KCMO Parks & Rec #KCPARKS
The Bay Waterpark Kansas City, MO
The Bay Waterpark is one of the newest waterparks in the metro and this weekend - thanks to a Groupon, we decided to check it out. Recently opened as a new facility through Kansas City Parks & Rec, the waterpark - while small compared to some in the region, is very nice, especially for those with young children or looking for someplace to swim on a budget.
Location: 7101 Longview Rd Kansas City, MO. 816.965.9218 Visit their website for more info.
Hours:Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day: Mon – Sat: 12pm - 7pm; Sunday: 1pm - 6pm; Holidays: 1pm – 6pm Note: Holiday hours for 2013 are May 27, July 4, September 2.
Ticket Prices: Youth (Less than 48” in height): $6; Regular (48” in height and taller): $9; Senior 60+: $6; Children under 1 Year: Free; Twilight: $3 off regular admission after 5:00pm
What We Liked Best about The Bay:
- It was "small" compared to many waterparks in the region, but for our family with many young children - this was a GOOD thing! We were very easily able to keep an eye on everyone and stick together. There was a lot to do an enjoy.
- The entire family was able to enjoy the lazy river. We were able to allow the older girls to use single inner tubes, while my husband and I each floated in a double with one of the younger girls. The lazy river does have a waterfall, and several spray or splash areas, but these are "avoidable" if you don't want to get splashed. Our oldest daughter loved going under the waterfall. It was mild enough for my little girls, but interesting enough for the older girls.
- They have three water slides! Our girls were too short to enjoy these, but my husband and I each took turns and they were very nice and smooth. Must be 48inches or taller to ride the slides. The tunnel slide and open air slide are both ridden in an inner tube (single or double), and the funnel slide is a body slide.
- The family pool. It was one of the larger pools for little ones in the metro. With zero entry, a splash feature and toddler slide, and a giant family slide (extra wide slide that three people ride side-by-side, landing on a soft padding in the pool) - this area was a winner for our young girls. I was able to get some pictures of The Bay from KC Parks & Rec (didn't bring a camera yesterday - didn't want it to get wet) - and unfortunately do not have a photo of this nice pool.
- The staff and lifeguards were great. They were attentive and helpful and kept the place running well. Things were clean, well maintained, and it was a family-friendly and safe experience.
- The bathrooms were clean! We opted to towel dry and shower at home, but you could shower there - and they have FAMILY restrooms which as a parent, I LOVE!
- They have an abundance of innertubes, both singles and doubles - free for use. We never once had to wait for a tube - love it when there is easily enough for everyone. They also have free life jackets for children, but could use more. You may bring your own life preservers (but no personal pool toys).
- You may bring your own water bottles and concessions were available.
- Lots of shaded pool chairs - especially nice on bright sunny days.