1800 W. 89th Ave., Federal Heights, 303-427-7873, water
Why go now: It’s really hot out, and this is the best, nearest way to cool off. This longtime area attraction has tweaked some of its systems this season to try to make it easier for the crowds to squeeze in, and the result is that you no longer have to lug around the rental tubes (nice) or worry about bringing them back at the end to get your buck back (also nice). The downside is that sometimes, especially around the more popular attractions on 98-degree days, they actually run out of tubes. So be prepared. But it’s still heavenly to be able to dip into a cold body of water, laze around the Lazy River and squeal along some of the rip-roarin’ fun rides. Take some kind of water shoes — even if thry’re just flip-flops — so you don’t scorch off the soles of your feet walking between pools on the pavement, and don’t forget that this is still one of the few attractions in town that allows you to bring in your own food, thereby saving tons of money. Still, by the end of the day, it’s hard to resist a slice of their pizza or a cooling cup of Dippin’ Dots.
Cost: $35.99 (48 inches tall and up), $30.99 (40-47-inches), under 40 inches free. Tubes: $5 per person, or $8 for two. See website for deals. Kyle Wagner
