5 Reasons We Can't Wait for Summer In Ohio's Largest Playground
Blog by Payton Holp
Shed the winter layers and pack away the sweaters, because the sun is shining, the days are long, and the ultimate season of fun is officially here in Warren County! From action-packed afternoons to breezy, laid-back evenings, there is a collective buzz of anticipation for the unforgettable memories just waiting to be made.
Get ready to fill up your calendar - here are just a handful of the many, many adventures visitors can look forward to this summer in Ohio's Largest Playground.
1. Kings Island's iconic Phantom Theater is back from the dead!
Kings Island has officially kicked off its 2026 season, and it’s even more magical than usual. If you grew up visiting the park in the '90s, you most likely have a core memory of the spooky Phantom Theater ride. Now, after more than 20 years, the Phantom Theater has been resurrected for its encore performance. Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare is more interactive than its original version. Guests are equipped with spellbound flashlights and must use them to capture rogue ghost notes before the curtain goes up. The ride also includes fan favorites such as No Legs Larry, the Great Garbonzo, and Maestro himself.
2. We're counting down the days 'til Celtic Fest
Raise a glass and break out your kilts because we are absolutely thrilled to head to Waynesville for Celtic Fest Ohio! Return to Renaissance Park on June 20th for a one-day festival that celebrates Celtic heritage and culture. Enjoy high-energy performances from headliners like Albannach and Bastard Bearded Irishmen while browsing unique artisan shops for handmade traditional kilts, jewelry, and more. Before you leave, make sure to indulge in some delicious, authentic food and pair it with an ice-cold Guinness. Whether you're interested in specialized whiskey tastings or watching the incredible Irish dancers and pipe bands, it’s going to be an unforgettable day of music, heritage and fun.
3. Paddles, parks & picnics galore!
What's summer without fresh air and sunshine? From wet-and-wild water parks to lazy trips down the river, Warren County's got plenty of both to spare. Opening Memorial Day Weekend, Kings Island's Soak City Waterpark delivers waves of fun in a big way. Right next door at Great Wolf Lodge, your water park fun will never be rained out. Rent a kayak or canoe from Little Miami Canoe, River Dogs Paddlesports, or RiversEdge Outfitters for a relaxing float down the Little Miami River. Whether your perfect summer involves hiking the scenic trails at Caesar Creek State Park, ziplining through the air along the Little Miami River with Ozone Zipline Adventures, or a mix of both, Warren County delivers the ultimate blend of high-energy adventure and relaxing nature escapes for the whole family.
Get a true summer camp experience with Yogi Bear and pals at Jellystone Park's newest location! Jellystone Park has officially opened and has an incredible lineup of activities, including two swimming pools, a splash pad, a jumping pillow, pickleball courts, and daily activities. Plus, because it's less than a mile from Kings Island, it offers a free park shuttle, so you can easily double up on the fun! Stay the night in a luxury cabin or bring your RV to their full-hookup RV spaces, which make setting up camp a breeze.
4. America's got a BIG birthday coming up!
There is no better way to celebrate our nation's milestone birthday than by diving headfirst into the incredible history right here in Warren County. Soak up the sunshine while exploring the ancient earthworks at Fort Ancient, then cool off indoors as you wander through the hidden treasures of the Harmon Museum. Take a deeply moving stroll through Springboro on a self-guided tour of the city's history as a major stop along the Underground Railroad, where local homes once served as vital, real-life beacons of freedom. And of course, you can't wrap up a perfect summer day without grabbing a delicious bite and raising a glass to history at the iconic Golden Lamb.
5. Excitement will be served at the Cincinnati Open!
The countdown is officially on for August's Cincinnati Open, and the excitement is hitting an all-time high. Whether you're a diehard tennis fan eager to see the world's top players battle it out or a brand new fan looking to experience a world-class tournament and world-class entertainment, this is the ultimate summer finale.