Beat the Heat on National Waterpark Day at North Carolina’s Top Destinations

There are few family outings as refreshing and enjoyable as hitting the local waterparks. Being able to practice bodyboarding or fly down a curvy slide with friends is a welcome change when the temperature creeps up higher and higher.

Now you have even more of an excuse to put on the sunscreen, with July 28th being the annual National Waterpark Day. Originally founded in 2017 by Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, the event is now registered with the National Day Calendar. It’s a great excuse to experience the fun and thrill of all kinds of aquatic attractions.

North Carolinians can check out several great destinations, especially the ever-popular Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe park in Greensboro. Here are the top spots where you’ll want a fresh bathing suit and your favorite sandals to enjoy.

Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe: North Carolina’s Favorite

Conveniently located in Greensboro, Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe is the largest water park in the area. It easily spans over 51 acres, featuring more than 40 attractions for all members of the family. From the kiddos running in the shallow water of Happy Hallow to the terrifying Daredevil Drop and Twin Towers, this is the place that always tops lists of local waterparks in North Carolina.

Owned by the Herschend Family, the same team behind Dollywood, this park has some of the strongest adrenaline-stoking attractions you can check out. There’s also the Thunder Bay Wave Pool with a 2-million-gallon setting (the largest in the country) and waves that are 84 feet wide.

Since first opening in September of 1983, Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe has remained a stalwart must-do for National Waterpark Day. It may have changed names several times over the years, but it always innovates with new entertainment, food options, cabana rentals, and seasonal events you simply cannot miss.

On National Waterpark Day, Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe also celebrates with the annual Aquafest. There are DJs, special food vendors, games for the kids, and more. Be sure to check out the official website for promotions and savings as the date gets closer.

Other Local Waterparks in North Carolina Worth Exploring

North Carolina waterparks are not limited to one offering. There are plenty of other great stops worth exploring when the sun is beating down. Carolina Harbor at Carowinds is a great option near Charlotte. This waterpark is inside the Six Flags Carowinds Amusement Park, featuring thrills like Blackbeard’s Revenge or speeding down Boogie Board Racer. Adults can hang out at the 21+ exclusive area with a swim-up pool bar or with the kids along a 1,000-foot-long lazy river and a 27,000-square-foot wave pool.

After National Waterpark Day, when the weather gets a little colder, head over to the Great Wolf Lodge in Concord, North Carolina. This is a massive indoor space with over 80,000 square feet of water entertainment at a mild 84 degrees year-round. Plus, you can check out arcade games, mini golf, laser tag, rock climbing, and more inside a full-service resort for weekend getaways.

For more outdoor recreation in the summer heat, go to Fantasy Lake Adventure Park near Hope Mills. Here, guides will help you go through an inflatable water park, teach scuba, rent kayaks, and so much more. There are frequent events, food trucks, and concerts happening nearby that enhance the total experience.

It wouldn’t be a complete list of North Carolina waterparks without mentioning Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park in Wilmington or White Lake Water Park in White Lake. While not on the same scale as others on our list, there is more than enough to entertain everyone of all ages no matter how hot it gets.

Tips for Planning the Perfect Visit on National Waterpark Day

A lot of marketing goes out on social media around National Waterpark Day, so be prepared for slightly larger crowds at any local destination. You should always research if there are any special promotions to shave off the ticket price. Other tips include:

• Arrive as early as you can to secure a good spot and experience more rides
• Consider spending a little extra on cabanas (if available) for more privacy
• Regularly apply sunscreen and wear a UV-rated swim shirt for extra protection
• Have pre-arranged meeting points throughout the day to check in with all family members
• Bring food, snacks, and drinks along if permitted to cut down on waterpark prices
• Buy a waterproof case for IDs and devices you can wear around your neck
• Read all the rules before you go so you know what to bring and what to leave home

It also helps to measure your kids’ heights without shoes on. Plenty of rides require certain heights or have weight limits. It’s better to face your real weight before getting to the park so you can save embarrassment if you’re still working on your summer body.

Celebrate Family Time This National Waterpark Day

There is something uniquely special about watching the kids fly down water slides or spending an hour floating along happily in the lazy river. Local waterparks in North Carolina make it easier to beat the heat and get outdoors without drowning in sweat. Take your time to consider all your waterpark options and plan well ahead of this year’s National Waterpark Day. That will ensure you make the most of the event with your family.

At Woodruff Family Law Group, we want all families to share those wonderful moments that last a lifetime. Our work is focused on family law, so we understand how crucial family time can be, having supported many clients through life’s most difficult transitions.

This July 28, escape the heat and celebrate National Waterpark Day in style at any of the North Carolina waterparks you can. From the giant scale of Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe to the family-friendly aquatic destinations close to your house, there is something for everyone.