Splash Down Turns 25 and Gets Better with Age

By Cassandra Jones

To keep existing guests coming back for more and bring in new ones, Splash Down Waterpark will celebrate its 25th birthday this summer with a variety of fun-filled and action-packed amenities and attractions.

At the pinnacle of that list stands the six-storied summit of the Fastball Speed Slide. What's cool about this free-falling slide? Once you get to the bottom, you can compare your clocked speed with other sliders on the Splash Down radar gun.

The Cannon Bowl blends tubing with the speed of a water slide. Visitors go down a 4-story chute into a wide "vortex" to spin around alone or with a friend. Tubes, if needed, are provided for free.

Rounding out the other attractions include Spokane Falls and its four 400-foot-long and twisty slides; Petey's Lil' Puffer Fish Lagoon, with wading pools and tyke-sized slides; and the Big Squirt filling station where visitors can fill up water guns and toys of all shapes and sizes. Guests can purchase water toys at the "Big Squirt Streetcart" or in "Petey's Surf & Sweet Shop."

This year, Splash Down has created "Splash Cash" wristbands that can be purchased in $5 increments for things like tacos from the new "Petey's South of the Border Menu" at the Barefoot Grill, or a "Bag of Sweet" bulk candy, a recent addition to Petey's Surf and Sweet Shop, plus other treats and souvenirs. Anything unused at the end of the day can be refunded.

Other new attractions include The Water Wars Water Balloon Battle, a new Splash-katball 1-on-1 water basketball competition, a volleyball court, poolside food and drink service, and a 'cooler caddy' to get your lunch up and down the hill. Other amenities include hot tubs and an area for group picnics, birthday parties or company outings.

Admission varies based on height, activity desired at the park, and planned number of visits. Tickets cost $12.99 for Juniors (48" and under) and $15.99 for Regulars (over 48"). Group rates are available for 15 or more by calling 509-838-0241. Dry spectators can get in for $14 with $7 refundable at the end of their visit. Individual season passes are available for $85, and Family Season Passes for up to 5 are $199. Seniors 65 or older with a photo ID and children 2 or younger are free with a regular paid admission.

This summer, visitors will be invited to participate in various giveaways, and special events, including the Tuesday night "Splash Down before Sundown" family celebration with KIX 96- country music and birthday magic from 4-8 p.m. for $8 per person.

For more info: (509) 924-3079 or www.splashdownwaterpark.net.