Even though winter is far from over, it’s not too early to start thinking about spring. Theme park fans in southern Indiana and western Kentucky are doing just that. We are lucky to have many parks within short driving distance for those who enjoy roller coasters and water parks in Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee, Ohio, and Missouri. The majority have already declared when their water parks and dry parks will open, and they are eagerly awaiting the 2025 operating season.
Here are a few well-known local amusement parks along with their anticipated season opening dates.
WORLD HOLIDAYS AND SPLASHIN’ SAFARI
Holiday World debuted Good Gravy!, a brand-new family-themed coaster, in 2024, and it will undoubtedly be a top attraction in 2025 as well. On Saturday, May 10th, Holiday World will open for the season following a sneak preview for season pass holders the previous weekend. A week later, on Saturday, May 17, the park’s acclaimed Splashin’ Safari water park will open for the season.
The Kingdom of Kentucky
A new Kentucky-themed land with three new rides has been announced, preparing the well-known Louisville theme park for an exciting 2025.
Although Kentucky Kingdom hasn’t revealed the exact date of its 2025 launch, we do know it will be in May, and the park is encouraging visitors to keep an eye out.
Bend Park and Splash Beach
The season will begin on Friday, May 9th at Beech Bend Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The well-known water park at the location, Splash Lagoon, will open on Saturday, May 17.
The island of Kings
Kings Island, located in Mason, Ohio, just north of Cincinnati, opens earlier than most parks in our area. “Anticipation is building” for the season’s big opening on Saturday, April 19, according to park officials.
On Saturday, May 24th, Soak City, the water park at Kings Island, will open, giving visitors their first opportunity to ride the brand-new RiverRacers, the only side-by-side dual racing water coaster in the state of Ohio.
St. Louis has six flags.
Officially situated in Eureka, Missouri, Six Flags St. Louis will open for business on Saturday, April 5. On Saturday, May 24th, the water park will open.
DOLLYWOOD
In Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Dollywood is the regional theme park with the earliest season opening date. This year, Dollywood is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a headline show, a new drone and fireworks spectacle, and a new daily ‘opening ceremony.’
On Saturday, May 10th, Splash Country, a water park in Dollywood, will open.
