Guide: Midwest Waterparks to Visit This Summer

It’s official, summer is here. And it’s time to cool things down and wear those kids out! From the biggest in the US to the best-value, we’ve got a list of the best waterparks in the Midwest. No matter what you and your family are looking for in summer fun, there’s something for you.


Mom and kid at waterpark

Our MUST-VISIT Waterpark of 2025:

If you’re in the Louisville area, plan a trip to Kentucky Kingdom’s Hurricane Bay! You’ll have a splash-tastic time in the 750,000-gallon wave pool, zooming down the Plummet Summit or the Wikiwiki Wai waterslide, or getting drenched in the Splash Zone, the interactive, four-level water playground. Plus, they have cabana rentals and plenty of munchies to keep everyone fueled for a day of non-stop fun in the sun.


Record-breaking waterparks:

Kalahari Resorts, Wisconsin Dells, WI

Voted #1 Best Indoor Waterpark by USA Today.

Noah's Ark Waterpark, Wisconsin Dells, WI

The biggest waterpark in the U.S.

 

America’s Tallest Waterslide!

Get ready for the thrill of a lifetime on America's tallest waterslide, "The Fall" on The Rise of Icarus at Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park in Wisconsin Dells, WI! Standing a whopping 145 feet tall and packed with five heart-pounding body slides, “The Fall” will give you and your crew the ultimate rush.

And hey, that's not all – their recent outdoor waterpark expansion includes the Icaria Splash 'n Slide, a playful 12,000-square-foot kiddie area with 10 slides, water features, and a wading pool, so your little ones can join in on the water fun too. They've got all the goodies like air-conditioned cabanas, a chill bar, tasty treats at the concession area, and more.


Mt. Olympus indoor waterpark picture from the sky.

Located in the "Waterpark Capital of the World," Mt. Olympus indoor waterpark was established in Wisconsin Dells, which is home to the largest concentration of outdoor and indoor waterparks in the world.


More Midwest favorite waterparks:

Splashin' Safari at Holiday World, Santa Claus, IN

World’s largest water coaster (certified by Guinness World Records).

Oceans of Fun, Kansas City, MO

Located beside the theme park Worlds of Fun, it is included with your admission. That’s two parks for the price of one!

Silver Dollar City's White Water Waterpark, Branson, MO

Voted one of America’s Best Outdoor Waterparks by USA Today.



Our Indiana favorite waterparks:

CCPR’s Monon Community Center Waterpark, Carmel, IN

Find a lazy river, waterslides, splash pads, and more.

Indiana Beach, Monticello, IN

Opened in 1926 and recently renovated for added thrills!

Pine Lake Waterpark, Berne, Indiana

Entry is only $9 for adults and $7 for children 4-9.

Sid and Lois Eskenazi Waterpark at the JCC, Indianapolis, IN

Boasts more than 71,000 square feet of outdoor waterpark fun.

Splash Island, Plainfield, IN

A tropical-themed park with six waterslides, a splash pad, cabana rentals, and more!

Deep River Waterpark, Crown Point, IN

A waterpark that has something for ALL ages (yes, you can even bring the grandparents)!


kid jumping into pool to her mom at waterpark

Double the fun! Waterparks inside our FAVE amusement parks:

Cedar Point’s Cedar Point Shores, Sandusky, OH

One of the most popular and well-known amusement parks in the Midwest.

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Eureka, MO

For an additional $7, you can enhance your experience at Six Flags St. Louis.

Wildwater Adventure, Muskegon, MI

Included in the price of your ticket to Michigan’s Adventure Amusement Park.


CityMom playing in the pool with daughter

Honorable mentions:

Great Wolf Lodge

There are 7 locations throughout the Midwest.

Raging Waves, Yorkville, IL

Home of the largest waterpark in Illinois.

Wilderness Resort, Wisconsin Dells, WI

Includes 4 indoor and 4 outdoor waterparks.

Zoombezi Bay, Columbus, OH

Located inside the Columbus Zoo.


So, what do you think, have we found all the best waterparks in the Midwest? Or did we miss your favorite? Let us know @thecitymoms

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