Sometimes the Best Gems Are the Ones We Have in Our Backyard. When I consider options for waterparks, I automatically expect a long drive to be required. However, we are fortunate in the Bay Area to have a small but wonderful water park within easy driving distance.
Location and Overview
Nestled in the southeast corner of the Bay Area in Newark, California, is the Silliman Activity and Family Aquatic Center. This venue, located at 4800 Mowry Avenue, has everything you need to keep your child entertained while you relax on the sidelines. Of course, adults are encouraged to jump in and partake in the fun! Being a busy mom myself, some days I feel like being a kid, and other days, I’m happy to sit and recharge. The Silliman Center allows flexibility, depending on your mood.
In addition to its central location, the Silliman Center offers plenty of free parking and is easily accessible by public transit, making it a convenient destination for families from around the Bay Area. There are nearby restaurants and shopping centers as well, so you can combine your visit with a meal or some errands.
Facilities and Amenities
The Silliman Center is located on a vast piece of property, laden with open green space for recreational soccer and baseball. The main center itself has a fitness center, aquatic center, gymnasium, and game zone.
Clean and modern locker rooms are provided for changing and showering, with separate areas for families and individuals. Lockers are available for daily use (bring your own lock) or for rent at the front desk, making it easy to store valuables while you enjoy the facility.
The Water Park
When visiting with children, the main attraction is the water park. It is located indoors, and anyone entering the facility is charged an entry fee, regardless of whether they plan to swim or not. There are also strict rules to obey, a waiver to sign, and a general code of conduct.
The fact that the water park is fully indoors means that families can enjoy water fun year-round, regardless of the weather outside. Climate control ensures a pleasant environment even on rainy or chilly days.
Entry Fees
The cost of entry is nothing outrageous. Currently, the fees are $13 for the general public and $4 for infants and toddlers. Drop-in rates are posted on their website, as well as the option for 1-month, 3-month, 6-month, and annual passes. All are affordable.
The Silliman Center also offers discounted rates for Newark residents and special group pricing for parties or school outings. Their flexible pass options make it easy to find the perfect fit for your budget and schedule.
Must Read: Keeping Kids Active for Health and Happiness
Activities in the Water Park
Some of the activities in the waterpark include the following:
- Activity Pool with a Water Play Structure: This area is perfect for young children and houses multiple jets that spray water. This area is filled with smaller slides and water play structures.
- Lap Pool: While an adult supervises the children, this is a great opportunity for the other parent to get some exercise.
- Lazy River: This is a favorite among families, especially as everyone is winding down. Toddlers love this part of the water park. Adults and children alike can relax and float. Inner tubes are provided.
- Two Water Slides: One is an enclosed twisting slide, and the other is an open-air twisting slide. Both are refreshing and fun! Most kids are immediately drawn to the water slides. There is a height requirement of 48” to ride these slides, and children must be able to swim to partake in this activity.
- Warm Water Spa: After making the circuit with all the water works, nothing beats the chance to warm up in the spa. This is always a great way to bring the water time to a close.
Safety is a top priority, lifeguards are always on duty, and all pools are regularly maintained to meet safety standards. Flotation devices and lifejackets are available for young children, and swimming lessons are offered throughout the year for all ages and abilities.
Rules and Guidelines
Among the rules is the restriction that every participant must have a proper swimsuit. Shorts and t-shirts are not permitted. No food or drink is allowed in the waterpark area. Children must be under direct supervision. The website has a list of rules, and it is advised to pre-read these requirements to ensure everyone complies, including the children.
All guests must also complete a short waiver before entering. For those planning group events or parties, it’s a good idea to contact the facility in advance to review guidelines for large gatherings.
Crowds and Timing
The center is a decent size, but it isn’t as large as some waterparks can be. For this reason, it is understandable that the aquatic center can get crowded, especially on the weekends and holidays when it’s super hot outside. Please plan accordingly. Personally, I hate crowds, so I generally opt to visit during off-peak times.
Morning and mid-week visits tend to be the least crowded, making these ideal times for a more relaxed experience. During summer break and school holidays, check the center’s website for special events or changes to open swim times.
Benefits of an Indoor Water Park
Because the aquatic center is of a smaller size, it allows parents to visually monitor their children with greater ease. If the temperatures are cooking outside, visiting an indoor water park has its benefits: it is temperature-controlled, and you don’t have to worry about applying sunscreen!
Being indoors also means that water quality and cleanliness are easier to manage, so families can enjoy peace of mind as they swim and play.
Additional Activities
Most children will tucker out after a couple of hours of playing in the water. However, if you want to partake in more activities, this venue has even more fun activities to offer. There is a gymnasium, a fitness center, and a game zone.
The fitness center features a variety of exercise machines and free weights, catering to people of all fitness levels. Group fitness classes are held regularly, and memberships can include access to both aquatic and fitness facilities.
The Game Zone
The game zone is attractive because it has an air hockey table, a ping pong table, a billiard table, and plenty of room to lounge and relax. The main zone is often rented out for parties, but it is generally open Monday through Thursday for drop-ins.
It’s a great spot for families to unwind after swimming or for kids to enjoy while parents socialize. The open hours are posted online, so check in advance if you are planning around specific activities.
Birthday Parties
Speaking of parties, this is a great option to consider for birthdays! Visit the Silliman Center website for more information! https://www.newark.org/departments/recreation-and-community-services/facilities/george-m-silliman-community-activity-center
The staff provides birthday packages that often include private use of the party room, access to the water park, and optional add-ons like pizza or cake. Bookings can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so early reservations are encouraged.
Why the Silliman Center is a Must-Visit
The vast array of activities offered at one location makes the Silliman Center a great option for busy moms and their children. Needless to say, the Aquatic Center is the most exciting aspect of the overall locale, but if you plan to make the Silliman Center a regular destination in your life, it’s great to know that with one stop, you have both aquatic and terrestrial options for fun!
The Silliman Activity & Family Aquatic Center has something for everyone! Splash around or simply relax. Either way, this is a guaranteed must-visit in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Not only is the Silliman Center a great place for fun and recreation, but it also offers a variety of programs and classes to keep both kids and adults engaged. From swimming lessons to fitness classes, there’s something for all ages and interests.
Community events such as family swim nights, swim meets, and seasonal celebrations further add to the vibrant atmosphere at the Silliman Center. Details about upcoming programs and registration can always be found on their official website or by calling the front desk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there free parking at the Silliman Center?
Yes, there is ample free parking on site for visitors.
Do I have to pay the entry fee if I am just supervising and not swimming?
Yes, all individuals entering the aquatic facility must pay the entry fee, whether or not they swim.
Are there swimming lessons available?
Absolutely! The center offers lessons for all ages and skill levels. Registration details are available online.
Can I bring my own food or snacks?
No, outside food and drink are not permitted inside the water park area.
Are birthday party packages offered?
Yes, several party packages are available. See the website for details and reservation information.
Is the facility open year-round?
Yes, the indoor water park and other amenities are open all year, with adjusted hours during holidays.
What should my child wear?
All swimmers must wear proper swimsuits. Shorts and t-shirts are not allowed in the pools.
