Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari just announced the largest single-attraction investment in the park’s history: Cannonball!, a groundbreaking $22 million water roller coaster set to debut in May 2027.
Themed as a quirky Fourth of July community center pool party, Cannonball! is a nostalgic nod to those childhood summers spent working up the courage to jump off the high dive.
“This ride is dedicated to every kid who had to work up the courage to climb the tall diving board at their community pool,” says Leah Koch-Blumhardt, Fourth-Generation Owner and Director of Communications. “And it’s a tribute to every small town with a quirky annual tradition.”
Designed by Mack Rides and coming to the Midwest for the first time, this will be the third water roller coaster of its kind in the U.S. Prepare for some serious stats:
- Height: Riders will be whisked 90 feet into the air.
- Speed: With a max speed of 45 mph, it will be the fastest water roller coaster in the United States.
- Drops: It features five total drops, including the nation’s tallest drop on a water coaster.
- Track: The journey spans over 1,000 feet of coaster track before ending in a massive, refreshing splashdown.
The ride is designed to be a perfect “middle step” for families—thrilling enough for older kids but accessible for the whole family to enjoy together.
- Height Requirement: 42 inches when accompanied by an adult, or 48 inches to ride unaccompanied.
- The Boats: Guests will board one of seven boats designed as fun, colorful novelty innertubes, ranging from a giant donut and a watermelon to an American flag and a patriotic popsicle.
As you plunge toward the final splashdown in the “Boulder Canyon Community pool,” you’re encouraged to shout “Cannonball!” before floating past two giant inflatable swans, affectionately named “Ron the Swan” and “Ron Swan’s Son.”
Holiday World continues to offer fantastic value, with admission including free unlimited soft drinks, sunscreen, and parking. If you’re looking to get ahead of the game, 2027 Platinum Season Passes are already on sale. These passes include a free ticket to visit during the current 2026 season, plus early entry to ride Cannonball! next summer during June and July.
Whether you’re a fan of high-speed thrills or just love the unique, fun-loving spirit of the park, Cannonball! is shaping up to be an unmissable addition to the Fourth of July section. We can’t wait to see you there—just don’t forget to yell “Cannonball!” on your way down!
Are you planning to be among the first to ride Cannonball! when it opens in 2027?
Clint Gamache is the owner of ThrillGeek. He started ThrillGeek to share his love of theme/amusement parks and pop culture with the world. You can find him at Halloween Horror Nights. Also, be sure to follow him on Twitter/X, Instagram @iamcg83