Road Trippin': Water Edition

In this edition of Road Trippin’, we’re going to explore some of the best water experiences around the BC!

Butler County, Ohio always makes for an unforgettable road trip experience. Whether you're coming to adventure for a day trip, weekend getaway, or staying a week, there's a lot to do while you're here. Especially in the warmer months, getting out in the sun and playing in water is a great way to relax, have a blast or experience something new. Here in the BC, we have a ton of water attractions perfect for families, kids, the outdoorsy, or adventurous. While planning your road trip, here are eight must-visit water activities to put on your list. If you play your cards right, you could hit them all!  

1. Wake Nation

201 Joe Nuxall Way | Fairfield, OH 45014

Calling all thrill seekers! Wake Nation is the only cable water park in the region. Choose from wakeboarding, knee boarding, water skiing... all without a boat. There are great instructors to help you out if you're a beginner, and there are also a ton of cool features for wake veterans too. The cable system is suspended 30ft over a ten-acre lake and you don't need any of your own equipment— just get your bathing suit ready and prepare for a completely unique water adventure. 

Road Trip Tip: If you plan on getting to Wake Nation early to start your day, Fairfield Coffee shop is a quick five minute drive. Stop by for your morning fuel before getting your exercise in. 

2. Marcum Park 

German Village | Hamilton, OH 45011 (Between North Second Street and the Great Miami River)

_{^{Photo Credit : City of Hamilton, Amber Sutten}}

Marcum Park is located conveniently in Downtown Hamilton near a ton of different shops and restaurants. It's a great place to enjoy the weather and relax. This six-acre park features beautiful sculptures, the RiversEdge Amphitheater, fountains to splash around in, and other water features to cool off. It's a truly scenic experience and is a great beginning, middle, or ending to your day. 

Road Trip Tip: Check out Hamilton's DORA Program while you're in the park— it's an awesome way to get some adult drinks and take-out for lunch or dinner. 

3. Land of Illusion Aqua Adventures 

8762 Thomas Road | Middletown, OH 45042

The Land of Illusion Park turns into a waterpark adventure during the Summer. Featuring a huge inflatable obstacle course, waterslides,  paddle boating and so much more. Families, friends, and couples all have a blast here. While visiting you can also play some corn-hole, horseshoes, sand volleyball, or grab a bite to eat & drink at their Aqua Lounge. 

Road Trip Tip: Aqua Adventures is open June through Labor Day, but if you're planning your road trip in the Fall don't worry... Land of Illusion also offers their Haunted Scream Park Labor Day weekend through early November. 

5. Oxford Aquatic Center

701 Kay Rench Drive |Oxford, OH 45056

_{^{Photo Credit : Oxford Aquatic Center}}

Oxford is a town full of charm, and their aquatic center would be a great activity for a Summer day. This facility contains a zero-depth activity pool with kiddie area, aquatic play structure, family slide, lazy river, basketball hoop and large open-flume slide. But that's not all... there is also a separate 8-lane competition pool with complete with diving boards. With so much to do, you'll be worn out by the end of your visit. 

Road Trip Tip: The Aquatic Center is under a ten minute drive from the famous Bagel & Deli Shop— swing by to grab one of their 90 bagel sandwich combos, perfect for breakfast or lunch! 

6. Hueston Woods State Park

6301 Lodge Road | College Corner, OH 45003

_{^{Photo Credit : BeProudOhio}}

Located just five miles from Miami University, you can spend an entire day, weekend, or week in Oxford but you have to stop by this beautiful state park. Spend some time boating, kayaking or fishing on Acton Lake— or if you need a more relaxed day, check out the Hueston Woods State Park Golf Course. With over 30 sand traps and unique water holes you are bound to have a challenging, yet fun time.

Road Trip Tip: If you're looking for more outdoor fun while in Oxford, check out the variety of unique and diverse hiking trails that the area has to offer. 

7. VOA MetroPark

7850 VOA Park Drive | West Chester, OH 45069

A 35 acre-lake is at the center of the beautiful VOA MetroPark— it's a beautiful lake for fishing, picnicking or relaxing by. Take the family and some friends and cast a line on the water, or get some restaurant take-out from West Chester and spend an afternoon picnicking with the scenic views of the lake in the background. 

Road Trip Tip: VOA Park is a quick drive to or from the Liberty Center, so it's easy to check out both in one day. The National Voice of America Broadcasting Museum is also a brief two-minute drive away from the park, which is a unique and educational experience. 

8. Liberty Center's Splash Pad

7100 Foundry Row | Liberty Township, OH 45069

Bring everyone to spend a day at the Liberty Center for some shopping, eating, relaxing and a whole lot of fun on the splash pads. The Splash Pads are open from 10:00am-9:00pm everyday during the Summer, and are a great way for the kids to have a blast— adults can get out there too! You'll find them located just outside The Foundry doors at The Park, and you'll even get to check out their model-train display, The Liberty Express too. 

Road Trip Tip: Molly's Cupcakes is located right across the street from The Park and they have some must-try cupcakes. There is so much to do at The Liberty Center you could fill your entire day.

Ready to road trip? Make sure to include some of these water activities!