The best lazy rivers in the U.S. to get your float on

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When it comes to things to do in Orlando, Disney and Universal tend to steal the spotlight, but Discovery Cove offers a slower-paced, equally worthwhile experience. The Wind-Away River is a standout for its serene setting: guests float through sandy beaches, dense rainforest, tranquil waterfalls and even an aviary where tropical birds fly freely overhead. Since the park limits daily attendance, the experience feels more like a semi-private tropical escape than a traditional theme park.

Best time to go: March-May, September-November

Ticket prices: From $145

Time Out tip: Florida residents should keep an eye out for discounted rates on their website. 

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Set among 400-plus acres in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Hyatt Regency Lost Pines boasts a massive water park that feels like a destination in itself. It’s here you’ll find Crooked River, a relaxed, scenic 1,000-foot lazy river perfect for floating beneath shady trees. Grab a drink at the float-up bar mid-ride, then continue to cruise along at your own pace. Of course, the lazy river is just one highlight of the resort’s sprawling aquatic complex, which also features multiple pools, a two-story waterslide, a splash pad, and dedicated zones for both kids and adults.

Best time to go: April-May, September-October

Ticket prices: From $75

Time Out tip: The lazy river isn't heated, so the water can feel brisk early in the season or on cooler days.

The Waco Surf is billed as being the world’s longest (the website says ‘allegedly’) lazy river, which is nearly a mile long. You must purchase a Wedge Waterslide pass to ride the lazy river, but that just adds to the fun. You can also separately surf on a two-acre lake or try the wakeboarding cable park, where overhead cables pull you around the water with no boat involved.

Best time to go: May-September

Ticket prices: From $39 

Time Out tip: Have kids? Purchase a family pass to save on access to the water slides and lazy river.

This indoor lazy river for swimmers (no floaties needed) at the East Portland Community Center is short but sweet, as it ends in a powerful whirlpool that requires a kick to exit. You can purchase an affordable day pass to spend a few hours in the two pools with a water slide, and then step outside to the green city park it's located in to have a picnic.

Best time to go: May-September

Ticket prices: From $6

Time Out tip: Consider shelling out a few extra bucks on a monthly pass if you plan on visiting frequently. 

The Shoshone Chutes outdoor tube ride at Glenwood Hot Springs in Colorado has more thrills than most lazy rivers; it’s meant to mimic the Colorado River with cascading tiers that take you ‘downhill’ with fast-paced twists and turns. Your floatie will likely spin around backward with the water’s power as you enjoy beautiful landscaping for this three-minute ride. It’s open to the public but is on the grounds of a historical resort hotel with famous hot springs. The bonus is the red rocks of the surrounding mountains, creating a spectacular natural setting.

Best time to go: September-October

Ticket prices: From $50 

Time Out tip: Stay on-site to make the most of the lazy river—and avoid paying extra for entry. 

Deep in the Poconos, the Camelback Resort's indoor water park features a lazy river that extends underground and enters a darkened ‘grotto’ beneath other waterslides, creating a more atmospheric moment. The water park spans a whopping 125,000 square feet under a transparent roof; stay until nighttime for the beautiful illuminated interior. Admission is included with an overnight stay at the resort; alternatively, day passes are available for purchase. 

Best time to go: May-September

Ticket prices: From $59 

Time Out tip: Visit midweek instead of weekends to reduce long lines and wait times. 

Amid this epic water park is a slow and relaxing 1,200-foot lazy river called the Roundabout River, which gently pulls you through the park as you float under waterfalls to cool off. When you’re done relaxing, get your heart rate back up at the Backsplash two-person waterslide-plus-roller coaster. Or check out the enormous wave pool and other waterslides on the park’s 23 acres.

Best time to go: May–July

Ticket prices: From $37 

Time Out tip: Season passes, which include unlimited visits, are recommended for locals.

Scottsdale is a premier destination for luxury resorts in America, and the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa perfectly embodies this reputation by striking a balance between pampering and outright fun. One of the resort’s highlights is the lazy river, which winds its way through the pool area, offering a relaxing yet adventurous experience. After a leisurely float, you can explore the area—the hotel is just steps away from the dining and shopping mecca, Kierland Commons, and a short journey to other adventures in the Sonoran Desert.

Best time to go: September–November, March–May

Ticket prices: From $75 

Time Out tip: Tickets are only available to non-guests on ResortPass.

A lazy river in the shape of the state of Texas? Sure, why not!? Drift along the circumference of the state border at the Marriott Marquis Houston as you look out over the city skyline from this sixth-floor rooftop pool. You’ll go under a few footbridges in this 80-degree river and then climb out to try the heated infinity pool nearby. You can purchase a day pass through ResortPass if you want to swim without staying overnight.

Best time to go: April–October

Ticket prices: From $200 

Time Out tip: Skip the pricey on-site food and beverage offerings and explore neighboring spots like Orange Taco and Zero's Sandwich Shop.

With waves and a strong current, the 1,000-foot Adventure River at Ocean Breeze Waterpark passes by waterfalls and tipping buckets to drench you. It starts and ends with a sand-free beach and lagoon for a 10-minute ride. If you really want to amp up the relaxation vibes, trade in your free tube for an upgraded ‘recliner.’ Check out the million-gallon wave pool while you’re there and other attractions, including a 45-foot gorilla statue named Hugh Mongous. 

Best time to go: June-August

Ticket prices: From $51 

Time Out tip: Dress accordingly! Per the water park's website, "No denim shorts or clothing with rivets, snaps, buttons, belts, buckles, or rhinestones on the back are permitted on the rides."

A relief to some, Croctail Creek at Zoombezi Bay is a 21+ only lazy river, and the optional accompanying beverage makes the 700ft glide all the more relaxing. Begin your ride at the swim-up (tube up?) bar called Sandbar and grab a comfortable two-person floatie (single floaties available too) to drift away. There’s also a 1,500ft Roaring Rapids Action River, which kids are allowed on—it has its own wave generator—and Zoombezi Bay has a plethora of other water-based attractions, including a wave pool and many slides. Admission also includes entry into the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium on the same day. 

Best time to go: June–August

Ticket prices: From $20

Time Out tip: Visit after 4pm for discounted tickets. 

Imagine floating down a lava-rock-lined lazy river in the middle of beautiful Hawaii, past waterfalls and secret caves, taking in the Hawaiian sunshine and the sound of ocean waves in the distance. That's the experience you can have at the Grand Hyatt Kauai's lazy river. Once you're down with a relaxing float, kick the excitement up a notch with a ride down the 150-foot waterslide or grab a drink from the nearby bar. If you're looking for a day pass, you can get access from ResortPass.

Best time to go: April–May, September–October

Ticket prices: From $115

Time Out tip: Keep in mind that there will be intermittent construction on the pool deck through September 30, 2025.

The indoor 986-foot Coconut Grove Adventure River (with an outdoor component) involves a relaxing tour around the Parrot’s Perch Play Area with a few splash surprises along the way. You’ll ride on transparent donuts, and the water park’s day pass will get you into 65,000 square feet of other water-based play, such as slides, water cannons and a swim-through passage to an outdoor whirlpool.

Best time to go: June–August

Ticket prices: From $15

Time Out tip: Either take a rideshare or arrive early to beat the parking crunch.

Stay at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in New York overlooking the Wallkill River in your RV or a cabin and enjoy the lazy river, which comes equipped with water sprayers, cannons and buckets to make the ride memorable. There’s also a Yogi Bear’s Water Zone with slides and a fort, traditional pools and mini golf. You can fish in the Wallkill in addition to a ton of other activities. There are even themed weekends and weeks. You can also book a day pass instead of spending the night.

Best time to go: June–September

Ticket prices: From $45

Time Out tip: Bring a waterproof pouch to protect your belongings in case lockers aren't available—chances are, they won't be.