Water World Colorado vs The Splash, Golden
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 World Colorado | The Splash, Golden |
|---|---|---|
| Parking |
Only at Water World Colorado
- wave pool
- lazy river
- cabana rentals
- tube rentals
- food court
- gift shop
- group rates
- season passes
Only at The Splash, Golden
- splash pad
- swimming pool
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Water World Colorado
Colorado
Water World Colorado sits on 70 acres in Federal Heights and has been Colorado's go-to water park since 1980. This place is massive, with more than 40 attractions spread across what feels like a small city of slides and pools. The Turbo Racer is their claim to fame - an eight-lane racing slide where you can actually compete against your friends on mats. The Voyage to the Center of the Earth takes you through a completely enclosed tube slide that feels like you're being flushed down a giant toilet (in the best way possible). For families with younger kids, the Lost River of the Pharaohs lazy river is perfect for floating around when you need a break from the chaos. The kids' area has smaller versions of the big slides plus a massive tipping bucket that dumps hundreds of gallons every few minutes. Thrill seekers should hit the Mile High Flyer first thing in the morning - it's a four-story body slide that shoots you down at crazy speeds. The park gets absolutely packed on summer weekends, so arriving right when they open at 10 AM is crucial if you want to avoid hour-long lines. Parking is free but fills up fast, so don't sleep in. The food is standard water park fare - burgers, pizza, nachos - but it's reasonably priced for an amusement park. You can bring your own food and drinks (no glass or alcohol) which saves a ton of money. Rent a tube when you arrive…
Read the full Water World Colorado guide →The Splash, Golden
Colorado
The Splash in Golden feels like what every neighborhood wishes it had. This city-run facility sits right in the heart of Golden, and while it's not going to compete with Water World down the road, it absolutely nails what it's trying to be: a clean, affordable spot where families can cool off without the crowds and chaos of the mega parks. The water slides here are perfect for kids who've outgrown the baby splash features but aren't quite ready for the big thrills. You'll find a couple of twisty tube slides and an open flume slide that are just exciting enough to get kids asking to go again and again. The splash pad area is where the real magic happens for the little ones. It's got all the classics - tipping buckets, spray fountains, and ground jets - but it's well-maintained and the water pressure is just right. Parents can actually relax on the deck chairs nearby instead of hovering constantly. The pool area gives everyone space to just swim and play without dodging other attractions. What I love about The Splash is how local it feels. The staff knows the regular families, the facilities are spotless, and you're not going to spend your kids' college fund on a day out. It's perfect for families with kids under 12, though teens might get bored pretty quickly. The location in Golden is fantastic if you're already exploring the area - you can hit the slides in the morning and then walk…
Read the full The Splash, Golden guide →Ready to visit Water World Colorado?