Kennedy Water Park vs Indiana Beach
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 | Kennedy Water Park | Indiana Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | ||
| Arcade |
Only at Kennedy Water Park
- lazy river
Only at Indiana Beach
- beach area
- tube rentals
- gift shop
- Arcade
- go karts
- mini golf
- birthday party packages
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Kennedy Water Park
Indiana
Kennedy Water Park sits in South Bend as one of those classic community water parks that feels like a throwback to simpler times. You won't find massive 100-foot slides here, but what you will find is a place where families can actually relax and enjoy a day together without breaking the bank. The park centers around a good-sized swimming pool with a separate shallow area perfect for toddlers and non-swimmers. The water slide selection hits the sweet spot for most families - tall enough to give kids a thrill without being so intense that parents worry. I particularly appreciate that you can actually see your kids from pretty much anywhere in the park, which isn't always the case at larger facilities. The lazy river moves at a genuinely lazy pace, making it perfect for floating with younger children or just decompressing after a few slide runs. What really sets Kennedy apart is the community feel - this is where local families have been making summer memories for years. The staff knows regulars by name, and there's none of that rushed, corporate atmosphere you get at bigger chains. Pack your own snacks if you want to save money, though the concession stand does solid basics like pizza and nachos. Arrive when they open if you're visiting on weekends during peak summer - parking fills up and you'll snag the best poolside spots. The changing rooms are clean but basic, so consider arriving in your swimsuit. Bring plenty of sunscreen since shade…
Read the full Kennedy Water Park guide →Indiana Beach
Indiana
Indiana Beach isn't just a water park - it's a classic lakefront amusement park that happens to have a solid water section called Splash Battle Cove. Located right on Lake Shafer, this place has been a Midwest family destination since 1926, and the water attractions feel integrated into the whole experience rather than being the main event. The water area centers around a large swimming beach on the lake itself, which is honestly the best part. Real sand, real lake water, and you can swim out pretty far if you're a decent swimmer. The kids love it because it feels like a beach vacation without the drive to the ocean. The water park section has a handful of slides - nothing too intense, mostly tube slides that are perfect for families. There's a decent kids' area with smaller slides and splash features that keep the little ones busy for hours. What makes Indiana Beach unique is how you can bounce between the amusement rides and the water stuff all day. Buy a wristband and you get access to everything, including the roller coasters and classic carnival rides. The Cornball Express wooden coaster is actually pretty legendary among coaster enthusiasts. Food is typical amusement park fare - expensive but decent. The funnel cakes are worth it. Parking can get tight on busy summer days, so show up early if you're coming on a weekend. The beach area gets crowded by noon. If you've got little kids, this place is gold because…
Read the full Indiana Beach guide →Ready to visit Kennedy Water Park?