If there’s anything we North Texans know, it’s that in the summer, finding ways to beat the heat is a must. Lucky for us, there are ample ways to do it, and our favorite might just be heading for the water park. With six-story high slides for the thrill-seekers and lazy rivers for those who just want to chill, a good water park will keep you and your crew happy and cool for days on end. From Six Flags Hurricane Harbor to Epic Waters and some hidden gems thrown in too, we’ve rounded up our favorite water parks in Dallas, Texas (and other spots in the metroplex). Keep reading to see them all.
Part of the Six Flags family, this is definitely the most awesome water park in DFW. With over 20 rides and attractions, a must-do is the new Banzai Pipeline that takes riders down through twists and turns from over three stories! The coolest part? A season pass also gives you access to Six Flags Over Texas.
Hawaiian Falls in Garland and The Colony (plus other areas outside of DFW)
A classic summer spot for families, you can often get great deals on a season pass at Hawaiian Falls. They also have great online coupons and you can bring a cooler with your own food for a $15 charge. Don’t forget to get authentic Hawaiian shaved ice, too!
Part of the Dallas Aquatics System, this water park in Dallas, Texas is located in Samuell Grand Park. It has a climbing wall, water slides, a toddler pool, a lazy river, water basketball, picnic tables, and family changing rooms and much more. For just $5 you and your crew can spend the day cooling off at this cozy spot. The water park is open Jun. 4 - Aug. 14.
If the Texas sun isn’t in your plans, be sure to head to Epic Waters. The biggest indoor water park in DFW doesn’t disappoint, as there are slides, wave pools, swimming pools and more. There are plenty of family-friendly events, and when the kids are tired of the water, you can head for the arcade or grab a bite to eat. Be sure to check out their deals and packages for great discounts!
If you want to splurge on a staycation that features a water park, the Gaylord is the best bet. The Paradise Springs Water Park has a 6,000 square-foot family lagoon, four slides, a giant water playhouse and more.
1501 Gaylord Trl. Grapevine, TX 76051
Burger’s Lake in Fort Worth
Not your typical water park, Burger’s Lake is a one-acre spring-fed lake with plenty of fun for kids! There are two sandy beaches, shade to beat the heat, six diving boards, a 20-ft slide and a 25-ft trapeze! Plus, there are over 300 picnic tables that are perfect for a summer picnic.
Another great spot for a staycation, Jadewaters at the Anatole is perfect for the younger kids. Smaller slides, a great baby and toddler play area and an easy lazy river. Plus, there are a ton of lawn games when the kids get tired of the water and a great snack bar with tons of options. Guests of the hotel get into Jadewaters for free, and if you just want to go for the day, there are daily rates as well.
With 14 different attractions for all ages and stages, NRH20 Family Waterpark is a lot of fun for DFW residents. There are also plenty of summer events, including fireworks, movie nights, and the park after dark. Plus, if you live in North Richland Hills, you get a discount on single-day passes!
This unique water park is more of a giant bounce house on the lake! Kids swim out the enormous inflatables and can climb, jump and swim to their heart’s content. There are lifeguards on the WhoaZone at all times, and there’s a nice beach area to set up for the day.
This classic water park is part of the Dallas Parks & Recs system. It has a popular water playground, a lazy river, an epic water balloon battle, and three new attractions this year! Your tiny tots will enjoy ‘Lil Paco’s Splash Pad, those who just want to relax can head for the lagoon, and those wanting a new water slide need to try out the Boomerango, an awesome two-person tube ride.
Great Wolf Lodge has all the bells and whistles if you want a little theme park fun with your water park. Choose from an indoor mega water park or the outdoor pool area with cabanas. There is also a ropes course, the ever-popular Magi Quest that’s perfect for nighttime fun, an arcade, and plenty of Great Wolf Lodge fun like story time and sing-alongs, the Summer Camp-In and so much more. For tips and tricks that’ll make your stay even better, check out our insider’s guide here.
If you live on the east side of DFW, this sweet hidden gem is perfect for those with younger kids. Managed by Rowlett Parks & Recreation, there’s just enough water play fun to keep the kids busy on a hot summer afternoon. There are three slides, a lazy river, a splash pad for toddlers and two pools. They even offer swimming lessons!