In a nod to first responders, Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark is offering free admission during American Heroes Week, May 30 through June 5, plus half-off admission for spouses and dependents. That sounds like a pretty good deal, with 26 acres of awesomeness, including Wasserfest (voted best indoor waterpark for eight years straight), the Soaring Eagle quarter-mile zip line and the park’s very own super-cool invention: two-story cabanas.
“Members of the Military, Police, Firefighters & EMTs will be welcomed at every Schlitterbahn waterpark free starting on Memorial Day and continuing through June 5. It’s a tribute to the hard working first responders and members of the armed forces who dedicate their lives to the safety and freedoms of everyone in their community. ”
James MacAlpine, director of sales and marketing, says that American Heroes Week was so successful last year that Schlitterbahn is running it again on Labor Day. “We got a really positive reception last year and people really enjoyed it, so we’re doing it again,” says MacAlpine. “Last year we got a little over 800 heroes, and this year we’re hoping to get 1,000.”
Plus we’re all holding our breath for the soon-to-be-open MASSIV, billed as the tallest water coaster in the world. It’s another record-breaker — Schlitterbahn already has the longest river ride, the longest torrent (action) river ride and the tallest waterslide — and MASSIV should be open in time for the waterpark’s tenth-anniversary celebration this summer. Booyah!
American Heroes Week is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 30 through June 3, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. June 4-5.
General admission continues 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, through August 28. Sections remain open weekends during the off-season. 2026 Lockheed Street, Galveston. For information, call 409-770-9283 or visit schlitterbahn.com/galveston. $49.98 to $102.97.
This article appears in Summer Guide 2016.