Best Virginia Waterparks to Visit for Tons of Fun
Virginia is not only rich in history and natural beauty but also a fantastic destination for water park enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for thrilling rides, relaxing lazy rivers, or family-friendly attractions, Virginia's water parks offer something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best water parks in the state to help you plan your next splashing adventure. It's almost Memorial Day weekend, and that means hot humid days ahead, making outdoor waterparks and family resort a must do for your summer of adventure.
The Best Virginia Water Parks: A Splashing Good Time Awaits
1. Water Country USA (Williamsburg, Virginia)
Water Country USA in Williamsburg, Virginia, is the state's largest water park, offering a diverse array of water attractions suitable for all ages. Key attractions include the Colossal Curl, a thrilling slide featuring funnel and wave elements, and Big Daddy Falls, a family-friendly raft ride with exciting twists and turns.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the Hubba Hubba Highway provides a fast-moving lazy river with geysers and tipping buckets, while the Surfer's Bay wave pool delivers waves up to four feet high. The park also features the Aquazoid, a dark water tunnel slide, and Vanish Point, a high-speed drop slide for adrenaline junkies.
With over 40 rides and attractions, Water Country USA ensures a fun-filled day for everyone. Amenities include various dining options, locker rentals, private cabanas, and a range of services to enhance visitor comfort and convenience. Open seasonally from late spring to early fall, the park recommends checking its official website for current operating hours and ticket information to plan your visit effectively.
Water Country Williamsburg Highlights:
Colossal Curl: A massive slide offering a thrilling combination of funnel and wave elements.
Big Daddy Falls: A family raft ride with unexpected twists, turns, and waterfalls.
Hubba Hubba Highway: A fast-moving lazy river with geysers, water jets, and tipping buckets.
Cost for Water Country Tickets:
Single-Day Ticket
Cost: $50 to $70 per person.
Ideal For: Visitors planning one or two visits during the season, those on a tight schedule, or tourists in the area for a short time.
Season Pass
Cost: $90 to $150 for Water Country USA only; $150 to $180 for the two-park pass including entrance to Busch Gardens too.
Ideal For: Frequent visitors, local residents, and families who plan to visit multiple times throughout the season. The season pass offers better value for money if you anticipate visiting more than twice.
Water Country USA is perfect for adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers/families alike, with a diverse range of attractions catering to all ages and thrill levels.
2. Great Wolf Lodge (Williamsburg)
A family vacation for the entire family to have fun is no easy feat, but Great Wolf Lodge has mastered the family-friendly resort! Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg is a 67,000-square-foot indoor water park that is an amazing attraction for families and kids of all ages. The water park at Great Wolf Lodge is what draws families in typically for the first time boasting year round fun at the massive water parks on premises!
The water park area takes up a significant portion of the renovated resort in Williamsburg, VA. Younger children, teens, and adults will have a good time at the 80,000-square-foot water park kept at a warm 84 degrees year-round! Come find out why families return over and over again and why Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg VA is named one of the best water parks in the United States.
Great Wolf Lodge provides an indoor waterpark experience, making it a great year-round destination. It's ideal for families looking for a comprehensive resort experience.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park Highlights:
Howlin’ Tornado: A thrilling six-story funnel slide. This is one of those huge water slides your family will be talking about long after you check out!
River Canyon Run: A family raft ride that twists and turns.
Fort Mackenzie: A multi-level interactive water treehouse with slides and water features
Wave Rider is so much fun for older children to try their balance
Treehouse Water interactive play - so many fun features and different elements for the entire family.
Why Visit Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VA:
With its indoor park setting, Great Wolf Lodge offers a controlled environment that's perfect regardless of the weather. The resort also includes a variety of other family activities, ensuring a fun-filled stay.
Feel free to peruse my Great Wolf Lodge highlight icon on instagram with tons of videos and photos for more in depth review of Great Wolf Lodge as well.
Water Park Review: Great Wolf Lodge VA Great Wolf Lodge Indoor Water Park. The Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg Resort has so much to offer families and the indoor water park area is a huge draw for many visitors.
Ultimate Family Review Great Wolf Lodge Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg is a 67,000-square-foot indoor water park that is an amazing attraction for families and kids of all ages. Your family will spend a TON of time at the Great Wolf Lodge Indoor Water Park, so read my review here to have all of the details before you go. Another portion of Great Wolf Lodge that my children absolutely loved was Great Wolf Lodge Family MagiQuest. MagiQuest helps you fully immerse yourself in Vellara, the realm of imagination, as you help the Guardians to protect the Realm Portals.
Cost for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, VA
Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia, offers a variety of accommodations and packages, which can vary in price depending on the time of year, day of the week, and availability. Here's a general overview of the costs you can expect:
Accommodations
Standard Suites
Pricing: Typically ranges from $200 to $400 per night.
Description: Includes amenities like two queen beds, a sofa sleeper, and a full bathroom. Some suites may also include themed decorations.
Themed Suites
Pricing: Typically ranges from $250 to $450 per night.
Description: Includes fun themes such as the Wolf Den or KidCabin, with separate sleeping areas for kids featuring bunk beds and themed decor.
Premium Suites
Pricing: Typically ranges from $300 to $600 per night.
Description: Larger suites that can accommodate bigger families or groups, with features such as separate bedrooms, lofts, and additional bathrooms.
Day Passes (Water Park Only)
Pricing: Typically ranges from $50 to $100 per person.
Details: Day passes provide access to the indoor water park and are available to non-resort guests. Pricing can vary based on the date and availability.
Get all of the details on Great Wolf Lodge day passes here.
Packages and Special Offers
Great Wolf Lodge frequently offers special packages and discounts, which can provide additional savings or added value. Read this post to find out simple ways to save money at Great Wolf Lodge.
3. Massanutten Resort (McGaheysville, Virginia)
Massanutten Resort is a breathtaking property in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Massanutten Resort is a great family destination to Massanutten indoor waterpark located on resort property and is packed with non-stop thrills!
If you are thinking about planning a visit to Massanutten Resort in VA, be sure to add tickets to the Massanutten Indoor water park to your next trip for TONS of water park fun.
Massanutten Resort features both an indoor and outdoor water park, providing a versatile experience. Located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, it combines water fun with stunning natural scenery.
Massanutten Resort’s brand-new outdoor water park water slides - MASS Mayhem, Peak Plunge, or Valley Vortex. Race your friends and family down the 296-feet mat racer or just relax in the wave pool as three-foot waves keep you cool all day long. The Outdoor WaterPark at Massanutten Resort is open Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. The Massanutten Outdoor WaterPark has attractions for the younger kids up to even an adult looking for a thrill-seeking ride. Grab a bite to eat or grab a beautiful relaxing spot to sit down and enjoy the sunshine of the Massanutten Resort outdoor waterpark.
Highlights:
Massanutten Meltdown: A large play structure with slides, waterfalls, and a giant tipping bucket.
Peak Splash: A thrilling water coaster that combines the excitement of a roller coaster with a water slide.
Blue Ridge Rapids: A lazy river perfect for relaxing while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Multiple tube slides
Why Visit:
Nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Massanutten Resort makes a great place to visit if your family loves outdoor activities. Massanutten Resort is a 6,000 acre all season resort located in the heart of the Shenandoah valley. Massanutten Resort gets a lot of love for their winter season and winter months snow sports but Massanutten Resort is a really fun spring, summer, and fall resort as well!
The Massanutten Resort area is home to so many fun things for kids of all ages to enjoy during weekend getaways or longer visits to Massanutten Resort. The dual indoor-outdoor setup makes Massanutten Resort an attractive option throughout the year. It’s an excellent choice for families looking to blend water park fun with outdoor activities like hiking and golfing.
Cost of Massanutten Water Park:
The cost of visiting Massanutten WaterPark can vary based on the type of admission and any additional services or rentals you choose. For a single-day visit, adults can expect to pay between $49 and $69, with discounts available for children and seniors. Multi-day passes and combination tickets offer savings for extended stays. Additional costs for amenities like cabanas, lockers, and dining should also be considered when planning your visit. Booking in advance and looking out for special promotions or discounts can help manage costs and ensure a fun and memorable experience at Massanutten WaterPark.
4. SplashDown Waterpark (Manassas, Virginia)
SplashDown Waterpark in Manassas, Virginia, offers a community-focused, affordable water park experience. It’s an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy a sunny day filled with water fun without breaking the bank. The park is well-maintained and features a variety of attractions suitable for all ages, ensuring a memorable outing for everyone.
Highlights
Cannonball Slides: Twin four-story slides that provide a fast and exhilarating ride. Perfect for thrill-seekers looking for a rush of excitement.
Lazy River A relaxing float around the park with gentle currents that allow guests to unwind as they drift along.
Big Kahuna Beach -A large wave pool with a zero-depth entry, making it accessible for guests of all ages and abilities.
Tropical Twister A winding water slide that twists and turns before splashing into the pool below.
Children’s Play Area A dedicated area with smaller slides, giant splash pad, and interactive water features designed specifically for younger children.
Lily Pad Walk: An obstacle course over water where guests can test their balance and agility.
Cost
Visiting SplashDown Waterpark in Manassas offers a budget-friendly day of fun for families and individuals. General admission prices are $16.25 for adults (ages 12-59) and $13.25 for both children (ages 2-11) and seniors (ages 60+), with children under 2 entering for free. For those visiting later in the day, twilight admission after 4 PM is available at a reduced rate of $12.25. Season passes provide great value for frequent visitors, with individual passes priced at $110 and family passes (for up to four members) at $320, with additional family members added for $75 each.
Groups also enjoy discounted rates, with tickets priced at $12.25 per person for groups of 15-99 and $11.25 per person for groups of 100 or more, though advance booking is required. Additional amenities include cabana rentals starting at $50 per day, small locker rentals at $6, and large lockers at $8. For convenience, towel rentals are available at $2 each, and parking is free. Dining options within the park, such as Coconut Cove Café, offer meals and snacks typically ranging from $5 to $15 per person, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable visit.
SplashDown Waterpark in Manassas provides an affordable and enjoyable water park experience perfect for families and groups. With its variety of attractions, from thrilling slides to relaxing lazy rivers and wave pools, it caters to all ages and interests. The reasonable pricing, combined with seasonal and group discounts, makes it an accessible option for a fun-filled day during the summer months.
SplashDown Waterpark is known for its family-friendly environment and budget-friendly prices. It’s a fantastic option for a day trip during the summer months, offering a variety of attractions that cater to both thrill-seekers and those looking to relax. The park's community-focused approach ensures a welcoming atmosphere where families can create lasting memories together.
5. Ocean Breeze Waterpark (Virginia Beach)
Ocean Breeze Waterpark is a popular family-friendly water park located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Just a short drive from the oceanfront, this tropical-themed park spans over 30 acres and offers a wide variety of attractions and amenities designed to provide fun and excitement for visitors of all ages. With its extensive array of water slides, wave pools, and kid-friendly areas, Ocean Breeze Waterpark is a perfect destination for a summer outing.
Highlights:
Neptune’s Revenge: A thrilling slide complex with multiple high-speed slides.
Runaway Bay: Virginia’s largest wave pool, offering up to four-foot waves.
Adventure River: A lazy river with fun water features and gentle waves.
Hook’s Lagoon A multi-level interactive water play area with slides, water cannons, and a giant dumping bucket.Designed for younger children to splash around and have fun.
The Hurricane A four-person raft ride that sends riders down a series of twists and turns.Great for families or groups looking to enjoy a ride together.
Paradise Pipeline: A collection of four unique water slides offering varying levels of thrill.Provides a mix of high-speed excitement and moderate slides for different preferences.
The park features various amenities such as dining options like Tiki Treats Café and Sharky’s Grill, private cabana rentals (ranging from $100 to $250 per day), and locker rentals ($10 for small, $15 for large). General admission costs $39.99 for adults, $29.99 for children (ages 3-9) and seniors, with free entry for kids under 2. Season passes are available for $89.99 individually or $299.99 for families up to four members, with group rates starting at $35.99 per person for groups of 15 or more. The park also offers free parking, towel rentals, and a gift shop. Operating from late May to early September, Ocean Breeze Waterpark provides a fun-filled, budget-friendly outing for all ages.
6. Soak City Water Park (Doswell, Virginia)
Soak City is Kings Dominion's 20-acre waterpark packed with extreme water slides, interactive splash pad areas,45-foot multi-level play structure, lazy river, massive wave pools and live entertainment. Beat the hot days in Virginia with unique attractions and lots of fun waiting for you and your family at Kings Dominion & Soak city!
Amazing fun awaits your family whether you are looking forward to the new slide complex, relaxing in the lounge chairs, enjoying some delicious food and drinks, or splashing in the kids area, you and your family will have a splashtastic blast in the Soak City 20-acre water park.
Highlights:
Tidal Wave Bay: A massive wave pool that mimics the ocean’s waves.
Pipeline Peak: A thrilling slide complex with both enclosed and open-air slides.
Zoom Flume: A family raft ride that’s perfect for groups.
Lazy River A relaxing, gentle river that winds around the park. Ideal for a leisurely float, allowing guests to unwind and enjoy the scenery.
Splash Island A multi-level water play structure with slides, water cannons, and a giant tipping bucket. Designed for younger visitors, providing a safe and fun area to explore and play.
Paradise Plunge: A fast-paced body slide that features a steep drop. Offers a thrilling experience for those seeking a quick, heart-pounding ride.
Tiki Twirl: A winding tube slide that takes riders through a series of twists and turns.Fun for all ages, providing an exciting yet manageable ride.
Soak City Water Park provides a comprehensive and enjoyable water park experience with a variety of attractions like the thrilling Pipeline Peak, the family-friendly Zoom Flume, and the relaxing Lazy River. Admission costs are reasonable, with general tickets priced at $45 for adults and $35 for children and seniors. Season passes and group rates offer additional savings for frequent visitors and larger parties. With ample dining options, cabana and locker rentals, and a focus on family-friendly fun, Soak City Water Park is an ideal summer destination for visitors of all ages.
If you are looking for a detailed review of Kings Dominion’s theme park and new additions, read my family review for more information! Plan on visiting Planet Snoopy while you are at Kings Dominion for young children while at the cedar fair entertainment company theme park and do not miss Jungle x-pedition for adults and older children while in the theme park as well! You can read more about the dining plans at Kings Dominion to find the best fit for your family.
7. Pirate’s Cove Waterpark (Lorton)
Located within Pohick Bay Regional Park, Pirate’s Cove Waterpark offers a charming, pirate-themed aquatic experience. It’s perfect for families with young children and is part of the Nova parks attractions.
Highlights:
Pirate’s Plank: A large pirate-themed play structure with slides, water cannons, and a giant tipping bucket.
Buccaneer Beach: A sandy play area with interactive water features.
Lagoon: A large swimming pool with plenty of space to splash and play.
Why Visit:
Pirate’s Cove Waterpark provides a whimsical and family-friendly environment. Its manageable size and engaging theme make it a delightful spot for younger kids.
8. Signal Bay Waterpark (Manassas Park)
Signal Bay Waterpark, located in Signal Hill Park, is a smaller community water park that’s ideal for families looking for a relaxed and budget-friendly outing.
Highlights:
Lazy River: A gentle and winding river perfect for a leisurely float.
Children’s Splash Pad: An interactive play area with water features and small slides.
Activity Pool: A large pool area with various water play activities.
Why Visit:
Signal Bay Waterpark offers a low-key and affordable option for families. Its focus on younger children makes it an excellent choice for a simple and stress-free day out.
9. Great Waves Waterpark (Alexandria)
Great Waves Waterpark, located within Cameron Run Regional Park, offers a mix of thrilling slides and family-friendly attractions. It’s a great spot for a day of fun in the sun.
Highlights:
Thunder Falls: A pair of high-speed slides that provide a thrilling descent.
Riptide: A large wave pool that generates fun waves for all ages.
Splash Pad: A designated area for younger children with interactive water features and smaller slides.
Why Visit:
Great Waves Waterpark provides a well-rounded experience with attractions suitable for all ages. Its location within a larger park also means you can enjoy other outdoor activities like mini-golf and batting cages.
10. Atlantis Waterpark (Centreville)
Atlantis Waterpark, nestled in Bull Run Regional Park, offers a fun and affordable water park experience with a Greek mythology theme in Northern Virginia.
Highlights:
Poseidon’s Revenge: A thrilling slide with sharp turns and drops.
Neptune’s Lagoon: A large pool area with plenty of space to swim and play.
Kid’s Island: A play area designed for younger children, featuring mini-slides and interactive water elements.
Why Visit:
Atlantis Waterpark’s charming theme and family-friendly atmosphere make it a great choice for a day trip. The park’s reasonable prices and variety of attractions cater to visitors of all ages.
11. Volcano Island Waterpark (Sterling)
Volcano Island Waterpark, located within Algonkian Regional Park, offers a tropical-themed water park experience. It’s perfect for families looking for a unique and exciting day out.
Highlights:
Paradise Playhouse: A large play structure with slides, water cannons, and a giant tipping bucket.
Lava Flow: A thrilling water slide that twists and turns.
The Lagoon: A large pool with plenty of space for swimming and playing.
Why Visit:
Volcano Island Waterpark provides a fun and immersive tropical theme that adds an extra layer of excitement to your visit. Its variety of attractions make it suitable for all ages, ensuring a fun-filled day for the whole family.
These water parks in Virginia feature wave pools, each offering unique experiences that cater to different preferences and ages. Whether you're seeking big waves for thrilling rides or gentle waves for family fun, these parks provide a variety of wave pool options to enhance your water park adventure.
Virginia’s water parks offer a wide range of experiences, from adrenaline-pumping rides to relaxing lazy rivers. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a day trip, or a weekend getaway, these water parks provide plenty of opportunities to cool off and have fun. So pack your swimsuits and sunscreen, and get ready to make a splash in Virginia!