Wild Waves Closing After 2026 Season
Wild Waves Theme Park will close at the end of the 2026 season. Premier Parks, the Seattle-area theme park’s operator, announced that the park’s final season will run May 23 through November 1, 2026.
Located south of Seattle, Wild Waves opened in 1977 and is the only large-scale amusement and water park in Washington. Its 70-acre site includes more than 30 rides and slides, among them the 75-foot Timber Hawk wooden coaster (an S&S Worldwide wooden coaster — one of only two operating in the world) and the Pacific Plunge slide complex.
Timber Hawk, an S&S Worldwide wooden coaster (photo courtesy of Wild Waves)
Wild Waves is operated by Premier Parks, LLC, which manages 13 attractions across the U.S. and Canada.
Premier Parks President and Owner Kieran Burke said escalating expenses in recent years made continued operation financially unsustainable:
“The rising cost of ongoing operations since reopening after the COVID shutdown has generated millions in losses,” Burke said.
“Unfortunately, this forces us to discontinue operations at the end of our 2026 season.”
Despite the forthcoming closure, park officials say the 2026 season will operate at full capacity.
“Wild Waves will be open for business beginning in May with our thrilling rides, refreshing waterpark fun, and our popular Fright Fest Halloween celebration,” Burke said.
“In its final year of operation, the park will celebrate the memories, nostalgia, and family fun with themed events and special promotions.”
The future of the Wild Waves site is unknown at this point. Property owner Jeff Stock said initial discussions about the future of the land are underway.
“We recognize the deep history and emotional connection many residents have with the park,” Stock said.
“Plans for the site are currently in preliminary stages, with goals beneficial to the city and surrounding areas.”
Wild Waves’ final season will begin on May 23 and end on November 1, 2026. For more information, visit the Wild Waves website.
Have you visited Wild Waves? Share your thoughts about the theme park in the comments section below.
