- Categories:
- Fun
- Tags:
- ActivitiesFunSummer
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every July 28
- Holiday emoji:
- 🌊
National Waterpark Day makes a big splash every July 28, celebrating the joy of aquatic adventures and summer thrills. Gather your friends and family for a day of exhilarating slides, relaxing lazy rivers, and refreshing wave pools. Plan your visit, pack your swimsuits, and dive into unforgettable memories this summer!
Want to sponsor NATIONAL WATERPARK DAY? Learn how
Expected NATIONAL WATERPARK DAY Deals
As National Waterpark Day approaches, families can anticipate a wave of exciting promotions and discounts from major waterpark chains and local attractions. While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows that parks like Six Flags, Great Wolf Lodge, and Schlitterbahn often offer reduced admission, BOGO deals, or special package rates on July 28. Look for local parks such as Raging Waters or Wet ‘n’ Wild to also feature discounts on tickets, cabana rentals, or food and beverage bundles. Retailers like Target and Walmart might also run promotions on swimwear, towels, and sun protection. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as July 28 approaches.
Platform Guide for NATIONAL WATERPARK DAY
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalWaterparkDay. Share your best splash photos, thrilling ride videos, and family fun moments.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalWaterparkDay. Film your POV ride experiences, funny wipeouts, or creative transitions at the park.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalWaterparkDay. Share your favorite waterpark memories and tips for a fun day.
NATIONAL WATERPARK DAY Hero
George Millay
History of NATIONAL WATERPARK DAY
Since their introduction in the late 1940s and early 1950s, waterparks have grown immensely in popularity. The United States has been recorded to have the largest and most concentrated waterpark market in the world. More than 1,000 water parks already exist with multiple new parks opening each year in the U.S.
The waterslide was first seen in New Zealand during a display at their International Exhibition in 1906. Ever since, waterslides have quickly evolved, especially in the 1970s. They were built to accommodate larger numbers of people as their love for them grew. In line with the excitement of the public, they were developed to be taller and faster.
Thrill-seekers took to wave pools and rough water rides, while lazy rivers were popular among those who just wanted to chill out. Major organizations involved in the management of waterparks are the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (I.A.A.P.A.) and the World Waterpark Association (W.W.A.), which is the trade association of the industry.
After the innovations and observations of how people loved the waterslides, National Waterpark Day was then founded by Kalahari Resorts and Conventions on July 28, 2017. Travis Nelson, spokesperson for Kalahari Resorts and Conventions once said that “Visiting a waterpark is a quintessential summer experience.” And we agree — a summer without being in the water is one not enjoyed to the fullest.
Travis also commented that Kalahari Resorts founded National Waterpark Day to commemorate the fun and lingering memories families are sure to create at their waterparks every summer. Today, waterparks are found all over the globe. They provide fun for the whole family and many serve as resort destinations.
NATIONAL WATERPARK DAY timeline
Efforts are made to reduce long waiting lines at waterparks by introducing conveyor belts to lift passengers or using water jets.
The United States gets its first indoor waterpark.
The world’s first indoor waterpark is built-in Alpamare, Switzerland.
Herbert Sellner designs a ride with water toboggans that would slide down large inclines and skim across bodies of water.
How Businesses Can Celebrate NATIONAL WATERPARK DAY
Local businesses can make a splash on National Waterpark Day by offering themed promotions or partnering with nearby aquatic centers. Restaurants and ice cream shops could create ‘splash zone’ specials or ‘wave rider’ combo meals. Retailers selling swimwear, towels, or sunscreen can run special discounts on July 28. Consider sponsoring a local community pool event or hosting a ‘water fun’ day with sprinklers and games for families who can’t make it to a full waterpark. Even small businesses can celebrate by decorating with a summer water theme.
NATIONAL WATERPARK DAY FAQs
When is National Waterpark Day?
National Waterpark Day 2026 falls on Tuesday, July 28, inviting everyone to enjoy a refreshing escape from the summer heat. It’s the perfect mid-week opportunity to hit the slides!
How many waterparks are there in the U.S.?
As of recent estimates, there are approximately 1,000 waterparks operating across the United States, ranging from large outdoor parks to indoor resorts. This vast number ensures that most Americans are within driving distance of a refreshing aquatic experience.
What is the largest waterpark in the U.S.?
The largest outdoor waterpark in the U.S. is Noah’s Ark Waterpark in Wisconsin Dells, spanning 70 acres with dozens of slides and two wave pools. For indoor options, the largest is usually cited as Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Sandusky, Ohio.
What makes a waterpark different from a swimming pool?
While both involve water, a waterpark offers a wide array of specialized attractions like waterslides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and splash pads, designed for entertainment and thrill. A swimming pool, by contrast, is primarily for swimming, lounging, or basic recreation.
NATIONAL WATERPARK DAY Activities
Visit a waterpark
It would be a crime to miss the main point of this day without good reason. Cool down at your local waterpark or travel across the country to a major water attraction for the ultimate summer fun.
Share on social
Good things are better when shared. Let your friends know about this day by posting about it on social media. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #NationalWaterparkDay.
Stay safe in the sun
We’re all excited to see the sun again during summer, but don’t forget that its U.V. rays are powerful. Use sunscreen and wear a hat while you’re not in the water.
5 Fun Facts About Waterparks And Waterslides
Canada pioneers indoor waterparks
North America’s first indoor waterpark was built in Canada and named World Waterpark in Edmonton, Alberta.
The largest indoor waterpark
Kalahari Resorts in Wisconsin is the biggest indoor waterpark, measuring 125,000 square feet.
An abandoned waterpark
Disney World has an abandoned waterpark that is slowly being salvaged by nature.
A deadly waterslide
Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Kansas City was home to what used to be the tallest waterslide, which was 168 feet high, but was shut down when a 10-year-old rider died using the waterslide.
Waterpark H.Q.
Wisconsin Dells calls itself the waterpark capital of the world as it possesses over 20 waterparks.
Why We Love NATIONAL WATERPARK DAY
It keeps us cool
Summer heat can get unbearable. Being in the water is a sure bet for keeping ourselves cool.
It’s family-friendly
Going to a waterpark is something that parents can safely enjoy with their kids. And the family memories from such moments are priceless.
It’s healthy fun
Being in the sun gives us vitamin D, and we get a burst of ‘feel-good’ hormones: endorphins, dopamine, and adrenaline. Way to stay healthy while having fun!
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