As the the weather turns colder, families in New Jersey and Pennsylvania may be looking for fun indoor activities that everyone can enjoy. I know this from personal experience as a dad of two young kids!
One fantastic way to beat the winter blues is by visiting an indoor waterpark. The good news is both New Jersey and Pennsylvania have a variety of indoor water attractions that promise endless fun for the whole family. Whether you’re zooming down thrilling water tube slides, floating along lazy rivers, or enjoying interactive play areas, these waterparks provide an ideal escape for families seeking quality time and unforgettable memories.
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Best Indoor Water Parks in NJ and PA
Here’s a list of some of the best indoor water parks in NJ and PA, offering a perfect blend of water-based excitement and family-friendly amenities. Most of these locations are within a convenient 2 hour drive of New York City.
Great Wolf Lodge – Pocono Mountains, PA
Nestled in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, Great Wolf Lodge is a favorite among families because it is quite possibly one of the best indoor water parks in the New York City tri-state area. With a rustic Northwoods theme, the lodge’s waterpark offers a diverse range of attractions, including water slides, a water fort treehouse, and a massive wave pool. Great Wolf Lodge goes beyond water-based fun with activities like MagiQuest, an immersive and interactive game that lets kids embark on a magical quest using magic wands to complete quests throughout the resort. Comfortable suites and a variety of dining options make it a convenient and enjoyable stay for families and kids of all ages.
Great Wolf Lodge provides a daily schedule of activities and entertainment for guests. These may include character appearances, story time, crafts, and other family-friendly events, ensuring that there’s always something fun happening throughout the day.
The Pocono Mountains is a region located in the northeastern part of Pennsylvania. They cover about 2,400 square miles and are part of the larger Appalachian Mountain Range. The region is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, numerous lakes, and rivers. It is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, black bears, bald eagles, and various bird species, as well as charming small towns and villages.
Kalahari Resorts and Conventions – Pocono Manor, PA
Kalahari Resorts and Conventions is known for being one of the most impressive and largest indoor water park resorts in the United States. The resort combines a sprawling indoor water park with luxurious accommodations, dining options, a spa, and a range of entertainment and activities. The park features an array of water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and an expansive play area for the little ones.
The resort is designed with a distinctive African theme, incorporating elements of African culture and aesthetics throughout the property. The themed decor and architecture contribute to a unique and immersive atmosphere.
While the water park is a major draw, Kalahari Resort offers additional entertainment options, such as arcades, virtual reality experiences, mini-golf, and more. Depending on the season, there are also outdoor activities, including outdoor pools, a golf course, and other recreational options. And in addition to being a family resort, Kalahari is equipped with extensive conference and convention facilities. This makes it a popular choice for business events, conferences, and large gatherings.
Big Kahuna’s Water Park – West Berlin, NJ
For families in New Jersey, Big Kahuna’s Water Park, formerly known as Sahara Sam’s Oasis, is a tropical paradise conveniently located in West Berlin. With both indoor and outdoor attractions, this waterpark offers year-round fun. The indoor section features water slides, a lazy river, and an interactive play area, while the outdoor water park boasts a relaxing leisure pool and a thrilling wave pool. It also includes a dedicated toddler area for little kids and a spacious arcade, ensuring that there’s something for every member of the family.
West Berlin is a community located in Camden County, New Jersey. It is part of the Berlin Township and is situated in the southern part of the state.
CoCo Key Water Resort – Mount Laurel, NJ
Situated in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, CoCo Key Water Resort is a fun indoor waterpark perfect for families. The park’s highlights include water slides, a lazy river, an adventure river, and a splash pad for the little ones. CoCo Key offers day passes, making it an excellent option for families looking for a day of aquatic fun. The resort also provides comfortable accommodations for overnight guests, dining options, and a game arcade, creating a well-rounded experience for visitors.
CoCo Key is designed with a tropical theme, complete with palm trees, vibrant colors, and other elements that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
DreamWorks Water Park – East Rutherford, NJ
DreamWorks Water Park, located within the American Dream entertainment complex, is the largest indoor waterpark in North America and has the world’s biggest indoor wave pool. Bringing beloved DreamWorks characters to life, you can expect to encounter characters from films like Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, and more throughout the park. There are family-friendly rides, high-speed body slides, spiral slides, waterfalls, wave pools, interactive play areas, and the world’s longest hydromagnetic rocket coaster, to name a few.
As part of the larger American Dream complex, you can enjoy a full day of activities, which includes various entertainment, shopping, and dining options. Some other entertainment options for kids are:
Nickelodeon Universe:
Nickelodeon Universe is an indoor theme park located within the American Dream Mall. It features a variety of rides and attractions based on popular Nickelodeon characters and shows. Roller coasters, carousel rides, and interactive play areas provide entertainment for kids of different ages.
Big SNOW America:
Big SNOW America is an indoor snow park that offers year-round skiing and snowboarding. While this attraction may be more suitable for older kids and teens with an interest in winter sports, it provides a unique and exciting experience.
SEA LIFE Aquarium:
SEA LIFE is an aquarium that offers an underwater journey, featuring a variety of marine life. Kids can explore different exhibits, watch live feeding demonstrations, and learn about ocean conservation.
The Rink:
The Rink is an indoor ice skating rink where families can enjoy ice skating. Skating sessions are typically open to all skill levels, making it a family-friendly activity.
Angry Birds Mini Golf:
Angry Birds Mini Golf is an 18-hole indoor mini-golf course inspired by the popular mobile game. It provides a playful and interactive experience for kids and families.
KidZania:
KidZania is an interactive role-playing experience designed for children. It offers a scaled-down city where kids can explore various professions, role-play different jobs, and engage in hands-on activities.
Mirror Maze and Funhouse:
The American Dream Mall may include attractions like a mirror maze and funhouse, providing optical illusions, challenges, and a playful environment for kids.
BioSphere Pool Complex at Crystal Springs Resort – Hamburg, NJ
Crystal Springs Resort’s Biosphere Pool Complex in Hamburg, NJ, is renowned for offering guests a luxurious and unique aquatic experience. The complex is known for its tropical and lush setting, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere. There are palm trees, water features, and other tropical elements that transport you to a vacation-like environment.
It features both an indoor and outdoor pool, allowing guests to enjoy the facilities regardless of the season. The pools have waterfalls, fountains, water jets, swim-up bar and in-pool seating areas.
Additionally, if you’re looking for a high level of service and attention to detail, this is the place to come. You can typically expect luxurious amenities such as comfortable loungers, cabana rental, and attentive poolside service. Some sections of the complex are designated as adult-only areas, so adults can relax without the presence of children. And as part of the larger Crystal Springs Resort, you have access to golf courses, spa facilities, fine dining options, and other recreational activities available on the resort grounds.
Aquatopia at Camelback Resort – Tannersville, PA
Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark at Camelback Resort iis one of the largest and most innovative indoor water parks in the United States. The water park is known for its immersive theming, creating a tropical oasis indoors. You can experience the feeling of being in a lush, exotic destination, complete with palm trees, rock formations, and other tropical elements.
Aquatopia features a variety of water slides, including some adrenaline-pumping slides for thrill-seekers. Whether you prefer high-speed drops or winding twists, the park provides a mix of slides suitable for different preferences. One notable attraction at Aquatopia is the Storm Chaser, an innovative indoor family raft ride. This ride takes guests on a thrilling adventure through vortex loops, open-air half-pipes, and exciting drops, providing a unique and exhilarating experience for older kids. For younger visitors, Aquatopia offers play areas with tipping buckets, fountains, and interactive water features that are both entertaining and safe.
Private cabanas are available and come with amenities such as comfortable seating, food and beverage service, and a private space to relax. And as part of the larger Camelback Resort, visitors can enjoy a range of activities beyond the water park. There’s skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and adventure courses, ziplining, and other outdoor activities during the warmer months.
Woodloch Resort – Hawley, PA
Woodloch Resort in Hawley, PA, has earned its reputation for providing a wide range of activities and amenities in a picturesque setting. Woodloch is situated on the shores of Lake Teedyuskung, which provides a scenic and tranquil backdrop for guests. The resort takes advantage of its natural surroundings, offering water activities, scenic views, and a peaceful atmosphere. Depending on the season, hotel guests can enjoy water sports on the lake, hiking, golf, snow tubing, and more.
One of the standout features of Woodloch Resort is its all-inclusive packages, which typically cover accommodations, meals, and a diverse range of activities. This allows guests to enjoy a worry-free vacation with easy budgeting. The resort has a variety of accommodations, including family-sized suites and private cabins, accommodating different group sizes and preferences.
Woodloch is also known for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular choice for multi-generational vacations. The resort has activities and entertainment suitable for all ages, ensuring that every member of the family has a memorable experience. The resort is recognized for its top-notch entertainment options, including live shows, comedians, and themed events. The resort also features a sports complex with facilities for golf, tennis, and other sports. Guests can engage in friendly competitions, take lessons, or simply enjoy some recreational time in a well-maintained setting. For those seeking relaxation, Woodloch has spa services and wellness amenities including massages, facials, and other spa treatments to unwind during your stay.
Woodloch often hosts themed weekends and special events. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a seasonal theme, these events enhance the overall experience.
H20ooohh! Indoor Family Water Park – Lake Harmony, PA
H2Oooohh! Indoor Family Water Park is known for offering a family-friendly and entertaining aquatic experience. It has a variety of water slides, splash pools, lazy rivers, and interactive play areas. Its proximity to other attractions and amenities in the Pocono Mountains region makes it a great family-friendly destination.
H2Oooohh! Indoor Family Water Park is located within Split Rock Resort, which is situated in the Pocono Mountains where you can find endless outdoor activities and scenic views. The lake adds to the overall recreational options available such as boating, fishing, and kayaking. Split Rock Resort is also known for its golf courses with golf packages and amenities available. There’s also an arcade, spa, and wellness facilities to keep big kids and grownups all occupied.
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