Adventureland’s 2026 Season – Opening Dates & New Events

May will be here before you know it, and that means Iowa's beloved Adventureland will be opening its gates for the 2026 season! We've got a rundown of everything you need to know before plan your summer trip.

When Does Adventureland Open for the Season?

Adventureland Theme Park will officially open for the summer 2026 season on Saturday, May 16th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Adventure Bay Water Park won't open until a week later on Saturday, May 23rd, the start of Memorial Day weekend. The hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Throughout the remainder of May, the theme park is only open Friday through Monday, while the water park is only open Saturday through Monday. Once June hits, both parks are open daily through August 23rd, and then they switch back to weekends only through Labor Day (Monday, September 7th).

Is There Anything New in 2026?

As far as events go, YES! There is a new event and two new shows set for 2026.

The new event is called Neon Nights, and it will take place every Friday and Saturday from July 10th to August 15th at Adventure Bay. The description on Adventureland's website reads:

"Join the fun as Iowa’s largest water park transforms into NEON NIGHTS- the electric new event under the stars. Follow the lights and sounds around Adventure Bay where the action pulses in full vivid color. Dial the energy up while you zip down some of your favorite slides in the dark. Then put yourself in the middle of your favorite pool, immersed in LED lights and dazzling special effects.

Neon Nights will run from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. More details are coming soon.

The two new shows for 2026 are both scheduled for June. The first is the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show, which will take place June 1st through the 14th. It features "flannel-clad pros" showing off their logging skills with "high-energy competitions, playful banter and a humorous twist that’s fun for the whole family."

The other show kicks off on June 17th and runs through the 30th. It's called The Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show, and yes, it features dogs! The cast of adopted dogs and their trainers perform "jaw-dropping tricks [and] high-energy stunts," which I'm sure are both impressive AND adorable.

What Events/Shows Are Returning This Year?

There are several special events on the calendar for 2026, including the 'Father’s Day Flop' on June 20th, 'Drones Over Adventureland' on August 21st & 22nd, 'Oktoberfest' (ages 21+) on September 19th, and the 4th of July fireworks, which fall on a Saturday this year. The park will also host Daniel Tiger meet & greets for kids on Sundays and Mondays in July.

And, of course, Ben Unlin's Magic and Comedy Show will be back with daily shows in 2026. It just wouldn't be the same without him!

Are Tickets on Sale?

They sure are! Not only are season passes available, but single day tickets are, too. And, you can save a few bucks by purchasing a ticket for a specific date, rather than an any-day ticket. It's also important to note that during Memorial Weekend, past and present military members can get free admission to the park. For more information and to purchase Adventureland tickets for the 2026 season, click HERE!

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READ MORE: A Giant List of April 2026 Events Across Eastern Iowa