Surfari Joe’s vs Kennedy 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 | Surfari Joe’s | Kennedy Water Park |
|---|---|---|
| Parking |
Only at Surfari Joe’s
- surfing simulator
- birthday party packages
Only at Kennedy Water Park
- water slides
- lazy river
- picnic areas
- group rates
- season passes
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Surfari Joe’s
Michigan
Surfari Joe's in Watervliet is exactly what you'd expect from a small Michigan indoor water park - cozy, family-friendly, and built around one standout attraction. The star of the show is their FlowRider surfing simulator, which is honestly pretty impressive for a park this size. I've watched kids as young as 8 figure out how to bodyboard on it, while teenagers and adults can actually try stand-up surfing with some practice. The staff running the FlowRider are patient and give good pointers, which makes all the difference when you're face-planting into rushing water. Beyond the surfing simulator, you'll find a decent-sized pool area with some smaller water features perfect for younger kids. The whole place has that classic indoor water park vibe - humid, echoing with happy screams, and warm enough that you forget it's snowing outside. This is definitely a park that works best for families with kids under 12, though the FlowRider keeps older kids engaged too. The facility feels more like a large community center pool with a really cool centerpiece than a destination water park, and that's not necessarily a bad thing. Parents can actually keep track of their kids here without losing their minds. Come prepared for a shorter visit than you'd plan at larger parks - most families are satisfied after 2-3 hours. The changing areas are basic but clean, and parking is easy since you're not dealing with massive crowds. If you're in the area and looking for a low-key water park experience…
Read the full Surfari Joe’s guide →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 →Ready to visit Surfari Joe’s?