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It’s scorching out here! Let’s cool off at the best indoor water parks in Phoenix!
Last summer, during one of Phoenix’s infamous heatwaves, I decided my best bet for survival was finding the coolest spots in town. That’s when I discovered the oasis of indoor water parks in Phoenix.
Imagine sliding down a massive water slide while it’s 110 degrees outside – talk about a desert miracle! These parks offer everything from lazy rivers to wave pools, making them perfect for both thrill-seekers and chill enthusiasts.
And let’s be honest, where else can you comfortably wear a swimsuit in the middle of a Phoenix summer without melting? Dive into my guide to the best indoor water parks in Phoenix, and let’s beat the heat together!
1. Golfland Sunsplash
Address: 155 W Hampton Ave, Mesa, AZ 85210
Website: https://www.golfland.com/mesa/
Contact Details: +1 480-834-8319, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
Golfland Sunsplash is a family entertainment center that offers a blend of indoor and outdoor activities suitable for all ages. Whether seeking water adventures or land-based activities, it delivers a memorable experience for all.
The park features over 30 water attractions, including wave pools, tube slides, body slides, and a lazy river. Guests can enjoy various themes on the miniature golf courses, such as the pirate-themed Buccaneer Bay and the outer space-themed Sunsplash Golf.
For over 30 years, Golfland Sunsplash has been a popular spot for families and groups of friends. Its expansive 30-acre land offers a mix of activities that cater to different interests and age groups.
Golfland, one part of the park, includes mini-golf courses, go-karts, bumper boats, and arcade games. Sunsplash, the water park section, houses all the exciting water attractions.
The Master Blaster water coaster is a highlight, offering a thrilling, high-speed ride through twists, turns, and drops. Other popular rides include Thunder Falls, a 50-foot-tall freefall slide, and The Revolution, a high-speed water slide.
| Pro tip: Lockers are a lifesaver. Renting a locker for the day keeps your valuables safe and lets you enjoy the park without worrying about your stuff. |
2. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park
Address: 7333 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Website: https://www.greatwolf.com/arizona
Contact Details: +1 480-948-9653
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday: 10 AM–8 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 9 AM–8 PM
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park offers a comprehensive entertainment experience, combining the best of indoor water fun and dry land activities. Whether you’re splashing in the pools or conquering the ropes course, there’s something for everyone
The indoor water park spans 85,000 square feet and is climate-controlled to a comfortable 84 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Families can enjoy a wide range of attractions, from thrilling water slides to relaxing lazy rivers.
One of the park’s signature features is the Talking Stick Treehouse, an AquaPlay 1050 structure designed by WhiteWater. This interactive play area includes suspension bridges, five water slides, spray stations, and a massive 1,000-gallon tipping bucket.
For those seeking more adrenaline, the Fusion Constrictor + Python slide offers a unique white-water rafting experience. This slide can accommodate up to three guests per raft, twisting and turning through exciting curves and drops.
The indoor setting maximizes space with water slides that loop outside and then return indoors, ensuring continuous excitement. Beyond the water attractions, it also boasts a family entertainment center with mini-golf, an arcade, and a multi-level ropes course.
| Pro tip: Take advantage of the MagiQuest game, a hit with kids and playable throughout your stay. Starting early allows more time to complete quests and is a great way to break up time between water activities. |
3. Arizona Grand Resort & Spa
Address: 8000 South Arizona Grand E, Phoenix, AZ 85044
Website: https://www.arizonagrandresort.com/
Contact Details: +1 877-800-4888
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Arizona Grand Resort & Spa is nestled within a sprawling 164-acre oasis alongside a mountain preserve. It’s renowned for its AAA Four Diamond status and newly renovated one and two-bedroom suites, making it ideal for business trips or vacations.
The resort’s highlight is its 7-acre Oasis Water Park, with waterslides, a lazy river, and plenty of pool activities for all ages. Guests can also indulge in delectable meals and drinks from the Oasis Bar & Grill while enjoying a break from water adventures.
For those seeking extra comfort and luxury, private cabanas are available to enhance the resort experience. The resort also offers an 18-hole golf course, a sprawling athletic club, and a 20,000 sq. ft. spa, ensuring guests have a wide range of leisure activities.
The suites and villas feature king or queen-size beds, walk-in showers, and modern decor. Villas offer private balconies overlooking the golf course, embodying luxury, while versatile indoor and outdoor meeting venues suit gatherings of all sizes.
Dining options at Arizona Grand Resort & Spa are diverse, ranging from Mexican cuisine at Aunt Chilada’s to steaks at Rustler’s Rooste. Guests can also enjoy light fare at the Lobby Grill or grab coffee and lunch-to-go at Marketplace Cafe.
| Pro tip: You may consider renting a private cabana for the ultimate VIP experience. It’s a great way to have a basecamp for your group, complete with shade, comfortable seating, and dedicated service. |
4. Kiwanis Recreation Center Wave Pool
Media: Tempe Parks and Recreation
Address: 6111 S All America Way, Tempe, AZ 85283
Contact Details: +1 480-350-5702
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 7–10 AM, 5–8 PM
- Tuesday: 7–10 AM, 5–8 PM
- Wednesday: 7–10 AM, 5–8 PM
- Thursday: 7–10 AM, 5–8 PM
- Friday: 7–10 AM
- Saturday: 8–11 AM
- Sunday: Closed
Located in Kiwanis Park in Tempe, the Kiwanis Recreation Center Wave Pool offers a thrilling indoor wave pool for year-round splashing. But that’s just the beginning of the excitement that awaits at this 54,000 square foot complex.
Beyond the wave pool, visitors can dive into a range of activities, from basketball and volleyball in the gymnasium to perfecting their swing at the batting range. There are also 15 newly-renovated tennis courts and a heated indoor pool.
The Kiwanis Recreation Center offers more than just sports. Its fitness center and classrooms host diverse programs and events, catering to various interests and skill levels, whether you’re looking to break a sweat or engage in a creative workshop.
For those planning gatherings or special events, the center’s corporate ramada area and outdoor event space provide picturesque settings for picnics and parties. With sand volleyball courts and shaded picnic areas, it’s an ideal backdrop for outdoor fun.
| Pro tip: The wave pool operates on a schedule with periods of waves and calm waters. You can take advantage of the wave sessions for an extra thrilling experience, but be mindful of your swimming abilities. |
5. Fountain Hills Community Center Pool
Address: 13001 N La Montana Dr, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
Website: https://www.fountainhillsaz.gov/239/Community-Center
Contact Details: +1 480-816-5200
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
The Fountain Hills Community Center Pool offers a refreshing retreat from the Arizona heat. It features both indoor and outdoor pools to cater to visitors year-round.
The indoor pool provides a comfortable and controlled environment for swimming and water activities. It’s an ideal spot for families and individuals seeking aquatic fun without worrying about weather conditions.
The indoor pool’s temperature-controlled water makes it perfect for swimming laps, water aerobics, or simply lounging in the water. Additionally, the center’s shaded areas offer relief from the sun, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the water comfortably.
With its spacious layout and well-maintained facilities, the center provides a safe and enjoyable experience for swimmers of all ages and skill levels. Lifeguards are on duty to ensure the safety of guests, adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
Families can also take advantage of the children’s play area, complete with water features and slides. In addition to the indoor pool, outdoor amenities include a splash pad and a larger outdoor pool for those who prefer open-air swimming.
| Pro tip: While the center provides basic swimming amenities, bringing your own water toys like inflatable rafts or water guns can add an extra element of fun to your pool experience, especially for kids. |
6. Surprise Aquatic Center
Address: 15831 N Bullard Ave, Surprise, AZ 85374
Website: https://surpriseaz.gov/567/Aquatics
Contact Details: +1 623-222-2500
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday: Closed, Saturday & Sunday: 12–6 PM
The Surprise Aquatic Center, nestled in the heart of Surprise City Center is known for its versatile features. This facility offers a blend of fun and fitness, making it a perfect destination for families and individuals alike.
The center’s Zero Depth Area with playful water features ensures younger children’s safety and enjoyment. Additionally, it offers an impressive selection of slides, including a Flume and a Tunnel slide, for thrilling experiences for all ages.
The Vortex Whirlpool adds an extra layer of excitement, swirling swimmers around in a fun, dynamic water current. For those interested in serious swimming, the full-sized competition pool and a diving well with two one-meter boards are available.
Fitness enthusiasts can make use of the lap lane, which is perfect for getting in some exercise amidst the water fun. This combination of play and fitness features makes the center an appealing choice for a wide range of visitors.
One of the key attractions is the shaded seating area, which provides a comfortable spot for families to relax away from the direct sunlight. The center also includes a snack bar offering light meals and refreshments, ensuring guests can refuel during their visit.
| Pro tip: The Vortex Whirlpool is a must-try but can get crowded. Hitting it early in the day or later in the afternoon can help avoid peak times, giving you more space to enjoy the fun. |
7. The Salvation Army Kroc Corps Community Center
Address: 1375 E Broadway Rd Phoenix, AZ 85040
Website: https://www.kroccenter.org/
Contact Details: (602) 425-5000
Located in south Phoenix, The Salvation Army Kroc Corps Community Center is a hub of activity open to the public. It offers an array of amenities including an impressive indoor aquatic center, a rock wall, game room, and sports gyms, among others.
The indoor aquatic center steals the show. It has an epic water slide, lazy river (tube-free), toddler slide, sprayers, large hot tub, and a free swim area featuring basketball hoops and a climbing wall.
Accessible from the pool area is an outdoor grassy space with a shaded playground and splash pad. It provides the perfect spot for snack breaks, complemented by the excitement of the climbing wall for older kids.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or prefer a leisurely swim, it caters to all interests. Their aquatics center offers activities such as group and private swim lessons, lap swimming, aquatics-based group exercise classes, and lifeguard certification courses.
Moreover, their aquatics department is staffed with StarGuard ELITE (SGE) Certified lifeguards and skilled swim instructors. This ensures high-quality classes and training for individuals of all ages and abilities.
| Pro tip: Before hitting the slides, check the height requirements to ensure that everyone in your group can participate in the attractions they want. This can avoid disappointment and make your visit more enjoyable. |
8. Cactus Aquatic & Fitness Center
Address: 7202 E Cactus Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Website: https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/sports/aquatics/cactus-pool
Contact Details: +1 480-312-7665
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 9 AM–1 PM
- Tuesday: 9 AM–1 PM
- Wednesday: 9 AM–1 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM–1 PM
- Friday: 9 AM–1 PM
- Saturday: 1–5 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM–1 PM
Whether you’re looking for intense aquatic classes or simply a refreshing swim, Cactus Aquatic & Fitness Center has you covered with its diverse offerings. The center also has comprehensive fitness facilities, including free weights and cardiovascular machines.
Open year-round, the Cactus Pool welcomes both public and lap swimmers, offering a choice between short (25-yard) and long (50-meter) course options. The pool is heated during winter, ensuring a comfortable swimming experience regardless of the season.
The center’s Olympic pool, equipped with four trampolines of varying heights, adds an element of excitement to aquatic activities. The presence of lifeguards ensures safety, making it a favorite spot for swim teams and individuals alike.
In addition to swimming opportunities, the fitness center offers diverse aerobic and fitness classes, along with free weights and cardiovascular machines. Options like fit & fabulous and low-impact step classes cater to everyone seeking a good workout.
Beyond the pools and fitness areas, Cactus Aquatic & Fitness Center offers outdoor sports courts, including basketball and volleyball, providing additional recreational options for visitors enjoying the pleasant Phoenix weather.
| Pro tip: You may consider signing up for one of the aquatic classes offered, such as deep-water aerobics or aquatic advance dive. These classes cater to all skill levels and provide a structured workout in the water. |
9. River Ranch Water Park
Address: 7667 N 18th Pl, Phoenix, AZ 85020
Website: https://www.hiltonphoenixresortatthepeak.com/river-ranch-water-park
Contact Details: +1 602-997-2626, [email protected]
River Ranch Water Park is nestled within a Spanish-Mediterranean-inspired all-suite resort. This four-acre sanctuary includes three pools, a half-mile lazy river, a 130-foot water slide, and an 18-hole miniature golf course, making it a must-visit destination.
Poolside snack bars and adjacent restaurants offer quick bites and cool beverages, delivered right to your lounge chair. Guests can spend the entire day splashing around without any interruptions, thanks to these convenient amenities.
A highlight of the water park is the Tocasierra Spa & Salon, featuring a private lap pool, whirlpool, and sauna. This adds an extra layer of relaxation and luxury to your water park experience.
River Ranch Water Park’s cabanas also provide a perfect retreat from the sun. Situated near the main pool and waterslide, these shaded areas offer comfort and convenience, especially for families or large parties.
Accommodations at the resort are all-suite, catering perfectly to large groups or families. The resort’s amenities include not just the expansive water park but also a kids’ camp, full-service spa, fitness center, dining options, and meeting spaces.
| Pro tip: Taking advantage of the fitness center and spa can make your visit even more enjoyable. After a day of water fun, unwinding in the whirlpool or getting a quick workout in the gym adds a nice balance to the experience. |
10. Lincoln Family Downtown YMCA
Address: 350 1st Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Website: https://valleyymca.org/lincoln/
Contact Details: +1 602-257-5138
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 5:30 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 5:30 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 5:30 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 5:30 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 5:30 AM–7 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–3 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–3 PM
Whether you’re participating in a group class or enjoying some solo time on the treadmill, you’ll quickly feel like part of the Lincoln Family Downtown YMCA. It offers an array of programs and activities that enhance health and well-being in the community.
The YMCA’s indoor aquatic center features a versatile pool that caters to lap swimming, water aerobics, and recreational swimming. Whether you’re a serious swimmer or just looking to have fun, the facilities ensure a great experience for all ages.
The pool area is well-maintained and equipped with safety measures. This makes it an ideal spot for families and individuals alike.
In addition to the pool, the YMCA offers a variety of fitness classes and programs. From hatha yoga to power step, there’s something for everyone, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among members.
| Pro tip: The pool is used for different activities throughout the day, from lap swimming to water aerobics. Planning your visit around these times can help you avoid crowds or join in on a class if that’s your thing. |
