Top 20 Water Parks in the United States
Across the United States, you’ll find some of the most impressive water parks located particularly in warmer states like Florida and Texas. The Orlando parks from Disney and Universal are among the most popular, drawing visitors from all over. Other notable aquatic attractions come from renowned companies such as United Parks & Resorts and Six Flags Entertainment Corporation.
1. Typhoon Lagoon – Orlando, Florida
Typhoon Lagoon is situated at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista. It is one of two water parks at the resort, having opened in 1989 and inspired by a tropical paradise theme. The park features attractions like ‘Crush ‘n’ Gusher’, ‘Bay Slides’, and ‘Storm Slides’, along with the largest wave pool in North America and a lazy river named ‘Castaway Creek’. After a lengthy closure due to Covid-19, Typhoon Lagoon reopened in January 2022 with new offerings, including a shipwreck-themed food outlet.
In April 2025, both of Disney’s water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, will open for the season simultaneously for the first time since 2019. The park saw an impressive attendance of 1,898,000 in 2023.
2. Universal Volcano Bay – Orlando, Florida
Opened in 2017, Universal Orlando’s Volcano Bay replaced the former Wet ‘n Wild on International Drive. This expansive water park spans 25 acres and features over 30 attractions, including body slides, raft rides, and a hydro-magnetic waterslide coaster. The park aims to provide guests with a unique experience, combining entertainment and innovative technology.
In February 2025, Volcano Bay will host its first-ever nighttime event, featuring live performances and exclusive access to rides. The park’s attendance for 2023 was recorded at 1,800,000.
3. Aquatica – Orlando, Florida
Owned by United Parks & Resorts, Aquatica Orlando opened its doors in 2008. It features Florida’s first duelling water slide, Riptide Race, which allows riders to race side by side. The park also introduced Tassie’s Underwater Twist in 2024, an immersive waterslide that takes riders through a recreation of Australia’s Shark Bay seagrass meadow. Aquatica’s attendance in 2023 reached 1,437,000.
4. Schlitterbahn – New Braunfels, Texas
Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels offers a variety of river rides, pools, and waterslides across its 51 attractions. This flagship water park is open year-round and features a range of accommodations, including hotel rooms and cabins. In April 2024, the park will unveil Schatze’s Storybrook Park, a children’s area featuring the world’s first water coaster for kids.
In 2023, the park welcomed 933,000 visitors.
5. Water Country USA – Williamsburg, Virginia
Located in Williamsburg, Virginia, Water Country USA is the largest family water park in the state, boasting over 40 attractions. Opened in 1984, it features rides like the Vanish Point drop slide and the Aquazoid raft ride. The park’s attendance in 2023 was 736,000.
6. Aquatica – San Antonio, Texas
Aquatica San Antonio offers a unique experience with animal encounters and a variety of attractions, including the tallest drop slide in Texas. Opened in 2012, the park features over 42,000 square feet of beaches and thrilling waterslides. In 2024, plans for expansion include a new themed area at SeaWorld San Antonio. The park’s attendance for 2023 was 650,000.
7. Adventure Island – Tampa, Florida
Another gem in the United Parks & Resorts portfolio, Adventure Island opened in 1980 and features attractions like the Rapids Racer and Wahoo Remix. The park also introduced a new interactive splash zone called ‘Shaka-Laka Shores’ in 2023. Attendance for the park in 2023 was 640,000.
8. Knott’s Soak City – Buena Park, California
Knott’s Soak City is adjacent to Knott’s Berry Farm and offers a variety of attractions for all ages. The park features 23 slides, including the family raft ride, The Wedge, and a massive wave pool. In 2023, the park saw an attendance of 580,000.
9. Schlitterbahn – Galveston, Texas
Opened in 2006, Schlitterbahn Galveston features over 33 attractions, including the award-winning Massiv water coaster. The park has three sections, each offering unique aquatic experiences. In 2023, it welcomed 539,000 visitors.
10. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor – Arlington, Texas
Hurricane Harbor in Arlington is home to more than 40 rides and attractions across 47 acres. The park features a variety of areas for children and thrill-seekers alike. In 2024, it will undergo a significant expansion, introducing new attractions and amenities. The park’s attendance in 2023 was 476,000.
11. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor New Jersey – Jackson, New Jersey
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in Jackson offers a million-gallon wave pool and one of the longest lazy rivers in the world. The park’s 2023 attendance was 450,000.
12. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix – Phoenix, Arizona
As the largest theme park in Arizona, Hurricane Harbor Phoenix features a wave pool and family-friendly play areas. The park debuted a new expansion in 2021, enhancing its offerings. Attendance for 2023 was 450,000.
13. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles – Valencia, California
Covering 25 acres, Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles offers attractions for all ages, including thrilling rides and a lazy river. The park is set for a major transformation in 2025, with new amenities and attractions. The attendance for 2023 was 440,000.
14. Zoombezi Bay – Powell, Ohio
Zoombezi Bay is a water park owned by the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, featuring a variety of attractions, including Ohio’s only water coaster. The park’s attendance in 2023 was 411,000.
15. Cedar Point Shores – Sandusky, Ohio
Located next to Cedar Point amusement park, Cedar Point Shores offers attractions for all ages, including a wave pool and lazy river. The park’s attendance in 2023 was 400,000.
16. Dollywood’s Splash Country – Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Dollywood’s Splash Country is a 35-acre aquatic attraction featuring a variety of slides and pools. The park’s attendance in 2023 was 379,000.
17. Six Flags White Water Atlanta – Marietta, Georgia
Six Flags White Water Atlanta offers a range of attractions for visitors, making it a popular destination for families. The park’s attendance in 2023 was notable, showcasing its appeal.
