Big Splash at Arrowhead Resort vs Paul Bunyan Water Park
A side-by-side look at two water parks — rides, prices, amenities, and which one fits your trip.
Which Park Is Right for You?
Quick verdicts based on what each park offers.
Amenities Compared
What each park offers, side by side.
| Feature | Big Splash at Arrowhead Resort | Paul Bunyan Water Park |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | ||
| Arcade |
Only at Big Splash at Arrowhead Resort
- swimming pool
- splash pad
- birthday party packages
- group rates
Only at Paul Bunyan Water Park
- Arcade
- towel rentals
- cabana rentals
- tube rentals
- gift shop
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Big Splash at Arrowhead Resort
Minnesota
Big Splash at Arrowhead Resort brings year-round water fun to Alexandria with 38,000 square feet of indoor aquatic entertainment. This isn't your massive destination water park, but it's exactly what families with younger kids are looking for. The centerpiece is a multi-level play structure loaded with water features, tipping buckets, and smaller slides that keep children entertained for hours. You'll find a good-sized pool for swimming and playing, plus a lazy river that's perfect for floating around when you need a break from chasing the kids. The water slides here are designed more for fun than fear - think family-friendly tube slides and body slides that get your heart pumping without terrifying anyone. The splash pad area is great for toddlers who aren't ready for the bigger attractions yet. What really sets Big Splash apart is the resort connection. You can book a room at Arrowhead Resort and have the water park right there, which makes it incredibly convenient for families doing a Minnesota lakes vacation. The facility stays comfortably warm year-round, so it's a solid winter destination when you're tired of snow. The space feels intimate rather than overwhelming, and parents can actually keep track of their kids without feeling like they need a search party. Food options are limited to basic snacks and drinks, so consider eating before you arrive or plan to head back to your room. The locker and changing room setup is straightforward, though arriving early on weekends gives you better access to seating areas.…
Read the full Big Splash at Arrowhead Resort guide →Paul Bunyan Water Park
Minnesota
Paul Bunyan Water Park sits inside the Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, making it a true resort water park experience in Minnesota's lake country. The Paul Bunyan theme runs throughout, with giant ax and boot decorations that kids love posing with for photos. The park feels cozy compared to massive resort chains, but that's actually a plus if you're traveling with younger kids who can get overwhelmed in sprawling facilities. The main attraction is a solid collection of water slides that wind around the space, including tube slides that families can ride together. There's a decent-sized kids area with smaller slides, water features, and plenty of interactive elements that keep toddlers busy. The lazy river moves at a perfect pace for floating, and the hot tubs are a lifesaver if you're visiting during Minnesota's colder months. Since you're staying at the lodge, you can easily pop back to your room to rest or grab forgotten items. The food court serves typical water park fare, but the portions are generous and the prices aren't as brutal as some resort parks. Weekdays are definitely your best bet for smaller crowds, especially during school months. The park gets busy on winter weekends when families are looking for indoor activities. Bring water shoes since the concrete can get slippery, and consider renting a cabana if you're there with a larger group. The arcade near the entrance is solid for keeping older kids entertained when they need a break from the water. What sets Paul Bunyan…
Read the full Paul Bunyan Water Park guide →Ready to visit Big Splash at Arrowhead Resort?