Lakemont Park vs Tipton Water Works and Rapids
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 | Lakemont Park | Tipton Water Works and Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | ||
| Arcade |
Only at Lakemont Park
- gift shop
- swimming pool
- birthday party packages
- mini golf
- go karts
- Arcade
Only at Tipton Water Works and Rapids
- wave pool
- cabana rentals
- tube rentals
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Lakemont Park
Pennsylvania
Lakemont Park in Altoona has been entertaining families since 1894, making it America's oldest amusement park. While many people know it for the historic Leap-The-Dips wooden roller coaster, the water park section offers a refreshing escape during Pennsylvania's hot summers. The water attractions here feel more intimate than massive resort destinations, which works perfectly for families with younger kids who might get overwhelmed at bigger parks. You'll find a solid mix of water slides that provide thrills without being too intense, plus a dedicated children's area with smaller slides and interactive water features. The lazy river gives parents a chance to relax while keeping an eye on their kids. What really sets Lakemont apart is how it combines old-school charm with modern water attractions. You can spend the morning on water slides, then dry off and ride one of the oldest roller coasters in the country. The park maintains that classic regional amusement park feel where staff actually seem to care about your experience. Parking is free and usually easy to find, unlike some of the bigger parks where you're walking a quarter mile from your car. The food options are typical amusement park fare, but reasonably priced for what you get. I'd recommend arriving when they open to claim your spot, especially on weekends. The changing rooms can get crowded later in the day, so getting there early helps. Bring your own towels and sunscreen to save money. This isn't the place for serious thrill seekers looking for massive…
Read the full Lakemont Park guide →Tipton Water Works and Rapids
Pennsylvania
Tipton Water Works and Rapids sits on about 15 acres in rural Pennsylvania, giving you that classic small-town water park experience without the massive crowds of bigger destinations. The park centers around a solid collection of body slides and tube slides that range from family-friendly to surprisingly thrilling. Their multi-lane racing slides are actually pretty competitive once you get going, and the tube slides have enough twists to keep things interesting. The lazy river winds around a good portion of the park and moves at just the right pace for floating with a drink. Kids get their own dedicated area with smaller slides, water features, and shallow pools that parents can actually relax beside. The wave pool generates decent-sized waves every 15 minutes or so, though it's not going to fool anyone into thinking they're at the ocean. What really sets this place apart is the laid-back atmosphere. You can actually find chairs when you want them, lines rarely stretch beyond 10 minutes, and the staff genuinely seems to care about everyone having a good time. The food is typical water park fare but reasonably priced for what you get. I'd recommend arriving right when they open to claim a good spot, especially on weekends. Bring your own towels since rental fees add up quickly with a family. The cabanas are worth it if you're planning to stay all day, particularly for families with small kids who need shade and a place to stash snacks. This park works best for…
Read the full Tipton Water Works and Rapids guide →Ready to visit Lakemont Park?