Snow-covered roads, early sunsets, and a less lively nightlife characterize a New Jersey winter. The extroverted become homebodies and the introverts suffer from cabin fever. But eventually, that gets old. The memories of visiting the boardwalk, splashing around in the Atlantic Ocean, and enjoying some summer relaxation begin to creep upon us. Luckily, New Jersey has a handful of indoor water parks to revive that warm weather feeling. It turns out, you can in fact have summer fun during the winter months. Read on to check out our list of must-visit water parks in New Jersey.
In New Jersey
DreamWorks Water Park – East Rutherford, NJ
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New Jersey is home to some of the best bagels and pizza (sorry, not sorry, New York). Now, it houses the largest indoor water park in North America. The DreamWorks Water Park, located inside the American Dream mall, has a year-round temperature of 81 degrees Fahrenheit and a selection of DreamWorks-themed attractions. After catching a splash, there are luxury cabanas for you to relax in. This water park has all you need to enjoy a summer day in the winter.
Sahara Sam’s Water Park – West Berlin, NJ
With rides named “The Congo Bongo,” “Flow Rider” and “The Nile Mile,” you know you’re in for a treat at Sahara Sam’s in West Berlin. The park also offers a “Grotto” area for the adults to relax in while the kids play the day away. Planning to take your extended family? Sahara Sam’s has you covered. The park offers group packages, discounts for special events like birthdays and corporate event packages. If this sounds like an ideal getaway, plan your next trip to Camden county for some weatherproof, but not waterproof, fun.
Montego Bay Resort – North Wildwood, NJ
If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, the Montego Bay Resort is your go-to destination. Water parks can be overwhelming with the immense number of choices, so if you’re easily over-stimulated, take yourself to this resort in North Wildwood. With a waterslide, dedicated children’s section, and tiki bar for the adults, your whole family is guaranteed to enjoy winter at the Atlantic coast.
An Out-of-State Trip
Sometimes a day trip isn’t enough. If you’re looking for an extended vacation, there are several out-of-state indoor water park destinations to choose from.
Great Wolf Lodge – Scotrun, PA
A four-story water fort, lazy river, four-story tandem tube ride and hot springs. Great Wolf Lodge has a number of attractions for everyone to enjoy, like thrilling rides for the kids and relaxing hangouts for the parents. Lodging options include cabin, fireplace, and wolf den themed rooms for all to enjoy. Waterpark passes, kids’ activities and resort-wide Wi-Fi are included amenities with your stay. Although, you’ll likely be having so much fun, Wi-Fi will be the last thing on your mind.
Camelback Resort – Tannersville, PA
The Camelback Resort in Tannersville, PA offers access to the Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark with your stay. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., you’re likely to send the kids to bed looking like prunes. There are 13 different waterslides, nearby restaurants, and private cabanas to make your stay in the Poconos one you won’t want to leave. Other winter experiences include skiing and snow tubing.
The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark – Monticello, NY
The biggest indoor waterpark in New York is located in Monticello. There are rides with extravagant names like “The Krakken” and “Nor’Easter.” It’s no surprise The Kartrite tops other NY indoor water parks. Once you put the kids to bed, get ready to sneak off for more adult activities like a paint and sip event. The resort has a festive nightlife; there are multiple restaurants and bars for you to enjoy. You know what they say, while the children are away, the adults will play.
Are you looking forward to a warm, weatherproof getaway this winter? Let us know what you think about these indoor water parks in New Jersey in the comments below.
Photo by Wesley Armstrong
Helen is an editorial intern at The Digest. A senior at Drew University, she enjoys cooking and listening to music. When she's not working in the kitchen, she's typically catching up on pop culture news.
