Water parks and water slides have been enjoyed across the country for ages. Manteca, California was home to one of the longest standing water parks in history, Manteca Waterparks. Sadly, the water park closed in 2004 leaving the community thirsty for another water attraction. Luckily, plans are in development to make that dream come true in the near future.
Manteca Waterslides used to be located on Woodward Avenue towards the western end before closing in 2004. The location was turned into a gated lake community known as the Oakwood Shores. When the water park first opened the slides were constructed out of concrete. On a historical note, the Manteca Waterslides were actually the first water slides to appear in California. Manteca Waterslides attracted tourists from all across California and the country alike.
The Manteca City Council is currently negotiating with the development firm of McWhinney and Great Wolf Resorts to open a new indoor water park located inside a 600-room hotel/resort. However, some residents of the city are outraged that they would have to rent a room to have access to the water attraction. Melissa Wheeler, the Vice President of Business Development for Great Wolf Resorts defended this move to the Manteca City Council. She told the Council that if the water attraction was open to non-hotel guests it might create a security problem. In the meantime, McWhinney and Great Wolf Resorts are constructing another hotel/water park in Garden Grove, 1.5 miles away from Disneyland.
Although there are no water parks in Manteca as of 2011, there are water parks near Manteca for California residents or tourists to enjoy. One such water park is Aqua Adventure Waterpark which features a variety of activities to partake in outside of going down water slides. For example, those looking to take laps in a heated pool may do so. The price of admission for the lap pool is $6 for the general public, and $4 for those who have a season pass. The park opens on May 21 and closes on Sept 25.
Those who visit water parks should always play it safe. Learning how to swim is the most important thing to learn before visiting any water park. Though the water isn't deep on the slide, you are ejected into a body of water. Make sure the water park is well staffed with life guards and ample security. Always follow the rules of the park and ask questions if you are confused about any of the policies. For those who can't swim, ask a member of the water park staff if life jackets are available.
