Schlitterbahn is a regional water park chain with locations in Texas, Kansas, and Ohio

Schlitterbahn operates water parks in three states: Texas (New Braunfels and South Padre Island), Kansas (Kansas City), and Ohio (Aurora). Each location is independently owned and operated, which means hours, attractions, pricing, and policies can differ significantly between parks. The parks are known for wave pools, tube slides, and family-friendly attractions, but what you can do and what it costs depends entirely on which location you visit.

The parks are seasonal in most locations — typically open spring through early fall, with extended hours during summer months. Winter hours and closures vary by park and year. Before planning a trip, you need to check the specific park's website or call directly, because information published online can become outdated quickly.

Key Takeaways

  • Schlitterbahn has three separate parks in different states, and each one sets its own hours, ticket prices, and operating calendar.
  • Most locations are seasonal and close during winter months, though the New Braunfels park operates year-round with reduced hours.
  • Ticket prices, parking fees, and what attractions are open on any given day vary by location and season.
  • Each park has its own height and age restrictions for rides, so check the specific park's rules before you arrive.
  • Tube rentals, locker rentals, and food prices are separate from admission and can add significantly to your total cost.

Admission pricing and what it includes

Schlitterbahn charges admission to enter the park, but the price is not the same across all three locations or even within the same location across different days. Peak season (typically summer weekends) costs more than off-peak days. Some parks offer discounts for purchasing tickets online in advance, though the discount amount and availability change seasonally.

Your admission covers access to the park grounds and most attractions, but does not include tubes for the slides, lockers for your belongings, or food and drinks. Tubes can usually be rented at the park for an additional fee, or you can bring your own if it meets the park's specifications. Locker rentals are also separate and vary in size and price by location.

Parking is typically free at Schlitterbahn parks, though this can change. Call ahead or check the park's website before you arrive to confirm current parking policies.

Height and age restrictions for rides

Each Schlitterbahn location sets its own height and age requirements for individual attractions. A child who is tall enough for a slide at one park may not meet the requirement at another. The parks post these restrictions at each ride entrance and usually list them online, but the online information is not always current.

Most water parks require children under a certain height (often 42 to 48 inches, depending on the ride) to be accompanied by an adult in the water. Some attractions have maximum height or weight limits as well. If you are planning a trip with children, measure them before you go and check the specific park's website for the rides you want to use.

What to bring and what the parks provide

Schlitterbahn parks do not provide towels, so you need to bring your own or rent one at the park. Sunscreen is not provided — you must bring your own or purchase it at the park at a higher cost than retail. Changing rooms and showers are available, though the quality and cleanliness vary by location and time of day.

You can bring your own food and drinks into most Schlitterbahn parks, though glass containers and alcohol are prohibited. If you purchase food at the park, prices are typical for amusement venues — significantly higher than outside retail. Some parks have designated picnic areas if you want to bring a cooler.

Tubes for the slides can be rented at the park or brought from home if they meet size and material requirements. The park's website lists what types of tubes are allowed. Inflatable floats for the wave pool are usually permitted, but again, check the specific park's rules.

Operating hours and seasonal closures

Schlitterbahn's New Braunfels location in Texas operates year-round, though hours are reduced during winter months (typically November through February). The other locations — South Padre Island, Kansas City, and Aurora — close during winter and operate on a seasonal schedule that typically runs from late spring through early fall.

Summer hours are usually longer (often 10 a.m. to 8 or 9 p.m. on peak days), while spring and fall hours are shorter. Some attractions within the park may close on slower days even when the park is open. Weather can also affect operations — heavy rain or lightning may cause temporary closures of outdoor attractions or the entire park.

Hours change year to year and sometimes week to week. Do not rely on last year's schedule. Call the park directly or check its website the week before your visit to confirm it will be open and what time it closes.

Differences between the three Schlitterbahn locations

The New Braunfels park in Texas is the largest and oldest Schlitterbahn location. It has the most attractions and operates year-round. The South Padre Island location is smaller and seasonal. The Kansas City park and the Aurora, Ohio park are also seasonal and have different ride lineups and amenities.

Because each park is independently owned, they do not always have the same rides, the same food vendors, or the same policies. A discount or promotion at one location does not explore to another. If you are planning to visit more than one Schlitterbahn, research each one separately — do not assume they are identical.

Safety rules and what to expect on busy days

Schlitterbahn enforces standard water park safety rules: no running on decks, no diving in shallow areas, no glass containers, and no outside alcohol. Lifeguards are stationed throughout the park. Children must be supervised by an adult at all times, and very young children may be required to wear a life jacket in certain areas.

On peak summer days and weekends, the parks become very crowded. Wait times for popular slides can exceed an hour. Locker availability may be limited, and food lines can be long. If you want a less crowded experience, visit on a weekday during the school year or during the shoulder seasons (early spring or early fall).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own tube to Schlitterbahn?

Yes, most Schlitterbahn parks allow you to bring your own tube, but it must meet their size and material specifications. Check the specific park's website for what types of tubes are permitted. If your tube does not meet the requirements, you can rent one at the park.

Do Schlitterbahn parks offer discounts for groups or season passes?

Some locations offer group rates and season passes, but availability and pricing vary by park. Contact the specific park directly to ask about current discounts. Prices and promotions change seasonally and are not always advertised online.

What is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?

Weekdays during the school year are typically less crowded than weekends and summer vacation. Early morning hours are also quieter than afternoon. If you visit during peak summer on a weekend, expect significant wait times for popular attractions.

Are there height restrictions for the wave pool?

Wave pools typically have fewer restrictions than slides, but young children may be required to wear a life jacket or be accompanied by an adult. Height and age requirements vary by location. Check with the specific park before you arrive.

Can I leave the park and come back the same day?

Most water parks do not allow re-entry with the same ticket on the same day. Once you leave, you typically cannot return without purchasing a new ticket. Confirm this policy with the specific Schlitterbahn location you plan to visit.