With yesterday marking the official first day of summer, sizzling afternoons and balmy evenings are certainly on the agenda as Canadians look forward to another brief flirtation with rising temperatures. While there are many beaches and pools to choose from, why not switch it up and try out a waterpark for a more fast-paced way to cool down? Across the country, there are a number of aquatic wonderlands, which feature slides that are just as thrilling as roller coasters. Here’s a roundup of a few Canadian waterparks to check out this summer. 

Cultus Lake Waterpark, BC

This family owned waterpark was built in the 1980s and has expanded to become British Columbia’s biggest waterpark. It features a variety of water slides with adventurous names like Bazooka Bowls and Valley of Fear (which is a unique free-fall tube ride). Visitors can also enjoy Cultus Lake Adventure Park across the street for more rides and attractions.

Photo: official_wem from Instagram

World Waterpark, AB

Located inside the West Edmonton Mall, World Waterpark is said to be the largest indoor waterpark in the world. It boasts the largest indoor wave pool and over 21 different water slides. One unique feature of World is the surf lessons the mall offers. Beginners can learn in a controlled environment, while seasoned surfers can join the surf club to improve their skills.

Wet n’ Wild Toronto, ON

Formerly known as Wild Water Kingdom, Wet n’ Wild Toronto is actually located just outside the city in Brampton. After a $25 million renovation, the new and improved waterpark will be opening its doors again this summer. Some major new attractions to look out for are Krazy Kanuck, a family raft ride, and the Klondike Express mat slide racer.

Photo: neilmagadzia from Instagram

Calypso Theme Waterpark, ON

As Canada’s largest theme waterpark, Calypso boasts a 100-acre facility. Found just east of Ottawa, the waterpark features over 35 waterslides, the country’s largest outdoor wave pool and Summit Tower, the tallest waterslide tower in Canada. There’s even a Kongo Expedition which is complete with caves, tropical villages and waterfalls.

Magic Mountain Waterpark, NB

Split into two parks which are known as Splash Zone and Fun Zone, Magic Mountain Waterpark offers both water slides and thrilling rides. It is the only waterpark on the East Coast, and features Canada’s first and only Skybox drop capsule. This unique launch system is said to take water slide rides to a whole new level.