When the summer temperatures start to sizzle, a day at Water World (8801 N. Pecos St.) in Federal Heights is one of the best (and most fun) ways to cool off in Colorado. Since opening in 1979 with the first two water slides in the state, the popular water park now boasts more than 50 water adventures. This year, the gates open for the season on May 27, 2023.
Photo: Water World
In 2021, the popular family-friendly “playground” added two new attractions — Roaring Forks Dueling Water Coaster and Centennial Basin.
In fact, they feature the largest variety of attractions in America. (Did you know the park has been rated as one of America’s top ten water parks by the Travel Channel?)
As one of America’s largest family water parks, the watery wonderland is located just 15 minutes north of downtown Denver on 70+ landscaped acres.
However, the cost can create big waves in your summertime budget, especially for families.
Tickets are valid for unlimited use of its attractions all-day. The park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 6 p.m. (depending on the date — check calendar here), weather permitting.
For up-to-date information regarding inclement weather and park operating status, call 303-427-7873.
Regular admission prices (walk-up pricing, at the front gate) are as follows:
Heights 48″ & above are $54.99
Heights 40″ to 47″ are $44.99
Seniors (60+) are $14.99
Tots under 40″ are FREE
Coupons are not valid with any other discount; senior, mid-day or resident admission; or any other discount or repurchased ticket. One coupon per person, unless noted otherwise.
There are several ways you can make a big splash at the park without causing your budget to sink.
Dive in for more information about what savings are available this season:
Water World eClub
Join the attraction’s eClub to get advance notice of deals, discounts and news flowing directly into your inbox. Sign-up here.
Pick-Your-Day Online Tickets
With savings of up to $26, the online ticket discount offers the best value from walk-up gate pricing — click here.
If you purchase a Pick-Your-Day ticket and need to change the date of your visit, you may do so by visiting a Ticket Service Booth upon arrival — current season only. (Note: If there’s a difference in price, expect to pay a little more.)
Splash Passes
If you splash often at the park, your best value is to get a season pass — Preferred Splash Pass or Elite Splash Pass. The pass pays for itself in just a few visits.
The prices are $139.99 and $174.99 for adults, respectively. And $129.99 for either pass for children. There is a discount, if you purchase four or more passes. Each level offers different benefits — click here to review and compare perks.
Photo: Water World
Military Discount
Active and Retired Military Personnel can enjoy a FREE one-day admission ticket, during its Military Appreciation Weekend — Memorial Day Weekend, May 27 to 29, 2023. (Last year, they also offered the same promotion over Labor Day Weekend. However, no announcement has been made for 2023.)
The offer is only valid for active or retired military members and does not apply to spouses or dependents. You must present a valid Military ID at the Group Sales Window for admission.
This season, there are no other military discounts available at the front gate.
Discount Coupons
In previous years, Water World has partnered with a local business or company to distribute coupons. However, no such partnerships have been announced for 2023. Check back for more details.
Father’s Day
Last year, Dads enjoyed FREE admission with additional ticket purchase on Father’s Day. However, no announcement has been made for 2023. Check back for more details.
Hyland Hills Resident Admission
Water World is owned and operated by the Hyland Hills Park and Recreation District.
Residents of the Hyland Hills Park and Recreation District or the City of Westminster receive reduced admission. To obtain the Hyland Hills Discount Admission, each visitor (heights 40″+) must present a valid Hyland Hills Discount Card at both the ticket windows and entry turnstiles.
Note: The newly issued Westminster Recreation/Discount ID cards (without a photo) are not valid for use at Water World or other Hyland Hills facilities.
To obtain a HH Discount Card, a resident of the City of Westminster (not living within the Hyland Hills boundaries) must submit a valid Colorado Driver’s license/Colorado ID card with the legal name and current address of the resident. The discount card is $5.
For more information, including what items are required to obtain a Hyland Hills Discount Card, where to purchase, hours and more, visit the Hyland Hills website here.
In addition, qualifying residents can access Hyland Hills Discounted Splash Passes.
You can purchase a Hyland Hills Discount Card at the following locations:
Hyland Hills Administration Building — 8801 N. Pecos St. in Federal Heights
FIT by Hyland Hills – 2861 W. 120th Ave. in Westminster
Find more information about the discount program here.
Bring Your Own Lunch and Snacks
Assuming you’ve used a coupon or discount to get in the park, bringing your family’s own snacks and drinks creates a true tidal wave of savings.
Even though Water World sells food and beverages, keep your expenses to a minimum by bringing your own picnic into the park.
All beverage containers must be factory sealed. No glass or alcohol permitted.
Coolers must fit within the park’s front gate cooler sizer units, including wheels and collapsible handles. Vertical coolers must be no larger than 17″ wide x 24″ tall x 17″ deep. Horizontal coolers must be no larger than 24″ wide x 17″ tall x 17″ deep. Limit one personal-sized cooler per visitor.
Plus, be sure to keep your ice bagged until after bag check. Consider keeping bulk ice in its original packaging, placing your ice in resealable bags or using cold packs. Once you’re through the gates, you can unpack your ice and disperse it throughout your cooler.
Review the attraction’s Know Before You Go page for more details.
Parking
Unlike many other popular summer attractions in town, Water World offers FREE parking. That means more summer fun dollars back in your pocket to spend on souvenirs, food and drinks.