Although Georgia has a shoreline, the Peach State has remarkably few seashores (due to the abundance of wetlands and barrier islands), that means residents should get just a little artistic after they wish to benefit from the water. That normally means turning to choices just like the world’s longest city whitewater course in Columbus or Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags Over Georgia. But now, a brand new aquatic center and water park is opening in the summertime of 2026 in Henry County, giving Georgians one other method to keep cool in the course of the hottest months.
The new water park is positioned about half-hour outdoors of Atlanta in McDonough, a hidden haven with classic trains, blooming parades, and Southern consolation. Once it opens in June, it is certain to turn out to be a hotspot for residents and guests alike. First, there is a 30-foot slide tower with 4 distinctive slides, together with an open physique, a closed physique, and a velocity slide. There’s additionally a mat racer, which may have as much as 4 folks competing to see who’s the quickest. Additionally, there is a lazy river, a zero-depth kiddie pool, a wave rider, and a 25-yard lap pool, and that is all outdoors. Inside, there’s an Olympic-size competitors pool and a therapeutic heating pool.
But water actions should not the one purpose to come back to the Aquatic Center. There may also be a bit for native meals vehicles, in addition to a rooftop bar space to get higher views of the encircling space. Since the indoor swimming pools are heated, the middle might be open year-round, even when the temperatures drop in the course of the winter.
Planning a getaway to the Henry County Aquatic Center
If you are flying into the world’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson, it is a couple of 30-minute drive south to achieve town of McDonough. Although Henry County estimates the park might be open in June of 2026, there isn’t a official opening date on the time of this writing. So, you might wish to plan your trip for July or August, simply to be protected.
The metropolis of McDonough has loads of lodge choices surrounding I-75, so it is best to be capable to discover one thing inside your finances. There are additionally quite a few trip leases all through town and the encircling space, in case you need one thing a bit cozier and extra personal.
Realistically, you and your loved ones can spend the entire day on the aquatic heart, having fun with the slides, swimming pools, meals vehicles, and the view from the rooftop. However, make sure to discover the remainder of the world in case you can. There are some unimaginable eating places, like Southern Roots Tavern, which has an intensive faucet record and scrumptious pub grub. Or, in case you’re a fan of Chick-Fil-A, McDonough is residence to Truett’s Grill, a 50s-style diner that serves commonplace Chick-Fil-A dishes and distinctive choices like fried okra, banana pudding, and candy potato soufflé.