Summer officially starts this weekend at Zoombezi Bay.
The popular Central Ohio waterpark will open for the 2026 season on May 16 and 17, bringing back guest-favorite attractions, launching new summer events, and introducing limited-time family discounts.
This season also marks the first full summer for Conservation Tower, the park’s major 2025 addition that quickly earned national attention. The attraction includes three signature slides: The Hive, Captina Falls, and Mussel Mayhem, including two world-first experiences and one Midwest-exclusive ride.
Conservation Tower was recently recognized as one of USA Today’s “10Best New Theme Park Attractions,” helping cement the expansion as one of the park’s biggest additions in years.
Returning favorites like Wild Tides Wave Pool, Baboon Lagoon, Croctail Creek, Cyclone, and SoundSurfer will also be back for the summer season.
One of the biggest changes for 2026 is the introduction of “$5 Days,” running from May 16 through June 7. During the promotion, families who purchase one regular-priced adult ticket online can buy a child’s ticket for just $5. The park will also offer select $5 food and beverage items and discounted ZOOMPASS options during the promotion.
Later this summer, Zoombezi Bay and the adjacent Columbus Zoo and Aquarium will debut Adventure Nights, a new evening experience happening Fridays and Saturdays from June 26 through July 25.
Adventure Nights will include free access to the Zoo’s Adventure Cove area after 6 p.m., featuring live music, movies, rides, entertainment, and animal experiences.
Guests can also purchase discounted evening admission to continue the night inside Zoombezi Bay, where select attractions will remain open after hours.
The park will also bring back several returning seasonal events, including Water Park After Dark for guests 21 and older, the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson, Quiet Hours for guests with sensory sensitivities, and the annual Oktoberfest celebration.
Season passes for Zoombezi Bay are currently available and include additional perks and discounts throughout the summer.
For schedules, ticket information, and operating hours, visit Zoombezi Bay
.
