If you like water, but you’re not too keen on the beach (or sand), never fear. The Valley is home to two renowned water parks. Up in the Catskills sits Zoom Flume Water Park, which boasts fast paced rides like the Grand Prix Splashway, Mighty Anaconda, and Canyon Plunge. For those seeking relaxation, the park offers a wave pool, lazy river, and shaded picnic area. Kids can frolic under giant mushrooms and water-spraying totem poles in the Lagoon Activity Pool and prance around squirting geysers in the Pelican Pond. Special guests, including a Disney actor and Marvel comic character, visit the park in July and August. If you’re looking for a staycation, the nearby Country Place Resort (which includes a cliffside bar and restaurant) offers access to the water park included with your room fee; guests can utilize the walking bridge which connects the hotel and park. Discounted season passes are available for $49.99 until May 31.
Zoom Flume Water Park. 800-888-3586; www.zoomflumewaterpark.com
Two years ago, Splash Down Beach in Fishkill added Bob the Builder Splash Works, a 1,600-square-foot spray and play area for kids from ages one to five. With 50 interactive features, it is the only one of its kind in the country. Now, they’re at it again. This summer, the park introduces two new rides. Dizzy’s Water Whirler (which the folks at the park say is the only one of its kind in the world) can accommodate up to 24 guests at a time, while the five-story Arctic Plunge is a super-fast, multilane mat slide. Other popular rides include a four-story tall, zero-gravity half pipe; the Super Bungee Jumper; the Shipwreck Lagoon; and the 100,000 gallon, family-friendly Coconut Pool. Need a break from all the excitement? Reserve a private cabana and enjoy a bite: Options include the new Frosty Shack, Cosimo’s (pizza and café foods), and Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs. $25.99 for guests under 42 inches tall; $29.99 for guests over 42 inches; season passes also available.
Splash Down Beach. 845-897-9600; www.splashdownbeach.com
» Return to Summer Fun 2013
