Wild Waves, a theme park and water park in Federal Way, Washington, will permanently close after its 2026 season.
In a Wednesday night announcement, Kieran Burke, president and owner of Wild Waves operator Premier Parks, said: “Unfortunately, the rising cost of ongoing operations since reopening after the COVID shutdown has generated millions in losses, which forces us to discontinue operations at the end of our 2026 season.”
The Seattle area park will open as scheduled on May 23, 2026, before closing for good on Nov. 1, 2026. “In its final year of operation, the park will celebrate the memories, nostalgia, and family fun with themed events, and special promotions,” Burke said.
Wild Waves first opened in 1977 as the Enchanted Village, initially spanning a mere 12 acres. It was part of the Six Flags chain from 2000 to 2007. The property is currently owned by Jeff Stock, who had previously owned Wild Waves before the Six Flags sale, with Premier Parks contracted to operate the park.
Stock said in a statement: “We recognize the deep history and emotional connection many residents have with the park, and we are committed to ensuring a respectful transition while planning a project that will bring meaningful, lasting benefits to the area. Plans for the site are currently in preliminary stages, with goals beneficial to the city and surrounding areas. Additional details will be released as the project moves through planning and community review processes.”
The park was never a major destination for roller coaster enthusiasts outside the Pacific Northwest, sporting only four coasters and not having received a new coaster since 2003. Still, Wild Waves’ closure leaves the Seattle metropolitan area — the 15th-largest in the U.S. as of the last census — without even a minor theme park.
For local coaster fans, the closest options will be the two coasters at the Washington State Fair, which is only open for one month out of the year.