The History of Kansas City's Water Park, Oceans of Fun

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Nostalgia

The History of Kansas City's Water Park

McKenzie Koppe Photo McKenzie Koppe |
June 19, 2019

After years of planning and construction, Oceans of Fun opened on May 31, 1982 as the world’s largest water park. Over its 37-years of operation, the Kansas City water park has become the premiere summertime destination for families in the Heartland. With over 63 acres of beautifully shaded landscape and 17 attractions ranging from mild to wild, planning a visit to Oceans of Fun has been a long-time tradition for millions of fun-loving families.

The Early Days at Oceans of Fun

Owned and operated by Lamar Hunt and Hunt Mid-West, the construction of Oceans of Fun was to be completed as part of Worlds of Fun’s ten-year anniversary. It was an immediate hit, drawing in guests with some of the same classic attractions you can still enjoy today, such as the one-million-gallon Surf City wave pool. Another attraction that continues to bring smiles to guests today is the five-acre lake Buccaneer Bay. When the park first opened the lake was used for spectacular water skiing exhibitions. Nowadays, guests can take a kayak, canoe or Swan paddle boat around the lake free of charge.

At Oceans of Fun’s opening, it was separately gated from Worlds of Fun. The parks were intended to be enjoyed on two separate days with two separate admission tickets. The two parks grew closer in 1992 with the introduction of Monsoon, a water ride that brings guests up 55-feet in a 20-passenger boat and descends with a thrilling double-down drop into a gigantic splash. Monsoon’s location in the middle of the two parks bridged the gap between them with a new entrance. Guests from both parks could access this attraction, regardless of their admission ticket, for a "Same Day Getaway." 

In 2013, Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun became conjoined, allowing guests to enjoy both slides and rides throughout the day as they wish. Now entry into Oceans of Fun is included with admission into Worlds of Fun, making it one park, one price.

Oceans of Fun is the only place where you can catch a wave without even leaving the Heartland. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day floating down our lazy river or a thrilling adventure with our collection of world-class slides, be sure to add this Kansas City water park to your list of things to do this summer.

By McKenzie Koppe
Communications Coordinator

This is McKenzie’s fifth season with Cedar Fair Entertainment, and her first in the marketing department. She is a junior at the University of Central Missouri pursuing a major in Digital Media Production with a minor in Public Relations. She's proud to be coaster nerd friendly. 

When she’s not at the park… well, she’s probably at the park.