Before they journey down Dr. Von Dark's Tunnel of Terror, riders sit facing each other aboard a two-person tube. But they won't actually see one another for long, since the aptly named doctor has designed a 300-foot jaunt whose twists and 40-foot plunge unfold in complete darkness.

The pitch-black tunnel is just one of many heart-pounding attractions at the more than 26-acre Water Country that have helped make Water Country the Parenting NH Magazine's Family Favorite Award for Best Water Park every year since 2011. Additionally, visitors can dash down the 422-foot-long Racing Rapids slide, navigate a quarter mile of waterfalls and caves along Adventure River, or float in a wave pool with 700,000 gallons of water. Water Country caters to youngsters with giant tipping buckets and a brand new pirate ship complete with slides. Adventurous park-goers can check out The Patriot, a 58 ft. drop slide that lets sliders get some serious speed as they plunge nearly six-stories in a matter of seconds.

During full days of sliding and splashing, guests can rest at one of the park's shaded cabanas, which are available to rent, and enjoy an array of tasty snacks and sweets from nearly 10 food options scattered throughout the park, including stands with Dippin' Dots and fried dough.