What better way to spend a hot Nebraska afternoon then winding down through the cool and refreshing lazy river at Grand Island's Island Oasis Water Park?

Open Memorial Day through mid-August 2007, Island Oasis offers two speed slides six stories high and almost 300-feet long; two flume slides that are 150-foot long with a swimming pool splash down area; two enclosed 150-foot dark tunnel slides; a wave pool with 350,000 gallons of waves; a lazy river with a 750-foot continuous river with sprays, bubbles, fountains and showers; a lily pad and log walk children's area with over-strung cargo net; an otter kiddy slide; zero depth walk in access for all ages; a sand play area; a sand volleyball court; a souvenir stand and a snack bar to fulfill any family's needs for fun summertime activity.

Fully-certified lifeguards are on duty at all times, and lockers, inner tubes and life jackets are available for rent.

Island Oasis opened in 1994.

Hours:

Island Oasis opens at noon daily, seven days a week.

The park is open when temperatures are 70 degrees or higher. Hours vary as the season progresses.

Hours vary as the season progresses. Beginning Memorial Day, it is open daily from noon to 9 p.m.

Call for modified hours after Aug. 10.

Costs:

Admission is free for children 4 and under with a paying adult, $5 for youths 5 to 15 and for those 55 and older.

The cost is $6 for ages 16 to 54. Senior passes for ages 55 and up is $5.

Family passes are available for $20 per visit, which admits two adults and four children.

Twilight pass, after 7 p.m. are $1 off general admission and $3 off family passes.

Group discounts are available for parties of 10 or more.

Contact:

Island Oasis, 328 E. Fonner Park Road; phone, (308) 385-5381; Web site, www.grand-island.com/oasis.