Wild Waves Theme & Water Park
Wild Waves Theme & Water Park, located in Federal Way, Washington, is the largest theme park in the Pacific Northwest. It’s the go-to spot for roller coasters, family rides, and a full-scale water park serving Seattle, Tacoma, and the surrounding region. From classic wooden coasters to giant water slides, it’s a summer staple and seasonal favorite for Washington families.
History & Background
Originally opened in 1977 as Enchanted Village, Wild Waves began as a small theme park and expanded quickly in the early 2000s after being acquired by Six Flags, then later sold to Premier Parks. It now includes two sections: the dry amusement park and Wild Waves Water Park, both included with admission. The park also hosts annual Halloween and holiday events, giving it a nearly year-round presence.
Ticket Prices & Packages
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General Admission: ~$39.99–$54.99 (variable by day)
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Season Passes: Standard and Premium options available
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Group discounts and cabana rentals are available for larger parties
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Holiday event tickets are sold separately in the fall and winter
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Wild Waves is open from May through December, with different experiences by season.
Typical summer hours: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
October weekends: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM for Fright Fest
December: Select dates for Holiday Lights
Best times to visit:
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Weekdays in June or late August for lighter crowds
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Mid-September for cooler, crowd-free weekends
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December nights for holiday lights and walk-through displays
Top Rides & Attractions
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Timberhawk: Ride of Prey – Wooden coaster with sweeping drops and forest views
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Wild Thing – Classic steel out-and-back coaster
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Disk’O Flashback – Spinning pendulum ride
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Timber Axe – Viking ship-style swinging ride
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Scream’n Eagle – Looping coaster for younger thrill seekers
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Hang Glider, Wave Swinger, and Pirate Ship – Classic flat rides
Water Park Highlights
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Raging River Ride – Large raft slide for groups
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Zooma Falls & Konga Slides – Tube slides with twists and turns
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Pacific Plunge – Drop slide tower
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Hooks Lagoon – Multi-level play structure with tipping bucket
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Wave Pool & Lazy River – Centerpieces of the water park
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Tiny Tots Lagoon – Shallow splash zone for toddlers
Cabanas, lockers, and inner tube rentals are available.
Family & Kids Rides
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Ferris Wheel & Carousel – Traditional favorites
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Frog Hopper & Kiddie Coaster – Perfect first thrill rides
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Enchanted Railway – Small scenic train through the park
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Giant Slide & Tilt-a-Whirl – Crowd-pleasing for all ages
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Arcade & Carnival-style games are scattered throughout the park
The water park also features dedicated shallow areas and slow slides for little ones.
Dining Options
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Timber Treats – Funnel cakes, pretzels, churros
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Boardwalk Pizza – Grab-and-go slices
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Burger Joint & Chicken Shack – Burgers, nuggets, and fries
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Snowie Shaved Ice & Soft Serve Ice Cream – Cool summer favorites
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Food trucks and festival booths during special events
Food and drink are not permitted outside, but picnic areas are available outside the gates.
Hotels & Accommodation
No on-site hotel, but Federal Way and Tacoma offer plenty of nearby lodging:
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La Quinta Inn & Suites Federal Way – Closest full-service option
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Hampton Inn & Suites Seattle/Federal Way – Reliable, popular with families
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Comfort Inn Auburn – Seattle – Budget-friendly, ~15 minutes away
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Downtown Tacoma hotels for those combining visits with city attractions
Many offer park packages or discounted admission at check-in.
Getting There & Parking
Address: 36201 Enchanted Pkwy S, Federal Way, WA 98003
Located just off I-5, about 30 minutes south of Seattle and 20 minutes north of Tacoma.
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General parking: $20
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Preferred parking: $30
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Accessible and oversized vehicle areas are available
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Public transit access via King County Metro (seasonal)
Tips for Visiting
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Head to Timberhawk and the water park slides early in the day
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Bring a change of clothes if visiting both sides of the park
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Rent a cabana if staying all day — it provides shade and a break zone
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Fright Fest is surprisingly spooky for a regional park — plan accordingly with kids
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Holiday Lights is mostly walk-through and great for photos