(SPRINGFIELD, IL) — Central Illinois’ premier summertime destination, Knight’s Action Park, is pleased to announce Splash Kingdom is opening on Saturday, May 23, 2026, for another season of wet-and-wild thrills! Featuring a fantastic collection of water-based attractions ranging from the high-flying Devil Ray to the relaxing Caribbean Wild River — plus shallow and zero-depth attractions for little swimmers — Knight’s Action Park is honored to be Springfield’s premier summertime destination for nearly a century.
“We’ve been in business for 96 years now, which is amazing to think about when you consider Route 66 is just a few years older,” said Doug Knight, owner of Knight’s Action Park. “As we welcome travelers to town for the Route 66 centennial, we’re excited to once again provide an amazing place for families to get together and create lifelong memories.”
New for 2026, Knight’s Action Park will host Community Tuesdays, during which guests make a $3 minimum donation at the main entrance during purchase and receive $13 off a Splash Kingdom day pass — making a pass just $31.95. Proceeds from this initiative benefit numerous area organizations, including the Animal Protective League, the Boys & Girls Club of Central Illinois, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Illinois, Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach, and the HSHS St. John’s Foundation. This offer will only be available for in-person purchases.
Additionally, Knight’s Action Park will partner with ImpactLife — a Midwestern nonprofit blood donation center — to host a blood drive on Friday, June 12, at both the park and the ImpactLife donation center (1999 Wabash Ave.). Anyone who donates will receive a free day pass to Splash Kingdom.
“In addition to providing a fun and safe place for families to play and relax, Knight’s Action Park is proud to help support the Greater Springfield community with the help of our friends, family, and neighbors,” said Knight’s Action Park Assistant General Manager Olivia Knight. “This summer, we invite everyone to spend time with us and give to these organizations and to have a lot of fun in the process!”
Splash Kingdom is adjacent to other Knight’s Action Park amenities, including dry-side attractions like mini golf, go-karts, batting cages, amusement rides, a video arcade, and a 50-tee driving range. Next door, Route 66 Drive-in provides a nightcap like no other, showing family-friendly double features on twin screens — a unique and memorable way for families to see the latest Hollywood releases from the comfort of their own car.