Great River Water Park, Saint Paul

Awarded the title of "Best Indoor Pool" by StarTribune in 2013, Great River Water Park is less of a pool, more of an aquatic wonderland. Families soar down its water slides, play atop its large floats, and splash around with their youngsters at the children's activity zone. Playful decor, from a pirate ship's mast to a waterfall flowing from a faux mountain cliff, encourage visitors to swim with a sense of adventure.

The park also focuses on serious swimming, however: it's equipped with a 25-yard, 8-lane lap pool, a 1-meter diving board, and talented instructors who lead lessons. When their fingers start to prune and gills begin to form beneath their rubs, guests can always head to the saunas or concession stand for a break.