Garden Rapids at The Big Pool
Discover the Best in Water Fun – Built in 2021
Are you ready to dive into a world of aquatic excitement and adventure? Look no further than Garden Rapids at the Big Pool, your go-to destination for unforgettable water experiences. Located in Garden City, Kansas, this incredible facility boasts a wide range of features and attractions that will leave you and your family wanting more.
Explore the Water Wonderland
At Garden Rapids, we take aquatic enjoyment to a whole new level. Here’s what you can expect:
Competition Pool
For the competitive swimmers in your family, we offer a top-notch competition pool designed to meet your training and racing needs.
Zero Depth Entry
Our zero-depth entry area is perfect for young children and those looking for a gentle and safe water introduction.
Lazy River
Float away in serenity along our lazy river, the Otter Rapids, and let the worries of the day drift away.
Leisure Pool
Enjoy the soothing waters of our leisure pool, designed for relaxation and fun for all ages.
Thrilling Slides
Experience the thrill of a lifetime on our thrilling water slides. We are home to the nation’s first SlipStream Standup Waterslide and two of the first municipally-owned FlyTyme Launch Slides.
Iconic Elephant Slide
The world-famous “Big Pool” has a new home at Garden Rapids, and you can now slide down memory lane before visiting our facility during the off-season.
Animal-Themed Features
Each feature at Garden Rapids is inspired by nature, just like our neighbors at Lee Richardson Zoo. Hang out at Lion Lounge, float down Otter Rapids, or try out Dolphin Dive. Dive into the fun with our animal-themed attractions.
Fun for the Whole Family
At Garden Rapids, we’ve got your whole family covered for fun under the sun. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the pool or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, we have something for everyone.
Plan Your Visit Today
Don’t miss out on the aquatic adventure of a lifetime. Gather your family and friends, and head over to Garden Rapids at the Big Pool. Our modern and fun water park is the perfect place to make lasting memories.
Ready to make a splash? Contact us today to plan your visit. Get ready to dive into the water fun at Garden Rapids, the ultimate water destination in Kansas.
Garden Rapids at The Big Pool from Confluence on Vimeo.
Fun Facts:
Garden City Kansas was once home to the world’s largest hand dug swimming pool. Conceived in 1921 by Garden City mayor H. O. Trinkle, the pool was larger than a football field and had a surface area of 72,600 square feet. It could hold 2.6 million gallons of water. Initially, Garden City citizens were concerned over the cost of construction. To remedy this, the pool was turned into hometown project, with every resident encouraged to contribute labor, money, or building materials. Thus, the Big Pool was dug and lined with concrete by the people of Garden City. On it’s dedication ceremony on July 18, 1922, hundreds of people dove into the water in unison to inaugurate Garden City’s first summer swim season. The Big Pool was truly one-of-a-kind; on various occasions, elephants from the neighboring zoo in Finnup Park played and swam in the pool and boats pulled water skiers across the immense water surface.