The History and Evolution of Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown has been THE destination for fun in the sun for nearly four decades. Located just north of downtown Houston, the water park is famous for its mix of thrilling water slides, a relaxing lazy river, and exciting, family-friendly areas.
Known as “Splashtown” in its early days, Hurricane Harbor Splashtown caters to visitors of all ages and offers a refreshing escape from the Texas heat.
But do you know how it all started? In this blog, we’ll share a little bit about Hurricane Harbor Splashtown’s past and what makes it so special today!
The History of Hurricane Harbor Splashtown: The Early Days
In the early 1980s, there was a theme park called Hanna-Barbera Land, which is where Hurricane Harbor Splashtown now sits. Hanna-Barbera was the animation studio behind many of the popular cartoons of the time, including Yogi Bear, The Jetsons, and The Flintstones.
Despite its popularity, Hanna-Barbera Land lasted only two seasons before the owners decided to try something new. They removed all the rides and replaced them with water slides.
The owners kept many of the park’s Victorian buildings and street lights but opened the park with a new name: Splashtown USA.
In the ‘90s, the park continued to grow. It was bought and sold to several different owners, eventually landing with the Morris family in 1994.
In 1999, the park went up for sale again. This time, Six Flags decided to get in on the action and scooped up the water park. Six Flags brought even more excitement and fun. Park execs wanted to make Hurricane Harbor Splashtown the top waterpark in the region.
The History of Hurricane Harbor: The Later Years
Hurricane Harbor Splashtown got a complete makeover in 2014. Three new rides and attractions, revamped kiddie area, a new theme and even a new name: Wet ‘n’ Wild Splashtown. Splashtown also received a spiffy new sign to open that season.
Through the years, Hurricane Harbor Splashtown has had several different owners and operators, but it has maintained its iconic name.
In 2018, Six Flags once again took control of the park, renaming it as we know it today: Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown.
The park continues to expand with new attractions, luxury cabanas and even more fun!
Hurricane Harbor Splashtown by the Numbers
Check out these mind-boggling stats!
- Park Size: 48 acres
- Gallons of Water in Hurricane Bay: 500,000
- Height of the Bonzai Pipeline Water Slide: 333 feet
- Freefall on the Paradise Plunge: 7 stories
What Makes Hurricane Harbor Splashtown Special
Now, why should you visit Hurricane Harbor Splashtown? Because it’s not just a water park; it’s a whole experience! From towering and relaxing lazy river to tasty frozen treats and raft rides, the park has something for everyone.
Ready for a splashin‘ good time in Houston? Hurricane Harbor Splashtown is the place to be.
Thrilling Slides and Attractions
Hurricane Harbor Splashtown boasts a variety of thrilling water slides, catering to adventurers of all ages. From steep drops to twisty turns, these slides provide an exhilarating experience for anyone seeking a rush of excitement. Take a thrilling water journey on Big Kahuna or get a taste of zero gravity on Big Spin.
Family-friendly Areas
For pint-sized adventures, there are plenty of family-friendly water play areas such as Coconut Bay and Tree House. Whether you’re young or young at heart, you’ll love to splash and explore in these large interactive areas.
Paradise River and the Blue Lagoon Activity Pool are ideal for cooling off and relaxing with friends or family. Watch the world go by as you bask in the comfort of your inner tube and float gently along crystal blue waters.
An Ocean of Fun
You don’t need to leave the park to catch a wave! Hurricane Bay is a massive wave pool that will toss you around just like the ocean. If surfing’s your style, check out Flow Rider, Hurricane Harbor Splashtown’s powerful surf simulator. Do you have what it takes to hang ten?
Community Impact
Beyond entertainment, Hurricane Harbor Splashtown is proud to contribute to the Houston community. The water park serves as a gathering place for families and friends, fostering memorable experiences for everyone who spends a day or a season in the park.
Six Flags is a proud supporter of hundreds of organizations throughout the communities where we work and play. Learn more about our community partner organizations here.
Plan Your Visit to Hurricane Harbor Splashtown!
Hurricane Harbor Splashtown holds a special place in the hearts of many of our guests. The park has become a staple for generations of families looking to beat the heat while enjoying a day filled with water-based adventures.
Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, enjoying a beverage in one of our double-decker cabanas or simply enjoying a relaxing day by the pool, Hurricane Harbor Splashtown provides an enjoyable escape deep in the heart of Texas.
Plan your visit today! Snag your Season Pass and single-day tickets so you’ll be ready for some ultracool fun when heat cranks up.