Cold weather doesn't mean giving up waterpark fun. Plan a winter weekend escape to one of these indoor waterparks in Iowa.
1. Bridges Bay Resort
Okoboji
'Boji Splash has something for all ages - from a 500-gallon dump bucket to a Lil' Squirt play area. Bridges Bay allows visitors to experience Okoboji year-round by offering individually-owned condominiums for your stay (along with traditional hotel guest rooms).
Kid-Friendly Activities Nearby: Take part in a plethora of outdoor activities at the Dickinson County Nature Center, including the new honeybee exhibit and play structure that will delight kids. Visit the updated Iowa Rock 'n Roll Music Association Museum. Coordinate your trip with the events of the University of Okoboji Winter Games and take part in frigid fun!
2. Grand Harbor Resort & Waterpark
Dubuque
Located steps from the Mississippi River, Grand Harbor Resort features a 25,000 square foot waterpark with slides, tube rides, waterspouts and a four-story Huck Finn tree house that dumps 350 gallons of water every eight minutes. After the water fun, stay in one of Grand Harbor's spacious rooms and dine at Tony Roma's Restaurant and Lounge.
Kid-Friendly Activities Nearby: Head over to the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium to see the wildlife of the famous river and touch stingrays. Once you're done splashing around, check out Sundown Mountain Ski and Snowboard Resort.
3. Ramada Tropics Resort Waterpark
Des Moines
Ramada Tropics is Des Moines' only hotel with an indoor waterpark, featuring 18,000 square feet of wet and wild fun (and a poolside tiki bar for parents).
Kid-Friendly Activities Nearby: Explore the Science Center of Iowa. Get your jump on at Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park. Bowl a strike at the underwater-themed Uncle Buck's Fishbowl & Grill.
4. King's Pointe Waterpark Resort
Storm Lake
For an exciting aquatic adventure all year round, visit King's Pointe Resort. Leap on the lily pads, climb through the water playground, zoom down the slides and float the lazy river. After working up an appetite, dine at the lakeside Regatta Grille.
Kid-Friendly Activities Nearby: Visit Santa's Castle, a collection of 100+ antique animated holiday figures (through December). Take a cold weather hike around the lake on the Storm Lake Trail. Check out the rotating art exhibits at the Witter Gallery and drop in on storytime at the Storm Lake Public Library next door.
5. All Seasons Center
Sioux Center
Escape the winter cold outside and embrace an indoor paradise at the All Seasons Center. The indoor waterpark includes two large waterslides and two kids' waterslides, a splash-and-play climbing set, splash pad, lily pad crossing, swimming pool, diving boards and a hot tub. Guests can also enjoy the indoor Vernon Arena, an NHL-size ice rink with skate and helmet rentals available for all ages.
Kid-Friendly Activities Nearby: Grab a tasty treat at Casey's Bakery, a local Dutch bakery known for their almond patties, stroopwafels, frosted cookies and delicious donuts. Learn more about the area's history by touring the Dutch American Heritage Museum or taking a relaxing stroll through Windmill Park.
