Keeping Cool with NRH2O: Waterparking with the Girls of Everything Arlington

With summer drawing to a close (that was fast!), I'm working hard to fill the days with ALL the things. The girls made me a list of the things they most want to do before they head back to school in (less than!!!) two weeks, and we are working hard on checking off each item (although my oldest's top line item: go back to Paris, France, is sadly not going to get checked right now).

So Monday we (swim)suited up and headed out to NRH2O (www.nrh2o.com).

Honestly, I love this place. It's not that far from Arlington (about 20 minutes) and parking is free. There are coupons online to save you on admission.

And it's totally manageable with three kiddos solo, in my opinion.

I mean, there are closer waterparks. And less expensive city pools and splash pads. But NRH2O is my girls' favorite spot this summer.

There is something for everyone here, which may be why the girls love it so much. There is a large water structure with spraying water, slides, climbing areas and a large dumb bucket with almost zero depth so kids of all ages can enjoy. My 8-year-old loves it as much as my 4-year-old. There are several areas geared toward small kids with slower slides, extremely shallow wading areas, spray features and more. There's even a sand area to build when you just need a break from the water!

For bigger kids, NRH2O offers multiple slides as well as a wave pool and a lazy river. So many options! My girls love the Green Extreme, the world's largest uphill rollercoaster that two riders at a time can enjoy in a tube. They don't even complain about the climb to the top of the platform because they know how much fun awaits them on the journey down! Their second favorite would be the Accelerator- slides you race down on body mats side by side. They enjoy this one over and over and over again.

We always set our stuff right by the wave pool (and I lock up my valuables in my portable safe from Masterlock). We are conveniently close to Dippin' Dots and the Funnel Cake Lab, two fantastic options for an afternoon sugar rush. We are also close to changing rooms and restrooms as well as Al Gater's Smokehouse & Grill- a great stop for on-site dining! You can also bring in your own cooler with food and snacks- just make sure to avoid restaurant or store-prepared food as well as glass containers and alcohol.

Looking for a great deal on admission? Tickets are normally $28.99 for guests taller than 48 inches and $21.99 for guests smaller than 48 inches, and kids 2 and younger are free. Purchase in advance online and get tickets for $24.99! Better yet, go to nrh2o.com before you go and click on Daily Discounts under the Admissions tab. Right now you can save $8 per ticket just by flashing the coupon from your phone! You can also get in for just $12 when you go after 3 pm. Be sure and check the discounts tab (there are loads of daily discount options!) before you head to the ticket counter!

I asked my girls for their tips for a successful day at NRH2O, and they offered up these tidbits of advice:
- Pack lots of water. You'll get thirsty!
- Don't forget sunscreen so you don't get burned.
- Bring the lock thing my mom has so you can keep your money and phone safe (or just rent an on-site locker!)
- Pack snacks. And bring money for Dippin' Dots always.
- Bring a change of clothes for when you are ready to leave.
- Know where your beach chair is in case you get lost.

My advice? Pack the sunscreen and snacks and enjoy these final dog days of summer!

*I received complimentary admission to NRH2O in exchange for my review. All thoughts and opinions are my own*