As summer temperatures soar, finding exciting ways to stay cool becomes a priority for many. If you’re searching for the best “things to do in Austin” to escape the heat, you’re in the right place. This article offers a comprehensive guide to the top water parks near Austin, catering to both locals and visitors. Whether you’re an Austin millennial looking for a fun day out with friends or a young professional seeking a relaxing weekend activity, these water parks provide a variety of options to enjoy your free time.
Austin’s vibrant community and its surrounding areas offer some fantastic water attractions, perfect for making the most of sunny days. From thrilling water slides to peaceful lazy rivers and splash pads for kids, there’s something for everyone. Our guide highlights the best spots to cool off, each with its unique features and amenities that cater to a range of interests and age groups.
Typhoon Texas in Pflugerville is a standout choice for those looking for a big water park experience close to town. This park boasts an impressive array of attractions, including a lazy river, exhilarating slides, a four-story play structure, a splash pad for younger kids, and a floating obstacle course. For a full day of fun, consider renting a cabana for added comfort. Tickets are reasonably priced, starting at $20 for specific date tickets, with an option for any-day tickets at around $40. If you have a Pogo Pass, you can enjoy one visit to Typhoon Texas included with your pass.
Rock’N River in Round Rock offers a budget-friendly option with great features. Located within Old Settlers Park, this park includes exciting slides, a huge splash structure, a small lazy river, and a zero-depth entry play area. It’s an excellent choice for families, with admission rates that are particularly affordable after 5 p.m., making it a great option for those looking for “what to do in Austin” in the late afternoon or evening.
For a year-round water experience, Splash Shack in Cedar Park is perfect for younger children. This indoor splash park features a large room with numerous splashing elements, slides, and a giant bucket that periodically dumps water. With admission priced at $22.99 per child, which includes one free adult admission, Splash Shack is a fantastic choice for families with kids aged 1-10.
Volente Beach on Lake Travis provides a more laid-back water park experience with beautiful lake views. The park includes a main pool, four slides, and a pirate ship-themed kiddie pool. Admission is $20 on weekends and $15 on weekdays, with paid parking available. Although lake access is currently limited due to water levels, the shaded areas and Beachside Billy’s Restaurant offer a pleasant experience.
Kalahari Resort in Round Rock stands out as America’s largest indoor waterpark resort. This expansive facility features both indoor and outdoor water parks, with a variety of slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. Day passes start at $69, with discounts available after 5 p.m. The resort also requires children under 48″ to wear life vests for safety.
For those willing to make a short drive, Schlitterbahn New Braunfels offers an extensive water park experience with four distinct sections, each featuring its own lazy river and kids’ areas. With day passes starting at $49.99, it’s a great option for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Additionally, we’ve included information on several public pools with playscapes, such as Veterans Memorial Pool, Micki Krebsbach Pool, El Salido Pool, and Elizabeth Milburn Pool. These affordable options provide various water play features and are ideal for families and individuals looking for a more relaxed day out.
Whether you’re looking for a high-energy adventure or a tranquil retreat, this guide to Austin’s best water parks will help you find the perfect spot to enjoy the summer heat. Dive into these top attractions and make the most of your time in Austin!
1. Typhoon Texas
Location: 18500 TX-130, Pflugerville, TX 78660
Google Review Rating: 4.2 stars
Admission: Starts at $20 for specific date tickets, $40 for any-day tickets
Description: Located just a short drive from Austin, Typhoon Texas offers a full-fledged water park experience. Enjoy the lazy river, towering slides, a four-story play structure, a splash pad for young children, and a floating obstacle course. Cabanas are available for rent for added comfort. If you have a Pogo Pass, one visit to Typhoon Texas is included.
2. Rock’N River
Location: 3300 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
Google Review Rating: 4.3 stars
Admission: Kids 2 and under: $6; Kids 3-17: $12; Adults: $14. After 5 p.m.: Half price
Description: Situated within Old Settlers Park, Rock’N River is known for its budget-friendly pricing and fun features. The park includes thrilling slides, a massive splash structure, a small lazy river, and a zero-depth entry play area. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day and weekends during the school year.
3. Splash Shack
Location: 1320 Arrow Point Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613
Google Review Rating: 4.5 stars
Admission: $22.99 per child (includes one free adult admission)
Description: Splash Shack is an indoor splash park ideal for younger children aged 1-10. This facility boasts a large splash area, slides, and a giant bucket that periodically dumps water. It’s a great option for year-round fun with comfortable seating for adults.
4. Volente Beach
Location: 16107 FM2769, Volente, TX 78641
Google Review Rating: 4.1 stars
Admission: $20 on weekends, $15 on weekdays
Description: Nestled on Lake Travis, Volente Beach Resort offers a scenic water park experience with a main pool, four slides, and a pirate-themed kiddie pool. Although lake access is limited due to water levels, the resort’s shaded areas and Beachside Billy’s Restaurant make it a relaxing getaway.
5. Kalahari Resort
Location: 3001 Kalahari Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
Google Review Rating: 4.4 stars
Admission: Waterpark access is included with resort stay; day passes start at $69
Description: Kalahari is America’s largest indoor waterpark resort, featuring a sprawling 223,000-square-foot waterpark with slides, wave pools, and a lazy river. New additions include an outdoor water park section. Discounts are available after 5 p.m., and children under 48″ are required to wear life vests.
6. Schlitterbahn New Braunfels
Location: 400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Google Review Rating: 4.5 stars
Admission: Day passes start at $49.99; two-day passes at $81.99
Description: A bit of a drive from Austin, Schlitterbahn offers an expansive water park with four distinct sections, each featuring its own lazy river, swim-up bar, and kids’ areas. The newest addition in 2024 includes a kids’ water coaster in the West section.
7. Veterans Memorial Pool
Location: 2525 W New Hope Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613
Google Review Rating: 4.4 stars
Admission: $2-$5
Description: This Cedar Park pool is perfect for families, featuring a two-story play structure with slides and a zero-depth entry pool. It’s a popular spot for younger children to enjoy splashing around.
8. Micki Krebsbach Pool
Location: 301 W Bagdad Ave, Round Rock, TX 78664
Google Review Rating: 4.3 stars
Admission: $4-$5
Description: Known for its pirate ship-themed play structure, Micki Krebsbach Pool includes a floating obstacle course and slide, making it a hit with kids looking for adventure.
9. El Salido Pool
Location: 4100 El Salido Pkwy, Austin, TX 78739
Google Review Rating: 4.2 stars
Admission: $7-$8
Description: El Salido Pool offers a splash pad and small water playscape, complete with a slide. It’s an excellent choice for families seeking a more relaxed water play experience.
10. Elizabeth Milburn Pool
Location: 16511 Great Oaks Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613
Google Review Rating: 4.3 stars
Admission: $1-$3
Description: This Cedar Park pool features a playscape with a slide for younger children and a larger slide for older kids. It’s a great, affordable option for a family outing.
For more aquatic adventures, consider visiting Barton Springs Pool and Blue Hole in Wimberley. And don’t forget to check out the splash pads around town for a quick cool-down!