Dive into a world of aquatic adventure this summer at Water Country USA! Water Country USA is Virginia’s largest water park, as well as the most diverse water park in the DMA area. There is something fun for every age group, making this summer attraction a must-visit. Thrill seekers will enjoy splashing down over dozens of different water slides, while those looking for a more laid-back tropical island in the sun vibe can enjoy the Lazy River or Sufer’s Bay wave pool. I put together this guide to share all about what you need to know before you go this year.
WHAT’S NEW IN 2025
HIGH TIDE HARBOR: Your young ones and the young at heart will have a splashing good time at the park’s all-new High Tide Harbor! This multi-level water play structure features a handful of slides and over 100 interactive water elements. This spot is the perfect spot for families to explore and spend quality time together! One of our favorite features were the giant bucket of water that splash you with a huge wave of water.
READY, SET, LET’S GLOW: The all-new Aqua Glow is a family-friendly experience that transforms the park into a glowing after-dark escape filled with energy and excitement. You can dance the night away in electrified party zones, explore immersive areas decked out in vibrant neon lights and glowing décor, and enjoy captivating live entertainment that keeps the celebration going strong. Plus, experience a high-energy bubble party bursting with fun for all ages. Experience your favorite slides and pools in a whole new light with enhanced attraction experiences and reduced wait times. Open attractions are subject to change but currently include: * All-New High Tide Harbor * Surfer’s Bay Wave Pool* Colossal Curl* Riptide Race* Jet Scream* Malibu Pipeline* Aquazoid Amped* Nitro Racer Supercharged AquaGlow takes place on Fridays and Saturdays through July 19 from 8:00pm – 11:00pm. You may enter the park beginning at 6:00pm. This all-new event is separately-ticketed, with tickets starting at $34.99. Members can purchase tickets for only $24.99
Be sure to check out the Instagram Video to see the cute video we put together to show case Aqua Glow.
TIPS ON TIMING & SAFETY
- Best time to visit: From personally having membership in past and talking to a handful of current season passholders, it has been agreed upon that going during a week day is way less crowded than a weekend. The best days to attend are Tuesday thru Thursday.
- Don’t over do it: If you want to go to the water park ,and it be a relaxing and refreshing experience for everyone; your best bet is to set a time limit. Going from open to close can be a bit over whelming if you have young children. A entire day at a water park; could equal a few days on recovery if the day is treated like a marathon. Trust me, I know from experience. To make your day smooth sailing; set a time limit ahead of time. Depending on your children’s age will determine how long to stay. For toddler and preschoolers, I recommend two to three hours. For elementary age, four to five hours. Investing in a season pass pays for itself after 2-3 visits.
- Season Pass is the way to go: If you are able to get a season pass than there’s no pressure to see and do everything in one day. Membership to Water Country USA includes access to Busch Gardens Williamsburg as well and costs as little as $18 per month.
- FREE Fun: Remember that all kids ages 3-5 can register for a FREE Preschool Pass that gives unlimited admission to both Busch Gardens and Water Country USA for the season. The registration and activation (at the park) deadline is May 31st.
- Lost Littles: Water parks can get crowded quite quickly! To avoid a lost little one situation, I recommend a buddy system. Assigning each kid to an adult or even paring siblings together can be helpful if clearly established ahead of time. It makes keeping a head count and track of everyone easier. It’s also a good idea to have a meet up spot for if you get separated. Establish a little spot that everyone can rendezvous back to when you want to go on separate adventures. In addition, remind your children what to do if they should become lost or separated from the group. If you have a little one who often runs off, consider writing your cell phone number on the inside of their arm with permanent marker or consider getting a water proof wrist band.
- Mark to Map: Be sure to look over the map and mark out which rides match your kids height and thrill level. There are a lot of great family rides including: Big Daddy Falls, Aqua-zoid, and Cut Back Water Coaster in which everyone can go on together at the same time. Spots like High Tide Harbor, Hubba Hubba High Way and wave pool are also great spots that everyone can do together no mater what height.
- Rolling Locker: While my kids are starting to get a bit bigger this year, with my youngest being five. We still opted to bring the stroller. This is because it is a locker on wheels. Its a great place to house towels, water bottles, snacks, and more. And often was a great visual cue for our meet up spot.
PERFECT PACKING LIST- BYO SUPPLIES
There are some essentials that you will need to enjoy the day at the water park. Everyone is different. I find it helpful to have a stroller since we still have a toddler in tow. This can be used as a portable locker and napping station. You want to have what you need with out being weighed down. Lockers can also be expansive, so here’s what you need.
- Sunscreen- It’s best to have sunscreen on hand since it should be reapplied about every hour. I do recommend skipping the itty bitty tiny whiny bikini and wearing a rash guard. For two reasons; one for sun protection and two you don’t want a bathing suit to slip off at an embarrassing time.
- Waterproof Phone Case- I always put my phone and cards needed in a water proof case around my neck. This way I don’t have to worry about them getting walked off with or wet.
- Water Bottles- Hydration on hot days is important and reusable water bottles are permitted. I like to bring water bottles with handles so I can hang them from the stroller.
- Additional Items- Extra things that bring comfort like sunglasses, goggles and personal flotation or puddle jumpers for the baby. While the park provides a variety of life vests. It’s nice to have one that fits just right and is yours. I noticed the smallest size available didn’t quite fit my toddler, so I was happy to have the one we brought so that he could be comfortable.
- Bringing a towels and a change of clothing are optional. Since I have a stroller I just load it up with supplies. If you need to pack lite; you can always leave the towel and dry clothing in the car and change there once you are done at the park.
- Another item to consider for babies and small children are extra swim diapers and pool shoes. The pool deck can get very hot so have swim shoes on can help from burning the bottom of their feet.
MEAL PLANNING
If you are on a budget, I suggest eating meals before and after your time at the park. Especially, since outside food isn’t permitted. The park opens most days either at 10:00AM pr 11:00 AM; so you can just eat a picnic lunch by or in the car and than make your way into the park. Have a small snack in the park and then eat dinner of campus. However, swimming brings on hunger. So if you do eat in the park, l suggest meal passes. Which are very affordable and the portions are huge! We got three meals which came with an entrée, two sides and a drink and it fed our family of five with left overs.
FUN ALL YEAR LONG
I know it’s already July, and this guide got out a bit late. If you don’t get a chance to check out Water Country USA before summer ends, don’t worry….Busch Gardens Williamsburg is open nearly year round. Each season there is something to enjoy in the park! Including: Food and Wine Festival in the Summer, Spooktacular Kids Halloween Event and Howl-O-Scream in the fall, and Christmas Town in the winter. Season passes are as low as $19 per month. To learn more about tickets and pass visit their page.
THANK YOU & PARK INFORMATION
WATER COUNTRY USA
Location: 176 Water Country Pkwy, Williamsburg, VA 23185
***I want to thank you for taking the time to read my guide. This information is my unfiltered and honest feedback about our families fun. The Playful Parent is a non-profit resource that does not accept payment for endorsing fun. All pictures and information presented are my own unbiased opinion. It is an honor to share tips and suggestions to help make vacationing fun and easy for families. Much appreciation to Water Country for allowing us to come out and photograph our experience in exchange for passes.***