In This Article

Dreaming of splashy fun in the mountains? In this post, I’ll share the winding slides, wave pools, and mountain views at Colorado water parks—where high-altitude fun and family adventure make a splash all summer long.

Highlights:

  • Massive slides and wave pools at Water World in Denver
  • Indoor water park thrills at Great Wolf Lodge
  • Family splash zones and lazy rivers
  • Hot springs water parks for a relaxing soak
  • Adventure rides with scenic mountain backdrops

Unique Water Parks in Colorado

1. Combine a visit to a theme park with a water park at Elitch Gardens

Combine a visit to a theme park with a water park at Elitch Gardens

© Elitch Gardens

Location:

Denver, CO

Highlights:

If you’re planning a summer escape with splashy thrills and city vibes, this is the spot. Elitch Gardens Water Park packs nonstop fun right in the heart of Denver—ideal for a full day of rides, slides, and sunshine.

Recommended For:

Families, thrill seekers, summer vacationers, and anyone craving cool water rides in an urban setting.

What I Love:

Free access to the water park with theme park admission, plus unique slides like RipQurl and Tube Top.
  • Slide down Gangplanks’ continuous river-run tubes or brave the swirling excitement of the award-winning Tube Top.
  • Race your friends on the dual enclosed slides of Cannonball Falls.
  • Spin into splash mode on RipQurl, a high-energy bowl ride made for two.
  • Enjoy access to both theme park and water park attractions with one admission ticket.

Cost:

Included with general theme park admission; check online for seasonal pricing and discounts.

How to Get to Elitch Gardens:

From Colorado Springs, take I-25 N straight to downtown Denver. Use Exit 210A toward Auraria Parkway, follow signs for Elitch Circle, and you’ll arrive at the park entrance.

Address:

2000 Elitch Cir, Denver, CO 80204
Phone: 303-595-4386

2. Check into the Great Wolf Lodge Colorado Springs - 1 hour and 30 minutes from Denver

Check into the Great Wolf Lodge Colorado Springs - 1 hour and 30 minutes from Denver

© Great Wolf Lodge Colorado Springs

Location:

Colorado Springs, CO

Highlights:

If you’re after fun for the whole family—rain or shine—this is the place. Great Wolf Lodge brings together indoor water adventures, cozy accommodations, and kid-approved entertainment all under one roof.

Recommended For:

Families with kids, multi-generational getaways, and anyone who loves the idea of water park fun without worrying about the weather.

What I Love:

A year-round indoor water park kept at 84°F, diverse dining options, and adult-friendly touches like wine-down service.
  • Swim and splash through a massive indoor water park featuring slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.
  • Stay in themed family suites designed for comfort and fun, from bunk beds to spacious living areas.
  • Play indoors with arcade games, story time, and activities for every age.
  • Relax with spa services and dining options tailored for grown-ups, too.

Cost:

Included with overnight stay; day passes may be available based on occupancy—check the website for current options.

Distance from Denver:

Expect the drive to take about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

How to Get to Great Wolf Lodge:

From Denver, take I-25 S toward Colorado Springs. Use Exit 153 for Interquest Parkway, turn right on Voyager Parkway, then left on Federal Drive—Great Wolf Lodge will be on your right.

Address:

9494 Federal Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Phone: 844-553-9653

3. Have year-round indoor fun at Hotel Glenwood Springs - 2 hours and 45 minutes from Denver

Have year-round indoor fun at Hotel Glenwood Springs - 2 hours and 45 minutes from Denver

© Hotel Glenwood Springs

Location:

Glenwood Springs, CO

Highlights:

If you’re traveling with kids and want all-weather water fun plus mountain-town charm, this is your spot. Hotel Glenwood Springs combines comfort, convenience, and the area’s only indoor water park—just steps from local adventures.

Recommended For:

Families with younger kids, weekend travelers, and anyone looking for indoor fun near Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.

What I Love:

The indoor Splash Pool Family Fun Center with slides, a wading pool, whirlpool, and a shallow Rain Tree play area just for kids.
  • Slide down the indoor waterslide or let the little ones enjoy their own kiddie splash zone with zero-depth entry.
  • Stay in spacious suites built with families in mind—plenty of room to unwind after pool time or exploring.
  • Play in the recreation area or take a short walk to nearby Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park for even more thrills.
  • Relax in the indoor whirlpool while the kids enjoy their own water playground.

Cost:

Included with hotel stay; check the site for seasonal rates and special family packages.

Distance from Denver:

Expect the drive to take around 2 hours and 45 minutes.

How to Get to Hotel Glenwood Springs:

From Denver, take I-70 W through the scenic Rocky Mountains. Exit at Glenwood Springs, follow signs to Two Rivers Plaza Road, and the hotel is just across from Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.

Address:

52000 Two Rivers Plaza Rd, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Phone: 888-411-8188

4. Relax at all-natural hot springs in Old Town Hot Springs - 3 hours and 30 minutes from Denver

Relax at all-natural hot springs in Old Town Hot Springs - 3 hours and 30 minutes from Denver

© Old Town Hot Springs

Location:

Steamboat Springs, CO

Highlights:

If you’re after a water park with a natural twist, this one’s a gem. Old Town Hot Springs blends relaxation and recreation, offering hot mineral pools and summer slides right in downtown Steamboat.

Recommended For:

Wellness seekers, families, history buffs, and anyone craving mountain town vibes with a side of soaking.

What I Love:

Year-round access to historic hot springs, a mix of recreational pools and slides, and deep cultural roots tied to the Ute people and local pioneers.
  • Soak in eight outdoor hot spring pools that have been warming locals for over a century.
  • Slide into summer with deep-end pools, lap lanes, and waterslides for all ages.
  • Connect to history through waters once used by the Ute Native Americans and early settlers.
  • Relax in a downtown setting with mountain views, perfect for every season.

Cost:

Daily admission varies by age and season; discounts available for locals and members—check the website for full details.

Distance from Denver:

Expect the drive to take about 3 hours and 30 minutes.

How to Get to Old Town Hot Springs:

From Denver, take I-70 W to CO-9 N toward Kremmling, then head west on US-40 W to Steamboat Springs. Old Town Hot Springs is located right in the heart of downtown on Lincoln Ave.

Address:

136 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, CO 80477
Phone: 970-879-1828

5. Enjoy the Lazy River at Pirates Cove Water Park in Englewood - 45 minutes from Boulder

Enjoy the Lazy River at Pirates Cove Water Park in Englewood - 45 minutes from Boulder

© Courtesy of bortnikau - Fotolia.com

Location:

Englewood, CO

Highlights:

If your crew’s craving a full day of sunshine and splashes, this is the perfect pick. Pirates Cove delivers big fun with slides, rivers, and family-friendly features designed for summer-long adventure.

Recommended For:

Families with young kids, thrill-loving tweens, and anyone seeking a playful water park close to Denver.

What I Love:

The towering slide complex, zero-depth play pool with a giant dump bucket, and swirling vortex ride that spins from the Lazy River.
  • Play in the Leisure Pool with zero-depth entry and an enormous splash structure perfect for younger kids.
  • Slide from a 35-foot tower with three different slides to match your thrill level.
  • Float the Lazy River or spin into the Swirling Vortex for some extra excitement.
  • Cool down with a variety of shaded areas and concessions for refueling in between rides.

Cost:

Daily admission varies by age and residency; check the website for updated rates and season pass info.

Distance from Boulder:

Expect the drive to take about 45 minutes.

How to Get to Pirates Cove:

From Boulder, take US-36 E to I-25 S. Exit at Belleview Ave, head west, and the water park will be on your left near S Santa Fe Drive.

Address:

1225 W Belleview Ave, Englewood, CO 80120
Phone: 303-762-2683

6. Visit Jefferson County’s largest water park The Splash at Fossil Trace - 25 minutes from Denver

Visit Jefferson County’s largest water park The Splash at Fossil Trace - 25 minutes from Denver

© Courtesy of Dmitry Perov - Fotolia.com

Location:

Golden, CO

Highlights:

If you're looking for big-time summer fun close to the city, this spot is a must. The Splash at Fossil Trace is Jefferson County’s largest water park, with something for every age and energy level.

Recommended For:

Families, groups with kids of all ages, and anyone ready to soak up the Colorado sunshine.

What I Love:

The leisure pool with its massive dump bucket, towering water slides, and even a beachy sand area to relax and dig in.
  • Slide down two large body and tube slides built for adrenaline and laughs.
  • Play in the leisure pool with interactive structures, spray fountains, and a 500-gallon dump bucket splash finale.
  • Relax in the beach-style sand area while little ones splash in smaller slides and fountains.
  • Swim in the lap pool or enjoy an adult rest break every hour for a little downtime.

Cost:

Daily rates vary by age and residency; visit the official website for up-to-date prices and pass options.

Distance from Denver:

Expect the drive to take about 25 minutes.

How to Get to The Splash:

From Denver, take US-6 W toward Golden. Exit at 19th Street, follow signs to Illinois Street, and the water park will be just past Fossil Trace Golf Club.

Address:

3151 Illinois St, Golden, CO 80401
Phone: 303-277-8700

Water Parks in Colorado for Younger Kids

7. Have fun in the wave generator in Brighton Oasis Family Aquatic Park - 30 minutes from Denver

Have fun in the wave generator in Brighton Oasis Family Aquatic Park - 30 minutes from Denver

© Brighton Oasis Family Aquatic Park

Location:

Brighton, CO

Highlights:

If you're after classic summer fun close to home, this spot hits the sweet spot. Brighton Oasis is a compact but action-packed aquatic park with something to keep all ages happy and cool.

Recommended For:

Families, toddlers to teens, and anyone looking for budget-friendly water fun near Denver.

What I Love:

The mix of deep water play, lazy river lounging, and interactive splash areas—plus the freedom to bring your own food.
  • Slide down two high-energy water slides or try the climbing wall over the deep pool.
  • Float along the lazy river with a zero-depth entrance perfect for younger swimmers.
  • Play water basketball or splash around in the tot pool’s interactive zone.
  • Relax with locker rentals, shaded pavilion areas, and bring-your-own snacks and drinks.

Cost:

Admission fees vary by age and residency; visit the website for current rates, seasonal passes, and rental info.

Distance from Denver:

Expect the drive to take about 30 minutes.

How to Get to Brighton Oasis:

From Denver, take I-76 E to US-85 N toward Brighton. Exit at Bromley Lane, head east, and the water park will be on your right near Brighton Park.

Address:

1852 E Bromley Ln, Brighton, CO 80601
Phone: 303-655-2095

8. You'll find 15 fun attractions at Water World in Federal Heights - 35 minutes from Boulder

You'll find 15 fun attractions at Water World in Federal Heights - 35 minutes from Boulder

© Water World

Location:

Federal Heights, CO

Highlights:

Want to spend a full day making a splash without leaving the Denver metro? Water World delivers with non-stop thrills, family rides, and kid zones all in one massive water wonderland.

Recommended For:

Families, thrill seekers, groups of all ages, and anyone planning a summer day packed with aquatic adventure.

What I Love:

The huge variety of slides and attractions, from Colorado’s first water coaster to relaxing lazy rivers and kid-friendly splash zones.
  • Ride the Lost River of the Pharaohs, take on speed slides, or cruise the family raft rides.
  • Explore Wally World, a water playground for younger kids filled with safe, interactive features.
  • Chill on the Lazy River or catch a wave in the giant surf pool.
  • Enjoy more than 15 attractions with something for every energy level and age group.

Cost:

Admission varies by age and date; check the website for ticket pricing, season passes, and discount options.

Distance from Boulder:

Expect the drive to take about 35 minutes.

How to Get to Water World:

From Boulder, take US-36 E toward Denver, then head north on I-25. Take Exit 219 to 84th Ave, head west, then turn right onto Pecos St—Water World will be just ahead.

Address:

8801 N. Pecos St, Federal Heights, CO 80260
Phone: 303-427-7873

9. Plan pool games at The Great Outdoors Waterpark - 35 minutes from Denver

Plan pool games at The Great Outdoors Waterpark - 35 minutes from Denver

© 396580976/stock.adobe.com

Location:

Lafayette, CO

Highlights:

If you’re looking for water fun with scenic views and a unique twist, this park delivers. The Great Outdoors Waterpark blends splashy features with local charm and mountain-framed relaxation.

Recommended For:

Families, fitness swimmers, adventurous kids, and anyone looking for a water park with a bit of everything close to Boulder and Denver.

What I Love:

The double flume slides, playful vortex pool, lazy river with views, and even a flower garden that sprays water!
  • Slide down 21-foot double flume slides for quick thrills with soft landings.
  • Float the scenic Lazy River or test your strength on the Aqua Arch obstacle course.
  • Play in the Lap Pool, vortex pool, and shallow splash zones for younger guests.
  • Wander through the native flower garden as water sprinkles down around you.

Cost:

Admission varies by age and residency; check the website for rates, season passes, and group reservations.

Distance from Denver:

Expect the drive to take about 35 minutes.

How to Get to The Great Outdoors Waterpark:

From Denver, take US-36 W to CO-121 N toward Lafayette. Turn right on South Boulder Road and follow signs to the park—it’s located near the Bob L. Burger Recreation Center.

Address:

500 E South Boulder Rd, Lafayette, CO 80026
Phone: 303-673-9207

Plan Your Trip