Discover Endless Fun at the Best NJ Indoor Water Park Attractions! (2024)

Winters can be long in the Garden State, and even when the weather is warm, pesky rain clouds can spoil the fun. That’s why visiting one of the region’s indoor waterparks is among the best day trips in New Jersey. To determine which indoor water park is right for you, an exploration of the top destinations in and around the state is the first step. Get ready for a wet, thrill-filled day at New Jersey’s top indoor water parks.

Short Overview Before We Dive In

• The DreamWorks Indoor Water Park inside the American Dream Mall in NJ offers a year-round tropical climate with attractions like Shrek’s Sinkhole Slammer and private Skybox suites for a luxurious experience.
• Big Kahuna’s Park boasts a retractable roof for an indoor and outdoor experience, along with a variety of water attractions, dining options, and Stay and Play packages with local hotels.
• Kalahari Resort Indoor Water Park features a massive 220,000 square feet of space with African-themed attractions, including the first VR tube slide in the US, quality dining, and cozy cabana rentals to add a touch of luxury to your visit.

Splashing Around at American Dream's DreamWorks Indoor Water Park

We embark on our journey at the American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, the site of DreamWorks Indoor Water Park, North America’s premier indoor water park. Imagine a consistent 81°F tropical climate all year round, perfect for a splash-filled time regardless of the weather outside.

From high-speed water slides to the Island Drift lazy river, this indoor waterpark is a paradise of water attractions for all ages.

DreamWorks Attractions

Are you craving a heart-pounding adventure in Bergen County, just a hop, skip, and jump from Manhattan? Jump on Shrek’s Sinkhole Slammer, a high-speed, multi-person raft ride featuring intense drops that culminate with a plunge into a massive funnel. It’s a thrilling experience that will leave you screaming for more!

The excitement continues! The Kung Fu Panda Temple of Awesomeness is a multi-level play structure that will keep kids entertained for hours. It boasts the largest indoor tipping bucket in the world, guaranteed to deliver a splash of excitement!

Burger Shack

When your appetite calls, make a beeline for the Burger Shack. This popular dining option serves up a tasty array of food, from the ‘Move It Move It Burger’ with bacon and pickle chips to the ‘Cluckin’ Good Sandwich’ featuring fried chicken with cheese and jalapeño. They even serve nachos, fries, and a selection of cold drinks to keep you refreshed between splashing and sliding.

For a broader selection of dining options, explore the adjacent American Dream Mall. There’s something to whet every appetite, ensuring you’re energized for the thrilling water attractions that await.

Skybox Suites

For those who love luxury, the Skybox Suites at DreamWorks Water Park are a real treat. These private suites offer panoramic views of the pool and the Manhattan skyline, making views from nearby Bergen County luxury homes seem lacking. These suites come in three distinct decor styles designed by Jonathan Adler, providing guests with an atmosphere of global luxury.

The benefits extend beyond that. When you rent a Skybox suite, you’ll receive exclusive amenities such as a stocked fridge with complimentary Coca-Cola products, and you’ll get the convenience of having food from popular restaurants delivered directly to your suite. It’s the perfect way to enhance your water park experience.

Island Waterpark: World’s Largest Beachfront Indoor Waterpark

Atlantic City is typically thought of as an adult-centered destination, but its new indoor waterpark is among the newest family-friendly things to do in New Jersey. Nestled along the picturesque Atlantic City shoreline, Island Waterpark stands as the globe's premier beachfront indoor waterpark, boasting an unparalleled blend of exhilarating attractions and tropical charm. The innovative retractable awning ingeniously melds the invigorating summer breeze with the cozy warmth of winter, guaranteeing a perpetual oasis of relaxation and excitement.

Embark on a waterborne journey across 11 thrilling waterslides, each promising an adrenaline-fueled rush and unforgettable aquatic adventures. Additionally, guests can explore the world's largest arcade, brimming with an extensive selection of captivating games and attractions sure to delight visitors of all ages.

Eat & Drink at Island Waterpark

After the splash-filled Atlantic County escapades, indulge in culinary delights at one of the park's four exquisite restaurants, offering a diverse array of delectable cuisines to satisfy every palate. For those seeking a respite from the aquatic thrills, three lively bars await, serving up refreshing beverages and lively entertainment against the backdrop of the shimmering waves.

Year-Round Adventure at Big Kahuna’s

Big Kahuna’s is an all-season indoor water park that transports the tropical thrill that’s sorely missed during winters for those living in New Jersey. This park features a unique retractable roof system, providing guests with open-air experiences in good weather while ensuring the fun continues uninterrupted, rain or shine.

The park offers a wide array of thrilling water attractions, including multi-rider family raft rides, speedy body slides, water basketball, an obstacle course, and more.

Big Kahuna’s Water Wonders

A trip to Big Kahuna’s is incomplete without diving into the Hidden Oasis pool, an engaging water feature that’s amusing for the entire family. If you’re a thrill-seeker, brace yourself for the Raging Rivers, a water slide that guarantees an exhilarating ride. And don’t forget to relax at the swim-up bar, where you can enjoy refreshing beverages without leaving the pool.

Fear not—ample fun awaits the youngsters as well! The Jungle Hideout is specifically designed for younger children, complete with age-appropriate water activities that ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. It’s a place where kids can let loose, and parents can relax knowing their little ones are having the time of their lives.

Food and Refreshments at the Waterpark

There are plenty of great spots to get food in this Camden County waterpark, including The Chill Zone, a casual place where you can get pizza and burgers. Island Time Cafe is a great spot if you want a tropical treat. You’ll also find more food and beverage concessions throughout the park, making it easy to grab a quick bite without missing any of the fun.

Stay and Play Packages

Why not extend your day trip into a mini-vacation with Big Kahuna’s Stay and Play packages? These packages include admission to the indoor water park and are tailored as a getaway for families, providing entertainment and fun activities conveniently under one roof.

To enhance your stay, Big Kahuna’s has partnered with local hotels, enabling guests to enjoy extended stays and a more comprehensive water park experience. It’s an ideal option for those looking to make the most of their visit to this tropical paradise.

Kalahari Resort Indoor Water Park (Pennsylvania)

Lastly, we take a tropical escape to Kalahari Resort Indoor Water Park. This African-themed adventure spans an impressive 220,000 square feet and offers a myriad of fun-filled water attractions. From a wave pool to unique experiences, including the first VR tube slide in the United States, this resort promises a one-of-a-kind water park experience.

Kalahari's Wild Water Features

Thrill-seekers should be sure to hop on the Anaconda, Kalahari’s dynamic water coaster that propels riders through aquatic twists and turns. If that’s not enough, the park also features the extreme Zip Coaster, offering adventure enthusiasts another level of excitement.

If you’re more for a relaxed experience, the lazy river provides a scenic experience, perfect for some well-deserved relaxation. From thrill-seekers to chill-seekers, Kalahari Resort has something for everyone.

Aquatopia at Camelback Resort (Pennsylvania)

Eager to experience Pocono perfection? Located in Pennsylvania just across the border with the Warren County region of Northern NJ, Camelback Resort’s Aquatopia is sure to impress. With its unique Texlon glass ceiling flooding the space with natural light, it’s always a sunny day at Aquatopia, regardless of the weather outside.

From distinctive tube rides like the Venus SlydeTrap to the kid-friendly Penguin Play Bay, this park offers a variety of water attractions for all ages.

Slide into Excitement

Prepare for a thrilling slide with the world’s longest indoor water coaster, Storm Chaser. With its fast-paced twists and turns, this ride is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. However, Aquatopia’s thrills aren’t limited to this. The Venus SlydeTrap is another one-of-a-kind waterslide that offers a unique experience you won’t want to miss.

If you’re looking for a more peaceful aquatic adventure, the Underground Adventure River provides a scenic lazy river experience, perfect for some well-deserved relaxation. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a chill-seeker, Aquatopia has got you covered.

Food & Dining Options

After all the fun, you’re bound to be famished, but not to worry—Aquatopia has an abundance of delectable dining options to sate your hunger. Berrelli’s Italian Chophouse and Graffiti Pizza are signature dining options that offer a delightful culinary experience.

Looking for a quick bite? Aquatopia offers a variety of dining options, including:

• Trails End Pub & Grille: classic American cuisine with scenic mountain views
• Burgers & More: quick bites
• Tut’s Snack Shack: located within the waterpark

Whatever you’re craving, Aquatopia has a dining option to suit your palate.

Resort Amenities

What is a water park visit if not a bit luxurious? At Aquatopia, you can enhance your visit with resort amenities such as towel and cabana rentals, ensuring you have a comfortable and convenient experience. The cabana rentals come with deluxe features such as a mini-fridge with a complimentary fruit basket and water, a TV, and a private table, creating a comfortable retreat for families and groups.

However, the pampering isn’t limited to this. The resort also offers a range of amenities designed to provide a stress-free experience, such as lockers for personal belongings and life jacket rentals for safety. It’s the perfect blend of fun and convenience, all in one place.

Have Fun at New Jersey’s Water Parks

When the weather doesn’t allow for New Jersey’s best water activities, the region’s indoor water parks are more than equipped to fill in. From the thrilling water slides at DreamWorks Indoor Water Park to the tropical escapes at Kalahari Resort, New Jersey offers an array of indoor water parks that promise endless fun for the whole family. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or looking for a relaxing getaway, these water parks have something unique to offer.