Looking for the best waterparks in the Midwest for families? You’ll discover indoor and outdoor thrills, from lazy rivers and wave pools to towering waterslides and shaded cabanas. Whether riding two-person tubes, relaxing in a cove, or chasing fun in the sun with little ones, these Midwest waterparks promise non-stop adventure and all-ages excitement on your next family vacation.

1. Noah’s Ark Waterpark, Wisconsin Dells

Noah’s Ark is the largest waterpark in the United States and a top-tier family destination. Located in Wisconsin Dells, this ark waterpark features over 50 water slides, including the high-speed Scorpion’s Tail plummet and family raft rides built for the entire crew.

Park features like Adventure River, a shaded cove, wave pools, and activity pools keep every age group entertained. With season pass perks and a full range of attractions, this park in Wisconsin Dells stands out among Midwest waterparks.

2. Splashin’ Safari at Holiday World, Santa Claus, Indiana

This outdoor waterpark connects seamlessly to Holiday World amusement park, giving families access to back-to-back thrills. Wildebeest and Mammoth—record-setting water coasters—send riders soaring through tunnels and drops. Buccaneer Bay features aquatic play areas and a shallow kiddie area built for little ones.

After the adrenaline rush, float the lazy river and reset. Splashin’ Safari consistently ranks among the best waterparks in the world, thanks to a mix of high-intensity slides and family-friendly water rides.

3. Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells

Kalahari is the largest indoor waterpark in the Midwest, open year-round for endless family fun. Inside, you’ll find water basketball, funnel slides, body slides, tube slides, and a surf simulator. Outdoor park features include a wave pool, splash zones, and cabanas. This indoor water park is designed for all ages and has toddler cove zones and interactive play areas. Families can purchase day passes for flexible fun, whether staying overnight or visiting for the day.

4. Soak City at Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio

Soak City brings aquatic thrills to Cedar Point amusement park, creating one of the best waterparks in the Midwest. Families can race down twisty waterslides, relax in the lazy river, or splash through a lagoon-style wave pool. Two-person raft rides and winding tube slides entertain older kids, while little ones love the shaded play areas and gentle fountains. This outdoor waterpark offers high-energy fun and mellow moments—perfect for every family vacation.

5. Hurricane Harbor Rockford, Illinois

This Six Flags water park near Chicago delivers nonstop excitement with slides like Kapau Plummet and the Tidal Wave. Play areas and aquatic zones feature cove access, rapid slides, and interactive fountains designed for all ages. It’s a midwestern favorite with Hurricane Bay mimicking a day at the beach and lounge areas for mid-day breaks. A season pass gives families easy access to repeat the fun all summer long.

Honorable Mentions

Planning to hit the waterpark without packing the entire house? You can rent baby gear for waterpark vacations directly through BabyQuip, including sun protection gear, swim diapers, and strollers built for long, splash-filled days. Naturally, some strollers may be more water resistant than others. If your furry friend is joining you, many of our Quality Providers also provide the option to rent pet gear as well.

Whether heading to an indoor waterpark, enjoying a day at the beach, or exploring waterparks in the Midwest, we’ve got the gear that keeps your family vacation smooth and fun for everyone.