The most frequently heard expression
of first-time visitors to Sandcastle is:
"Wow! I don't believe I'm still in the city."
Usually, they've just arrived on the boardwalk and are looking toward the Monongahela River. The scene is one of unusual beauty and tranquillity – a resort type setting along a calm waterway, with a green wooded hillside providing the backdrop.
The last thing this scene suggests is an abandoned steel mill, but that's where Sandcastle began. Our property was the railroad yard for the giant U.S. Steel Homestead Works. Seven miles of railroad track were removed to make way for the waterpark. The low land immediately along the Monongahela, where the waterslides dump their riders into sparkling pools, was overgrown with dense, impassable vegetation which was cleared.
Site preparation began in May of 1988, and the park opened in July of 1989, 14 months later. Additional attractions have been made throughout the years.
Sandcastle has become Pittsburgh's wildest and wettest summer playground and is just minutes from the Golden Triangle of Pittsburgh on Rt. 837 between the Homestead High Level and Glenwood bridges.
Enjoy fourteen twisting, turning, plunging, and churning waterslides. There are pools for adults (including the world's biggest hot tub) and pools for kids (including Wet Willie's Water Works). Surrounding it all is the Lazy River, a gently flowing stream where you can float on a tube for hours.
If water is not your thing or you just want to take a break from the action, enjoy the food and gift shop which is certain to complete your "vacation in a day."
VIRGINIA GRAEME BAKER POOL AND SPA SAFETY ACT - On December 19th 2008 the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act went into effect. This new law requires VGB Compliant Pool Drain Grates. We are VGB Compliant but please note in some applications these grates have a raised profile off the floor as mandated by the Law.
Warning: Raised Grate - All of our raised grates have a red circle highlighting their location. They are designed to be stepped on but in shallow water situations they may pose a tripping hazard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Sandcastle?
Sandcastle is a waterpark located just minutes from downtown Pittsburgh. It features 14 major waterslides, wave pool, hot tub, children's attractions, and bar area, all of which are located along a river-view, old-fashioned Boardwalk.
When is Sandcastle open?
Gates open at 11:00am and close at 6:00pm everyday during the month of June, Monday through Thursday in July and August, and on September 5th - 7th. Sandcastle's closing time in July and August are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 7:00pm. Sandbar is open every Friday and Saturday night at 6:00pm until midnight June 19th through August 22nd.
How do I get directions to Sandcastle?
Sandcastle is located in the Waterfront Entertainment Complex, just a few miles from downtown Pittsburgh. More detailed directions are available here.
How can I pay for admission?
Sandcastle accepts cash, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, traveler's checks, and personal checks (with identification). Once inside the park, there are ATM machines located on the Boardwalk and in the bar area. Parking charges must be paid in cash.
How can I make a request for a ticket donation?
Please visit Sandcastle Cares for more information.
Do I still have to pay if I'm not going to get in the water?
Yes, you will still have to pay. Sandcastle does not offer an "observer" or "pool" pass. Don't worry, besides the thrills and chills of the waterslides, there are plenty less daring attractions including the Lazy River and the Sandbar Pool.
Where can I get discount coupons?
Our major promotional partners include Giant Eagle and Pepsi. Please check Giant Eagle stores for coupons, and the sides of Pepsi cans for other special discount offers.
Do you have discounted admission later in the day?
Sandcastle has an After 3:00 PM Whitewater Pass. See Admission and Times for more information.
What is the new Mon-Tsunami Wave Pool Policy?
New in 2009 the Mon-Tsunami Wave Pool will be fenced off with one entrance and exit. A lifeguard will be at the entrance to the wave pool measuring guests to ensure that anyone under 48" is given and properly fitted with a lifejacket. In the Wave Pool, all guests under 48" are REQUIRED to wear a lifejacket and be accompanied by an adult. We insist that parents keep their children within arms reach for their close supervision on all water activities. Lifejackets are available free of charge. When in doubt, wear a lifejacket!
Are there areas available for boat docking?
Guests can enjoy free boat docking at Sandcastle.
Do you offer group rates?
Please visit Group Sales for more information.
When is the best time to visit Sandcastle?
June is the least busy month at Sandcastle, and Tuesdays and Thursdays are usually less crowded. Also, be aware that crowds are quite weather dependent. We will be busier on hotter summer days.
What if there is bad weather on the day of my visit?
Please check the weather forecast prior to your visit. In the event of rain, attractions will remain open; however, attractions will close for a specified amount of time for severe weather. Click here for the Weather Assurance policy.
Can I bring a picnic?
Sandcastle allows guests to bring in a 1 one-gallon bag (i.e. clear zip lock bag) of snacks or non-alcoholic beverages. Food must be portion sized. No unopened bags of chips, pretzels, cookies, etc. Sandcastle does not allow glass of any type or alcohol to be brought into the park. Snacks must be portioned sized and drinks can be no larger than a 20 oz bottle.
For your conveinence, guests may keep their one gallon portioned size bags in a small cooler no bigger than an 8 quart personal cooler (10"x12"x9"). Sandcastle will not permit coolers larger than this and any large unopened bags or containers of food.
What if I forget something at home?
If you forget something at home, please check our Gift Shop first! Our Boardwalk Gift Shop features Sandcastle logo merchandise along with beach towels, swim diapers, sunscreen, film, and batteries, just to name a few items.
Where can I get more information about nighttime events?
Visit The Castle at Night page for additional information about our evening operations for Sandbar, Jukebox Sunday Night and Dive-In Movies, including days, hours, specials, appearances, and Sunday night buffet items.
Are there height requirements for any of the rides?
For all waterslides, guests must be at least 54" and be capable swimmers. Blue Tubaluba riders must be 54" to slide in a single tube. Riders between 36" - 54" must slide in a double tube with an adult. Lightening Express body slide riders must be taller than 58". Tad Pool swimmers must be less than 42" tall, and Wet Willie's guests must be less than 54". All Mon-Tsunami Wave Pool guests under 48" are REQUIRED to wear a lifejacket and be within arms reach of a guardian. For the Lazy River and Sandbar Pool, there are no specific height restrictions but guests must be capable swimmers, or be with an adult who is a capable swimmer. Parents and guardians are required to keep their children under close supervision on all water activities.
Do you have life jackets and where can I get one?
Life jackets are available at the Mon-Tsunami Wave Pool. Life jackets
are free of charge and are required for guests under 48" in the wave pool.
Where are the best places to go with a toddler?
Sandcastle offers two exclusive children's areas. The Tad Pool is a one and a half foot deep pool with two beginner slides, and Wet Willie's is a crazy water playground featuring several slides and water activities.
What if my party gets separated?
Please designate a specific meeting spot for your group should anyone get separated, as Sandcastle has a "no paging" policy.
What about water safety?
Sandcastle lifeguards must pass very rigorous training to become certified. In addition, our First Aid station is staffed with emergency medical technicians. Parents are urged to teach children safe water skills and read safety information located at the front of each attraction.
Is there shade?
Several shaded areas exist in the park, but the use of sunscreen is still strongly suggested.
What about my glasses?
Glasses may be worn with a strap for some attractions. Please check the safety rating information at the front of each attraction for more information.
Do you have changing facilities?
There are several changing and shower facilities throughout the park. They are located near the wave pool, along the Boardwalk, and in Wet Willie's children's area.
What about my valuables?
Sandcastle is not responsible for lost or stolen property at the waterpark. Lockers are available to secure money, clothes, and other belongings, but please leave other valuables at home.
What if I have a disability?
If you have a disability, please visit our Guest Relations office upon your arrival. They will share which rides and attractions are appropriate for your abilities and will help you make the most of your visit.
What about my pet?
Pets are not permitted in the park, except for guide dogs.
Do you have information on overnight accommodations?
Visit Hotels & Accommodations for a complete listing in the area.
What else is there to do in Pittsburgh?
Sandcastle has two sister parks in the Pittsburgh area, Kennywood and Idlewild, that we invite you to enjoy.
How can I contact you?
Sandcastle Waterpark is located at 1000 Sandcastle Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15120. The main phone number is 412-462-6666. We can also be reached by e-mail using the contact form on our website.