1. Best Time to Visit Indoor Water Parks
Before you go: Research the best time during the year to visit the water park. Consider going when the weather is warmer and avoid all the winter crowds.
While you are there: Go early, stay late, rest in the afternoon. This a great plan as early morning and late night are usually the time of day when crowds tend to thin out. Ask the front desk as you enter when the busiest times are throughout the day and try to avoid those times.
Extra Tip: If you can swing it, go in the middle of the week for bigger savings.
2. Check in and Check Out
Early Check-In: Many hotels all guests to check-in to the resort several hours before their room is ready. Each resort has a different policy on this, but don’t forget to ask. Pack swim gear in a separate bag for easy access when you get there so you don’t have to dig through suitcases.
After Check-Out Policies: Additionally, many parks also allow guests to use the facilities AFTER morning check-outs. For easy access, pack a separate bag of dry clothes for the trip home.
Extra Tip: Don’t forget to pack an extra snack for the car ride home . . . swimming always makes my kids famished!
3. Indoor Water Park Safety
Before you go: Find out what slides and attractions your child can go on based on their height and weight. Pre-prepare them for any rides they may not be able to ride.
As you enter: Find out about age, weight and height restrictions and if life vests or wristbands are needed, get them now so you don’t have to return. If there’s a place to find out how tall your child is, do it now.
Extra Tip: Take a photograph of your child, if you get separated, you’ll be able to show what they look like and what they are wearing.
4. Food & Drinks
Before you go: Research rules for bringing your own meals or snacks into the park or if you are allowed to leave and re-enter. Plan your meals and snacks ahead to save money, including pre-made sandwiches, individual snack bags and fruits & veggies.
While you are there: Set meal times before everyone goes off. Agree to meet back at an agreed upon spot at a designated time. Consider getting family style meals or shared menu items to reduce cost.
Extra Tip: Bring reusable water bottles and fill them regularly.
5. Don’t Forget You and Your Spouse
Before you go: Don’t forget to pack some special snacks for you and your spouse to enjoy! Slip some wine, special cheese, fruit or crackers into your bag, and have a little date once the kiddies are in bed.
While you are there: Going to a water park is exhausting and being “on” all day and watching kids in the water can cause a lot of stress. In advance of going, make an agreement with your spouse to give each other an extended “break” for an hour or so throughout the day so each of you can recharge your batteries.
Extra Tip: Save your back!!! Bring a stroller or wagon for when your kiddo’s are too tired to walk back up to the room or so you can pile it with stuff. Make sure to take care of yourself too!
Related: 10 Indoor Water Parks near Lancaster County, PA
