Visiting Water Country with Kids: Secrets to Visiting NH's Best Water Park

Water Country in Portsmouth, New Hampshire is New England's biggest Water Park. It takes only about an hour to get from Boston to some of the most family-friendly waterslides in the region. The park features 18 super-cool water park attractions spread over 26 lovely acres. Summer in New England isn't complete without a trip to Water Country.

Whether your looking for things to do in Portsmouth, or your headed straight to the park, Water Country is worth the trip. For more water park fun, check out our picks for the Best Outdoor Water Parks in New England for Family Fun. And for more fun in the sun, explore our Ultimate Boston Kids Summer Vacation Guide.

Why Water Country is an Awesome Family Destination

 
The waterslides at Water Country are packed with twists, turns, and splashes! Dragon's Den photo courtesy of the Park

Water Country has tons of amazing waterslides. There is plenty of fun for kids of all ages, and their parents too. And Water Country has plenty of attractions for toddlers and young children. Keep an eye out for the "intensity" rating on the park's attractions. They run from "soft" to "intense," so that you know what you (and the kids) are in for.

Must See Things at Water Country for Bigger Kids and Adults

Be sure to check the height and weight requirements before hopping in line for these attractions!

Hyperlight

Water Country's newest waterslide, Hyperlight adds more sight and sound to a wet and wild waterslide.

The Patriot

At 58 feet high, this body-slide generates some serious speed–and some big splashes at the end!

Giant Wave Pool

Holding over 700,000 gallons, Water Country's giant wave pool is the largest of its kind in New England.

Dragon's Den

Single- and double-rider tubes plummet through the "den of the dragon" on this intense waterslide.

Racing Rapids/the Plunge

Take your pick between two wild slides running just under and just over 400 feet in twisting, turning fun!

Screamer

Experience zero-gravity fun with this pulse-pounding waterslide.

Thunder Falls/Wild Canyon

These winding waterslides accommodate multiple riders on larger rafts that twist, turn, and plunge!

Must See Things at Water Country for Toddlers and Smaller Kids

These attractions are sure to please the little ones in your family.

Pirate's Pool & Lagoon

This fun play area has a pirate ship–complete with slides–and plenty of room to splash.

Tahiti Tree House

With a giant tipping water bucket and multiple slides, this equipment will keep smaller kids happily busy!

Activity Pool

This large pool allows families to stay cool and enjoy some relaxing open-swim time.

Bubble Bay

This splash pad features plenty of sprays and bubbles to stay cool on a hot summer day.

Know Before You Go

While Water Country has plenty of fun for any age, many of the attractions have a 48-inch height requirement. Kids around seven or so are around the right age to enjoy most attractions.

Water Country is cashless, but there are cash-to-card kiosks if you need them.

BRING TOWELS and sunscreen. The on-site store (Seacoast Surf Supply, Co.) has you covered if you forget any essentials.

Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays are the slowest days, while Saturday and Sunday can get very busy. Also, the park gets busier when the mercury climbs.

Buy tickets and parking online to save money and time. You can complete your trip with fun add-on's, like a cabana to catch a little shade. Be sure and book your cabana in advance.

The park has lockers for rent, with a variety of sizes. It's a great move, so you can secure your valuables while you enjoy the waterslides.

Eating at Water Country

Eating at Water Country is a breeze. The water park allows visitors to bring food inside. But remember: no glass and no sharp knives. There are several picnic areas and tables to enjoy a meal in the shade.

The park has several food concessions, with favorites like pizza, burgers, and sandwiches, as well as crowd-pleasers like fried dough and ice cream.

 
There's room to relax on the adventure river at Water Country in Portsmouth, NH. Photo courtesy of the Park

Visitng Water Country

Water Country in Portsmouth, NH is open from from 10:30 am to 6 pm, Monday-Friday (10am-6pm on weekends). The water park typically operates during the summer months, from July through Labor Day.

Admission starts at $38 for a specific-day ticket, $52 for an any-day ticket. You can save money and time by purchasing tickets online. Season passes are a great option if you plan on visiting more than once.

Kids under 2 are always FREE!

Parking costs $20 ($25 to $30 for preferred parking spaces closer to the entrance).

Hours and rates are as of publication. Check the website beore heading out. And have a blast!