10 splash-worthy water park resorts for the greatest family vacay

Family vacations are the stuff of memories. Set aside the packing lists, the “but I don’t want to go there” complaints and get ready for a family trip like no other. Because, when you add in a nice resort or, the best yet, water park resorts, then it’s basically a guaranteed good time for all. Plus, what more do you need to pack besides pretty bathing suits?

Okay, realistically it does take a lot more than a head turning suit (although that’s not bad!) when you’re off to resorts with water parks. But, the one thing you don’t have to make lists and plans for is all of the spontaneous family fun waiting for you at water park resorts. They say, water is a healing agent, right? So, whether you choose to take a dip in a heated pool or let go of all your worries on a crazy slide, let the water work its magic.

10 family water park resorts for wholesome fun

1. Crown Reef Beach Resort & Waterpark—Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The accommodations at this water park resort are as wide-ranging as their water features. Stay at a 3-bedroom condo, 3-bedroom beach house, oceanfront suite or any of the other options for guests and families. Not only do they have a coin-less arcade but there are water slides for every age group. And, best of all? It’s open year-round, so, yes, it could be your family’s winter getaway.

Rooms start at $65 per night for two Queen beds.

2. Kalahari Resorts and Conventions—Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Between the indoor and outdoor waterparks, indoor and outdoor spas and Halotherapy sessions, it doesn’t sound like you could go wrong with any of the grand choices here. Plus, if you’re in the mood to go big, there are suite upgrade options such as: fireplaces and whirlpool tubs.

Rates start at $180 per night for a double Queen.

3. Great Wolf Lodge—Bloomington, Minnesota

Among the many Great Wolf Lodges across the country, this one not only boasts a 70,000-square-foot water park, but it’s also home to in-pool basketball hoops, bridges and a fake lighthouse. There’s an outdoor wave-riding experience and the country’s tallest waterslide lives here.

Rates start at $256 per night for the Queen sofa suite.

4. Moody Gardens—Galveston, Texas

If you’re looking for water park resorts that have a little something for everyone in the family then look no further. Kids can enjoy the seasonal water park, with classic favorites like a lazy river and wave pool, and adults can indulge in the spa or have tee-time at the 18-hole golf course. They also have an on-site aquarium, rainforest zoo and a 3D IMAX theater.

Rates start at $177 for a King.

5. The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark—Monticello, New York

This indoor waterpark is a great family vacation destination. Enjoy the heated indoor and outdoor pool, let your little ones have the time of their life on the splash pad and imagine you’re riding some serious waves with the surf simulator. Of course, there’s also plenty of dining options and multi-bedroom suites with bunkbed options.

Rates start at $256 for a junior suite.

6.  Camelback Resort—Tannersville, Pennsylvania

No matter what season you’re looking to go to resorts with water parks, this Poconos pick has something amazing. Aquatopia, an indoor water park which has a multi-level water playground, is open year-round and included in your stay. The outdoor option, Camelback beach water park, is open for the warmer months of the year and is an add-on. But, with 37 attractions and an awesome Mummy’s Oasis interaction for little ones, it might just be worth it.

Rates start at $300 for a double Queen suite.

7.  Avalanche Bay Indoor Water Park—Boyne Falls, Michigan

You get 88,000 square feet of fun with at this water park resort. Multiple swimming pools, towering and steep waterslides and, of course, kid-friendly areas as well. There are many options to make the most of your family vacation but one thing to be wary of is that you have to add water park access onto your booking at the resort!

Rates start at $145 for a double Queen in the Clock Tower.

8. Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa—Palm Springs, California

There’s plenty of fun for all ages at this resort. Spend the day sliding down slides, at the sandy beach or wander around the lazy river. There are lots of family-friendly rooms but you can also treat yourself to one of the luxury suite options.

Rates start at $259 for a King.

9. CoCo Key Resort and Water—Orlando, Florida

Close to the magic of Disney and Universal Studios (shuttle services included), is this wonderful water park. Enjoy heated pools, water slides, a poolside tiki bar and many other attractions. There’s also an arcade, spa and multiple dining options.

Rates start at $180 for a Deluxe King.

10. Hershey’s Water Works at Hershey Lodge—Hershey, Pennsylvania

The sweetest place just got a lot sweeter. Water park resorts and chocolate go hand-in-hand, right? Request Hershey’s Kisses turn down service and they most certainly will! The joys are on-theme here with Twizzlers twisting water slides and a Reese’s water walk. Tiny tots can take advantage of the zero-entry pool and there’s even an outdoor pool for warmer days.

Rates start at $199 for a double Queen.