If you’re looking for a fun way to cool off this summer, visiting a water park is a great option. Luckily, there are plenty of amazing water parks near NYC that are worth checking out. Whether you’re looking for thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, or wave pools, there’s something for everyone.
First on our list is The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark, located in New York state. This water park boasts the title of being the largest indoor water park in the state, making it a great option for year-round fun. With a variety of attractions, including the 42-foot-long Jiggerty-Jaggerty slide and fun puddle ducks, this water park is perfect for families. The best time to visit is during the off-season, when crowds are smaller and lines are shorter.
Another great option is Zoom Flume Water Park, located in East Durham, NY. This water park features a variety of exciting slides, including the Gravity Gorge Zip Line, which is the largest water-park zipline in the world. With an 800-foot-long and 100-feet-high ride, this attraction is sure to get your heart racing. The best time to visit is during the summer months, when the park is fully operational and the weather is warm.
Best Water Parks near NYC in 2023
If you’re looking for an exciting way to cool off this summer, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of water parks near NYC to choose from. Here are some of the best water parks near NYC in 2023:
Splish Splash
Located in Calverton, New York, Splish Splash is one of the largest water parks in the area. With over 90 acres of attractions, there’s something for everyone. The best time to visit is during the weekdays when the park is less crowded. During peak season, weekends can be extremely busy, so plan accordingly.
Some of the most popular attractions at Splish Splash include the Alien Invasion, a thrilling ride that takes you through a dark tunnel, and Bootlegger’s Run, a water coaster that features twists, turns, and drops. There are also plenty of attractions for younger children, including Kiddie Cove and Monsoon Lagoon.
Mountain Creek Waterpark
Located in Vernon, New Jersey, Mountain Creek Waterpark is a great place to cool off on a hot day. The best time to visit is during the weekdays when the park is less crowded. During peak season, weekends can be extremely busy, so plan accordingly.
One of the most popular attractions at Mountain Creek Waterpark is the H2-Oh-No!, a slide that drops you down a steep incline at high speeds. There are also plenty of other attractions, including the Alpine Pipeline, a twisting and turning slide, and the Colorado River Rapids, a lazy river that winds its way through the park.
Hurricane Harbor
Located in Jackson, New Jersey, Hurricane Harbor is a water park that’s part of the Six Flags Great Adventure amusement park. The best time to visit is during the weekdays when the park is less crowded. During peak season, weekends can be extremely busy, so plan accordingly.
Some of the most popular attractions at Hurricane Harbor include the King Cobra, a slide that takes you through a twisting and turning course, and the Big Wave Racer, a slide that lets you race against your friends. There are also plenty of attractions for younger children, including the Tornado, a slide that takes you through a giant funnel.
Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom
Located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom is a great place to cool off on a hot day. The best time to visit is during the weekdays when the park is less crowded. During peak season, weekends can be extremely busy, so plan accordingly.
One of the most popular attractions at Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom is the Aqua Racer, a slide that lets you race against your friends. There are also plenty of other attractions, including the Wildwater Rapids, a lazy river that winds its way through the park, and the Snake Pit, a slide that takes you through a twisting and turning course.
Water Country USA
Located in Williamsburg, Virginia, Water Country USA is a water park that’s part of the Busch Gardens amusement park. The best time to visit is during the weekdays when the park is less crowded. During peak season, weekends can be extremely busy, so plan accordingly.
Some of the most popular attractions at Water Country USA include the Colossal Curl, a slide that features a giant funnel, and the Vanish Point, a slide that drops you down a steep incline at high speeds. There are also plenty of attractions for younger children, including Cow-A-Bunga, a pool that’s perfect for kids.
Affordable Water Parks near NYC
If you’re looking for a fun day out without breaking the bank, there are several affordable water parks near NYC that offer plenty of thrills and spills for the whole family. Here are three great options to consider:
Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark
Located in the scenic Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark is a popular destination for families looking to cool off on a hot summer day. The park features over 37 rides, slides, and attractions, including a wave pool, lazy river, and a variety of water slides for all ages.
The best time to visit Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the park is open daily. Admission prices vary depending on the day of the week and time of year, but you can save money by purchasing tickets online in advance.
Sesame Place
If you have young children, Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pennsylvania is a great choice for a day of water park fun. This family-friendly park features a variety of water slides, splash pads, and interactive play areas based on popular Sesame Street characters like Elmo, Big Bird, and Cookie Monster.
The best time to visit Sesame Place is during the summer months, when the park is open daily and the weather is warm. Admission prices vary depending on the day of the week and time of year, but you can save money by purchasing tickets online in advance.
Land of Make Believe
Located in Hope, New Jersey, Land of Make Believe is a classic water park that has been entertaining families for over 60 years. The park features a variety of water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, as well as dry rides like a Ferris wheel and a train ride.
The best time to visit Land of Make Believe is during the summer months, when the park is open daily and the weather is warm. Admission prices are very affordable, and you can save even more by bringing your own food and drinks into the park.
Overall, these affordable water parks near NYC offer plenty of fun and excitement for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a lazy day on the river or an adrenaline-pumping ride down a water slide, these parks have something for everyone.
Family Friendly Water Parks
If you’re looking for a fun day out with the whole family, water parks are a great option. Here are two family-friendly water parks near NYC that you might want to check out.
Great Wolf Lodge
Best time to visit: Anytime except for peak summer season
Great Wolf Lodge is a popular indoor water park resort located in the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania, about a 2-hour drive from NYC. The resort features a variety of water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a large play area for younger children. In addition to the water park, there are also other activities available, including mini-golf, an arcade, and a kids’ spa.
One of the highlights of Great Wolf Lodge is the MagiQuest game, an interactive adventure game that takes place throughout the resort. Players use a magic wand to complete quests and solve puzzles, unlocking new areas of the resort as they progress.
Kalahari Resorts and Conventions
Best time to visit: Fall or winter
Kalahari Resorts and Conventions is another indoor water park resort located in the Pocono Mountains, about a 2-hour drive from NYC. The resort features a massive indoor water park with a variety of slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a large play area for younger children. There is also an outdoor water park that is open during the summer months.
In addition to the water park, there are also other activities available, including mini-golf, an arcade, and a virtual reality experience. The resort also has a variety of dining options, including a steakhouse, a sports bar, and a coffee shop.
Overall, Great Wolf Lodge and Kalahari Resorts and Conventions are both great options for families looking for a fun day out. With a variety of water slides and other activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Adventure Water Parks
If you’re looking for a thrilling and exciting water park experience, Adventure Water Parks are the perfect choice for you. These parks offer a variety of high-speed water slides, wave pools, and other adrenaline-pumping attractions that will get your heart racing.
Morey’s Piers Beachfront Water Parks
Located in Wildwood, New Jersey, Morey’s Piers Beachfront Water Parks are a must-visit for any water park enthusiast. The parks feature over 40 water attractions, including the infamous “Cannonball” slide, which sends you hurtling down a 50-foot drop at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour.
The best time to visit Morey’s Piers Beachfront Water Parks is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. The parks are open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and they offer extended hours during peak season.
Hersheypark
Hersheypark, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is another Adventure Water Park that is sure to get your heart racing. The park features over a dozen water attractions, including the “Breakers Edge Water Coaster,” which combines a traditional roller coaster with a water slide.
The best time to visit Hersheypark is during the summer months when the park is open daily. However, if you’re looking to beat the crowds, consider visiting during the weekdays or in the early morning or late evening hours.
Overall, Adventure Water Parks are the perfect choice for anyone looking for an exciting and thrilling water park experience. With their high-speed water slides, wave pools, and other adrenaline-pumping attractions, you’re sure to have a blast.
Accessibility and Facilities
When choosing a water park to visit near NYC, accessibility and facilities are important factors to consider. Here are some of the key things to keep in mind:
Location and Transportation
Many of the water parks near NYC are located within a few hours’ drive of the city, making them easily accessible by car. However, if you don’t have access to a car, you’ll want to look for parks that are located near public transportation options. Some parks offer shuttle services from nearby train stations or airports, which can be a convenient option if you’re traveling from out of town.
Parking
If you are driving to a water park, be sure to check the parking situation ahead of time. Some parks offer free parking, while others charge a fee. Additionally, some parks have limited parking spaces, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to ensure that you can find a spot.
Accessibility
If you or someone in your group has mobility issues, be sure to check the park’s accessibility features. Many parks offer wheelchair rentals, accessible restrooms, and other accommodations to make the park experience as enjoyable as possible for all visitors.
Facilities
When it comes to facilities, different water parks offer different amenities. Some parks have on-site restaurants and snack bars, while others allow visitors to bring their own food and drinks. Some parks offer locker rentals and changing rooms, while others require visitors to bring their own towels and other necessities. Be sure to check the park’s website ahead of time to see what facilities are available and what you’ll need to bring with you.
Overall, choosing a water park near NYC with good accessibility and facilities can help ensure that you have a fun and stress-free day of splashing and sliding.
Safety Measures at Water Parks
Water parks are a great way to beat the heat during the summer months, but it’s important to remember that safety should always come first. Here are some safety measures you should keep in mind when visiting water parks near NYC:
Follow the Rules
Each water park has its own set of rules and guidelines that visitors must follow. These rules are in place to ensure the safety of all guests. Make sure you read and understand the rules before entering the park, and follow them throughout your visit.
Wear Proper Attire
Wearing the right clothing and footwear can help prevent accidents and injuries. Most water parks require guests to wear appropriate swimwear, and some may also require water shoes or sandals. Avoid wearing jewelry or accessories that could get caught on slides or other attractions.
Stay Hydrated
Spending a day at a water park can be physically demanding, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Keep an Eye on Children
If you’re visiting a water park with children, make sure you keep a close eye on them at all times. Children should always be supervised when in or around water, and should only use attractions that are appropriate for their age and skill level.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Water parks can be crowded and chaotic, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watch out for other guests, and be mindful of your own actions to avoid collisions or accidents.
By following these safety measures, you can enjoy a fun and safe day at any of the best water parks near NYC in 2023.
Planning Your Visit
Before you head out to one of the best water parks near NYC, there are a few things you should consider to make the most of your visit. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip:
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit a water park depends on a few factors, including the weather and the park’s hours of operation. Most water parks are open during the summer months, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, but some may have extended seasons or be open year-round.
If you’re looking to avoid crowds, try visiting on a weekday or early in the morning before the park gets too busy. Keep in mind that weekends and holidays are typically the busiest times, so plan accordingly.
What to Bring
When visiting a water park, it’s important to bring the right gear and supplies to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some items you should consider packing:
- Swimsuit and towel
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Water shoes or sandals
- Waterproof phone case or bag
- Cash or credit card for food and souvenirs
Some parks may have restrictions on what you can bring into the park, so be sure to check their website or call ahead to confirm.
Park Rules and Safety
Water parks can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to follow the park’s rules and guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety. Before entering the park, be sure to read and understand the park’s rules and regulations, including any height or weight restrictions for rides.
Make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day and take breaks as needed. If you have any medical conditions or concerns, be sure to speak with park staff before entering the water.
By following these tips and guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to one of the best water parks near NYC.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some out-of-state water parks near NYC?
If you are looking for water parks outside of New York state, there are several options to choose from. Some popular water parks near NYC include Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom in Pennsylvania, Six Flags Great Adventure & Hurricane Harbor in New Jersey, and Splish Splash Water Park in Long Island.
Are there any swimming theme parks in the tri-state area?
Yes, there are several swimming theme parks in the tri-state area. Some of the most popular ones include Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey, Mountain Creek Waterpark in New Jersey, and SplashDown Beach in Fishkill, NY.
What are the best water parks in New Jersey?
New Jersey is home to several popular water parks. Some of the best ones include Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags Great Adventure, Mountain Creek Waterpark, and Raging Waters at Morey’s Piers.
Where is Mountain Creek Waterpark located?
Mountain Creek Waterpark is located in Vernon, New Jersey. It is about an hour and a half drive from New York City.
What are the top outdoor water parks near Long Island?
If you’re looking for outdoor water parks near Long Island, some of the top options include Splish Splash Water Park in Calverton, NY, and Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, NJ.
What is the largest indoor water park in New York that is open year-round?
The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark is the largest indoor water park in New York state that is open year-round. It is located in the Catskills region and features over 80,000 square feet of indoor water park fun. The best time to visit is during the winter months when you can enjoy the indoor water park while it’s cold outside.