Dan Zarrow’s Guide to Indoor Water Parks and Theme Parks that WOW!

As summer turns to fall, as the weather starts to get colder and kids go back to school, New Jersey's outdoor theme park and water park season sadly must come to an end.

But hang on a second ... There's no reason the thrills can't continue all year round!

New Jersey is home to some outstanding indoor water parks and theme parks. Whether your pleasure is riding a thrilling world-class roller coaster, taking a dip in a giant wave pool, or delighting in a plethora of family-friendly rides over and over, there really is something for everyone. In climate-controlled comfort.

Let's take a tour of some of the Garden State's biggest and best indoor parks, sure to "WOW" you no matter the weather.

This article is part of a special series brought to you by the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism.

Nickelodeon Universe

If you have not visited the American Dream megamall and Nickelodeon Universe indoor theme park in East Rutherford, you are really missing out. It is the largest indoor theme park in the Western Hemisphere. Since it opened in October 2019, kids and adults alike have delighted in their 30+ attractions. Yes, more than 30 rides all in one indoor space, making this truly an all-day destination. That includes five roller coasters, which all ranked highly on my list of New Jersey's top roller coasters.

DreamWorks Water Park

Right next door to Nickelodeon Universe in American Dream is the DreamWorks Water Park. Not only is it the largest indoor water park in North America, it is home to the largest indoor wave pool in the world (1.5 million gallons), plus a lazy river, more than a dozen water slides, and several attractions for the littlest splashers in your family.

Funplex

There are two Funplex locations in New Jersey — in East Hanover and Mount Laurel. Both feature outdoor and indoor components, allowing them to stay open for family fun all year. Check out their go karts, laser tag bumper cars, and XD dark ride.

iPlayAmerica

What I like most about iPlay America in Freehold is that it gives the same exact vibes as a Jersey Shore boardwalk. But fully indoors and climate-controlled. You've got classic rides, games, and food, plus arcade games and an indoor speedway. They have a highly-acclaimed Top Golf Suite Swing too.

Big Kahuna's Water Park

When it's raining, snowing, cold, or just plain inclement outside, the weather is always fine inside Big Kahuna's Water Park in West Berlin. They have water slides of all sizes, plus pool-based activities for all ages. Perfect for locals and daytrippers, they also offer birthday party packages, rental cabanas, and season passes.

Island Waterpark at Showboat

The newest indoor offering on the list, Island Waterpark at Showboat in Atlantic City opened in July 2023. It's big, it's warm, it's high-class, offering thrills and spills in addition to nightlife vibes. Highlights include a lazy river, racing water slides, kid-friendly Slide Island, and adult-only Paradise Island. Plus, award-winning bars, restaurants, a spa/salon, and an enormous arcade are just steps away.