Great Waves Water Park, Alexandria vs Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole
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 | Great Waves Water Park, Alexandria | Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole |
|---|---|---|
| Parking |
Only at Great Waves Water Park, Alexandria
- wave pool
- lazy river
- tube rentals
- season passes
Only at Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole
- swimming pool
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Great Waves Water Park, Alexandria
Virginia
Great Waves Water Park sits on 21 acres in Alexandria and delivers exactly what Northern Virginia families need during hot summers. This NOVA Parks facility keeps things straightforward without trying to be the biggest or flashiest park around. The centerpiece wave pool generates solid 3-foot waves every few minutes, and it's big enough that you won't feel packed in like sardines even on busy weekends. The zero-entry design makes it perfect for younger kids who want to splash in the shallow end while older ones body surf the waves. You'll find a good mix of water slides here, from gentle tube slides that work for the whole family to a few steeper body slides that give tweens and teens their thrills. The kids area features smaller slides, water features, and a large bucket that tips over periodically to drench everyone below. What I really appreciate about Great Waves is the shaded areas. They've got plenty of mature trees and covered pavilions, which saves you from spending the whole day in brutal Virginia sun. The lazy river moves at a nice pace and winds around a good portion of the park, giving you a solid 10-minute float if you go the full loop. The park attracts mostly families with kids under 12, though you'll see plenty of teenagers hanging out in groups during summer afternoons. It gets busy on weekends and holidays, so arriving when they open at 11 AM gets you the best spot for your chairs and towels. Parking…
Read the full Great Waves Water Park, Alexandria guide →Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole
Virginia
Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole brings that classic Virginia swimming hole vibe to Reston with a decidedly family-focused approach. This isn't your massive thrill park with towering slides - it's designed for families with younger kids who want a fun day in the water without the overwhelming crowds and intense attractions you'll find at bigger parks. The park keeps things simple but effective, with a good mix of water slides that are exciting enough for kids but won't terrify the little ones. The kids area is really where this place shines, with smaller slides, interactive water features, and plenty of shallow water for toddlers to splash around safely. Parents can actually relax here because the sight lines are good and the atmosphere is laid-back. The swimming pool gives you a break from all the water park action when you just want to swim some laps or float around. I'd recommend arriving right when they open during summer weekends - Virginia families know a good deal when they see one, and this place can get busy by mid-morning. Bring your own snacks if you can, though they do have basic food options available. The parking situation is pretty straightforward, which is a relief compared to some of the larger parks in the area. What makes Water Mine stand out is that it hits that sweet spot for families with kids roughly ages 3-12. Your teenagers might get bored, but your elementary school kids will have a blast. The staff keeps things…
Read the full Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole guide →Ready to visit Great Waves Water Park, Alexandria?