How to Make the Most of Your First Visit to Hurricane Bay

There’s no better way to beat the heat and dive into summer fun than with a day at Hurricane Bay—Kentucky Kingdom’s action-packed water park. From high-speed slides to relaxing rivers and splash zones for the little ones, this Louisville favorite is perfect for families, thrill-seekers, and everyone in between.

Planning your first visit? Here’s your guide to getting the most out of your day in the Bay.

Tip 1: Plan the Perfect Day to Visit the Park

Hurricane Bay Water Park opens for the 2025 season on May 24, just in time for Memorial Day weekend. Hours may vary, so be sure to check the park calendar before your visit. Want to dodge the biggest crowds? Plan your trip on a weekday or arrive early to get ahead of the action.

Want to be the first to experience Hurricane Bay Water Park for the season? Join us on Hurricane Bay opening day, May 24, to be one of the first to beat the heat in giant wave pools, winding lazy rivers and even a four-story water playground!

Beat the Rush: The Early Bird Catches the Worm

Arriving early is one of the best ways to kick off your day at Kentucky Kingdom.

Here's what you'll gain by showing up early:

• Grab a Prime Spot: Reserve shaded lounge chairs near popular areas like Family Wave Lagoon or Adventure River. Book ahead of time so you can have a cabana as your perfect home base as you and your group embark on a fun-filled day of rides and slides!
• Beat the Lines: Head straight to top slides like Deep Water Dive and Tornado while lines are short.
• Ease into the Day: Take a relaxed lap through the park, scope out your must-rides, and let the kids burn off excitement at Splash Zone.

Explore the Attractions: Slides, Rivers, and Splash Zones

Hurricane Bay Water Park is packed with wet-and-wild attractions, perfect for every level of thrill. Here’s a full breakdown of our must see Summer attractions during your visit:

• High-Thrill Slides:
  • Deep Water Dive: One of the tallest body slides in the country with a near-vertical drop.
  • Tornado: A funnel-style ride where you spin through swirling waves.
  • Wave Runner: Talk about fast and furious! While dropping 66 feet, you’ll experience “air time” on this triple-bump speed slide.
  • Mt. Slide Hai: High-speed racing slides built for splashy competition.
• Relaxing Rivers & Pools:
  • Family Wave Lagoon: A giant wave pool where calm swells turn into splashy fun.
  • Castaway Creek: A slow-moving lazy river surrounded by lush landscaping.
• Kid-Friendly & Family Zones
  • Splash Zone: A multi-level play structure with mini slides, water cannons, and a giant tipping bucket.
  • Buccaneer Beach: A shallow splash area designed just for toddlers and preschoolers.

Have little ones? Make sure you grab a puddle jumper located throughout Hurricane Bay. It makes the experience even more enjoyable and keeps them confident as they explore all the fun-sized splash zones.

No matter your vibe—thrill, chill, or splash—there’s an attraction with your name on it. We’re a park for all ages, from infants and toddlers to teens and adults. Whether it’s their first carousel ride or their fiftieth coaster loop, Kentucky Kingdom truly is the family park.

Stay Cool and Hydrated All Day

With sunny skies and non-stop water play, staying cool and hydrated is key. Here’s how to keep your energy up and your sunburns down:

• Apply sunscreen frequently, especially after rides. Forgot some? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. You can always pick some up at 5D Cinema Store.
• Wear a hat, rash guard, or water shirt for extra sun protection.
  
• Drink plenty of water—hydration stations are available throughout the park. We recommend going green by bringing a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated all day long. It’s convenient, eco-friendly, and part of our commitment to keeping guests refreshed and cared for.

Cool Down With Something Cold At:

• Surf Side Shaved Ice: Chill out with a refreshing cup of finely shaved ice topped with bold, fruity flavors. It’s the perfect grab-and-go treat on a warm spring day.
  
• Dippin' Dots: The classic frozen treat that hits just right after a big splash.
• Hurricane Bay Beach Club: 21+ Adult guests can unwind with frozen margaritas, beers, and hard seltzers in a beach-style atmosphere.
  

End the Day With a Splash

As the afternoon rolls on, the park begins to settle—and that’s your chance to circle back to your favorite slides and attractions one last time. Lines are shorter, lounge chairs become available, and the atmosphere is more relaxed as the day winds down at Hurricane Bay Water Park. Pure magic.

Here’s how to wrap up your visit:

• Revisit your favorite thrill rides or take one last float in Adventure River.
• Snap a family photo in front of the wave pool or ride entrance. Make sure to tag @kentuckykingdom on Instagram!
  
• Head to Kentucky Collections to grab a souvenir t-shirt or waterproof keepsake to remember the day.

If you’re a Season Passholder, you’ll want to start planning your next visit right away—and if you’re not, you might want to become one before you leave. It’s truly worth the value: if you visit just twice in a season, the pass pays for itself. You can even use the cost of your single-day ticket toward an upgrade at the park. With new attractions, seasonal events, and perks all year long, there’s always more to do, see, and explore—making a Season Pass the smart choice for families who want the fun to last.

Make a Splash This Summer

With sky-high slides, lazy rivers, kiddie splash zones, and plenty of places to refuel and relax, Hurricane Bay Water Park is the ultimate summer destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. Whether you're chasing your first wave or floating the day away, there’s no wrong way to do the Bay.

Bonus tip: In a world where kids are constantly attached to screens, Hurricane Bay is the perfect unplugged family day. It’s a chance to get outdoors, connect, and make real memories—together.

Ready to dive in? Buy your tickets or purchase a Season Pass today and make a splash all summer long.