Since its grand opening in July 2023, Montgomery Whitewater has quickly established itself as a premier destination, reshaping Montgomery’s tourism landscape and adding a thrilling, outdoor-focused attraction to the city. Comparable to the impact of Riverwalk Stadium and the revitalization of the riverfront, Montgomery Whitewater is not only drawing visitors from across the country but also driving economic growth in the region.
Visitors have been impressed by Montgomery Whitewater, likening the experience to high-adventure destinations in the western U.S. As one of only three pumped whitewater parks in the country, it offers an unparalleled recreational experience.
A Rising Tide of Tourism
With more than 160,000 visitors in its first year and five major national and regional sporting events already under its belt—including the U.S. Age Group Nationals, U.S. Open and the Olympic Trials—Montgomery Whitewater has positioned itself as a top-tier adventure and competition venue. These events alone have brought over 9,000 athletes, spectators and tourists to the area, significantly boosting local businesses and hospitality industries.
Beyond competitive sports, Montgomery Whitewater has successfully expanded its appeal beyond the summer months. The addition of land sports features, including the Canopy Ridge Traverse aerial course and mountain bike trails, has transformed it into a year-round attraction. This extended seasonal draw has led to a steady increase in visitors and positioned Montgomery as a destination for both adventure seekers and casual outdoor enthusiasts.
More than just an adventure hub, Montgomery Whitewater has become a key player in regional economic development. The park not only provides seasonal employment opportunities but has also contributed to Montgomery’s broader economic appeal. Notably, when Meta selected Montgomery for its new $800 million facility, it cited the presence of Montgomery Whitewa- ter as a significant factor in its decision. The park has become a prime example of how visionary projects can enhance quality of life and attract major investments to the region.
Montgomery Whitewater’s impact extends well beyond its own gates. The park collaborates with Experience Montgomery and the Alabama Tourism Department to market the facility and bring major sporting events to the city. These partnerships help promote Montgomery as a premier sports tourism destination, attracting thousands of additional visitors who, in turn, support local hotels, restaurants and retail establishments.
Navigating the Steady Current of Growth and Recognition
Looking ahead, Montgomery Whitewater is poised to continue its upward trajectory. The park recently hosted the 2025 Pan American Championships and is set to host the Alabama Triple Crown, showing its reputation as a premier venue for professional and amateur paddle sports is only growing. Through strong partnerships with organizations like the American Canoe Association, Montgomery Whitewater is expected to attract more national and international competitions, solidifying Montgomery’s place on the global map for adventure sports and bringing more business to the community.
Bringing the 2024 Olympic Trials to Montgomery within its first year of operation was a monumental achievement, showcasing the city on an international stage. This event reinforced Montgomery Whitewater’s reputation as a world-class facility capable of hosting elite competitions and introduced thousands to the world of professional paddling, the sport at the heart of Montgomery Whitewater.
Further cementing its status, Montgomery Whitewater was recently named by TIME Magazine as one of the “World’s Greatest Places in 2024”—a prestigious honor that marks its significance as a top global destination. This recognition highlights not only the park’s unique experience but also Montgomery’s commitment to world-class recreation and tourism. With its combination of exhilarating outdoor activities, year-round attractions and major economic contributions, Montgomery Whitewater is not just a park—it’s a game-changer for tourism, business and community growth in Montgomery. As it continues to expand its offerings and host world-class events, its role in shaping the city’s future remains as strong as its rapids.
