When the summer heat rolls in, nothing beats the excitement of a day at one of the many water parks in Columbus. With thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, these parks offer the perfect way to cool off. Columbus and its nearby areas boast some of the best water attractions, whether you’re seeking a family-friendly day or an adrenaline-filled adventure. Here are the top Columbus water parks, guaranteed to provide endless summer fun.
10 Must-See Attractions in Columbus Water Parks
1. Zoombezi Bay
Zoombezi Bay is a must-visit water parks in Columbus, offering thrilling water slides and a massive wave pool. Families will enjoy the Baboon Lagoon, while thrill-seekers can head to the Big Boa Falls. With attractions for every age group, it’s no wonder Zoombezi Bay is one of the most popular of Columbus’s water parks.
- Location: 4850 Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065
- Opening Hours: Memorial Day to Labor Day, hours vary
- Ticket Price: $39.99 adults, $34.99 children ages 2-12, free for children under 2
2. Kalahari Resorts
Located just a short drive from Columbus, Kalahari Resorts is home to one of the largest indoor water parks in the U.S. Open year-round, it offers water slides, wave pools, and surf simulators, making it a perfect destination for water fun, regardless of the weather. This nearby attraction is a favorite among those looking for water parks in Columbus for both winter and summer getaways.
- Location: 700 Kalahari Blvd, Sandusky, OH 44870
- Opening Hours: Year-round, hours var
- Ticket Price: Starting at $119.99 for room and water park access
3. Cedar Point Shores Water Park
Although not directly in Columbus, Cedar Point Shores in Sandusky is worth the drive. This water park features over 18 acres of water attractions, including high-speed slides and a wave pool. Visitors often combine their trip with a visit to Cedar Point Amusement Park, making it one of the most exciting water park experiences near Columbus.
- Location: 1 Cedar Point Dr, Sandusky, OH 44870
- Opening Hours: Late May to early September
- Ticket Price: Starting at $39.99 for a single-day ticket
4. Coney Island Amusement Park
Coney Island offers a mix of classic amusement rides and water park fun. Home to the Sunlite Pool, one of the largest flat-surface pools in North America, it’s a great spot for families. With water slides and splash areas, this park is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore diverse water parks in Columbus and nearby.
- Location: 3001 Riverside Dr, Sandusky, OH 44870
- Opening Hours: Late May to early September
- Ticket Price: Starting at $29.99 for a single-day ticket
5. Soak City Waterpark at Kings Island
Located near Kings Island Amusement Park, Soak City is a short drive from Columbus and features over 50 water attractions. This includes heartbreaking water slides, wave pools, and more. It’s a family-friendly destination and ranks as one of the best water parks near Columbus for day trips.
- Location: 6250 Kings Island Dr, Mason, OH 45040
- Opening Hours: Late May to early September
- Ticket Price: Starting at $39.99
6. Great Wolf Lodge
A favorite indoor water park near Columbus, Great Wolf Lodge offers a year-round aquatic escape. With water slides, wave pools, and a lazy river, it’s a family-friendly resort that provides more than just a water park experience. Ideal for those looking for indoor water parks in Columbus, it’s a top choice for weekend getaways.
- Location: 5550 Great Wolf Dr, Mason, OH 45040
- Opening Hours: Year-round
- Ticket Price: Starting at $149.99 for room and park access
7. Worthington Natatorium
For a more relaxed water park experience, Worthington Natatorium is a top pick for locals. This indoor facility offers family-friendly swimming areas without the massive crowds. If you’re searching for a quieter alternative to the larger water parks in Columbus, Worthington Natatorium is perfect for a laid-back day.
- Location: 500 W. Wilson Bridge Rd, Worthington, OH 43085
- Opening Hours: Monday-Friday: 6am-8pm, Saturday: 10am-6pm, Sunday: 1pm-6pm
- Ticket Price: $10 for adults, $7 for children ages 3-17, free for children under 3
8. Splash Zone Waterpark
Located just outside Columbus in Dublin, Splash Zone is a smaller water park that’s perfect for families with younger children. It features water slides, a lazy river, and splash areas, offering a more intimate water park experience. As one of the smaller water parks in Columbus, it’s ideal for a quick cool-down without the hustle and bustle of larger parks.
- Location: 10000 Sawmill Rd, Dublin, OH 43017
- Opening Hours: Memorial Day to Labor Day
- Ticket Price: $15 for adults, $10 for children
9. Castaway Bay Waterpark
Castaway Bay in Sandusky brings a tropical feel to its indoor water park. With water slides, wave pools, and other attractions, it’s perfect for families looking for a fun water park in Columbus during any season. The island-themed experience makes this destination stand out from other parks.
- Location: 2500 Hotel Rd, Sandusky, OH 43460
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 10am to 8pm
- Ticket Price: $29.99 for adults, $49.99 for children
10. Monsoon Lagoon Watering Hole Safari & Waterpark
Monsoon Lagoon, located near Port Clinton, is a unique combination of water park and safari. Families can enjoy water slides, lazy rivers, and even an animal safari. For a distinctive experience, this water park near Columbus offers both aquatic adventures and animal encounters.
- Location: 1530 S Danbury Rd, Port Clinton, OH 43452
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10am to 6pm
- Ticket Price: $29.99 for adults, $39.99 for children
Why Visit These Water Parks in Columbus?
Exploring the top water parks in Columbus is an ideal way to beat the summer heat and enjoy a range of thrilling and relaxing activities. Here’s why these water parks are worth a visit:
1. Variety of Attractions: Each water park in Columbus features a diverse array of attractions designed to cater to different preferences and age groups. From heart-pounding water slides at Zoombezi Bay to the relaxing lazy rivers at Splash Zone Waterpark, these parks provide entertainment options that appeal to thrill-seekers and families alike. Whether you’re looking to conquer high-speed rides or unwind in a gentle wave pool, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your mood.
2. Seasonal and Year-Round Fun: While many top water parks in Columbus operate seasonally, providing a great summer escape, there are also year-round options like Kalahari Resorts and Great Wolf Lodge. These parks ensure that you can enjoy water-based fun regardless of the season, making them perfect for both summer vacations and winter getaways. This flexibility allows you to experience water park excitement anytime you need a break from the routine.
3. Family-Friendly Environment: Water parks are crafted with families in mind, offering amenities and attractions suitable for both adults and children. Parks like Worthington Natatorium provide a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere ideal for younger kids. In contrast, larger parks such as Soak City Waterpark at Kings Island feature thrilling rides and expansive attractions that cater to older children and adults. This family-centric approach ensures that everyone, from toddlers to teens, can find something enjoyable.
Conclusion
Visit the top water parks in Columbus offers a fantastic combination of excitement, relaxation, and family-friendly fun. With a wide range of attractions, seasonal and year-round options, and unique features, these parks promise a memorable experience for all. Whether you’re seeking thrills, relaxation, or a fun day out with family, Columbus’s water parks provide an excellent way to enjoy the summer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What should I bring to a water park in Columbus?
When heading to a water park in Columbus, it’s essential to pack a few key items to ensure a fun and comfortable experience. Pack a towel, sunscreen, swimwear, and extra clothing. Many water parks also offer locker rentals, so consider bringing a small lock to secure your belongings. Additionally, it’s a good idea to pack water shoes for walking around the park and a hat for extra sun protection.
Q2. Are there any height or age restrictions for attractions at water parks in Columbus?
Most water parks in Columbus have height and age restrictions for certain attractions to ensure safety. Thrilling water slides and rides typically have minimum height requirements, often around 42 inches, while some attractions are suitable for all ages. It’s best to check the specific water park’s website or contact them directly for detailed information on restrictions for their rides and attractions.
Q3. Can I bring outside food and drinks into the water parks in Columbus?
Policies on outside food and drinks vary by water park. Many parks do not allow outside food or beverages to be brought inside due to health and safety regulations, although some may offer designated picnic areas outside the main park. Water parks usually provide a variety of dining options on-site, including snacks, meals, and drinks. It’s a good idea to check the specific park’s policy before your visit or plan to purchase food and beverages within the park.