86-acre waterpark proposed for Tropicana Field site after Rays stadium deal collapses
/Disclaimer: This article is an April Fools’ joke and is purely satirical. No real plans exist for a waterpark at Tropicana Field (at least, not yet!). Additionally, AI was used to generate parts of this story and accompanying images. Thanks for playing along — Happy April Fools’ Day, St. Pete!
An 84-acre waterpark has been proposed for Tropicana Field | IMAGE CREATED WITH AI
Just when you thought the Tropicana Field saga couldn’t take another wild turn, an unexpected proposal has surfaced—one that’s making a splash in the local development world.
Following the collapse of the Tampa Bay Rays and Hines redevelopment deal on March 31, 2025, a new developer has stepped forward with a bold vision: converting the entire 86-acre site into Florida’s largest waterpark.
Dubbed St. Pete Splash City, the proposed aquatic attraction would feature an array of record-breaking water rides, including the world’s tallest water slide, a lazy river that circles the entire property, and an underground tunnel slide that plunges beneath Interstate 175 (don’t ask how).
The plan also includes an interactive wave pool modeled after Tampa Bay’s tides, a “floating” tiki bar district inspired by St. Pete Beach’s laid-back charm, and a dolphin cove where the dolphins might be animatronic—pending budget approval.
“St. Petersburg deserves a landmark attraction that puts us on the map,” said lead developer Wade E. Waters, CEO of AquaVenture Developments. “Since baseball didn’t work out, why not lean into something Florida does best—water, fun, and sun? Plus, we hear mermaids might be interested in moving in.”
Wade E. Waters, CEO of AquaVenture Developments | IMAGE CREATED WITH AI
City officials, caught off guard by the proposal, have yet to comment, though sources suggest the idea is being met with cautious optimism. “We were expecting another round of mixed-use development proposals, but I suppose a waterpark is technically mixed-use,” said one anonymous city planner. “It’s got recreation, hospitality, and even retail—assuming they build enough snack stands and an alligator petting zoo.”
Local reaction has been a mix of excitement and disbelief. While some residents worry about the feasibility of maintaining a massive waterpark year-round, others are thrilled by the idea of having a theme-park-level attraction in downtown St. Pete.
“I love it,” said longtime resident and avid water slide enthusiast Marty McSplash. “Forget baseball! Who needs a stadium when you can have a lazy river looping through an old home plate? I just hope they add a rollercoaster that launches you straight into the bay.”
Despite the enthusiasm, some logistical concerns remain. With the city’s ongoing infrastructure challenges, including stormwater drainage issues, adding millions of gallons of artificial water might pose some engineering headaches.
When asked about funding, AquaVenture Developments hinted at a mix of private investment, public funds, and an innovative “Splash Tax” on sunscreen sales within city limits.
While the proposal is still in its infancy, the developers claim they are confident the city will support the idea, particularly given the alternative—letting the Trop site sit empty for another decade.
