Guide to Colorado Water Parks and Splash Pads 2026

About This Event

Beat the heat this summer at Colorado's best water parks and splash pads! From world-class water parks like Water World and Elitch Gardens to dozens of FREE splash pads in parks across the Denver metro area, there's no shortage of ways to cool off with the kids. MAJOR WATER PARKS: • Water World (Federal Heights) — Nearly 50 attractions including the new Summit Canyon for 2026! Open late May through Labor Day. • Elitch Gardens Water Park (Denver) — Slides, wave pool, and lazy river included with theme park admission. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day. • The Splash at Fossil Trace (Golden) — Opening May 23, 2026. Lap pool, leisure pool, and slides with stunning mountain views. • Pirates Cove (Englewood) — Lazy river, water slides, splash pools, and diving boards. • Great Outdoors Water Park (Lafayette) — Lazy river, slides, lap pool, and splash zone. Open May 25 through September 7. FREE SPLASH PADS: Dozens of free splash pads are scattered across the metro area — most open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Popular spots include Centennial Center Park, Civic Green Park (Highlands Ranch), Westminster Center Park, Discovery Park (Parker), and Central Park (Denver). Tips for splash pad fun: • Most splash pads are FREE — no admission required! • Bring sunscreen, water shoes, and a change of clothes • Hours are typically 10 AM - 7 PM (varies by location) • Some splash pads are push-button activated • Pack a picnic — most are located in parks with shade and playgrounds