We visited the waterpark on our SECOND visit to the attached Columbus Zoo, spending 2 days between the zoo and waterpark. While I won't claim this is the best waterpark ever, it was really quite good, with lots of options for everyone. For some great tips from a family who went all over, read on...
1) Ask the attendants at the door for a map / height restriction layout if you have children. They can point you to the right direction for smaller child's attractions, and save you valuable time / frustration.
2) Scout your seat first, rides later... seating is at a premium pretty much everywhere you go, and you'll need a place to pile your towels / things.
3) Don't bring the cooler. The waterpark will not allow them, and you'll be forced to either leave it at the door or take it to your car (it is a LOOOOOONG walk back, so not worth it).
4) Don't plan to do the zoo and waterpark in the same day, if possible. Each are so much fun on their own, and you'll burn out if you try and cram it all in to the same day.
5) If you have small children, and the small kid's area is crammed with adults / teens, don't hesitate to tell the lifeguard. The splash bucket area and infant pools are for children and their family ONLY, not for an adult overflow. During our trip, a group of 20-somethings pushed my daughter down while running up the play structure. We informed a nearby lifeguard, and they announced all people over 54" withOUT a child could not be in this section. It's a great idea to keep them separate!
6) Eat before you go in (yes, I know you aren't supposed to eat for 30 minutes before getting in!! :). The food prices are HIGH, and quality is NOT worth the investment.
7) Go to the bathroom at the entrance before you get in the park. Toilet options are few and far between, and it's go now, suffer, or pee in the pool (ew).
8) The waterpark has a ZERO tolerance for smoking. If you see someone smoking near you and it bothers you tell a lifeguard - they will take care of it right away.
9) Skip the lockers - they are not worth the expense! We left our pool bag (with no valuables, of course, just towels, etc.) on our chair, and it was fine.
10) Save time for the "dry rides" if you have kids under 10. They are located just outside the waterpark's entrance, and totally worth it for the little you'll spend on tickets. IF YOU DO THIS, find the ticket window first - it's near the ZOO entrance, and if you don't get tickets there first you'll have to backtrack a LONG way. read more