Best Water Attractions in Philadelphia

Spreading across 9200 acres (3723.11 hectares) with 63 parks, Fairmount Park is among the biggest city park systems in the nation. It features picturesque trails, rolling hills, streams, historical structures, woodlands, public arts and more. The Centennial Arboretum, Horticulture Center, Japanese House and Garden and Philadelphia Museum of Art are some of the interesting sites located in this massive expanse. It also has recreational centers and sporting fields.

The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum is the largest standing freshwater tidal marsh in Pennsylvania. The mission of the refuge is to preserve the marsh, promote environmental education, and provide visitors with an excellent opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. The Heinz refuge offers nature programs, environmental education workshops, field trip consultations, and a resource library. All workshops, field trips and related services are offered free of charge. The Refuge is an excellent resource for birdwatchers, hikers and nature lovers.

During the heat and humidity of summer in the Poconos, one of the most popular nearby attractions is this fun-filled waterpark. Bigger kids (even of the adult variety) will thrill to the largest manmade waves in the Northeast at the Kahuna Lagoon wave pool. For some wet and wild fun, try the Titan waterslide—nearly eight-stories tall and 819 feet long—the largest in a three-state radius. For those less adventurous, enjoy mat slides, tube slides or raft slides. Little ones have their own slides in Camel Cove, as well as interactive water fun with a giant tipping bucket. Other attractions include Blue Nile Adventure River, a competition-size swimming pool, bumper boats and miniature golf. Food service venues offer everything from snacks to dinner. Admission fees: $23.95 general admission; $19.95 child age 3-11/senior Age 65+; $10.95 spectator fee. Check their website for varying open days.