ADDITION — A water-spraying dragon will greet visitors to the Dragon’s Den inside Sandcastle. -- Contributed

PITTSBURGH — Sandcastle Waterpark — named one of the top waterparks in the nation by U.S. News and World Report — opens for the season on Saturday with a vibrant new look and its distinctive blend of thrills and relaxation. The park has completed its two-year improvement project ahead of the unofficial start to summer during Memorial Day Weekend.

“We are looking forward to welcoming guests to the brand-new Sandcastle this season, with eye-catching upgrades throughout the entire park,” said Assistant General Manager Zach Zapf. “The team has been working hard to elevate the park experience in every way. Our guests are sure to be wowed by all the improvements.”

Bomb’s Away, the newest attraction to hit the waterslide lineup, features a 305-foot-long freefalling flight of fun at a jaw-dropping 26 feet per second. Mon Tsunami and Mushroom Pool has a new brick facade, backdrops and a waterfall element making it the perfect place to catch some waves and sun. Dragon’s Den received a makeover and welcomed a new beast to its lair. A water-spraying dragon will greet visitors at the ride’s entrance and adventurers taking the plunge into the darkness of the mist-shrouded abyss will meet the newest inhabitant inside the den.

Guests will be greeted by a new sign and steel archway when entering the Boardwalk with illuminated lettering. Under the slides, guests can dig and sculpt in the new 2,000-square-foot play place, the Sandbox, and take the perfect picture in the oversized Adirondack chair. New foliage, flowers, and ornamental grass have updated the landscape making for an awe-inspiring transformation. Plus, all the waterslides have been refinished.

The Sandcastle Bridge Bar and Grill makes its full debut with a beachy new atmosphere. A turfed area outside adds a cozy element with cornhole available for visitors to enjoy. Giant garage-style doors expand the space letting in fresh air for a coastal vibe. Also, an all-new menu that embodies a seaside feel offers shrimp tacos, fish and chips, frozen margaritas, tropical cocktails, and much more. The park also welcomes a sweet new treat to its Boardwalk this season. The Kennywood famous dipped cone will now be served at the waterpark offering a tasty way to cool off during the warm days this summer.

Exciting special events offer reasons to visit Sandcastle all summer long. During Father’s Day weekend, the park will again hold the Father’s Day Flop belly flop contest complete with unique prizes. Jammin’ July returns this year, featuring the finest in local entertainment headlining Pittsburgh’s most unique concert venue. Passholder perk weekends offers early access to attractions, bonus activities, and in-park discounts.

Guests can buy a day and get summer free during the opening season pass Ssale. For the best value, the platinum season Ppass provides the most perks and unlimited access to Sandcastle, Kennywood, and Idlewild and SoakZone.

For information on the season, visit Sandcastlewaterpark.com.