The 13 Best Waterparks in Ohio for Summer Fun
Ohio is home to some of the best outdoor waterparks in the United States. With its hot and humid summer weather, Ohioans know how to stay cool and have fun at the same time. Families looking for a fun-filled summer vacation can find a wide range of water parks in Ohio that offer everything from thrilling water slides to lazy rivers.
What’s the best water park in Ohio?
The best outdoor water park in Ohio is Cedar Point Shores in Sandusky. Kalahari Resort has a great indoor water park, and Zoombezi Bay at the Columbus Zoo has a water park and other attractions for your family to enjoy.
From the heart of Cleveland to the rolling hills of southern Ohio, there are plenty of options for those seeking a fun day in the sun. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing way to cool off on a hot summer day or an adrenaline-pumping ride down a water slide, Ohio has something for everyone. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which water park to visit, but this guide will help you narrow down the choices and find the best outdoor waterparks in Ohio for your family.
Top Waterparks in Ohio
Cedar Point Shores
Cedar Point Shores is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun-filled day in the sun. Not only is it one of the best water parks in Ohio, it’s one of our picks for the best water parks in the US!
Located in Sandusky, Ohio, this waterpark boasts a variety of attractions for all ages. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the heart-pumping Point Plummet, a six-story-tall water slide that sends riders down at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour. For those looking for a more relaxing experience, the Cedar Creek lazy river is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun.
Kalahari Resort
Kalahari Resort in Sandusky, Ohio is the largest indoor waterpark in the state, but it also has an impressive outdoor waterpark. The park features a wave pool, a lazy river, and a variety of water slides. The park also has a swim-up bar for adults to enjoy a refreshing beverage while soaking up the sun.
Zoombezi Bay at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a great destination for families with kids of all ages. In addition to its animal exhibits and attractions, the zoo also has a waterpark called Zoombezi Bay.
Zoombezi Bay features a large wave pool, a lazy river, and a variety of water slides for all ages. Families with younger children will enjoy the Baboon Lagoon, which has smaller slides and splash areas.
The park also has a variety of dining options, including a pizza place and a BBQ joint.
| Water Park | Location | Attractions | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Point Shores | Sandusky | Point Plummet, Cedar Creek lazy river | Outdoor water park |
| Kalahari Resort | Sandusky | Wave pool, lazy river, water slides, swim-up bar | Largest indoor water park in Ohio |
| Zoombezi Bay | Columbus | Wave pool, lazy river, water slides, Baboon Lagoon | Located at Columbus Zoo and Aquarium |
Have you splashed your way through all the parks in Ohio? Consider checking out nearby Wisconsin water parks. Did you know Wisconsin Dells is the world capital of water parks? Definitely worth checking out!
Other Notable Waterparks in Ohio
Adventure Reef Water Park
Adventure Reef Water Park is located in Kettering, Ohio, and it has something for everyone. One of the unique attractions at this waterpark is the “Adventure River,” which is a lazy river that takes you through waterfalls and geysers. There is also a large wave pool, a splash pad for younger children, and several water slides.
Soak City at Kings Island
Soak City, located in Mason, Ohio, is a popular waterpark that offers a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages.
The park features more than 50 water activities, including water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. Soak City has a family-friendly atmosphere, with plenty of shaded areas and picnic tables for visitors to relax and enjoy the park’s amenities.
The park is open from May to September, and admission prices vary depending on the day and time of year.
Great Wolf Lodge
Great Wolf Lodge is a family-friendly resort located in Mason, Ohio, that features an indoor waterpark. The park offers a variety of water attractions, including water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.
Great Wolf Lodge also has other amenities, such as restaurants, arcades, and spas. The park is open year-round, and admission is included with a stay at the resort.
If resort-life is your thing, considering branching out for your next vacation and checking out some of Jamaica’s best water park resorts!
Coney Island Park
Coney Island Park is a historic amusement park located in Cincinnati, Ohio. The park’s Sunlite Water Adventure waterpark features a variety of attractions, including a wave pool, a lazy river, and a variety of water slides for all ages.
Families with younger children will enjoy Typhoon Tower, which has smaller slides and splash areas. Coney Island Park also has a variety of other attractions, including carnival rides, games, and live entertainment.
| Water Park | Location | Attractions | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adventure Reef Water Park | Kettering | Adventure River, wave pool, splash pad, water slides | Lazy river with waterfalls and geysers |
| Soak City at Kings Island | Mason | Water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, shaded areas | Family-friendly atmosphere |
| Great Wolf Lodge | Mason | Water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, other amenities | Indoor waterpark, year-round access |
| Coney Island Park | Cincinnati | Wave pool, lazy river, water slides, Typhoon Tower | Historic amusement park |
Smaller Waterparks in Ohio
Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park
Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park is a smaller waterpark located in Chardon, Ohio. It offers a variety of water attractions, including a wave pool, water slides, and a lazy river. The park also has dry attractions, such as go-karts and miniature golf. It is a great option for families with younger children, as there are plenty of activities for all ages.
Troy Aquatic Park
Troy Aquatic Park is a smaller waterpark located in Troy, Ohio. It features a large pool with a diving board, a water slide, and a splash pad for younger children. The park also offers swimming lessons and other aquatic programs for all ages. It is a great place to cool off during the hot summer months.
Groveport Aquatic Center
Groveport Aquatic Center is an municipal water park located in Groveport, Ohio. The park covers an area of 50,000 square feet and features a range of water attractions for all ages.
Some of the popular attractions at Groveport Aquatic Center include the Lazy River, Waterfall Canyon, and the Splash Pad. The park also features a fitness center, dining options, and a gift shop.
Uhrichsville Water Park
Uhrichsville Water Park is a smaller waterpark located in Uhrichsville, Ohio. It features a large pool with a diving board, a water slide, and a lazy river. The park also has a splash pad for younger children. It is a great option for families looking for a fun day in the sun.
| Water Park | Location | Attractions | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park | Chardon | Wave pool, water slides, lazy river | Great for families with younger children |
| Troy Aquatic Park | Troy | Pool with diving board, water slide, splash pad | Ideal for cooling off during hot summer months |
| Groveport Aquatic Center | Groveport | Lazy river, Waterfall Canyon, splash pad | Municipal park with a variety of features |
| Uhrichsville Water Park | Uhrichsville | Pool with diving board, water slide, lazy river | Fun day in the sun for families |
While these smaller waterparks may not have as many attractions as the larger parks in Ohio, they still offer plenty of fun for visitors.
They are also a great option for those looking for a more affordable day out. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day by the pool or an exciting day on the water slides, these smaller parks have something for everyone.
Waterparks Near Lake Erie
Two great water parks near Lake Erie are Castaway Bay in Sandusky and Splash Harbor in Bellville.
Castaway Bay
Castaway Bay is a tropical paradise located in Sandusky, Ohio. This waterpark is the perfect destination for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With a wide variety of attractions, Castaway Bay has something for everyone.
Some of the most popular attractions at Castaway Bay include the wave pool, the water coaster, and the raft ride. There are also plenty of slides and play areas for younger children.
Splash Harbor
Splash Harbor is a fun-filled waterpark located in Bellville, Ohio. This park features a variety of attractions, including a lazy river, a wave pool, and several water slides.
One of the most popular attractions at Splash Harbor is the Hurricane Alley, a massive water slide that drops riders into a pool of water. There is also a children’s play area with smaller slides and water features.
| Feature | Castaway Bay | Splash Harbor |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Sandusky, Ohio | Bellville, Ohio |
| Attractions | Wave pool, water coaster, raft ride, slides, play areas | Lazy river, wave pool, water slides, children’s play area |
| Additional Amenities | Restaurants, arcade, gift shop, and hotel | Restaurant, arcade, and hotel |
| Unique Features | Tropical theme, indoor water park, and day spa | Hurricane Alley |
Overall, Ohio has no shortage of amazing outdoor waterparks. Whether you’re looking for a tropical getaway or a family-friendly destination, there is something for everyone near Lake Erie.
Unique Features of Ohio Waterparks
Ohio is home to some of the most exciting waterparks in the country, each with its unique features that set it apart from the rest. Here are some of the unique features of Ohio waterparks:
Lazy Rivers and Wave Pools
Many Ohio waterparks boast lazy rivers and wave pools that provide a relaxing and fun experience for visitors.
Kalahari Resorts in Sandusky, for example, has a 12,000 square foot wave pool, while Cedar Point Shores in Sandusky has a 500-foot-long lazy river.
Visitors can sit back and relax as they float along the lazy river or ride the waves in the pool.
Water Coasters and Slides
Ohio waterparks are also known for their thrilling water coasters and slides.
The Massiv at Cedar Point Shores is the tallest and longest water coaster in the world, standing at 205 feet tall and stretching over 1,000 feet long.
Meanwhile, the Mammoth at Zoombezi Bay in Powell is a family-friendly water coaster that features six-person rafts and twists and turns that will leave visitors screaming with delight.
Private Cabanas and Swim-Up Bars
For those looking for a more luxurious experience, many Ohio waterparks offer private cabanas and swim-up bars.
The Breakers at Cedar Point in Sandusky has private cabanas that come with a personal server and a mini-fridge stocked with drinks and snacks. Meanwhile, Kalahari Resorts in Sandusky has a swim-up bar where visitors can order drinks and enjoy them while relaxing in the pool.
Conclusion
Ohio is home to some of the best outdoor waterparks in the country. Families looking for a fun and exciting vacation should definitely consider visiting one of these parks. With a variety of rides, slides, and attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
From the thrilling water coasters at Cedar Point Shores to the relaxing hot tubs at Kalahari Waterpark Resort, each park has its own unique features that make it stand out. Families can spend hours riding the waves at Soak City or exploring the interactive play areas at Zoombezi Bay.
Overall, Ohio’s waterparks offer a great way to beat the heat and have some fun in the sun. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer family vacation, these parks are sure to provide hours of entertainment for all ages.