Updated April 29, 2023
Are you planning to visit a waterpark with kids? Waterparks can either be extremely fun for the whole family, or they can quickly turn into a disaster. Preparation beforehand can not only eliminate meltdowns and stress, but can add to the overall waterpark experience. I’ve learned quite a few things as a result of visiting waterparks with my son. As a result, here are my best tips for visiting a waterpark with kids!
Keep reading for my best tips for visiting a waterpark with kids.
Best Tips for Visiting a Waterpark with Kids
My family and I love waterparks. My son’s favorite activity is swimming, so we try to take him to a waterpark a couple of times a year. For example, we’ve been to waterparks like Great Wolf Lodge and Disney’s Blizzard Beach. But, while visiting a waterpark with kids can be fun, there’s a lot of preparation beforehand. So without further ado, here are my best tips for visiting a waterpark with kids!
- Things to Bring to a Waterpark
- Consider Water Shoes
- Arrive at the Waterpark as Soon as it Opens for the Day
- Research the Waterpark Beforehand for Height Restrictions and Pool Safety
- Family Friendly Amenities at a Waterpark
- Food Options at a Waterpark
- Rent a Locker or Reserve a Cabana
Regardless of whether you are taking your kids to the waterpark or local pool, there are several things you can do to make the visit a lot more enjoyable. Preparation is extremely important, especially knowing what to bring to the waterpark, as well as what amenities are available for kids at the waterpark. Here is a guide to help you plan a trip with your kids to the waterpark.
1. Things to Bring to a Waterpark
Are you wondering “What items should I bring to a waterpark?” I know that I’ve asked myself that question when planning a trip to a waterpark. My number one advice is to bring your own towels, sunscreen and water. These items seem very basic, but keep in mind that most waterparks do not provide towels and sunscreen for free. Towels and sunscreen can usually be purchased at the waterpark, but expect to pay a premium for them. It can also quickly add up if you have to buy a towel for every family member. So you’ll save yourself a headache and money by bringing your family’s own towels and sunscreen. We always pack extra sunscreen, especially since the Arizona sun can be brutal during the summer months. You’ll also want to make sure that you and your kids stay hydrated. As a result, you’ll definitely want to bring water with you as well.
The Cactus Chronicles Tip: Some water parks have water stations available. Check the waterpark’s website to see if it does have water stations available.
Spending the day at the waterpark with kids is fun, but you’ll want to make sure you bring items with you, like towels and sunscreen.
2. Consider Water Shoes
When visiting a waterpark with kids, you’ll want to consider bringing water shoes with you. A lot of the waterparks now have bins near the entrance to rides where guests can leave their shoes, which is a good thing. However, when the pavement is hot, it’s still difficult to walk on the pavement with bare feet. If it’s extremely hot for you, it’s also extremely hot for your kids. This is why I’m a big fan of water shoes. They are great for several different occasions, from spending the day at a waterpark to rafting. We always bring water shoes with us now whenever we visit a waterpark (with the exception of indoor waterparks). Not only is it easier for us to walk around without having to carry our sandals around with us, but our feet are also protected from the hot pavement.
Some waterparks have places to store shoes while on rides, but you won’t need to use them if you bring water shoes. Photo by Patty Holliday, from My No-Guilt Life, https://noguiltlife.com.
3. Arrive at the Waterpark as Soon as it Opens for the Day
If you’re visiting a waterpark with kids, then I recommend arriving at the waterpark as soon as it opens for the day. Not only because of the weather, but also to avoid larger crowds. Younger children will also get tired as the day progresses. It’s also easier to find lounge chairs that aren’t occupied.
There are plenty of lounge chairs to choose from when you arrive at the waterpark when it opens for the day.
4. Research the Waterpark Beforehand for Height Restrictions and Pool Safety
You’ll want to do your research beforehand to make sure the waterpark you are visiting has rides and attractions for your whole family, including the youngest member of the family. There are also several rides that all family members can enjoy together, like the wave pool and the lazy river. By doing your research beforehand with regard to height restrictions, you can avoid meltdowns at the waterpark if your child isn’t tall enough to go on a particular ride.
You’ll want to check height restrictions for rides beforehand to avoid any sort of disappointment.
Likewise, you’ll want to see if the waterpark has lifeguards on duty as well as life vests for younger kids. From the smaller waterparks to the big waterparks, there are usually lifeguards on duty and life vests available, which is extremely important for pool safety. I don’t think we’ve ever visited a waterpark that didn’t have lifeguards on duty, but I’d definitely avoid a waterpark that didn’t have them.
Life vests should also be available throughout the waterpark for complimentary use. In fact, they can be required on some of the rides for children under a certain height, like the lazy river and the wave pool.
Most waterparks should have complimentary life vests available for younger children.
5. Family Friendly Amenities at a Waterpark
Another tip for visiting a waterpark with kids? The attractions and the rides aren’t the only things that make waterparks family friendly. Make sure the waterpark has amenities like family restrooms, including changing tables.
6. Food Options at a Waterpark
Food at waterparks can be expensive. Check to see if you are able to bring your own snacks and food. If not, see if the waterpark has different dining options, like quick dining, available. We recently visited a waterpark that had plenty of options, from entrees like hot dogs and hamburgers to snacks like ice cream and slushies.
Check to see what the dining options are when visiting a waterpark with kids.
7. Rent a Locker or Reserve a Cabana
Most waterparks have lockers that you can rent for an additional fee. It’s stressful walking around with everything, and a locker will alleviate that stress. However, if your budget allows for it, I highly recommend reserving a cabana. Some cabanas include lounge chairs, chairs, ceiling fans, TVs, snacks, water bottles, sunscreen, a cabana attendant and a personal safety box for valuables. Some cabanas may also include meals, drinks, snacks (like ice cream) and inner tube rentals. I definitely think a cabana is worth it if you can swing it, especially if you want a stress-free and relaxing experience.
Are you planning to visit a waterpark with kids? Here are several best tips for visiting a waterpark with kids, from the items to bring to a waterpark to pool safety and family friendly amenities.
Very good article. Very helpful.