Watermania

Watermania is the kind of indoor water park that families return to again and again — not because it's flashy or expensive, but because it reliably delivers a great time for every age group at a price that doesn't hurt.

Located in Richmond's Riverport entertainment complex (about 25 minutes from downtown Vancouver), Watermania is a city-run aquatic facility that packs a surprising amount of fun into its space. The wave pool is the main attraction — real rolling waves cycle on a timed schedule, and kids can bodysurf, jump, and float in them. The wave sessions alternate with calm periods, giving everyone a chance to rest.

Two waterslides provide genuine thrills. They're long, fast, and twisty enough that kids (and adults) ride them over and over. Height restrictions apply, but most kids 6+ are tall enough. For the little ones, a dedicated interactive water play area features a giant seahorse tipping bucket, sprayers, water wheels, and a small slide — all in shallow water that's safe for toddlers and preschoolers.

The facility also includes a 57-metre competition pool (used for laps and swim lessons), diving springboards and a 5-metre tower (for supervised use), a steam room, a sauna, and two large whirlpool hot tubs. Parents can rotate between supervising kids in the wave pool and taking a few minutes in the hot tub — a rare treat at a family outing.

Family change rooms are available, which is a real practical benefit — no need to send young kids into gendered change rooms alone. Lockers are available (bring a lock or rent one). The facility is clean and well-maintained.

There's no food service poolside, so plan to eat before or after. The Riverport complex next door has restaurants and a movie theatre, making it easy to build a half-day or full-day outing. Extreme Air Park (a trampoline centre), Go Bananas (indoor play for young kids), and bowling are all within walking distance.

Admission is very affordable — roughly $8-12 per person — making Watermania one of the best-value family activities in the Vancouver area. It's a guaranteed rainy-day winner and a great way to burn off energy any time of year.