The Houston Zoo Water Play Park, also known as the Kathrine McGovern Water Play Park, is a captivating oasis within the renowned Houston Zoo. This expansive 13,500-square-foot water wonderland offers a delightful respite from the Texas heat, providing families and visitors with a unique and engaging experience.
Location and Size
The Houston Zoo Water Play Park is conveniently located at 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, within the larger Houston Zoo complex. Spanning an impressive 13,500 square feet, this water play area is designed to accommodate a large number of visitors seeking a refreshing and fun-filled adventure.
Operating Hours and Season
The Houston Zoo Water Play Park is open to the public from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, from April to September, as long as the temperature remains above 70 degrees. This seasonal operation ensures that visitors can enjoy the water play features during the warmest months of the year, making it a popular destination for families and children.
Admission and Fees
Accessing the Houston Zoo Water Play Park requires general admission to the Houston Zoo. The current admission fees are as follows:
| Admission Type | Price |
|---|---|
| General Admission | $22.95 |
| Children (2-11) | $17.95 |
It’s important to note that the zoo offers free parking, although the available space is limited, so visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot.
Features and Design
The Houston Zoo Water Play Park boasts an impressive array of water features and an eco-friendly design. Some of the key highlights include:
Eco-Friendly Design
The water play area is equipped with touch sensors that help conserve water and electricity, making it an environmentally conscious attraction.
Water Features
Visitors can enjoy a variety of water-based activities, such as a tall fill and spill water tree, a friendly sea serpent, water weavers, fountains, jets, and misters. These features provide a refreshing and interactive experience for children and adults alike.
Advanced Filtration System
The water play area is equipped with an advanced filtration system that ensures excellent water quality, maintaining a safe and clean environment for all visitors.
Restrictions and Amenities
To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, the Houston Zoo Water Play Park has a few restrictions in place:
- No glass bottles, weapons, or outside food and drinks are allowed.
- Pets are not permitted within the water play area.
However, the park does offer several amenities to enhance the visitor experience:
- Changing rooms are available for patrons to prepare for and clean up after their water-based activities.
- Shaded seating areas are provided for parents and guardians to relax and supervise their children.
- A lifeguard is on duty to ensure the safety of all visitors.
Additional Information
While the Houston Zoo Water Play Park is a popular attraction, it’s important to note that the adjacent Nature Play Area, “Explore the Wild!”, is currently closed for cleanup. This separate area was designed for children to engage in imaginative play with natural elements.
Budget and Impact
The Splash Pad project, which includes the Houston Zoo Water Play Park, was a significant investment of $370,000. However, this investment has paid off, as the water play area has attracted several thousand additional guests to the zoo, making it a highly popular and well-received attraction.
Tips and Essentials
To make the most of your visit to the Houston Zoo Water Play Park, here are some essential tips:
- Swimwear is required for all visitors, and it can be purchased on-site at the zoo if needed.
- Swim diapers are mandatory for young children and are also available for purchase at the zoo.
- Visitors are allowed to bring their own food and set up a picnic, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for families.
Overall, the Houston Zoo Water Play Park offers a refreshing and eco-friendly experience for visitors of all ages, with a focus on safety, interactive water features, and imaginative play. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Houston, this water play area is a must-visit destination for a fun and memorable day at the zoo.
Reference:
– Houston Zoo Water Play Park