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Summer has arrived, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to enjoy one of America’s favorite pastimes, visiting water parks! These aquatic playgrounds offer the ideal escape when temperatures soar, providing a refreshing mix of excitement and relaxation.
As a waterpark enthusiast, I’ve compiled a list of the 20 most popular water parks across the United States, based on the 2023 attendance data from Statista. These figures reveal which parks have truly won the hearts of visitors.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed information about each park’s location, attendance numbers, and what sets it apart from the rest. I’ve also included insider tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Before we jump into our list, we want to make sure you’re fully prepared for your trip. Check out our helpful articles on “What To Bring To Waterparks” and “Water Park Saving Tips” to help you pack wisely and save money, so you can focus on having fun once you arrive.
Now, let’s jump into our list of the 20 most-visited waterparks in the United States for 2023!
1. Typhoon Lagoon, Orlando, FL2. Universal’s Volcano Bay, Orlando, FL3. Aquatica, Orlando, FL4. Schlitterbahn, New Braunfels, TX5. Water Country USA, Williamsburg, VA6. Aquatica San Antonio, TX7. Adventure Island, Tampa, FL8. Knott’s Soak City, Buena Park, CA9. Schlitterbahn, Galveston, TX10. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Arlington, TX11. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Jackson, NJ12. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix, Glendale, AZ13. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Los Angeles, CA14. Zoombezi Bay, Powell, OH15. Cedar Point Shores, Sandusky, OH16. Dollywood’s Splash Country, Pigeon Forge, TN17. Six Flags White Water, Marietta, GA18. Camelbeach, Tannersville, PA19. Discovery Cove, Orlando, FL20. Typhoon Texas, Katy, TXSplash into Summer!
1. Typhoon Lagoon, Orlando, FL
Typhoon Lagoon, one of Disney’s water wonderlands in Orlando, Florida, tops our list with an impressive 1.9 million visitors in 2023. This tropical paradise transports guests to a lush, storm-wracked island, complete with a massive shipwreck and a towering volcano.
The park’s crown jewel is the Surf Pool, one of the world’s largest outdoor wave pools, which generates swells up to six feet high. Thrill-seekers will love the Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster, while families can enjoy the gentle currents of Castaway Creek.
For the best experience, arrive early to secure a prime spot near the wave pool, and consider visiting on weekday mornings when crowds are typically smaller. With its perfect blend of excitement and relaxation, Typhoon Lagoon offers a true tropical getaway in the heart of Florida.
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2. Universal’s Volcano Bay, Orlando, FL
Universal’s Volcano Bay in Orlando, Florida, welcomed 1.8 million visitors in 2023, securing its place as the second most popular waterpark in the U.S. This Polynesian-themed paradise revolves around the awe-inspiring Krakatau volcano, which towers 200 feet above the park.
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Volcano Bay sets itself apart with its innovative TapuTapu wearable technology, which allows guests to wait in virtual lines while enjoying other attractions. The park boasts a variety of thrilling rides, including the Ko’okiri Body Plunge, a 125-foot drop through a trapdoor.
For a more relaxed experience, float along the winding Kopiko Wai Winding River or lounge on the shores of Waturi Beach. To maximize your visit, use your TapuTapu wisely and reserve spots on popular rides like the Krakatau Aqua Coaster early in the day.
With its blend of cutting-edge technology and immersive theming, Volcano Bay offers a uniquely modern waterpark experience.
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3. Aquatica, Orlando, FL
Aquatica, SeaWorld’s waterpark in Orlando, Florida, attracted 1.44 million visitors in 2023. This unique park combines the thrill of water slides with up-close animal encounters, creating an experience that’s both exciting and educational.
The park’s standout attraction is Dolphin Plunge, a clear tube slide that whisks riders through a pool inhabited by Commerson’s dolphins. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Ray Rush offers a combination of water jet propulsion, a giant sphere, and a drop into a pool.
Families will enjoy Kata’s Kookaburra Cove, a kid-friendly area with smaller slides and water play structures. To make the most of your visit, head to the dolphin attraction early in the day when the water clarity is at its best.
Aquatica’s unique blend of aquatic fun and marine life encounters makes it a must-visit destination for water park enthusiasts and animal lovers alike.
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4. Schlitterbahn, New Braunfels, TX
Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels, Texas, welcomed 0.93 million visitors in 2023, earning its spot as the fourth most popular waterpark in the U.S. This massive park, sprawling over 70 acres, offers a unique mix of modern thrill rides and natural river attractions.
The park’s original section, built around the spring-fed Comal River, provides a one-of-a-kind tubing experience through tree-lined chutes. For thrill-seekers, The Falls, the world’s longest water park ride, offers an exhilarating journey through rapids and tunnels.
Families will enjoy the Surfenburg area, featuring the Boogie Bahn surf ride and the three-story Wolfpack Raft Slide. To save money during your visit, take advantage of Schlitterbahn’s policy allowing guests to bring their own food and drinks into the park.
With its blend of natural beauty and man-made excitement, Schlitterbahn offers a truly Texan waterpark experience.
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5. Water Country USA, Williamsburg, VA
Water Country USA in Williamsburg, Virginia, attracted 0.74 million visitors in 2023, making it the largest waterpark in Virginia and the fifth most visited in the country. This park offers a perfect mix of high-energy thrills and relaxing attractions set against a backdrop of 1950s and 60s surf theme.
The park’s standout attraction is Cutback Water Coaster, a thrilling ride that uses water jet propulsion technology to send rafts uphill as well as down. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the Hubba Hubba Highway lazy river provides a gentle journey through waterfalls and geysers.
Families will love Little Squirts Tree House, a multi-level play structure with smaller slides and interactive elements. During peak season, consider purchasing a Quick Queue pass to skip long lines and make the most of your day.
With its diverse array of attractions and nostalgic atmosphere, Water Country USA offers a unique and enjoyable waterpark experience for visitors of all ages.
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6. Aquatica San Antonio, TX
Aquatica San Antonio, Texas, welcomed 0.65 million visitors in 2023, securing its place as the sixth most popular waterpark in the U.S. This SeaWorld-owned park successfully blends high-speed thrills with serene animal encounters, creating a unique experience for all guests.
The park’s signature attraction, Stingray Falls, takes riders on a family raft adventure that includes a trip through an underwater grotto filled with stingrays and tropical fish. Thrill-seekers will enjoy Taumata Racer, a high-speed competitive mat ride, while Walkabout Waters provides hours of fun for younger visitors with its interactive water play structure.
For a more relaxed experience, guests can unwind on the sandy beaches of Loggerhead Beach or float along Loggerhead Lane, a lazy river that includes a unique view of a flamingo habitat. To fully appreciate the park’s animal exhibits, allocate time in your schedule to visit them when they’re less crowded than the water rides.
Aquatica San Antonio’s combination of aquatic adventures and animal interactions offers a refreshing twist on the traditional waterpark experience.
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7. Adventure Island, Tampa, FL
Adventure Island in Tampa, Florida, drew 0.64 million visitors in 2023, ranking as the seventh most visited waterpark in the United States. Located across the street Busch Gardens, this 30-acre park offers a tropical oasis filled with thrilling water attractions and relaxing pools.
The park’s star attraction, Colossal Curl, stands out with its thrilling combination of a funnel slide and a wave curve. For those seeking a more intense experience, Vanish Point offers a drop slide where the floor disappears beneath your feet.
Families can enjoy the Paradise Lagoon, a large pool with cliff jumping opportunities, while younger children will love Fabian’s Funport, an interactive water playground. The Endless Surf pool provides the perfect spot to catch some waves or simply float and soak up the Florida sun.
To avoid the busiest times, plan your visit for late afternoon when crowds often thin out and lines for major attractions become shorter. With its diverse range of attractions and lush, tropical atmosphere, Adventure Island provides a perfect escape from the Florida heat for visitors of all ages.
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8. Knott’s Soak City, Buena Park, CA
Knott’s Soak City in Buena Park, California, welcomed 0.58 million visitors in 2023, securing its spot as the eighth most popular waterpark in the U.S. This 15-acre waterpark, located next to the famous Knott’s Berry Farm, offers a refreshing escape from the Southern California heat.
The park’s main attraction, Shore Break, features six different slide experiences, including drop slides and aqua-launch chambers for thrill-seekers. Families love The Beach House, a multi-level interactive structure with over 200 water guns, nozzles, and sprayers.
For a more relaxed experience, guests can float along Sunset River, one of the widest and longest lazy rivers in Southern California. The Tidal Wave Bay wave pool provides the perfect spot to cool off and enjoy simulated ocean waves.
To enhance your visit, consider renting a cabana, which provides a shaded area to relax and store your belongings between rides. Knott’s Soak City’s mix of thrilling slides and family-friendly attractions makes it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
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9. Schlitterbahn, Galveston, TX
Schlitterbahn Galveston, Texas, attracted 0.54 million visitors in 2023, earning its place as the ninth most-visited waterpark in the country. This unique park stands out with its combination of outdoor and indoor attractions, allowing for year-round operation.
The park’s crowning jewel is MASSIV, recognized as the world’s tallest water coaster, which sends riders on a thrilling journey of ups and downs. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the Torrent River offers a lazy river ride with occasional waves for added excitement.
Families will enjoy Wasserfest, a large children’s area with smaller slides and play structures. The park’s indoor section, kept at a balmy 80 degrees year-round, includes the Boogie Bahn surf ride and several exciting body slides.
To make the most of your visit, take advantage of the heated indoor area during cooler months for a comfortable water park experience any time of year. Schlitterbahn Galveston’s unique blend of indoor and outdoor attractions provides a versatile waterpark experience that keeps visitors coming back in all seasons.
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10. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Arlington, TX
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in Arlington, Texas, drew 0.48 million visitors in 2023, securing its position as the tenth most popular waterpark in the U.S. This 47-acre park, located next to Six Flags Over Texas, offers a wide array of water attractions for all ages and thrill levels.
The park’s standout ride, Tsunami Surge, features a 68-foot drop that propels riders through a series of breathtaking turns and loops. For those seeking a more laid-back experience, the Lazy River provides a gentle float through beautiful landscaping.
Families will enjoy Hook’s Lagoon, a massive treehouse-themed water playground with smaller slides and interactive water features. Thrill-seekers shouldn’t miss Der Stuka, a set of near-vertical drop slides that provide an adrenaline-pumping freefall.
To avoid long wait times, try to visit on a weekday and consider purchasing a Flash Pass for quicker access to popular rides. With its mix of heart-pounding thrills and family-friendly attractions, Hurricane Harbor Arlington offers a cool escape from the Texas heat for visitors of all ages.
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11. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Jackson, NJ
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in Jackson, New Jersey, welcomed 0.45 million visitors in 2023, ranking as the eleventh most-visited waterpark in the country. Located adjacent to Six Flags Great Adventure, this park offers a perfect complement to the thrill rides next door.
The park’s main attraction, Big Wave Racer, sends riders headfirst down a multi-lane water slide, racing against friends and family. For those seeking a more intense experience, Tornado offers a thrilling journey through a 60-foot-high funnel.
Families can enjoy Discovery Bay, a Caribbean-themed water playground with smaller slides and splash areas. The Blue Lagoon wave pool provides a perfect spot to cool off and enjoy simulated ocean waves.
To maximize your visit, consider combining your trip with a day at Six Flags Great Adventure and staying at a nearby hotel for a full weekend of fun. Hurricane Harbor Jackson’s variety of attractions and proximity to a major theme park make it a popular destination for water enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
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12. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix, Glendale, AZ
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix in Glendale, Arizona, attracted 0.45 million visitors in 2023, tying for eleventh place among the most popular water parks in the U.S. This desert oasis provides a much-needed respite from the intense Arizona heat.
The park’s signature attraction, Maximum Velocity, features the world’s first dueling water coaster, offering a thrilling head-to-head racing experience. For those seeking a more relaxed adventure, the Crazy Cactus Roaring River takes guests on a journey through twists, turns, and waterfalls.
Families will enjoy Baboon Lagoon, an interactive water playground with seven slides and a giant tipping bucket. Thrill-seekers shouldn’t miss The Constrictor, a slide that sends riders through spiraling loops at high speeds.
To stay comfortable in the desert climate, make sure to stay hydrated and reapply sunscreen frequently throughout your visit. Hurricane Harbor Phoenix’s combination of exciting attractions and cooling waters makes it an essential summer destination in the Southwest.
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13. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Los Angeles, CA
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles, California, welcomed 0.44 million visitors in 2023, securing its spot as the thirteenth most-visited waterpark in the nation. This 25-acre park offers a refreshing escape from the Southern California heat with its wide array of water attractions.
The park’s most thrilling ride, Bonzai Pipelines, features six different body slides, including a trap-door launch for an extra adrenaline boost. For a more family-friendly experience, Tornado sends groups of four swirling through a 75-foot-wide funnel.
Younger visitors will enjoy Splash Island, a multi-level play structure with smaller slides and interactive water features. The Lazy River provides a relaxing float for those looking to unwind between thrills.
To make the most of your visit, arrive early to secure a good parking spot and hit the popular rides before lines get long. With its mix of high-speed thrills and family attractions, Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles offers a cool and exciting day out for visitors of all ages.
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14. Zoombezi Bay, Powell, OH
Zoombezi Bay in Powell, Ohio, attracted 0.41 million visitors in 2023, ranking as the fourteenth most popular waterpark in the U.S. This unique park, connected to the Columbus Zoo, offers a perfect blend of aquatic fun and animal encounters.
The park’s standout attraction, SoundSurfer, is the world’s first hybrid water-and-sound slide experience, combining music and lights with thrilling twists and turns. Families will love Baboon Lagoon, a massive interactive play structure with over 90 water features and nine water slides.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Wild Tides wave pool offers 500,000 gallons of fun with waves up to six feet high. The Roaring Rapids provides an exciting river raft ride for groups to enjoy together.
To get the most value for your visit, look for combo tickets that include both the waterpark and the zoo. Zoombezi Bay’s combination of exciting water attractions and proximity to a world-class zoo creates a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
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15. Cedar Point Shores, Sandusky, OH
Cedar Point Shores in Sandusky, Ohio, welcomed 0.4 million visitors in 2023, securing its place as the fifteenth most-visited waterpark in the country. Located alongside the famous Cedar Point amusement park, this waterpark offers a refreshing complement to the thrill rides next door.
The park’s most intense attraction, Point Plummet, features a near-vertical drop that will satisfy even the most daring thrill-seekers. For a more family-friendly experience, Storm Surge sends groups of four through a series of banked turns and drops. Lakeslide Landing provides a fun area for younger visitors with smaller slides and splash features.
The Breakwater Bay wave pool offers a perfect spot to cool off and enjoy simulated ocean waves. To maximize your visit, consider making it a full weekend of fun combining Cedar Point and Cedar Point Shores.
Staying at a Cedar Point Resort can even provide early entry to the parks. Cedar Point Shores’ mix of thrilling water attractions and its proximity to a world-class amusement park make it a must-visit destination for water and thrill enthusiasts alike.
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16. Dollywood’s Splash Country, Pigeon Forge, TN
Dollywood’s Splash Country in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, drew 0.38 million visitors in 2023, ranking as the sixteenth most popular waterpark in the U.S. Nestled in the beautiful Smoky Mountains, this park offers a perfect blend of thrilling water attractions and mountain charm.
The park’s signature ride, RiverRush, is Tennessee’s first and only water coaster, sending riders on a thrilling journey of ups and downs. For those seeking a more relaxing experience, the Downbound Float Trip lazy river offers a gentle journey through the park’s lush landscape.
Families will enjoy Bear Mountain Fire Tower, a multi-level play structure with interactive elements and smaller slides. Thrill-seekers shouldn’t miss Fire Tower Falls, one of the park’s tallest and fastest speed slides.
To avoid the busiest times, plan your visit for a weekday or during the off-peak season for shorter lines and a more relaxed atmosphere. Dollywood’s Splash Country’s combination of exciting attractions and beautiful mountain setting provides a unique and refreshing water park experience.
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17. Six Flags White Water, Marietta, GA
Six Flags White Water in Marietta, Georgia, attracted 0.37 million visitors in 2023, securing its spot as the seventeenth most-visited waterpark in the nation. This 69-acre park offers a wide variety of attractions, the intense thrill rides to family-friendly areas.
The park’s most daring attraction, Dive Bomber, features a nearly vertical drop through a trapdoor, providing an adrenaline rush for brave riders. For a more family-oriented experience, Caribbean Plunge sends groups of four on a wild raft ride through twists and turns.
Little ones will enjoy Buccaneer Bay, a pirate-themed area with smaller slides and interactive water features. The Atlanta Ocean wave pool provides a perfect spot to cool off and enjoy simulated ocean waves.
To make the most of your visit, arrive early and head straight to popular rides like Dive Bomber to beat the crowds. With its diverse range of attractions and large size, Six Flags White Water offers a full day of aquatic fun for visitors of all ages.
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18. Camelbeach, Tannersville, PA
Camelbeach in Tannersville, Pennsylvania, welcomed 0.37 million visitors in 2023, tying for seventeenth place among the most popular water parks in the U.S. Situated in the beautiful Pocono Mountains, this park offers a unique blend of water attractions and stunning mountain views.
The park’s standout ride, The Titan, features a thrilling bowl slide that sends riders spinning before a dramatic drop. For those seeking a more laid-back experience, The Camel-Beach Oasis provides a relaxing pool area with private cabanas.
Families will enjoy Pharaoh’s Phortress, an Egyptian-themed interactive water play structure with over 60 features. Thrill-seekers shouldn’t miss the Vortex and Spin Cycle duo, two extreme body slides that offer heart-pounding drops and spins.
To enhance your visit, consider staying at the adjacent Camelback Resort for early park access and additional amenities. Camelbeach’s combination of exciting water attractions and beautiful mountain scenery creates a memorable experience for all visitors.
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19. Discovery Cove, Orlando, FL
Discovery Cove in Orlando, Florida, attracted 0.36 million visitors in 2023, securing its place as the nineteenth most popular waterpark in the country. This unique, all-inclusive park offers a more intimate and immersive experience compared to traditional waterparks.
The park’s main attraction, the Dolphin Lagoon, allows guests to swim and interact with dolphins in a naturalistic setting. For those seeking underwater adventures, The Grand Reef offers snorkeling among thousands of tropical fish and rays.
SeaVenture provides an underwater walking tour, allowing guests to get up close with unique marine life. The Wind-Away River takes visitors on a relaxing journey through different habitats, including a rainforest and an underwater cave.
To fully enjoy this exclusive experience, book your visit well in advance, as the park limits daily attendance to ensure a more personal atmosphere. Discovery Cove’s combination of animal encounters, water activities, and all-inclusive amenities offers a premium and unforgettable waterpark experience.
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20. Typhoon Texas, Katy, TX
Typhoon Texas in Katy, Texas, welcomed 0.36 million visitors in 2023, rounding out our list of the top 20 most-visited waterparks in the U.S. This Texas-sized park offers a wide range of attractions for all ages and thrill levels.
The park’s signature ride, The Typhoon, sends groups of four on a wild journey through hairpin turns and sudden drops. For those seeking an intense experience, the Dueling Daltons offers a pair of twisting body slides for head-to-head racing.
Families will enjoy Buckaroo Bayou, a massive water playground with over 100 interactive features and eight slides. The Lazy T River provides a relaxing float around the park, perfect for cooling off between thrills.
To get the most value from your visits, consider purchasing a season pass if you plan to visit multiple times during the summer. Typhoon Texas’ combination of exciting attractions and Texas charm makes it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, providing a perfect way to beat the intense Texas heat.
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Splash into Summer!
These top 20 water parks across the United States promise unforgettable aquatic adventures for everyone. With millions of visitors flocking to these parks annually, it’s clear that they’ve mastered the art of summer entertainment.
As you plan your warm-weather getaway, consider adding one or more of these amazing waterparks to your itinerary. Don’t forget to check each park’s website for current information on tickets, hours, and any special guidelines.
Get ready to create lasting memories, conquer exciting slides, and cool off in style at America’s best waterparks. Your perfect summer escape awaits, jump in and make a splash!
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Publish date : 2024-09-05 01:50:00
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