If you’re planning a summer trip to Washington, DC, you must add visiting some amazing waterparks to your itinerary. It’s a great way to beat the heat and enjoy exploring this historic city. With so many of the best waterparks in Washington, DC, it can be overwhelming to choose the best ones. From thrilling slides to lazy rivers, there is something for everyone at these top-rated waterparks.
14th and Girard Street Spray Fountains
Located in the Columbia Heights neighborhood, this spray fountain is a local favorite for kids. It’s free to visit and offers a refreshing escape on hot summer days. The fountains are in a small park with many colorful spray nozzles that shoot water from the ground. It’s perfect for children to splash around and cool off after a day of sightseeing.
Hersheypark
Not technically located in Washington DC, but just a short drive away in Hershey, Pennsylvania, lies one of the most famous waterparks in the area. Hersheypark is a paradise for kids and adults alike, with over 70 attractions, including thrilling water rides, slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. It’s also home to the world’s longest mat racing slide – Breakers Edge℠ Water Coaster. After spending an adventurous day at the park, don’t forget to indulge in some delicious Hershey’s chocolate treats.
Pirate’s Cove Waterpark
Head to Lorton, Virginia, and experience the Caribbean vibes at Pirate’s Cove Waterpark. This pirate-themed waterpark features a giant play structure with slides, sprays, and interactive water elements. Kids can also enjoy floating along the lazy river or braving the waves in the lagoon pool. The park also offers a variety of food options and private cabanas for rent to make your day even more enjoyable.
Splash Park & Mini Golf
Located in Alexandria, Virginia, Splash Park & Mini Golf is a great option for families with kids. The waterpark features three slides, a lazy river, and a splash pad area that’s perfect for younger children. After cooling off in the water, head to the mini golf course and challenge your family or friends to a round of 18 holes. The park also has a food court with various options for lunch or snacks.
Ocean Dunes Waterpark
This water park in Arlington, Virginia, boasts an impressive wave pool that simulates ocean waves up to six feet high. It’s perfect for a beach-like experience without leaving the city. The park also has three water slides, a splash pad, and a lazy river for people of all ages to enjoy. Food options are available within the park for you to refuel after your water adventures.
City of Gaithersburg Water Park at Bohrer Park
Located in Maryland, this waterpark is great for a family day out. The park has two zero-depth entry pools, waterslides, and a sandy beach for ultimate relaxation. Kids will also love the interactive water playground, with sprays, fountains, and mini slides. After spending time in the water, check out Bohrer Park’s other attractions, including a skatepark, miniature train ride, and an indoor swimming pool.
Volcano Island Waterpark
Ready for an adventure? Head to Volcano Island Waterpark in Sterling, Virginia. The park features a giant volcano-themed play structure with slides, sprays, and waterfalls. It also has a lazy river, wave pool, and tube slides – one of which is completely enclosed and pitch black for an added thrill! There are plenty of food options available at the park, including a BBQ grill where you can get anything from burgers to shaved ice.
Atlantis Waterpark Bull Run
Located in Centreville, Virginia, this waterpark is perfect for those looking for some adrenaline-pumping rides. The park has two high-speed slides – one of which is over 170 feet long – and multiple twisty-turny body slides. It also has a wave pool, lazy river, and splash pad for some more laid-back fun. The park also has shaded picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy your own food or purchase something from the snack bar.
Water Country USA
Another waterpark located just outside of Washington DC in Williamsburg, Virginia, is Water Country USA. It’s a 43-acre park that boasts thrilling water rides, slides, and attractions. The park’s most popular attraction is Colossal Curl℠ – a massive funnel slide that will take you on a wild ride. It also has a lazy river, a wave pool, and splash areas for younger children. And don’t forget to catch the live entertainment shows throughout the day.
Six Flags America’s Hurricane Harbor
If you’re a thrill-seeker, Six Flags America’s Hurricane Harbor is the place for you. Located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, this waterpark has over 16 slides and attractions, including Brain Drain – a seven-story drop slide that will leave you breathless. It also has a wave pool, lazy river, and interactive play area for kids. Multiple food options are available inside the park, including a food court with various cuisines.
Kings Dominion
Kings Dominion is a 400-acre amusement park located in Doswell, Virginia. The waterpark features over 20 attractions, including high-speed slides, wave pools, and raft rides. One of its most popular rides is Tornado – a six-story funnel slide spinning you around before dropping you into a splash pool. The park also has multiple food options and offers cabanas for rent to make your visit even more comfortable.
Georgetown Waterfront Park
Located on the banks of the Potomac River, Georgetown Waterfront Park offers a picturesque setting for a day of fun in the sun. This urban oasis features a splash fountain where children can cool off while playing among the cascading water jets. The park also has plenty of grassy areas for picnics and relaxation, as well as a scenic boardwalk perfect for strolling along the river.
Splashdown Waterpark
Get ready for some wild rides at Splashdown Waterpark! This family-friendly park features exciting slides like the Black Hole, which takes you on a thrilling, pitch-black journey, and the Corkscrew, a twisting slide that will leave you breathless. There’s also a lazy river and a wave pool for those looking for some more gentle water activities. With over 20 attractions to choose from, Splashdown is a must-visit destination for any waterpark lover.
Great Waves Waterpark
Located inside Cameron Run Regional Park, Great Waves Waterpark is a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers. This waterpark features a massive wave pool, multiple slides, and a children’s play area complete with mini slides and fountains. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, check out the Turbo Twister slide, where riders can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour!
Great Wolf Lodge America
For a unique waterpark experience, head to Great Wolf Lodge America. This indoor waterpark is part of a larger resort and offers year-round fun for the whole family. From thrilling rides like the Howlin’ Tornado to relaxing options like the outdoor hot tubs, there’s something for every age and interest. Plus, with on-site dining and accommodations, you can make a weekend out of your waterpark adventure.
Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole
Located in Reston’s Lake Fairfax Park, Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole is an old-fashioned waterpark with a lazy river, slides, and more. The park’s theme is based on the Old West, with attractions like Rattlesnake River and Pete’s Peak, a giant water slide that takes you through twists and turns before splashing into the lazy river. This unique park is sure to provide hours of entertainment for the whole family.
Cub Run RECenter Aquatics
For those looking for a more low-key water experience, head to Cub Run RECenter Aquatics. This indoor facility offers a leisure pool with fountains and slides, as well as a lap pool and therapy pool. The center also offers swim lessons and water aerobics classes, making it a great spot for both fun and fitness.
Palisades Playground and Splash Park
If you’re looking for a free waterpark experience, check out Palisades Playground and Splash Park. This neighborhood park features a splash pad with fountains and water jets, perfect for keeping kids cool on a hot day. Plus, the park has playground equipment and shaded picnic areas, making it a great spot for families to spend an afternoon.
Petworth Spray Park
Another free option for waterpark fun is Petworth Spray Park. This urban oasis features multiple spray fountains and interactive structures that will keep children entertained for hours. With plenty of seating and shaded areas, it’s a great spot to relax while the little ones cool off.
Potomac Avenue Splash Pad
Located in Capitol Hill, Potomac Avenue Splash Pad is another great option for free water fun in DC. The splash pad has multiple water features, including a large bucket that dumps water onto eager participants below. There are also nearby playgrounds and sports fields for added entertainment.
More Spray Parks in Washington
If you’re still craving more water fun, there are several other spray parks scattered throughout Washington. Some notable ones include Yards Park, which has a popular wading pool and scenic river views, and Canal Park, which features an interactive water fountain and plenty of seating for picnics.
With so many amazing waterparks in Washington, DC, and the surrounding areas, it can be hard to choose just one. Each park offers its own unique features and attractions, making it the perfect destination for tourists looking to cool off and have some fun. So, whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a family with young kids, or just want to relax by the water, these waterparks have something for everyone.
