Guide to the 20 Best Outdoor Waterparks + Pools in Minnesota this Summer with Kids
Looking for the ultimate summer adventure with your kids? The Twin Cities are home to some of the best outdoor waterparks and pools for families, perfect for cooling down on hot summer days and creating unforgettable family memories. Whether your little ones are eager to splash in a wave pool, zoom down thrilling waterslides, or float lazily along a river, we’ve got you covered. Our guide to the best outdoor waterparks and pools in the Twin Cities for kids will help you find the perfect spot for every age. Dive into a summer filled with laughter, excitement, and refreshing fun as you explore these outdoor Minnesota waterparks designed to entertain the whole family. Get ready for a splashing good time with kids in some of the best waterparks near Minneapolis and Saint Paul.
Keep reading to plan your next family outing!
Edina Aquatic Center, Edina
Address: 4300 W 66th St, Edina, MN 55435
Hot summer days are best enjoyed at the pool, and the Edina Aquatic Center is one of the best pools in the Twin Cities with kids! With 30-foot slides and a surf simulator, this public pool in Edina promises endless excitement for all ages.
The Lil’ Lagoon Zero Depth Pool is perfect for little ones, while older kids and teens can enjoy the Main Pool. Thrill-seekers will love the water slides, diving boards, and the popular Lost Wave surf simulator. Then, don’t miss the Shipwreck Express Zip Line for an extra thrill!
Outside food and drinks aren’t allowed, but the on-site concession stand has you covered with snacks like nachos, popcorn, soft pretzels, and meal items like chicken nuggets, hot dogs, and pizza.
Cascade Bay Water Park, Eagan
Address: 1360 Civic Center Dr, Eagan, MN 55122
Cascade Bay Water Park in Eagan is the ultimate summer destination for family fun! Not only is this one of the best waterparks near Minneapolis with kids, but this award-winning outdoor waterpark offers a wide range of activities that cater to all ages, ensuring everyone in your family has a blast this summer.
Little ones will love swimming in the leisure pool with zero-depth entry. Then, the gentle Orange Shallow-Water Slide is perfect for new swimmers. They can also enjoy the Mini-Pirate Boat Slide and play in the sand at Sandpiper Beach. Alternatively, older kids and teens will have a great time on the seven thrilling waterslides, including the Purple Tube Slide and the fast Tower Body Slides. Or race one another down the Speed Drop Slides! Finally, everyone can float along the 700-foot Lazy River together.
When tummies get hungry, head to the concessions with a shaded patio, offering a variety of hot and cold foods, hand-dipped ice cream, and refreshing beverages. Outside of the water, there is even a 9-hole mini-golf course for added fun (additional cost). From epic slides and lazy river to the shaded concessions, Cascade Bay Water Park is unsurprisingly one of the best outdoor waterparks in Minnesota!
Family Aquatic Center and Pool, Apple Valley
Address: 14421 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd, Apple Valley, MN 55124
Nestled in Apple Valley, families will discover one of the best pools in the Twin Cities with kids! Family Aquatic Center and Pool is a favorite amongst families for its clean facilities, kid-friendly amenities, and diverse water activities for all ages.
With zero-depth entry to the Lazy River and Leisure Pool, it’s perfect for kids of all ages. Little ones will also love the Sprayground Splash Pad, where they can splash and play safely with loved ones. Then, older kids and teens can enjoy the excitement of the innertube and body slides (height restrictions apply) and have a blast playing sand volleyball.
When it’s time for a break, the food concessions offer a variety of tasty snacks and meals to refuel for more fun. Regardless of what you need during your pool day outing, Family Aquatic Center and Pool promises a fun day!
Como Regional Park Pool, Saint Paul
Address: 1151 Wynne Ave, St Paul, MN 55108
Como Regional Park Pool in Saint Paul’s Como Park neighborhood is a perfect summer getaway for families! Beloved by its neighbors as one of the best pools in Saint Paul for kids, this public swimming pool offers a 400-foot lazy river, an aquatic climbing wall, a children’s pool with a family slide, and a six-lane lap pool.
Little ones will enjoy the children’s activity pool with zero-depth entry and Tot Time on Sundays from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Tot Time is designed for children ages 6 and under and their caregivers. Older kids and teens can dive into fun with the one-meter diving board, two diving platforms, and thrilling slides. Not to mention, see who has the biggest splash when jumping from the aquatic climbing wall!
When it’s time to eat, the on-site concessions provide a variety of snacks and meals. With free life jackets, ADA accessibility, and sun shelters, Como Pool ensures a fantastic day for everyone. No wonder it’s a favorite amongst Twin Cities families!
Bloomington Family Aquatic Center
Address: 201 East 90th Street, Bloomington, MN 55420
One of the best outdoor pools in the Twin Cities has to be the Bloomington Family Aquatic Center. With multiple lifeguard-supervised pools, an excellent snack bar, clean changing rooms, and plenty of seating around the pool deck, it’s easy to see why this Bloomington pool is a family favorite.
The zero-depth entry pool offers slides and a waterfall for toddlers and young children. Families with young kids can also enjoy Tot Time from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Monday through Friday. Meanwhile, older kids and teens will have a blast in the larger pool, which features giant slides, an over-water climbing wall, and diving boards for impressive jumps.
When it’s time to refuel, the snack bar serves up poolside favorites. You can also bring your own food and enjoy lunch in one of the picnic areas outside the facility. Indeed, the Bloomington Family Aquatic Center is a fantastic destination for summer fun in the sun!
Outdoor Waterparks Minnesota: Jim Lupient Water Park, Minneapolis
Address: 1520 Johnson St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413
Dive into summer fun at the quarry-themed waterpark in Minnesota! Jim Lupient Water Park is a unique Minneapolis destination with three giant waterslides, including a thrilling tube slide and a lap pool for older kids and teens.
For little ones, there’s a separate splash pad and children’s area with zero-depth entry, ensuring safe and accessible fun for new swimmers. They can also enjoy the log water walk and explore interactive spray features designed for them. Meanwhile, older kids and teens will love the excitement of three giant water slides, including a speedy tube slide.
As one of the best waterparks in Minneapolis with kids, on-site shade structures and a grassy sunbathing area offer relaxation options for everyone. Then, convenient amenities such as drinking fountains and concessions, restrooms, outdoor shower towers, and lockers make it easy to enjoy a full day of aquatic adventure.
Bunker Beach Water Park, Coon Rapids
Address: 701 County Rd A, Coon Rapids, MN 55448
Bunker Beach Water Park in Coon Rapids is Minnesota’s largest outdoor waterpark, nestled within the 1,700-acre Bunker Hills Regional Park. Just minutes from Minneapolis and St. Paul, it’s an epic summer destination for families, featuring a HUGE list of family-friendly amenities and attractions!
Little kids will love the zero-depth entry Lagoon, offering seven playful elements like the mega soaker and bubblers. The Adventure Pool and Splash Pad offer safe, shallow water fun and play for the youngest adventurers. Alternatively, older kids and teens can enjoy the excitement of Twisted Towers and Splash Cove waterslides, the thrilling wave pool with 3-foot waves, and the challenging wiggly water walk. The 900-foot lazy river provides a relaxing float for all ages – including parents and caregivers!
Head to Tidal Wave Café or Breakers Snack Shack for delicious options like pizza, ice cream, and hot dogs when hunger strikes. Outside food is not permitted. Finally, dedicated cabanas are also available for rent if you want a private, shady spot for your fun day out. If you are searching for the best outdoor waterparks near Minneapolis, put Bunker Beach Water Park at the top of your list!
Bunker Beach is One of Your Family Favorite Outdoor Waterparks Minnesota!
The Aquatic Park at St. Louis Park Rec Center, St. Louis Park
Address: 3700 Monterey Dr, St Louis Park, MN 55416
Located in the St. Louis Park Rec Center, The Aquatic Park is the perfect spot to cool off with your kids this summer! With zero-depth entry and thrilling four-story water slides, there’s fun for all ages.
As one of the best pools in the Twin Cities for kids, the sand-and-water play area, tot whale slide, spray arches, and water geysers will delight little ones. Older kids and teens can enjoy the drop slides, lap swim lanes, and diving boards, all while parents relax on the sun decks!
The concession stand offers a variety of snacks and refreshments, from snacks to lunchtime eats. Visitors can also bring food and drinks to enjoy in the designated picnic area (food and beverages other than water are not allowed on the pool deck).
Highland Park Aquatic Center, Saint Paul
Address: 1840 Edgcumbe Rd, St Paul, MN 55116
One of the best pools in Saint Paul for kids, Highland Park Aquatic Center is an ideal summer destination for families! With a two-story water slide, a 50-meter lap pool, and a children’s activity pool, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while splashing in the sun together.
Little ones will love the prehistoric whalebone splash pad. Not to mention the dedicated Tot Time on Saturdays from 9:30 to 11 a.m. This special time just for kids ages 6 and under is an excellent opportunity for littles to have some low-key fun together. Then, adventurous older kids and teens can take on the one-meter diving boards, thrilling drop slides, and giant water slides.
For snacks or lunch, head to the concessions for a great menu of poolside eats. Sun shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis, making it easy to relax in the shade and enjoy the day together.
Related Directory: Outdoor Waterparks in Minnesota
Valleyfair’s Soak City Waterpark, Shakopee
Address: One Valleyfair Drive, Shakopee, MN 55379
Cool off this summer at Valleyfair’s Soak City Waterpark, where a full day of splishing and splashing, family fun, and endless memories await you in Shakopee! As one of the best outdoor waterparks in Minnesota, Valleyfair’s Soak City Waterpark features 9 water attractions for all ages, including Barefoot Beach, Breakers Plunge, and Hurricane Falls.
Those with toddlers and young kids in tow will adore Barefoot Beach, complete with pint-sized slides, geysers, and fountains. Then, head to the nearby Splash Station. Kids can play in the water here while parents look on from one of the many nearby beach chairs. Afterward, everyone can float down Ripple Rapids, 1,280 feet of lazy river that meanders around the waterpark. Older kids and thrill-seekers can test their courage on the four-capsule drop slide, Breakers Pipeline.
When ready to refuel, head to Beach Bites for yummy treats. Looking for an added level of parental relaxation? Grab a margarita and chill out in your rented cabana. With so many ways to cool off and enjoy the summer heat, Soak City Waterpark is one of the best waterparks for kids near Minneapolis!
Outdoor Waterparks Minnesota: North Commons Water Park, Minneapolis
Address: 1701 Golden Valley Rd, Minneapolis, MN 55411
North Commons Water Park in North Minneapolis offers a summer oasis for families with kids of all ages. The 25-acre park features an outdoor water park with thrilling three-story speed, loop slides, and a kiddie area with a zero-depth entry and water playground.
Little kids will love the shallow water pool with geysers and “Funbrellas” for shade, while older kids can brave the loop slides and swim during daily lap swim hours.
Concessions are available for a variety of snacks and refreshments. The park also includes a non-guarded, free-wading pool and ample picnic spots. As one of the most affordable pools in Minneapolis for families with kids, there is no fee for anyone under 18, check their website for current rates.
Richfield Outdoor Pool, Richfield
Address: 630 E 66th St, Richfield, MN 55423
The Richfield Outdoor Pool is a fantastic summer destination for Twin Cities families. With two lifeguard-supervised pools, a snack bar, changing rooms, and plenty of loungers, this community pool offers something for everyone.
As one of the best pools in the Twin Cities for toddlers and young kids, the pool features a shallow pool and aqua playground with a zero-depth entry. The playground includes a slide, dumping buckets, and more, ensuring safe fun under trained lifeguards’ watchful eyes. There’s even a designated Tot Time (for ages 7 and under) from 10:00-11:00 a.m., Monday through Saturday.
Older kids and teens will love the main pool, featuring two giant slides, a diving board, and a spacious area for swimming and games. Finally, the concession stand serves classic pool snacks like pretzels, nachos, pizza, and ice cream treats.
Grove Cove Aquatic Center Outdoor Pool, Maple Grove
Address: 12951 Weaver Lake Rd, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Grove Cove Aquatic Center, located at the Maple Grove Community Center, is a splash-tastic destination for families – and often considered one of the best outdoor pools in the Twin Cities with toddlers and young kids! In fact, there are two pool offerings here: one indoor and one outdoor.
Enjoy the indoor leisure pool on rainy days, which features a 130-foot water slide, a zero-depth beach area, and sprayers. There is also a special tot slide for toddlers and little ones. Meanwhile, families can enjoy the lazy river, tumble buckets, log walk, and more kid-friendly water sprays and slides outside.
When it’s time for a break, visit the concession stand for kid-friendly favorites like ice cream, pizza, French fries, and hot dogs. The Grove Cove Aquatic Center offers special group rates and Friday Family Fundays with discounts and floaties.
New Hope Aquatic Park, New Hope
Address: 4411 Xylon Ave N, New Hope, MN 55428
It doesn’t get much better than spending a sunny day at New Hope Aquatic Park. Located in New Hope, this water wonderland features zero-depth entry, fast and slow body slides, a current channel, a vortex pool, a dedicated tot slide, and many other exciting water play features.
Toddlers and littles will adore the Shallow Water Recreation Area! Here, little ones can splash safely in the shallow areas. For preschool parents, special tot swim times are available on select Saturdays from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. Then, older kids can dive into the action at the 50-meter pool (featuring eight lanes). Daredevils will delight in the diving boards and drop slide. And everyone can splash about and enjoy time on the Wibit (floatable water play).
Take a break and enjoy delicious treats from the on-site concession stand, where you can order everything from hot dogs and cheeseburgers to slushies and nachos with cheese. For extra fun, reserve a cabana for birthday parties or family gatherings. With sun turf areas, chaise lounges, and a bathhouse, it’s the perfect spot to cool off this summer! No wonder New Hope Aquatic Park is one of the best outdoor pools in the Twin Cities for families with kids!
Keep reading to discover more Outdoor Waterparks in Minnesota!
Outdoor Waterparks Minnesota: Wild Mountain Resort Waterpark, Taylors Falls
Address: 37200 Wild Mountain Rd, Taylors Falls, MN 55084
For a fun-filled summer day trip to one of the best outdoor waterparks in Minnesota, head to Wild Mountain in Taylors Falls! Less than an hour from Minneapolis, this exciting family destination features various activities for all ages. From thrilling waterslides and a relaxing Lazy River to heart-pounding alpine slides and Go-Karts, there’s something for everyone!
Start your day by cooling off at Wild Adventure Island Waterpark with jets, slides, and a 350-gallon dumping bucket. As one of the best waterparks near Minneapolis with kids, don’t miss the four Avalanche Alley Waterslides for even more excitement! For littles, check out the Kiddie Pool, which features a roughly 6″ deep water depth and a cute froggy slide!
If you want a few dry-land adventures, you can ride on the Arctic Rush Alpine Slide, where kids can race their parents to the bottom. Then, take a spin on the Go-Kart track and, for the bravest, experience the two-story FreeFall XP platform (for those 46″ or taller).
Crystal Cove, Crystal
4848 Douglas Dr N, Crystal, MN 55429
If you’re looking for one of the best waterparks with kids near Minneapolis, Crystal Cove is packed with fun for all ages. Plus, it is one of the only Twin Cities summer pool spots with dedicated times and spaces for littles and teens! For younger families, the Little Splashers program offers a calm, big-kid-free morning with fun for ages seven and under (featuring zero-depth entry!). Alternatively, teens can claim their own space during Moonlight Swim. This special night swim is just for ages 12–16.
Of course, no matter when you go, thrill-seekers can even climb a 16-foot wall, jump from 2- and 3-meter platforms, or zip into the pool from a rope swing adventure line. Then, two twisting waterslides promise splashy fun for the big kids! Meanwhile, our little ones will love the gentle wading pool, dripping Tea Cup, and interactive spray features.
Your family can also relax with concessions on-site and plenty of seating to catch your breath between swims. This waterpark in Crystal offers a fun mix of adventure and relaxing pool time, making it one of the most action-packed outdoor waterparks in Minnesota.
Battle Creek Waterworks, Maplewood
2401 Upper Afton Rd E, Maplewood, MN 55119 | under renovation, re-opening in 2026
Battle Creek Waterworks in Maplewood is the ultimate splash zone for families with little ones. This outdoor waterpark is specifically designed for kids 10 and under, making it one of the top outdoor pools in the Twin Cities for toddlers and young children. It’s located in the heart of Battle Creek Regional Park.
The shallow pool features zero-depth entry and interactive spray features. Plus, there is a separate activity pool with a lily pad walk. Adventurous kids will love the three-story twisting waterslide. Meanwhile, your tots can also dig and build in the sandy play area nearby.
Parents, grab a lawn chair or stretch out on the sun deck for a bit of relaxation (while keeping an eye on all the fun, of course!). With clean facilities, a snack stand, and a layout that’s easy to navigate with little ones, Waterworks is one of our favorite summer destinations for Twin Cities families.
Elm Creek Swim Pond, Maple Grove
Address: 12400 James Deane Parkway, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Want the beach vibe without leaving the metro? Elm Creek Swim Pond in Maple Grove delivers the perfect mix of sand, sun, and chlorinated water fun. This family-favorite spot inside Elm Creek Park Reserve features a filtered swimming pond with a sandy beach. Additionally, lifeguards are on duty, and bathrooms with changing facilities are available. It’s an ideal destination for families looking to cool off and splash around in a more natural setting—with the bonus of clear, clean water!
There’s a small admission fee for everyone ages one and up, but families say it’s well worth it for the spacious beach and gentle swimming area. Don’t forget to stop by the concessions stand. Or, bring your picnic for a full day in the sun. Elm Creek Swim Pond is a summer must-do for families craving a low-key but fun-filled outing.
The Swim Pond at Lake Elmo Park Reserve, Lake Elmo
Unnamed Road, Lake Elmo, MN 55042
Looking for family-friendly outdoor pools in the Twin Cities with a beachy twist? The Swim Pond at Lake Elmo Park Reserve hits the sweet spot. With a sandy beach and filtered, chlorinated water, this swim area offers the feel of a natural lake with the cleanliness of a pool—perfect for cautious parents and happy kids.
Most of the pond is shallow. And, even older kids can usually touch the sandy bottom, making it ideal for all-day play with your kiddos. Lifeguards are on duty, and little swimmers can borrow free life jackets. Grab a shady umbrella spot early to make the most of a long day on the water. When you need a break, head to the nearby playground for a change of pace.
There’s a small vehicle fee to enter the park, but the Swim Pond itself is free to use. Bonus: the concessions stand has snacks. Or, you can bring your cooler for a full day of splashy family fun.
Hastings Family Aquatic Center, Hastings
901 Maple St, Hastings, MN 55033
For one of the best outdoor pools near the Twin Cities with kids, head to the Hastings Family Aquatic Center. This spacious waterpark has it all—from a huge zero-depth entry pool to a 201-foot waterslide and thrilling drop slide.
Kids can test their balance on the log crossing, scale the rock wall, or explore the fun play structure. For parents, there are plenty of umbrellas and lounge chairs to catch some shade while the kids enjoy the pool.
Plus, the Hastings Family Aquatic Center hosts special events throughout the summer. For example, Floatie Fest and Tons of Tots (which are always a hit with local families!). This is a beloved summer gathering spot for families seeking a full day of sun and water fun. And, it’s just a short drive from the Twin Cities!
Have Fun Splashing in the Sun at these Outdoor Waterparks in Minnesota this Summer with Your Kids!
We hope this article featuring our family-favorite waterparks and pools in the Twin Cities with kids helps you plan the best day out with your family! From some of the best outdoor waterparks in Minnesota to thrilling outdoor pools for the sunny days ahead, this list has you covered for kids of all ages and abilities. There’s nothing better than spending a hot summer day at the pool together. Enjoy exploring the best outdoor waterparks and pools near Minneapolis and Saint Paul with your kids!
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
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We hope you found lots of fun outdoor waterpark in Minnesota to check out with kids!
