Glenwood Hot Springs vs Pirates Cove, Englewood
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 | Glenwood Hot Springs | Pirates Cove, Englewood |
|---|---|---|
| Parking |
Only at Glenwood Hot Springs
- hot tubs
- gift shop
- group rates
Only at Pirates Cove, Englewood
- water slides
- kids area
- splash pad
- picnic areas
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Glenwood Hot Springs
Colorado
Let's be clear upfront: Glenwood Hot Springs isn't your typical water park with tube slides and wave pools. This is Colorado's legendary natural hot springs resort that's been drawing visitors since 1888. The main attraction is the massive mineral hot springs pool, fed by underground springs that pump out 3.5 million gallons of naturally heated water daily at temperatures ranging from 90 to 104 degrees. The main pool is huge - about two city blocks long - so you can actually swim laps or just float around soaking up the minerals. There's also a smaller therapy pool that's hotter and perfect for working out sore muscles after a day of skiing or hiking. The setting is absolutely spectacular, surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and right along the Colorado River. You can soak year-round, and there's something magical about being in hot water while snow falls around you in winter. The facility feels historic but well-maintained, with clean changing rooms and a decent snack bar. This place works best for families who want a unique Colorado experience rather than traditional water park thrills. Little kids love splashing in the shallow areas, while adults appreciate the therapeutic benefits. The water has a slight mineral smell - totally normal and part of the authentic hot springs experience. Pro tips: arrive early during peak season because it gets crowded, especially on powder days when skiers come to soak their muscles. Bring flip-flops because the deck gets hot in summer. The water is naturally buoyant…
Read the full Glenwood Hot Springs guide →Pirates Cove, Englewood
Colorado
Pirates Cove in Englewood is exactly what you'd expect from a city-run water park - straightforward, affordable family fun without the overwhelming crowds of the bigger commercial parks. This compact facility serves the local community with a solid mix of water attractions that hit all the basics. The highlight is their multi-level play structure with tipping buckets, water cannons, and smaller slides that keep younger kids entertained for hours. You'll also find a couple of body slides that are thrilling enough for older kids without being too intense for the parents who inevitably get talked into going down them. The zero-depth entry pool area is perfect for toddlers and non-swimmers, while the main pool offers enough space for actual swimming and water games. What makes Pirates Cove special is its manageable size - you can easily keep track of your kids, lines are typically short, and you're not walking a mile between attractions. The pirate theme runs throughout with themed play features and decorations that add character without going overboard. This isn't a destination park, but it's exactly what neighborhood families need for a few hours of relief from Colorado's summer heat. The lifeguards are attentive, the facilities are well-maintained, and the prices reflect the fact that this is a public facility, not a corporate money grab. Arrive early during peak summer days to snag a good spot, bring your own snacks if allowed, and don't forget the sunscreen - Colorado's altitude makes sunburn happen fast. The park works best…
Read the full Pirates Cove, Englewood guide →Ready to visit Glenwood Hot Springs?