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IB Parks & Entertainment has announced that it will take over operations of Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park starting with the 2026 season, marking a new chapter for one of the oldest continuously operating theme parks in the United States.
Located in Rossville, Georgia, just south of Chattanooga, Tennessee, Lake Winnepesaukah—commonly known as Lake Winnie—has been a long-standing regional family destination for generations. The new long-term operating agreement is designed to provide additional operational support while preserving the park’s historic character and community ties.
According to IB Parks & Entertainment owner and CEO Gene Staples, the company’s focus will be on continuity rather than change. Guests should expect the same familiar attractions, atmosphere, and commitment to family-friendly entertainment that have defined Lake Winnie for decades.
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As 2026 unfolds, theme park enthusiasts across the United States are gearing up for exciting new seasons at their favorite parks. Whether you're planning a summer thrill ride or a winter getaway, the country's most beloved theme parks are ready to welcome visitors with a variety of opening dates.
In this article we'll roundup the opening dates for every major theme park in North America, so you can start planning your theme park adventures and amusement park road trips.
For more information about each park featured, be sure to follow the links to our comprehensive park guides.
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The United States theme park scene is gearing up for an exciting 2026, with three very different but highly anticipated parks poised to arrive. From kid-centric whimsy to racing-inspired thrills and brand-driven fun, these upcoming attractions promise to expand the market and offer new reasons to visit major travel destinations.
Here's our guide to everything you need to know about Universal Kids Resort, COTALAND and Mattel Adventure Park.
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From kids’ coasters to world-class thrill machines and beloved classics getting bold reboots, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years yet for roller coaster fans in the United States.
Here is your definitive guide to every new or reimagined coaster debuting at US theme parks in 2026 — perfect for planning trips, vacations, and coaster chasing in the coming season.
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Six Flags Magic Mountain has announced a major transformation of its longtime family area, revealing plans for Looney Tunes™ Land, a completely reimagined kids and family zone set to debut in summer 2026.
The new land will replace the park’s existing children’s area with a cohesive, story-driven environment inspired by the classic Chuck Jones era of Looney Tunes. Designed to encourage exploration, Looney Tunes Land will be divided into four distinct themed areas, each centered around iconic characters from the beloved Warner Bros. franchise.
At the heart of the land will be a central park-style hub where Bugs Bunny welcomes guests into his world. From there, families can explore environments inspired by the deserts of the American Southwest, lush tropical landscapes, and the High Sierra mountains — all brought to life through immersive theming, landscaping, and character-driven storytelling.
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Wild Waves Theme & Water Park has officially announced that the 2026 operating season will be its final year, with the park scheduled to open on May 23, 2026, and permanently close to the public on November 1, 2026.
The announcement was confirmed by Premier Parks, LLC, the operator of Wild Waves, citing ongoing financial challenges following the park’s reopening after the COVID-19 shutdown.
One of the Pacific Northwest’s most iconic amusement destinations will soon come to an end.
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Universal Destinations & Experiences has unveiled the complete slate of attractions, entertainment, dining, retail, and hotel offerings coming to Universal Kids Resort.
The company’s first-ever theme park created specifically for families with young children—opening in Frisco, Texas, in 2026—will bring seven fully themed lands to life in one colorful, kid-focused destination.
Designed from the ground up with young guests in mind, Universal Kids Resort will blend Universal-quality storytelling with playful environments, age-appropriate attractions, and sensory-friendly spaces tailored to children and their caregivers.
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Herschend Family Entertainment has signed an exclusive agreement to acquire Silverwood Theme Park, the biggest theme and water park in the Pacific Northwest.
The deal signals a major milestone for the long-running independent park and continues Herschend’s steady growth across North America.
Silverwood has been owned and operated by the Norton family since its founding in 1988 by Gary Norton. Over more than 35 years, the park has transformed from a small local attraction into a 400-acre destination featuring over 70 rides, slides, shows, and attractions, including the popular Boulder Beach Water Park and a historic 1915 steam engine train. The park draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually to North Idaho’s scenic panhandle.
