Water Park of America vs Cascade Bay
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 | Water Park of America | Cascade Bay |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | ||
| Arcade |
Only at Water Park of America
- wave pool
- gift shop
- Arcade
- birthday party packages
- group rates
- wifi
Only at Cascade Bay
- swimming pool
- picnic areas
- splash pad
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Water Park of America
Minnesota
Water Park of America sits inside the Mall of America complex in Bloomington, making it one of the most unique water park experiences you'll find. This indoor park runs year-round, which means you can be splashing around in 84-degree water while it's snowing outside. The centerpiece is a massive wave pool that generates four-foot waves every few minutes - kids love body surfing while parents can wade in the shallow end. The lazy river winds around a good portion of the park and moves at just the right pace for floating on tubes. For thrills, there are several body slides and tube slides, including a couple that dump you into deep pools with a serious splash. The kids' area features smaller slides, water buckets that tip over, and plenty of interactive play features at different heights. What really sets this place apart is the convenience factor. You can literally park at Mall of America, shop, eat, and hit the water park all in one trip. The locker rooms are spacious and clean, though they can get crowded during peak times. Food options are typical water park fare but reasonably priced for being inside MOA. The arcade area gives kids something to do when they need a break from the water. Since it's indoors, you don't need sunscreen, but the air can get pretty humid. I'd recommend arriving right when they open to avoid the worst crowds, especially on weekends and school holidays. The park works well for families with kids…
Read the full Water Park of America guide →Cascade Bay
Minnesota
Cascade Bay delivers that classic community water park experience that reminds you why these local gems matter. Located just minutes from the Mall of America in Eagan, this outdoor park punches above its weight for a municipal facility. The centerpiece is a solid collection of water slides that range from gentle slopes perfect for younger kids to faster tube slides that'll give tweens and teens their thrills. The main pool area stays busy but never feels overcrowded, and there's a dedicated shallow area where toddlers can splash around safely while parents actually relax nearby. What I love about Cascade Bay is how it nails the fundamentals without trying to be something it's not. The lazy river moves at the perfect pace for floating away an afternoon, and the kids' play area features all the sprays, dumps, and climbing structures that keep little ones entertained for hours. The staff clearly knows the community and treats everyone like neighbors. Food prices stay reasonable compared to the big commercial parks, and you can actually find a good spot to sit without arriving at opening time. The changing rooms and facilities are clean and well-maintained, which matters more than you'd think after a full day in the sun. Parking is free and plentiful, another win for families watching their budget. This park works best for families with kids under 14 who want a fun day without the chaos and expense of mega-parks. Sure, thrill seekers looking for massive slides might want to look elsewhere,…
Read the full Cascade Bay guide →Ready to visit Water Park of America?