Get Wet—Outdoors and Indoors—at Ohio Water Parks

While the Buckeye State might not be the first place that springs to mind when envisioning thrilling water slides and sun-drenched summer escapades, Ohio harbors a surprising array of impressive water parks. From standalone outdoor havens like Coney Island to expansive aquatic additions adjacent to renowned amusement parks like Cedar Point Shores, Ohio offers a diverse selection of watery wonderlands. For those seeking year-round aquatic entertainment, the state also boasts a collection of exceptional indoor water park resorts, most notably the colossal Kalahari in Sandusky. Embark on a journey to explore some of the premier water parks in Ohio, encompassing both exhilarating outdoor experiences and captivating indoor retreats.

A Deep Dive into Ohio’s Aquatic Attractions

Ohio’s water park scene is as varied as its landscape, offering something for every type of water enthusiast. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping slides, relaxing lazy rivers, or interactive play areas for the little ones, the state’s aquatic offerings are sure to make a splash. Let’s explore some of the standout destinations:

Castaway Bay in Sandusky: A Tropical Escape Within Cedar Point

Nestled within the expansive Cedar Point resort complex, Castaway Bay provides a year-round tropical getaway. Although medium in size, this indoor water park packs a punch with a remarkable assortment of attractions. Plunge into the "Rendezvous Run" uphill water coaster for a thrilling ride, or brave the waves of the "Castawave Pool." Guests can also enjoy an array of water slides, an interactive water play structure perfect for all ages, and a relaxing activity pool. For those seeking ultimate relaxation, indulge in the indoor/outdoor whirlpool spas. The littlest adventurers can explore the "Tadpole Pool," a dedicated play area for children under 52 inches tall.

Castaway Bay extends its hospitality to both registered hotel guests and the general public. Vacation packages are available, providing complimentary fountain beverages, length-of-stay parking, and access to the Cedar Point Beach along Lake Erie. Located at Castaway Bay, 2001 Cleveland Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA, this park is a must-visit for families seeking a fun-filled escape.

Cedar Point Shores in Sandusky: An Outdoor Oasis on Lake Erie

Adjacent to the legendary Cedar Point amusement park, Cedar Point Shores is a sprawling 18-acre outdoor water park that promises a day of aquatic adventure. Requiring separate admission from the amusement park, this destination is bursting with exhilarating rides and attractions suitable for the entire family.

Embark on a leisurely float along the Cedar Creek lazy river, stretching approximately 1,200 feet. Brave the swells of the Breakwater Bay wave pool, or experience the rush of the launch chamber water slides. An assortment of body slides and tube slides cater to thrill-seekers of all ages. Families with young children will love SplasH20, a multi-story, interactive play area featuring seven water slides and over 100 ways to get soaked.

Located at 1 Cedar Point Dr, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA, Cedar Point Shores offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. For more information, call +1 419-627-2350. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience this iconic Ohio water park.

Coney Island in Cincinnati: A Historic Landmark with a Modern Splash

Step back in time at Coney Island, a Cincinnati institution boasting the famous Sunlite Pool. Constructed in 1925, this historic pool is renowned as the world’s largest recirculating pool. While the park’s amusement rides have been removed, Coney Island continues to offer a variety of wet attractions, including water slides and other exhilarating experiences.

Challenge your skills on "The Challenge Zone," a floating obstacle course. Engage in interactive fun at the family-friendly Typhoon Tower, featuring 73 play stations. For those who love diving and cannonballing, a dedicated pool awaits. In addition to the aquatic offerings, Coney Island provides mini-golf, paddle boats on Lake Como, cabana rentals, and swim lessons. This location is a beloved destination for generations of Ohioans.

Great Wolf Lodge at Kings Island in Mason: A Forest-Themed Family Adventure

Immerse yourself in a whimsical forest theme at the Great Wolf Lodge at Kings Island in Mason. This family-friendly resort features an indoor water park with an impressive array of attractions, including 11 water slides, an uphill water coaster, a thrilling bowl ride, and a family raft ride. Relax in the wave pool or drift along the lazy river. The interactive water play center, complete with a tipping bucket, provides endless entertainment for children of all ages. Two whirlpool spas offer a tranquil escape for adults.

Conveniently located adjacent to the Kings Island amusement park, guests can easily access the park’s front gate during its operating season. Day passes for the water park start at $50 per person, with free admission for children under two. Situated at 2501 Great Wolf Dr, Mason, OH 45040, USA, Great Wolf Lodge at Kings Island offers a magical getaway for the whole family. For inquiries, call +1 800-913-9653.

Great Wolf Lodge Sandusky: A Year-Round Indoor Water Park Paradise

The Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky welcomes both resort guests and day visitors to experience its indoor water park paradise. Dive into a world of aquatic fun with tube slides, body slides, activity pools, and two relaxing whirlpool spas. Float along the lazy river, or let the kids explore the dedicated play areas. The interactive play structure with a tipping bucket guarantees laughter and excitement. For a unique challenge, test your skills on the aqua rock-climbing wall.

Similar to the Mason location, day passes for this park are priced at $50 per person, with free admission for children under two. Located at 4600 Milan Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870-5840, USA, Great Wolf Lodge Sandusky offers a memorable experience for families and water park enthusiasts. For more information, call +1 800-641-9653.

Hiawatha Water Park: A Community Gem in Mount Vernon

The Hiawatha Water Park is a delightful municipal facility in Mount Vernon. While smaller in scale, this water park offers a variety of attractions for a fun-filled day. Plunge down two water slides, or let the little ones enjoy the play structure with a small slide. A general swimming pool is perfect for laps and leisurely dips.

The pool is open daily from noon to 7 p.m., with a daily admission rate of $8 per person. Reduced rates are available for children between one and five and senior citizens, while children under one enter for free. Swim lessons are offered for those with a facility membership. Located at 100 Sychar Rd, Mt Vernon, OH 43050-3241, USA, Hiawatha Water Park is a beloved community gathering place. For inquiries, call +1 740-393-0288.

Kalahari Ohio in Sandusky: One of the World’s Largest Indoor Water Parks

Prepare to be amazed by the Kalahari in Sandusky, one of the world’s largest indoor water parks. This expansive destination features an unparalleled collection of water park slides and attractions. Test your surfing skills on two simulator rides, or experience the exhilaration of a water coaster. Float along the lazy river, brave a bowl ride, or ride the waves in the wave pool. An assortment of body slides, tube slides, raft rides, and a mat-racing slide cater to every thrill level. The interactive water play structure provides endless fun for kids. Indoor/outdoor whirlpool saunas offer a relaxing escape.

Day passes are available for visitors not staying at the hotel. Located at 7000 Kalahari Dr, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA, Kalahari Ohio promises an unforgettable aquatic adventure. For reservations and information, call +1 877-525-2427. This premier Ohio water park is a must-visit destination.

Pioneer Waterland in Chardon: A Family Entertainment Center with a Splash

Pioneer Waterland in Chardon offers a combination of water park fun and family entertainment. This outdoor destination features four six-story tall water slides, a tube slide, a lazy river, and an activity pool. Paddleboats, go-karts, and an arcade provide additional entertainment options.

The park offers a variety of passes for all ages, with a general admission ticket priced at $25 and discount tickets available for $19. During October, Pioneer Waterland transforms into "Nightmare at Pioneer," where guests can enjoy the park from 8 p.m. to midnight while being stalked by zombies and other creepy ghouls. Located at 10661 Kile Rd, Chardon, OH 44024-9520, USA, Pioneer Waterland offers a unique blend of thrills and chills. For inquiries, call +1 440-285-5200.

Soak City in Mason: Included with Kings Island Admission

Soak City, a massive water park included with admission to Kings Island, boasts an impressive 36 water slides. The "Tropical Plunge," a nearly seven-story structure, houses six different water slides. Guests can also enjoy a wave-making surfing ride, a wave pool, a funnel ride, and a lazy river. Child-centric areas include "Splash Landing," an interactive water play area with a dump bucket and three child-sized slides, and "Castaway Cove" and "Lookout Lagoon," where guests over 52 inches must be accompanied by a child. Soak City, located at 6300 Kings Island Dr, Mason, OH 45040, USA, provides endless aquatic adventures. For information, call +1 513-754-5700.

Splash Zone: A Community Water Park

Splash Zone is a community water park located in Springfield. It features 400 feet of water slides, a 280-foot lazy river, Ohio’s first bowl slide, a sprayground, and a zero-depth entry pool. Admission starts at $7, with free entry for children under three. They offer swim lessons for children, and classes and programs for adults, including water walking and lap swimming. Splash Zone can be found at 300 Eagle City Rd, Springfield, OH 45502-7554, USA. Call +1 937-324-7665.

Watering Hole in Port Clinton: A Full Water Park Experience

The Watering Hole is the only water park in Port Clinton. The facility includes water slides, tube slides, pools, water bumper boats, and an interactive play area along with go-karts, mini-golf, and an arcade. There is also an adjacent drive-through safari and zoo. Access to the water park costs $48, and a mega ticket that includes both the wet and dry fun is $70 for the day. Visit them at 1530 S Danbury Rd, Port Clinton, OH 43452-3920, USA. Call +1 419-732-6671.

Zoombezi Bay in Powell: Included with Columbus Zoo Admission

Zoombezi Bay is included with admission to the Columbus Zoo. Attractions include a bowl ride, a funnel ride, body slides, tube slides, a lazy river, an action river, an interactive water play structure, and attractions for younger children. The entrance was recently relocated, and a new retail shop and Pepsi Oasis were added. You’ll find it at 4850 Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065, USA. Call +1 614-645-3400.

Ohio’s diverse collection of water parks offers something for everyone, from thrilling rides to relaxing escapes. Whether you’re seeking an outdoor adventure or a year-round indoor experience, the Buckeye State is sure to make a splash. So, pack your swimsuit, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to Get Wet—Outdoors and Indoors—at Ohio Water Parks!