asked to wear a life vest. That said, it’s much better to be prepared for any surprises than to be caught off guard.
#5 Dress Appropriately
Finally, dress appropriately and comfortably. Wear comfortable sneakers or flip-flops if you plan on doing a lot of walking and swimming. The last thing you want is to experience foot pain as you roam around the park.
Since you’re probably going to take on the attractions, bring swimwear too. You can wear these under your clothes or pack them in your bag. With a high chance of getting wet, it’s best to bring extra clothes to change into after a full day of activities.
Get In on All the Fun at the Best Waterparks in Texas
There’s no doubt that the heat in Texas can be unbearable during the warmer months of the year. Rather than suffering under the sizzling sun, a better option is to make the most of it!
One way to turn a hot summer day into something more fun and enjoyable is to visit any (or many) of the best waterparks in Texas. With so many options to choose from, you can cool off instantly and leave with unforgettable memories.
All the waterparks in Texas feature attractions for families of all ages and sizes from laid-back activities to more heart-racing rides. That being said, no matter where you decide to go, you’re sure to find something that you’ll love.
Whether you’re a resident of Texas or just dropping by, don’t forget to check out the many waterparks in the area. While you’re at it, bring the whole gang along. This will be one for the books.
Be sure to also check out our list of the best indoor water parks where you can enjoy amazing water slides and pools year round!
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