For all of its incredible experiences and world-class amenities, if there’s one thing our favorite concrete jungle is lacking, it’s waterslides.
For good reason, of course, as sliding face-first into the Hudson River likely isn’t the most favorable summer activity.
But even in the areas where NYC may not be able to provide firsthand, it always delivers with its breezy proximity to endless adventures.
If you’re looking for a summer getaway that’s sure to make a splash, New York’s largest combination water and amusement park is the place to be.
With fun for all ages (in my case, 22) and an exciting new debut for its 2026 season, it’s the perfect way to cool off and escape the city’s sweltering heat.
Here’s everything you need to know about trading the subway lines for the splash lines this summer.
🤿 What to Know
Enchanted Forest Water Safari, located deep in the picturesque Adirondack Mountains in Old Forge, New York, is officially the state’s largest combined water and amusement park.
Celebrating 70 years of operation since first opening its gates in 1956, this beloved mountain destination seamlessly blends classic amusement park charm with a massive, modern water park.
The park features over 50 rides and attractions, including 33 heated water slides designed to keep you comfortable even during those crisper mountain mornings.
📆 The 2026 Season
- Official 2026 Opening Date: The park officially kicks off its 70th anniversary season on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, with opening day hours from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
- The Big New Attraction: The 2026 season marks the highly anticipated debut of Paul Bunyan’s Log Haul, a brand-new, free-spinning family roller coaster where every single ride experience is completely unique. The coaster features a classic figure-eight track layout, where each of the four cars spins freely and independently based on the rider.
- Massive Water & Ride Lineup: Visitors can look forward to exploring over 50 total attractions, including 33 heated water slides, classic amusement rides, and nostalgic storybook themed areas.
- Calypso’s Cove Early Opening: The adjacent family fun center—featuring go-karts, mini-golf, and an arcade—opens ahead of the main water park for Memorial Day Weekend starting Friday, May 22, 2026.
Beyond the new spinning coaster, Enchanted Forest Water Safari is packed with diverse areas and attraction types that justify a full weekend trip:
- Adrenaline-Pumping Water Slides: Test your bravery on Killermanjaro’s Revenge, a 207-foot speed slide featuring a trapdoor floor drop, or race your friends down the four-lane Serengeti Stampede mat racer.
- Classic Amusement Rides: If you want to dry off, the park features vintage and modern amusement rides, including the Tilt-O-Whirl, the Round-Up, and the newly relocated Fliver Cars.
- Storybook Character Land: A nostalgic nod to the park’s 1950s roots, where you can stroll through whimsical fairytale houses and meet storybook characters.
- Calypso’s Cove: Located right next door, this companion family fun center offers go-karts, rock climbing, mini-golf, a zipline, and an arcade to keep the energy going well into the evening.
🚙 How to Get There from NYC
Escaping the city for the Adirondacks is a straightforward trek, making it an ideal weekend road trip itinerary.
- Where to Stay: If you want to make a vacation out of it, the park operates the adjacent Old Forge Camping Resort and the Water Safari Resort, both of which offer “Stay ‘N Play” packages that bundle park admission with your lodging.
- By Car (The Best Option): The drive from Manhattan to Old Forge takes roughly 4.5 to 5 hours (approximately 290 miles). You’ll head north on I-87 (the New York State Thruway) up to Utica, and then follow NY-28 North directly into the heart of the mountains. It’s a highly scenic drive once you hit the Adirondack park line.
- By Train & Rideshare: If you prefer not to drive out of the city, you can take the Amtrak Empire Service from Penn Station directly to the Utica Station. From Utica, you will need to rent a car or arrange a rideshare/local shuttle for the remaining 1-hour drive north along Route 28 to Old Forge.
