As a theme park expert and enthusiast, I‘m excited to provide this comprehensive, insider‘s guide to purchasing Kentucky Kingdom season passes at Kroger. With over 30 years of thrills, entertainment and family memories, Kentucky Kingdom is a Louisville staple. This guide will equip you with everything you need to know to maximize value and experience if you choose to purchase season passes for Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay waterpark at Kroger.
About Kentucky Kingdom
Kentucky Kingdom first opened its gates in 1987 and has delivered world-class thrills to over 54 million guests since opening. The park spans over 80 acres and features over 70 rides and attractions.
Some of the most popular rollercoasters over the years include:
-
Thunder Run – One of only two wooden rollercoasters built by renowned designer Curtis D. Summers
-
Chang – Standing at a whopping 100 feet, Chang boasts a heart-pounding top speed of 65 mph
-
Lightning Run – Lauded as one of the top steel rollercoasters in the world, with speeds exceeding 50 mph
The park underwent major expansions in 1997 and again in 2014 after a five year hiatus. Today, Kentucky Kingdom continues to provide thrills and entertainment for all ages. In 2022, the park welcomed over 650,000 guests.
Season Pass Options
Kentucky Kingdom offers two main types of season passes:
Regular Season Pass – $89.99
- Provides unlimited admission to both Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay for the entire season
- Valid for a single season, expires at end of season
- Does not include free parking, dining discounts, or other perks
Gold Season Pass – $109.99
- Unlimited admission for the season
- Free standard parking
- 10% off merchandise
- 50% off food and drinks
- Add-on dining plan available
| Benefit | Regular Pass | Gold Pass |
| Unlimited admission | ✅ | ✅ |
| Free parking | ❌ | ✅ |
| Merchandise discount | ❌ | 10% off |
| Food/beverage discount | ❌ | 50% off |
As you can see, the Gold Pass provides significantly more added value for guests who visit frequently.
Buying Season Passes at Kroger
Kroger offers the convenience of purchasing Kentucky Kingdom passes at select supermarket locations. The discounted seasonal pricing is:
- Regular Pass – $84.99
- Gold Pass – $104.99
This represents around a 5% discount off gate prices. In addition, Kroger shoppers can redeem fuel points to save even more on the purchase price.
To buy, simply visit the customer service desk at your local Kroger. Passes purchased at Kroger must be activated at the park prior to first use.
Tips for Saving at Kentucky Kingdom
As a seasoned park-goer, here are some of my top tips for saving money during your visits:
-
Visit on weekdays – crowds are lighter so you‘ll spend less time waiting in lines
-
Pack food – picnic areas are available and you can bring a sealed water bottle
-
Purchase discount re-entry passes if splitting your day between the parks
-
Check for special coupons and promotions before your visit
-
Stick to snack stands instead of full-service restaurants to save on dining
-
Purchase souvenirs at nearby discount retailers instead of in the park
Hurricane Bay Waterpark
In addition to the theme park, season passes grant unlimited access to Hurricane Bay waterpark. Spanning 15 acres, Hurricane Bay features:
-
Over 500,000 gallons of water activities
-
High-thrill body slides like Bonzai Pipeline and Paradise Plunge
-
Family raft rides like Splashwater Falls and Waikiki Wipeout
-
Little squirt lagoon perfect for small children
The park provides lockers, cabanas, and dining options like River Island Grill and Surf Deli. With average summer temperatures in the 80s, Hurricane Bay provides the perfect place to cool down.
Important Season Pass Policies
When purchasing your season passes, be sure to note these key policies:
-
Passes are non-refundable and non-transferable
-
No outside food or drink beyond one sealed water bottle under 2L
-
Valid photo ID required for passholder ticket pickup
-
Pass activation required prior to first use
-
Not valid for separately ticketed events or concerts
-
Blockout dates apply on peak attendance days like major holidays
-
Lost or stolen passes can be replaced for a $10 fee
The Bottom Line
For frequent park visitors, Kentucky Kingdom season passes offer a great value and perks. Purchasing your passes at Kroger provides the ability to save through discounted pricing and fuel points redemptions.
Hopefully this guide provides all the details you need to decide if season passes are right for you. Let me know if you have any other questions – happy to help provide my expertise as a seasoned passholder!
