We’re less than three weeks away from Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer. And if you’re looking to cool off, Michigan’s water parks are gearing up to open for the season.

From long-time classics to unique experiences, there’s no shortage of water parks around the state to make a splash.

And today, The ’Gander’s Ellery Weil has a rundown of everything you need to know before heading to them this summer.

P.S. It’s Election Day in Michigan! Whether you’ve got millages on your ballot or races that could determine control of the state Senate, it’s important to make your voice heard. Head here to find information on your local ballot. Polls are open until 8 p.m.

Special election could decide Michigan Senate control (Freep): Voters in Michigan’s 35th Senate District head to the polls today in a special election between Chedrick Greene and Jason Tunney, with control of the closely divided chamber at stake. The winner will fill the seat vacated by Kristen McDonald Rivet, who was elected to Congress more than a year ago.

Michigan farms losing money amid ongoing Iran war (Bridge Michigan): Michigan farmers say soaring diesel and fertilizer costs—driven by the war in Iran—are squeezing profits, with some operations at risk of losing money and even going out of business this season.

Earthquake rattles Metro Detroit (MLive): A 2.7-magnitude earthquake struck Monroe County near Carleton Monday, with dozens reporting tremors. The US Geological Survey confirmed the shallow quake, which followed a similar recent tremor felt across the metro Detroit area.

The splash pad at Red Oaks Water Park is a favorite among younger children. (Huron-Clinton Metroparks/Danielle Mauter)

By Ellery Weil

Sure, the local lakes may be (literally) great, but to go wild and get your splash on this summer, it’s hard to beat a water park. All across the Mitten, water parks are gearing up for the 2026 summer crowds and planning to open their doors as soon as the weather makes it clear that guests aren’t in danger of freezing their swimsuits off!

But when, exactly, does the water park season start? How much do park tickets cost, and are there deals or discounts available? What standout attractions and events do different parks offer? With Memorial Day Weekend just around the corner, it’s good to know the details!

Michigan’s water parks range from theme park extravaganzas to more casual community hangout spots, so which one is right for you is likely to vary. With that in mind, grab your swimsuit, slather on some sunscreen, and let’s have a look at some of the very best Michigan water parks for 2026:

Random tidbits worth clicking on…

Gas prices at a Shell station in Ferndale at Hilton, near Interstate 696, were $5 a gallon on Wednesday, April 27, 2026. (USA Today Network)

⛽ The bad news keeps coming for drivers and our economy as gas prices continue to soar, with diesel hitting an all-time high of $6.01 per gallon over the weekend. And don’t expect relief any time soon, as experts say the return to $3-a-gallon regular unleaded could be months away.

⚠️ Don’t rush to pay that toll you just received over text, as state officials are warning of an ongoing scam. The Michigan State Police reminds drivers that courts and police will never send a fine or notice by text.

💓 And ending on some good news when it comes to artificial intelligence. Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed an AI model that can help detect a hard-to-diagnose condition using EKG readings.

Do you have a cool picture, observation, or comment you’d like to share? Send it here.

Want deeper coverage of Michigan politics? Our free Thursday newsletter, This Week in Michigan Politics, breaks down what’s happening in Lansing and Washington—clearly and without the jargon.

With the midterms approaching, we’ll keep you informed on what could affect your day-to-day life.

Interested?

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega with a feature story from Ellery Weil. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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