Gold Rush Waterpark at Double JJ Resort, Rothbury (Photo courtesy of Gold Rush Waterpark)

Top 5 Indoor Water Parks

Water, warmth and a wild weekend of fun!

1: ZEHNDER’S SPLASH VILLAGE—FRANKENMUTH

Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel & Waterpark, already with 50,000 square feet of aquatic fun, has a major expansion underway. When completed, this $80 million project will make the Bavarian Inn Lodge Michigan’s largest indoor water park and family entertainment center, at more than 140,000 square feet. Opening to guests in the spring of 2024, attractions will include 16 water slides, wave pool, lazy river, Michigan’s first adult swim-up bar, laser tag, mini bowling, ropes course and climbing wall. zehnders.com/zehnders-splash-village

Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, Boyne Falls (Photo courtesy of Boyne Mountain)
Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, Boyne Falls (Photo courtesy of Boyne Mountain)

2: AVALANCHE BAY—BOYNE FALLS

With nine waterslides, a lazy river, play structure, activity pool, children’s pool, two hot tubs, and Michigan’s first surf simulator, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Avalanche Bay. While visiting, guests have their choice of two restaurants to satisfy the whole family’s appetite. Take advantage of premier seating rental, which includes a reserved table and chairs for four, plush towel upgrade, personal double tube, locker rental, and food and beverage service. With single or multi-day tickets as well as seasonal and annual passes, Avalanche Bay provides all the options a family needs to enjoy a fun-filled weatherproof getaway. www.avalanchebay.com

Great Wolf Lodge, Traverse City (Photo courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge)
Great Wolf Lodge, Traverse City (Photo courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge)

3: GREAT WOLF LODGE—TRAVERSE CITY

Since opening in 2003, Great Wolf Lodge has served as a close, convenient, and carefree destination for families. With a nearly 40,000-square-foot water park always set to a comfortable 84-degrees, a variety of complimentary kids’ entertainment activities, and an Adventure Park packed with fun, competitive family games like mini golf and bowling, Great Wolf Lodge offers something for every age and thrill level. www.greatwolf.com/traverse-city

4: SOARING EAGLE WATERPARK—MT. PLEASANT

Here, the waterpark is attached to the Soaring Eagle Hotel so no need to get out into the cold to get to the 45,000-square-foot indoor waterpark featuring a wave rider, body slide, bowl slide, rock-climbing wall, lazy river, children’s play area and a private adult pool, hot tub and sauna. Take the experience to the next level with a cabana rental that has all the comforts such as a TV, ceiling fan and table and chairs. For eats, there is a food court right at the waterpark or the Nbakade family restaurant at the hotel. A complimentary shuttle transports guests to any other Soaring Eagle property to continue the fun and indulgence at the casino or other resort restaurants and bars. soaringeaglewaterpark.com

Gold Rush Waterpark at Double JJ Resort, Rothbury (Photo courtesy of Gold Rush Waterpark)
Gold Rush Waterpark at Double JJ Resort, Rothbury (Photo courtesy of Gold Rush Waterpark)

5: GOLD RUSH WATERPARK—ROTHBURY

Double JJ Resort is home to the Gold Rush Indoor Waterpark, 60,000 square feet of pure excitement. For the more adventurous, soar down Western Michigan’s tallest indoor waterslide or jump on one of their thrill slides. Splash in the wave pool, water fort, toddler pool, or play some water basketball. For a slower pace, float down the lazy river or relax in the hot tubs. So many ways to get wet all year round! doublejj.com/things-to-do/gold-rush-waterpark

Travel Tip icon

Travel Tip
Most water parks will supply towels and certified life vests, but don’t forget your water shoes! They are highly recommended for the slippery and sometimes rough surfaces.


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