Valleyfair Celebrates 50 Years With A Splashy Waterpark Upgrade

Minnesota's largest theme park, Valleyfair, has unveiled a major expansion of its already huge waterpark as part of it's 50th anniversary celebration.

Dubbed "Superior Shores Waterpark," the complex includes a speed-slide area, family-friendly Minnow Bay with eight kids slides and Breaker's Bay Wave Pool among others.

VALLEYFAIR WATERPARK EXPANSION 

“This expansion starts an exciting new chapter for Valleyfair,” said Stephen Summers, park president of Valleyfair. “All season-long we will celebrate 50 years of providing summer traditions and fun-filled memories for families. The expansion of Superior Shores Waterpark includes thrill slides and areas designed for young swimmers, providing the perfect summer destination for families.”

VALLEYFAIR'S NEW OWNERSHIP

Valleyfair is under new ownership in 2026. Enchanted Parks, the third largest privately held theme park company, purchased Valleyfair earlier this year.

“For fifty years Valleyfair has been providing family-focused experiences to guests of all ages,” said James Harhi, CEO, Enchanted Parks. “We are proud to welcome Valleyfair to the Enchanted Parks family and to continue to invest in the park, its team, and the community. The Superior Shores Waterpark expansion means a great deal to all of us, and we can’t wait for our guests to come out and experience all it has to offer.”

Lighthouse Landing is a multi-slide tower with three speedy tube slides and a dual-mat racing slide; Minnow Bay is a newly-designed lagoon area with eight new, kid-friendly slide and interactive water elements. In addition, the park has 'reimagined' the entrance to the water park area, which is located right in the center of the park.

The waterpark also includes Breakers Bay Wave Pool, the Great Lakes Launchers and Superior Plunge drop and speed slides, the Ripple Rapids lazy river and dining options.

WHEN WILL VALLEYFAIR OPEN FOR 2026

Valleyfair's 50th season is set to open on May 10th. The waterpark will open its new slides and other water attractions on May 23rd.