Photo: Melissa Ann
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Heights Family Aquatic Center
★4.4(296 reviews)$$Water Park
🕑 3-4 hours👶 Best for ages 2-14. Toddlers and preschoolers love the shallow splash areas and gentle water features, while elementary and middle school kids can't get enough of the water slides and lazy river. The facility's varied depth options make it safe and fun for multiple age groups to enjoy simultaneously.🧡 Saved by 60+ families
About
Heights Family Aquatic Center is Richardson's go-to summer destination for families seeking affordable water fun without the crowds of major theme parks. This city-owned gem offers something for everyone with thrilling water slides for adventurous kids, a relaxing lazy river for the whole family to float together, interactive splash areas perfect for toddlers, and even lap lanes for parents who want to squeeze in some exercise while the kids play.
Highlights
- ✓Multiple water slides offering varying levels of thrills for different ages
- ✓Relaxing lazy river perfect for family bonding and younger swimmers
- ✓Dedicated splash pad areas with interactive water features for toddlers
- ✓Lap pool for fitness-minded parents
- ✓Affordable city facility pricing that won't break the family budget
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right when doors open at noon to snag prime poolside seating and enjoy shorter slide lines before the afternoon rush
- 2.Bring your own snacks and drinks in a cooler to save money, as outside food is typically allowed at city facilities
- 3.Apply sunscreen before you arrive and bring extra for reapplication,there's limited shade, so consider bringing a pop-up tent or umbrella if allowed
- 4.Weekday afternoons (Tuesday-Thursday) are significantly less crowded than weekends, making it easier to supervise multiple children
- 5.Water shoes are a lifesaver on hot concrete and make it easier for kids to navigate between pool areas safely
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday afternoons (Tuesday through Thursday) between 12:00-3:00 PM for the smallest crowds and most space to spread out. Avoid Saturday and Sunday afternoons when local families pack the facility, and skip the last hour before closing when staff begins clearing the pools.
What to Know
As a city-owned facility, admission is very affordable (typically under $10 per person with discounts for Richardson residents). Free parking is available on-site, and while there may be concessions, bringing your own food and drinks is usually permitted to keep costs down.
Seasonal Notes
Open seasonally during summer months only (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day). The facility is closed Mondays for maintenance. Hours extend to 8:00 PM, making it perfect for after-work/after-dinner cooling off on hot Texas evenings. Always call ahead to confirm opening dates and potential weather closures.
Nearby Eats
Head to Chick-fil-A (less than a mile away on Arapaho Road) for a quick kid-friendly meal, or visit Main Event Entertainment nearby which combines dining with additional family activities like bowling and arcade games if the kids still have energy to burn.
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