Generations of Gulf Coast families have spent summers racing down water slides, steering go-karts and cooling off under the Alabama sun at Waterville USA.

Now, as the longtime Gulf Shores attraction prepares to open for the 2026 season, the park is celebrating 40 years of family traditions, local jobs and summertime memories.

Waterville USA will officially open its 2026 season Saturday, May 16, marking the beginning of the park’s 40th anniversary celebration.

Since opening in 1986, the Gulf Shores attraction has become a staple of summer tourism along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, drawing both vacationers and local families to its mix of water attractions, amusement rides and entertainment venues.

Park owner Joe Warrington said the anniversary represents more than just the longevity of the business. It also reflects decades of community ties and generations of returning visitors.

“Waterville was built 40 years ago,” said park owner Joe Warrington. “I took over as the President of the company in 1995. A few short years later I became the sole owner. Waterville is a special place, not only for the generations of guests we’ve seen throughout the years, but also for the staff. We have averaged around 250 employees per summer for 40 years. We employ so many of the youth from local communities. For many of these young people, it is their first job. We have been fortunate to have a number of these young people return every Summer, even through college.”

Warrington said family ownership and long-term leadership have helped define the attraction over the years.

“In today’s world, it’s rare to find a business that has been owned and operated by a single family for 40 years. Even more remarkable is the longevity of the core management team. The top 5 members of management have a combined 155 years of service to Waterville, our customers and our community. I’ve been here 32 years,” Warrington added. “Park manager John Turberville has been with us for 40 years, Michelle Doughty 31 years, Dan Smith 31 years, and Elizabeth Hinson Mckee 21 years. Waterville USA is truly a special place. We hope to bring our customers, employees and community 40 more years of wonderful memories.”

In addition to its signature water park attractions, Waterville USA continues expanding its entertainment offerings beyond traditional slides and pools. Guests can also visit the amusement park area featuring Nascart Go-Karts, mini-golf, Splash ‘n Strike Bowling and immersive escape rooms.

The property’s Topgolf Swing Suites include two private simulator bays with lounge seating and food and beverage service. The simulators offer activities ranging from golf and baseball to Zombie Dodgeball and Quarterback Challenge, making the venue popular for family outings, parties and corporate events.

Visitors looking for a slower pace can also stop by the Lagoon Bar, which features frozen drinks, HD televisions and a renovated outdoor deck area.

Tourism remains a major economic driver for Gulf Shores and Baldwin County, with family attractions like Waterville USA continuing to play a key role in attracting summer visitors to Alabama’s beaches.

Waterville USA will open for opening weekend May 16-17 before beginning daily operations May 23 for the summer season.

More information is available at www.WatervilleUSA.com or on social media at @WatervilleUSA.