Trip to Wet N' Wild Waterpark Wet N' Wild Emerald Pointe Greensboro

Tips for Wet ‘N Wild Emerald Pointe in Greensboro, NC

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If you haven’t made it to Wet ‘N Wild Emerald Pointe yet, both you and your kids are truly missing out! This is hands-down one of the best water parks in North Carolina—and it’s right here in the Triad. My family has made it a summer tradition to visit at least once. From thrilling water slides to kiddie splash zones and relaxing river floats, there’s something for every age. Here are some tips for Wet N’ Wild Emerald Pointe to make your trip more enjoyable.

Plan Ahead for a Smooth Visit to Emerald Pointe

Over the years, we’ve learned a few helpful tricks. First, rent a cabana online in advanced which comes with a lock box. Otherwise a locker as soon as you arrive. It’s a safe spot to store valuables like your phone, money, and keys. If you’re mostly staying in the Happy Harbor area with younger kids, you might feel comfortable leaving your things on a lounge chair nearby—but remember, the park isn’t responsible for lost or stolen items.

Eventually, you’ll get so familiar with the park that all you’ll need is yourself and a towel!

Food, Drinks, and Picnic Options

One of the most common questions people ask is: Can you bring food into Wet ‘N Wild Emerald Point? Unfortunately, outside food and beverages are not permitted, but unopened water bottles are allowed—a great way to stay hydrated and save money. We usually bring a few bottles with us and grab lunch at one of the many cafes inside the park. Don’t miss out on the soft-serve ice cream—it’s a summer must-have!

If you’d prefer to pack a picnic, you can exit the park, eat in your car or at one of the picnic tables outside, and return with your hand stamped.

Go With a Group or Tag-Team with Another Adult

In my experience, it’s best to go with at least two adults, especially if you’re bringing kids of varying ages. With different thrill levels and height restrictions, it’s helpful to split up so everyone gets the experience they want. Having two grown-ups makes it easier to juggle rides, supervision, and snack breaks.

Emerald Pointe Safety Tips and Accessibility

If your child isn’t a confident swimmer, definitely bring a US Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Other flotation devices aren’t allowed. Life jackets are also required on some attractions for children under 48 inches—and the park provides them free of charge.

Wet ‘N Wild is also inclusive and welcoming to guests with disabilities. For information on accessibility for rides, restaurants, and shops, call Guest Services at 336-852-9721.

Parking at Wet ‘N Wild Emerald Point: What You Need to Know

Parking is available onsite at Wet ‘N Wild Emerald Point, but it can get congested—especially on weekends and hot summer days. If you don’t have a Gold or Platinum Season Pass, expect to pay for general parking at the gate.

Insider Tip: To avoid long waits, try entering the parking lot from the south side of the entrance. Most guests approach the park from the north off Holden Road, which creates a traffic bottleneck. On a recent busy Saturday, we waited nearly an hour coming from the north—while cars coming in from the opposite direction moved much faster.

If you’re visiting on a weekend or during peak hours, plan to arrive early and approach from the southern side of the park entrance for a smoother experience.

Best Emerald Pointe Attractions for Young Kids

There are two dedicated areas for younger children: Happy Harbor and Splash Island. Both are designed for kids under 52 inches tall. These spots offer shallow pools, kiddie wave zones, mini water slides, and splash playgrounds that are perfect for little ones still building their confidence in the water.

Emerald Pointe Fun for Big Kids, Teens, and Adults

Older children and teens who are at least 48 inches tall will find a wide range of thrill rides to keep them busy. There are also a few rides open to those over 40 inches, so it’s worth checking the height requirements ahead of time on the park’s official website.

Family-friendly attractions like the Lazee River, Shipwreck Cove, and the massive wave pool are crowd favorites and great for all ages to enjoy together.

Ride Highlights: Watch or Ride!

I’ll be honest—I’m not big on thrill rides, but I LOVE watching my family have fun. Some of the best rides, like The Edge, offer great viewing spots for spectators. This one in particular looks like a giant skateboard ramp and makes for hilarious facial expressions as riders zip down the sides!

Make Wet ‘N Wild Part of Your Summer Tradition

There’s just too much fun at Wet ‘N Wild Emerald Point to list it all, but I hope these tips for Wet N’ Wild help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned season-pass holder, this Greensboro water park is a top pick for summer family fun in the Triad. You’ll feel like you’re on a tropical vacation, even though you’re just minutes from home. Located just south of Greensboro off Business 85 at Holden Road, it’s easy to get to and packed with fun.

Location: Exit 34 off Business I-85 (Holden Road), Greensboro, NC
Website: www.emeraldpointe.com
Phone: (336) 852-9721

If you have any questions or favorite tips of your own, feel free to leave a comment below. See you at the park!

You can learn more about Wet ‘N Wild by visiting their website, Facebook Page, and Twitter account.

People Also Ask: Wet ‘N Wild Emerald Point FAQs

No! While swimming skills are helpful, they’re not required to enjoy Wet ‘N Wild Emerald Point. Many attractions are shallow or designed for non-swimmers, especially in areas like Happy Harbor, Splash Island, and the Lazee River. Life jackets are available and required on select rides for younger guests.

Parking is not free unless you have a Season Pass. General parking is included with Gold and Platinum Season Passes. Otherwise, expect to pay for parking when you arrive.

No, outside food and drinks are not allowed, except for unopened water bottles. However, you may leave the park to eat and re-enter with a wristband. Onsite eateries offer snacks, meals, and treats to keep your group fueled up throughout the day.

Yes, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at designated food and beverage locations throughout the park. Guests must be 21+ with valid ID. No outside alcohol is permitted.

Yes! Towels are not provided, so be sure to pack your own. You’ll want them for drying off between rides or relaxing in the lounge areas. Bringing extras for the kids or to sit on is also a good idea. And don’t forget to toss in a waterproof bag for your wet towels at the end of the day!

Making a weekend out of it? There are plenty of hotels near Wet ‘N Wild in Greensboro to suit every budget and family size. Some include:

Bravo Inn – budget-friendly and conveniently located a few min away

Grandover Resort and Spa – upscale amenities and just 10 minutes away

Mariott Downtown Greensboro – If you want a downtown experience you could walk to downtown parks and the children’s museum from here.

Sponsored by Wet ‘N Wild Emerald Pointe

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