RIVERSPORT Rapids, OKC’s $45 million whitewater rafting and kayaking facility, is set to open to the public May 7. RIVERSPORT Rapids was built in the Boathouse District as a part of MAPS 3.

RIVERSPORT Rapids, Oklahoma City's new $45.2 million whitewater rafting and kayaking center, will hold a grand opening celebration May 7-8.

The whitewater center was built in the city's Boathouse District as part of MAPS 3, a one-cent sales tax initiative to fund projects that enhance the quality of life for metro area residents.

"You will never find a better weekend to experience all that the Boathouse District has to offer," said Mike Knopp, the executive director of the OKC Boathouse Foundation. "You'll get a taste of what the Olympics in Rio are all about, see the nation's top whitewater slalom athletes in action, watch rowing on the Oklahoma River and enjoy live music, great food and, of course, fireworks."

The OKC Boathouse Foundation will operate the new whitewater center and will offer recreational rafting, kayaking and tubing along with adventure activities, rafting and kayaking lessons, leagues and camps. The adventures and whitewater activities are open to the public. Day and season passes are available.