Best Seasonal Water Parks in the US

Top Seasonal Water Parks in the US You Can't Miss

As the temperature starts rising, there’s no better way to cool off than by visiting one of the best seasonal water parks across the United States. I've had my fair share of thrilling adventures in these parks, and each season brings new opportunities to experience water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. Whether you're a family looking for a fun day out or someone seeking an adrenaline-packed water experience, the U.S. has plenty of options. In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the best seasonal water parks that you must visit, and I’ll share my personal experiences along the way.

1. Schlitterbahn Waterpark – New Braunfels, Texas

Located in New Braunfels, Texas, Schlitterbahn is one of the most famous water parks in the country, known for its unique and thrilling attractions. This park has it all – from thrilling water slides that twist and turn to relaxing lazy rivers. I vividly remember my first trip here, where I braved the infamous "Master Blaster," a water roller coaster that sends you speeding uphill before plunging you down a series of exciting twists. If you're into extreme water rides, Schlitterbahn’s water coasters are a must-try!

Schlitterbahn also offers a variety of activities for all ages. Younger kids will love the smaller water play areas, while the more adventurous visitors can take on the towering slides. During peak season, the park gets crowded, but it’s still one of the best seasonal parks to visit due to its extensive range of activities and attractions.

2. Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon – Orlando, Florida

As a Disney fan, I’ve visited Typhoon Lagoon several times, and it never fails to impress. This seasonal water park is a tropical paradise in the middle of Orlando’s theme park madness. The park’s theme is based on a mysterious typhoon that wreaked havoc on a tropical island, and you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a vibrant, stormy world full of water rides and aquatic fun.

The “Miss Tilly” boat, perched atop the park’s iconic mountain, blasts a towering wave every 90 seconds, creating an experience like no other. I personally enjoyed spending hours in the wave pool, which produces some of the largest waves I’ve encountered. For those looking for something less intense, the lazy river and water play areas provide a more relaxing way to enjoy the park.

3. Aquatica – San Antonio, Texas

Aquatica is another fantastic seasonal water park located in San Antonio, Texas. What sets this park apart from others is its mix of relaxation and thrill. I remember spending the first part of the day soaking up the sun in one of Aquatica’s private cabanas, then transitioning to the intense waterslides in the afternoon.

The park's most unique attraction is “Dolphin Plunge,” a waterslide that sends you through a tunnel submerged in a pool of dolphins. It’s an experience unlike any other, and as I whizzed through the tunnel, I felt like I was part of an underwater world. The park also features a wide variety of family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal spot for all ages to have fun and cool off.

4. Knott’s Soak City – Buena Park, California

If you're in Southern California and want to experience a top-tier water park, Knott’s Soak City is the place to be. This seasonal water park, part of the larger Knott’s Berry Farm, is packed with exciting water attractions. One of my favorite parts of visiting Soak City is the vast array of water slides, ranging from family-friendly rides to those designed for thrill-seekers like me.

One standout feature of Knott’s Soak City is the “Shore Break,” a high-speed, multi-slide tower that offers thrills at every turn. For those who prefer to relax, the lazy river offers a calm, scenic route around the park, perfect for unwinding after an exciting slide. I found that arriving early is key to enjoying the park’s attractions without long waits, especially during peak season.

5. Water Country USA – Williamsburg, Virginia

Water Country USA in Williamsburg is another incredible seasonal water park that provides a wide range of water attractions. What makes this park stand out is its combination of thrilling rides and laid-back experiences. I enjoyed spending a full day here, alternating between high-speed water slides and leisurely floating down the lazy river. The park is also known for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great choice if you're traveling with children.

One of my favorite rides at Water Country USA is “Colossal Curl,” a massive water slide that launches you into the air before sending you down a thrilling plunge. For families, there are plenty of water play areas and interactive attractions that keep kids entertained for hours. The park also has a great selection of food options, which is always a plus after a long day of water adventures!

6. Hurricane Harbor – Arlington, Texas

Hurricane Harbor, located in Arlington, Texas, is another seasonal water park that offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adrenaline-pumping thrills. This Six Flags park boasts a wide variety of water attractions, and what I love most is its unique wave pool, which simulates ocean-like waves that can be as calm or as intense as you want them to be. The wave pool is perfect for people of all ages and skill levels, offering a fun and safe environment for everyone.

For thrill-seekers, there are a series of high-speed slides that you can’t miss. One of the most intense rides at Hurricane Harbor is “The Twister,” a funnel-shaped slide that spins you around before dropping you into a splash pool. After trying it, I couldn’t get enough! The park also has an extensive selection of areas for kids, making it a great family-friendly destination during peak season.

7. Wild Rivers – Irvine, California

For a more laid-back water park experience, Wild Rivers in Irvine, California, is the perfect destination. Though smaller than some of the other parks, Wild Rivers offers a variety of relaxing attractions such as lazy rivers, wave pools, and splash areas that make it an ideal spot for families with young children. I particularly enjoyed the slower pace here, which made it a great choice for those looking to escape the crowds without compromising on fun.

The park also features several thrilling water slides for those looking for a bit more excitement. Whether you're floating down the river or zooming down the slides, Wild Rivers offers a charming and enjoyable water park experience perfect for a relaxing day out in California’s sunny weather.

8. Raging Waters – San Dimas, California

Raging Waters in San Dimas is one of California’s largest water parks, and it’s a favorite destination for many. I’ve spent countless hours here during the summer months, sliding down water coasters, floating down lazy rivers, and battling giant wave pools. The park’s standout feature is its “King Cobra,” a thrilling waterslide that sends riders plummeting through a giant funnel. It’s a rush of excitement and adrenaline that I’ve never tired of.

What I appreciate most about Raging Waters is its ability to cater to every type of water park goer, from those looking for relaxation to those seeking the ultimate thrill. Whether you're spending your day in the wave pool or taking on the slides, Raging Waters provides something for everyone, making it a must-visit water park in the U.S. during the peak season.

Each of these seasonal water parks offers something special, whether it’s heart-pounding slides, relaxing lazy rivers, or family-friendly fun. No matter which one you choose to visit, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience. Looking for more information or recommendations on the best water parks? Be sure to check out our website for the most suitable water parks and services to make your summer unforgettable!