Splash Zone Waterpark in Wildwood Closes After 26 Years

Splash Zone Waterpark in Wildwood Closes After 26 Years

The Wildwood Boardwalk skyline is about to change forever.

After 26 summers of slides, splashes, and family laughter, Splash Zone Waterpark in Wildwood, New Jersey has closed its gates and will begin a bold new chapter in 2026.

The Wildwood waterpark, known for its bright colors, high-energy rides, and seaside fun, will soon transform into a new development that could include boutique lodging, luxury residences, or a mixed-use attraction.

“For a quarter of a century, Splash Zone has been a place where families have come together to laugh, play, and make memories,” said Andy Weiner, owner of Splash Zone Waterpark. “As we look to the future, we’re exploring how our property can continue to bring life and enjoyment to Wildwood, possibly through a new development such as a boutique hotel or luxury condominiums.”

The Splash Zone Waterpark officially closed its doors at the end of the 2025 Wildwood summer season a few weeks back, marking the end of an era that began in 2000. The decision, Weiner emphasized, comes after careful reflection on how the family can reimagine its contribution to the Wildwood tourism economy in new and sustainable ways.

“This isn’t the end of Splash Zone’s story,” Weiner continued. “It’s a new beginning. We’re excited to explore opportunities that will benefit the Wildwood community, strengthen local tourism, and continue our family’s commitment to this vibrant shore town.”

A Staple of Wildwood Summers

Located at Schellenger Avenue on the Wildwood Boardwalk, Splash Zone was more than just a waterpark; it was part of the rhythm of summer in South Jersey.

As one of the most recognizable attractions on the Wildwood Boardwalk, Splash Zone Waterpark has been a symbol of Wildwood NJ summers for over two decades.

Also See: North Wildwood Boardwalk Reconstruction Officially Underway!

Driving down Ocean Ave in Wildwood, the waterpark looked like a mountain of fun with the twists and turns of its slides. Every 15 minutes or so, said the mountain would erupt water as it’s yellow bucket would spill water on those below.

Families often planned their entire day around a visit: morning rides, beach time, and an afternoon cool-off at Splash Zone before heading home at sunset.

Over the years, the park continually evolved.

In 2025, it introduced a dinosaur-themed zone called “Dino Dig” – Dino Dig was a hands-on adventure zone where kids could dig through the sand to uncover replica dinosaur fossils, discover hidden gems, and unearth special prizes buried beneath the surface.

Earlier expansions, including a Flow House live entertainment, a cool bar, and other attractions which helped to keep Wildwood’s boardwalk vibrant and competitive with other East Coast beach towns.

Wildwood’s Growing Tourism Boom

The timing of Splash Zone’s closure coincides with a major boom in Wildwood tourism. According to the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement & Development Authority (GWTIDA), direct tourism spending reached $374 million through August 2024, up 3 percent from the previous year.

The Wildwoods 2% tourism tax also grew, reflecting a strong demand for new attractions and hospitality options.

Across Cape May County, tourism remains the region’s economic engine. New Jersey welcomed 123.7 million visitors in 2024, with the Wildwoods attracting nearly 9 million visitors annually, making it one of the most popular seaside destinations in the Northeast.

What’s Next for the Splash Zone Site

While the exact redevelopment plans are still being finalized, the Weiner family has pledged to share updates as they become available.

What the WVA can confirm is that this December, the slides and going to be sold off. There will be an auction for them so that these attractions will find a new home at another waterpark instead of finding their way into a landfill.

Speculation already swirls around what might rise on the high-profile boardwalk property, from boutique hotels to modern condominiums that could reshape Wildwood’s skyline.

As 2025 draws to a close, Wildwood finds itself at a turning point. The Splash Zone Waterpark property could soon symbolize Wildwood’s evolution from nostalgic summer fun to a year-round destination.

Every summer brought new smiles and stories, and though the waterpark is closed, its legacy will ripple through Wildwood for generations to come.

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