It’s time to gear up for summer fun! If you’re searching for the best pools, splash pads and waterparks near Omaha, this comprehensive list is your go-to resource. From hidden gems to big-name waterparks, we’ve gathered insights from locals, real social media comments, and updated opening info for 2025 to help your family make a splash all summer long.
Table of Contents
Why This List Matters
This guide is more than just a roundup—it’s a central hub for all things water fun in and around Omaha. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing community pool, a high-energy waterpark, or a quiet splash pad for toddlers, we’ve got you covered.
Private Pools & Swim Clubs
Swimply
Want to rent a private pool by the hour? Swimply lets you do just that. It’s an Airbnb-style platform for pools—great for birthday parties, family gatherings, or just an afternoon of serenity.
Westgate Pool
“It’s BYOB, no glass, and all food is permitted. There is a grill available for use and a concession stand. My family has pizza delivered to the pool weekly.” Located at 84th and Grover, Westgate is a laid-back, family-friendly pool with floaties allowed, a diving board, and minimal crowds except on major holidays.
Brookhill
“Brookhill!! We’ve been members since 2016… They have a great snack shack and a bar for adults. Family fun nights, movies after dark, holiday parties, swim team. We’re going to miss it so much!”
JCC (Jewish Community Center)
“My kids love the JCC… Everywhere gets busy, but JCC is still enjoyable.” However, some users noted: “The pool is way too busy—all the summer camp kids take over from 1-4. They closed 17 times in 3 months last summer.”
Other Mention-Worthy Private Clubs:
- Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel Club – “Usually empty!”
- Papio Pool – Great private option but long waitlist
- Fremont Golf Club – 25 min drive, often very quiet
- Meadows Community Center & Pool – “Never too busy!”
- Oak Hills, Players Club, Genesis, Prairie Lane, Sunny Slope, Rockbrook, Sunset Hills, Westridge, Maple Village
Public Pools With Personality
Deer Ridge
“Hardly anyone goes. A hidden gem! Zero entry walk-in and a slide for kids.”
Cryer Pool
Great for casual visits: “$3 a time.”
Oak Heights
“Not busy at all. Bring your own toys and food.”
Bellevue City Pools (Gilbert is a standout)
“It’s $125 for the whole family all summer. Bring your own food.”
Blair Pool
Affordable and clean, with plenty of space. Blair’s baby pool is free!
Best Splash Pads Near Omaha
Papillion
- Eagle Ridge Splash Pad
- Schwer Park Splash Pad
- First Street Plaza
Bellevue
- Hastings Banner Park
- Looking Glass Park
Omaha
- The Grove
- Stone Ridge
- Cimarron
- Open as of May 3: Hillsborough, Miller, Seymour Smith
- Opening May 23: Benson, Fontenelle, Gallagher, etc.
Council Bluffs
- Fairmount Park
- Bayliss Park (bonus: free stop at Union Pacific Railroad Museum!)
Big Water Fun: Top Waterparks Near Omaha
Fun-Plex
Omaha’s largest waterpark with wave pool, lazy river, spray structure, and thrill slides. Opens May 24. Go after 4 p.m. on weekdays for cheaper admission.
Pirate Cove (Council Bluffs)
Pirate ship, two slides, and sand play area. Opens May 24.
Gretna YMCA – H2O Zone
New in 2024! Lazy river, zero-depth entry, toddler slides. Busy but feature-packed.
Papio Bay Aquatic Center
Two water slides, butterfly slide for kids, and sand play area. Opens May 24.
Platte River State Park
No pool, but a great sprayground for younger kids.
Mahoney State Park Aquatic Center
Wave pool, slides, and kid zones. Opens Memorial Day Weekend.
Worth-the-Drive Waterparks
For families wanting a quick day trip:
- Splash Station (Fremont)
- Steinhart Aquatic Center (Nebraska City)
- Star City Shores (Lincoln)
- Pawnee Plunge (Columbus)
- Ponca State Park
- AquaVenture (Norfolk)
- Island Oasis (Grand Island)
- Adventure Bay (Altoona, IA)
- Siouxnami Waterpark (Sioux Center, IA)
- King’s Pointe (Storm Lake, IA)
- Aquacourt (Hastings)
- Oceans of Fun (Kansas City, MO)
- Lost Island (Waterloo, IA)
Bonus Water Fun: Unique Omaha Attractions
- Alaskan Adventures at Henry Doorly Zoo
- The Creek at Adventure Trails
Tips for Making the Most of It
- Bring your own food and floaties where allowed
- Go on weekdays to avoid crowds
- Get a punch card or city pool pass to explore multiple spots
- Check Facebook groups for real-time pool updates and member feedback
Conclusion
From low-key splash pads to massive waterparks, the pools, splash pads and waterparks near Omaha offer something for every family, every budget, and every vibe. Use this as your launching point, and don’t forget your sunscreen!
If your summer plans don’t include a big trip or you missed out on that coveted summer camp spot, the pools, splash pads and waterparks near Omaha are a perfect alternative. Whether your child loves to float, slide, splash, or dive, there’s a place on this list that will feel like their own personal paradise.
Know of a favorite pool or splash pad that belongs on this list? Let us know!
