You don’t have to wait for 80 degree temps and bluer skies to get back in the water! While you may be planning a ski getaway this winter, you should also make time to warm up at these indoor water parks that are driving distance from D.C. Whether you just want to escape for the day, or go on a getaway for the whole weekend, we found the best indoor water parks near D.C. for your family.
Where: Note: As is to be expected, indoor water parks may look a little different this year due to the coronavirus pandemic—especially as state mandates continue to change. Be sure to call a location before you head over to double-check that everything is running as planned.,
Where: 4630 Stonecroft Boulevard, Chantilly, VA
Where: Chantilly, VA
Why you should visit: This spot has an expansive kids’ pool complete with two large slides—one 30-foot-high enclosed slide and a 20-foot high-slide—making this center perfect if you have older kids. There’s also a lazy river and shallow pool for the youngsters where they can explore interactive play features like a water fort and “tiny-tot” slide on their own.
Distance: 40 minutes by car
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2. North Arundel Aquatic Center
Where: 7888 Crain Hwy, Glen Burnie, MD
Where: Glen Burnie, MD
Why you should visit: Just a short drive will bring you to this smaller water park option. Along with a competition and leisure pool, this aquatic center boasts a 134-foot waterslide, waterfalls, tipping buckets, a pre-school sized water slide and a poolside spa for adults to relax in while the kids play. Your admission will get you a two-hour session at the water park but they sell out quick, so it’s recommended you plan ahead and buy in advance.
Distance: 1 hour by car
Great Wolf Lodge
Where: 549 East Rochambeau Drive, Williamsburg, VA
Where: Williamsburg, VA
Why you should visit: You know how kids never want to leave when it’s time to go home? At this resort, you don’t have to, because you’ll stay on-site in beautifully designed rooms and suites. The facility features water temperatures set to 84 degrees and a number of slides, pools and rides to delight in. After drying off, be sure to check out their on-site activities such as arcades and bowling alley. Bonus: The resort is near Colonial Williamsburg!
Distance: 2 hours by car
flickr/Britt Reints
Where: 915 Route 73, Mount Laurel, NJ
Where: Mt Laurel, NJ
Why you should visit: This 55,000-square-foot facility features a lazy river, six body and raft rides, activity pool with water basketball, interactive play island, kiddie area, arcade, snacks and multiple dining options. Make it a mini-vacation by spending the night, which includes two-day water park access for up to four guests.
Distance: 2.5 hours by car
Massanutten Resort
Where: 1822 Resort Dr, Massanutten, VA
Where: McGaheysville, VA
Why you should visit: Need a way to tire the kids out while getting them exercise as well? This indoor water park features a number of drench-worthy activities. The central feature is the Massanutten Meltdown, which has water canons, slides and a giant tipping bucket. Little swimmers can splash around in Frog Pond featuring a maximum depth of 12 inches.
Distance: 2.5 hours by car
Splash Lagoon
Where: 8091 Peach Street, Erie, PA
Where: Erie, PA
Why you should visit: Willing to travel a bit farther? You won’t be sorry! You’ll feel like you are inside a washing machine when you hop inside this getaway’s Aqua Tumbler. The thrill ride inside a giant rolling ball is just one of the many attractions at this northern Pennsylvania indoor water park. Careen down multiple water slides, meander through the three-story high Tree Tops Ropes course or take it easy in the Lava Pool whirlpool. Kids won’t want to miss the Tiki Tree House showcasing 12 levels of activities, including dumping water on friends, family members or complete strangers.
Distance: 5 hours by car
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