Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park, affectionately known as Lake Winnie, has announced a wild new addition for its 2026 season.
Lookout Safari, a family-friendly roller coaster, is set to join the park’s lineup, offering a perfect middle-ground thrill for guests graduating from the Wacky Worm to the legendary Cannon Ball wooden coaster.
The announcement comes as part of a significant new chapter for the amusement park, which recently entered into an operations agreement with IB Parks & Entertainment.
Image: Indianapolis Zoo
A New Life for a Fan-Favorite
Lookout Safari isn't just a new ride; it's also a piece of coaster history making a comeback. The ride is a Zierer Tivoli model, previously known as Kōmbo at the Indianapolis Zoo. Following the zoo's decision to remove the ride in early 2026 to make room for new animal exhibits, IB Parks & Entertainment acted quickly to relocate the attraction to Georgia.
The roller coaster features a 656-foot-long track and it reaches a top speed of approximately 21 mph. While the stats are approachable for younger riders, the ride is famous for its exceptionally long, 20-passenger train. The cars are themed as runaway jeeps, fitting perfectly into the new safari aesthetic.
Ride Experience & Location
Guests will board their safari vehicles for a two-lap adventure that includes a 20-foot drop, quick turns, and a booster-wheel lift hill. The ride is designed to accommodate a wide range of guests, with a high hourly capacity that should keep the lines moving quickly.
Lookout Safari will be located along the lakefront, occupying the plot of land formerly held by the Wild Lightnin’ wild mouse coaster, directly across from the iconic Cannon Ball.
A Season of Milestones
The debut of Lookout Safari coincides with a major landmark for the park. The 2026 season marks the 110th anniversary of Lake Winnie’s Antique Carousel. Originally built in 1916 and moved to the park in 1968, the carousel remains one of the oldest and most beautiful in the United States.
"Lake Winnie is a place that holds deep meaning for generations of families," said Gene Staples, Owner and CEO of IB Parks & Entertainment. "Our role is to operate the park with respect for its history while ensuring its continued success. Lookout Safari is a great example of bringing in a high-quality, family-oriented experience that fits the park’s character."
Opening Details
Construction is already well underway, with park officials indicating that the coaster could be ready for guests early in the 2026 season. Lake Winnie traditionally opens for the season in May, and fans are encouraged to follow the park’s social media channels for a specific opening date for the new coaster.
