A Popular Kentucky Theme Park Is Adding Its First Coaster in Years—and It’s a New Kind of Ride

After a few quiet years on the coaster front, Kentucky Kingdom is ready to add something new to its lineup—and this one is designed to bring a very different kind of thrill to the park.

In 2026, the Louisville theme park will debut Flying Fox, its first new roller coaster since 2019. Unlike some of the park’s more intense rides, this one is meant to be approachable, family-friendly and a little bit whimsical—while still breaking new ground for Kentucky Kingdom.

Related: Six Flags New England is Debuting a One-of-a-Kind Coaster in 2026

View this post on Instagram

Flying Fox will be a suspended roller coaster, meaning riders will hang beneath the track rather than sitting on top of it. The design gives the sensation of gliding through the air, with your feet dangling freely as the train moves along the course. It’s a style of coaster Kentucky Kingdom hasn’t had before, and one that’s intended to appeal to a wide range of ages.

The ride will stretch about 1,380 feet long, reach a maximum height of 65 feet, and hit speeds of up to 37 miles per hour. Riders as short as 38 inches tall will be able to hop on, making it one of the more accessible coasters in the park—especially for families with younger thrill-seekers who aren’t quite ready for the biggest rides yet.

The theming is where Flying Fox really leans into its local roots. The coaster is inspired by a fictional Kentucky crop-dusting pilot named Jeb Fox and will take riders “soaring” over a colorful farmland setting. Guests can expect a red barn–inspired queue, murals and audio elements that help tell the story, all designed to celebrate Kentucky’s agricultural heritage in a playful way.

Related: The Roller Coasters Amusement Park Superfans Are Most Excited to Ride in 2026

Kentucky Kingdom says the coaster is part of a larger investment push at the park, with more than $33 million committed through 2026. Flying Fox alone represents a roughly $14 million investment.

While the new coaster won’t open until later this year, there’s still plenty happening at the park in the meantime. Kentucky Kingdom is gearing up for another season of special events, and season passes for 2026 are already available for current pass holders—giving fans a way to lock in visits now while counting down to Flying Fox’s debut.

For a park known for big thrills, Flying Fox is an exciting next step—one that adds something new without leaving families behind.

Related: The 10 Most Anticipated Theme Park Launches of 2026