Water parks in Los Angeles provide a refuge from the city jungle for both residents and visitors alike. For those who either want a break from sandy dunes or prefer something a little more adventure-driven, water parks are an optimal way to spend an evening, afternoon or weekend with friends and family. As part of a Huffington Post Travel series on parks, here is our guide to all the key information visitors need to know about Los Angeles water parks.
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor: Los Angeles
Six Flags parks are located all across the country and have a reputation for delivering a maximum dose of adventure and amusement. The
, located just outside Los Angeles, provides thrilling rides suitable for all age groups, family events, special celebrations and
throughout the year.
Maximum Thrill
Hurricane Harbor's most notable ride is likely the
, a "max-thrill" rated ride for four that drops more than seven stories into a 60-foot-tall, 132-foot-long water funnel. The tube spins and twirls those daring enough to brave the ride through the funnel, ensuring each and every person is soaking wet -- and high on life -- by the finale.
Rides For All Ages
The Tornado isn't the only thrilling ride you'll find at Hurricane Harbor. Other notable water rides include the
water slide,
and the
. Other notable attractions include the Lizard Lagoon and
, both perfect for younger crowds, and the family-friendly
, a water toboggan challenge that pits you against five others in a full-blown race to the bottom.
Dining Options
There's no shortage of food at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor. Guests have their pick from sweet treats at Ben & Jerry's and Tradewind Treats along with more savory options, found at Red Eye's Kitchen, Cowabunga Burgers and Captain Cook's.
Safety Record
The
reported that in June of 2005, a 68-year-old man passed away from a heart attack in the park's wave pool.
Address: 26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia, CA 91355Phone: 949-788-0808Hours: Park hours vary depending on day and season. Typically, the park opens between 10 and 11 a.m. and closes between 3 and 8 p.m. Call or look online to plan your visit.Price: Adults, $34.99; visitors 48 inches and under, $24.99; children 2 and younger, free. Discounts are available for tickets purchased online.
Raging Waters, San Dimas
Whether you're headed to Raging Waters, San Dimas, with friends, family or a special someone, you won't have a hard time finding things to do. Thrill seekers have their pick from a number of high-adventure rides, and those with a lower tolerance for all-things-extreme can relax at one of the park's more laid-back attractions.
The Dragon's Den
If you're in the mood for adventure, look no further than the
, whose name is just as daunting as the ride itself. Grab a friend, jump in an inner tube, and brave the fully-enclosed, 45-foot drop; then, prepare to whirl around a 35-foot bowl. And adding to the excitement, a nine-foot dragon leers over riders, breathing mist as they fly by.
More Thrills And Kid's Kingdom
If the Dragon's Den sounds like your kind of ride, you'll also enjoy the Vortex, a 270-foot-long, four-story tower that has you soaking wet by the finale. Other high adventure rides include Neptune's Fury and the Ragin' Racer, where slide races among friends end in a splash. Kiddos can spend their time in a special, reserved area of the park, chock-full of easygoing (but still exciting) attractions like the Kid's Kingdom water playground, Volcano Fantasea and the Little Dipper.
Meal Deals
Splashing around under the hot sun can leave you feeling hungry. Fuel up on delicious grub at restaurants like Pipeline Pizza and Beach Bum BBQ. Raging Waters suggests purchasing a combo meal deal -- for individuals or for families -- at one of the many different eateries.
Safety Record
Our research revealed no notable news reports of accidents or safety issues at Raging Waters, San Dimas. In summer of 2011, however, its sister park in San Francisco, experienced a
that injured 20 visitors.
Address: 111 Raging Waters Drive, San Dimas, CA 91773Phone: 909-802-2200 Hours: Open mid-May through mid-September. Check the website for detailed hours.Price: Adults and children 48 inches and taller, $34.98; visitors shorter than 48 inches, $19.98; children 2 and younger, free.
Other Noteworthy Parks Near Los Angeles
What's your favorite water park in California?
Check out more WATER PARKS.
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