Many of us have vivid childhood memories of days spent at amusement and waterparks. Going was a big deal — it would  be a seasonal highlight for the kids, but oftentimes seemed hectic for the parents. Tickets might have been high, and sometimes we’d even have to drive out of our region or state for the closest splash pad. Today, there’s an abundance of convenient, affordable options that make the joy of waterparks more accessible to children and families. Cool off and entertain your crew with these DFW-area waterparks. 

Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark

Grand Prairie

At 80,000 sq-ft, this epic facility is the largest indoor waterpark in North Texas.Race with your family on a 4-lane water slide, try the Prairie Plunge for a 50-foot stomach-dropping ride, or boogie board on the Flowrider. Epic Waters has special events, like Flowapalooza, which offers live music or other performances. Events like this happen throughout the year, with the next one in October featuring a family circus act, food trucks, live music, and special activities for the kids. 

Bahama Beach Waterpark

Dallas 

Do you know a child or adult who’d love to swirl down a 45-foot water slide at high speed on an inner tube? Welcome to Bahama Beach, a seasonal waterpark in Dallas that will only cost you $11-15 a person to splash around all day. City residents get a discount and parking is free for all visitors. Try it out before the season is over Labor Day Weekend. 

The Cove at The Lakefront

Little Elm

The Cove at The Lakefront is a 42,000-square-foot indoor waterpark that operates year-round. It has a lazy river, a jump cliff, several slides, and a surf machine where you can catch a wave like you’re on the ocean. There are also cabanas, party rooms, and a dining area with a full menu. Take a virtual tour or check out their Instagram and you’ll be ready to plan your day at The Cove, whether you’re a Little Elm resident or not. 

Pirates’ Cove Fun Zone

Burleson

Dive into this pirate-themed outdoor waterpark south of Fort Worth and choose from 11 different water slides, four pools, two waterfalls, and a 750-foot-long lazy river. Pirates Cove also has indoor fun with an arcade that features a virtual reality game and a play structure for smaller kids. The best part is the prices. A child’s ticket is $14.99 for a day pass on a weekday and goes up to $22.99 on the weekends. 

Splash Dayz

White Settlement 

With names like Velocity, Blackout, and Atomic Wedgie, the attractions at Splash Dayz sure sound like a fun time. This seasonal waterpark brings the thrills, but also does a good job of accommodating smaller children with a kiddie splash pad and kiddie splash pool. Season passes are just $40 per person, so make sure to consider a Splash Dayz pass next summer. 

NRH2O Family Water Park

North Richland Hills

The first municipality-run waterpark in the state, this 17-acre park is listed as a top waterpark in North Texas on Trip Advisor. Here, you can race your kids on the Accelerator or try one of four body slides. There are food options all over the park, including funnel cake, Dippin’ Dots, and a smokehouse and grill. Oh, and they like dogs! On September 29, NRH20 will host a doggie beach bash with your $20 day pass covering the entry of two pups, and  proceeds going to a local animal rescue. 

Hawaiian Waters aka Hawaiian Falls 

The Colony, Garland, Roanoke, Mansfield 

Hawaiian Waters launched their Hawaiian Islands-themed parks in the early 2000s, but you might know them as their previous name, Hawaiian Falls. For about $35 you can score an entry ticket, plus a meal, and enjoy the 12-acre parks from mid May to mid September. In The Colony, you’ll find 11 waterslides, a 928-foot long lazy river, and a 220,000-gallon wave pool, with similar layouts for the other locations. The parks have great reviews and customers like Hawaiian Waters because it doesn’t feel overwhelming like some bigger waterparks can. 

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Arlington

Arlington

This is probably the most visited waterpark in North Texas. Six Flags really helped define the waterpark experience, launching its first two water-focused parks — including Arlington — in the mid-nineties. There are 15 Hurricane Harbors across North America and the Arlington property covers 47 acres and features more than 40 rides and attractions. A basic day pass will run you $25, but parking will cost you more. That’s why many opt for season passes where parking is included. Now that school is back in session the park will be open on weekends until the season sends in September.