Waterpark News

3 DFW-area waterparks to get $1 million makeovers for 2026 season

Photo courtesy of Hawaiian Falls

Three Fort Worth-area waterparks are about to get major makeovers: Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World Entertainment, the owner of Hawaiian Falls Waterparks, is investing more than $1 million to elevate guest experiences at the Hawaiian Falls locations in Mansfield, Roanoke, and Waco.

According to a release, the enhancements—set to debut for the 2026 season—will refresh signature water rides and attractions, expand shade and comfort amenities, upgrade cabanas, and introduce new special events along with expanded food and beverage offerings.

It's a significant investment that marks Ripley’s first major initiative since the company acquired the three Hawaiian Falls locations in August 2025. The three waterparks were previously owned by ProParks Attractions Group, who acquired them in 2017.

Ripley’s owns more than 100 attractions across nine countries including Great Wolf Lodge (Niagara Falls), Guinness World Records attractions, wax museums, traveling shows, miniature golf courses, mirror mazes, and more. Ripley's Believe It or Not! World Entertainment is part of The Jim Pattison Group, Canada's largest private company.

“Hawaiian Falls has been serving our communities for decades, and we are proud to be the leader in providing refreshing summer fun for families in Texas,” says Hawaiian Falls Chief Marketing Officer Ron McKenzie in a statement. “We remain committed to serving future generations and believe this renewed investment in our parks will help us create amazing memories for the communities we serve now and for years to come.”

All enhancements are scheduled for completion ahead of opening day on May 2, 2026, ensuring guests enjoy an upgraded and enhanced experience from the moment the gates open.

2026 Season Passes are now on sale for as low as $50 through the holiday season at hfalls.com.

waterparks

Racing News

IndyCar's Grand Prix of Arlington fuels up for 2027 return to DFW

Photo courtesy of NTT IndyCar Series

The Java House Grand Prix of Arlington will return in 2027 to the Arlington Entertainment District.

Following its debut in 2026, the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington will return to the Arlington Entertainment District in 2027, taking place on the weekend of March 19-21, according to a release.

The inaugural event, which took place on March 15, was the third race in the 2026 NTT IndyCar Series, a season which will see one other debut race and multiple other schedule changes.

The open-wheel racing competition features a unique, 2.73 mile temporary street circuit that weaves its way around AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Field, Texas Live!, and Loews Hotels in Arlington.

The full weekend features not only multiple events with world-class racing, but also live entertainment and a great fan experience to the city.

“From the sold-out grandstands to the incredible support from our fans, partners and the Arlington community, the response to the inaugural event was exceptional,” said Bill Miller, President of the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington, in a statement. "Building on the momentum from this first year, 2027 will deliver more enhancements and memorable experiences for our guests. ”

To receive updates and event information including ticket renewals, premium hospitality options, and public on-sale dates to be announced later this summer, fans can register for emails at gparlington.com.

Highlights from the inaugural Java House Grand Prix can be viewed on YouTube.

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