Texas-sized Local Fun
Looking to take the family out for a little fun in the sun without breaking the bank or hassling with big lines and crazy crowds? Check out these local and less-known amusement parks across the state:
- Lubbock’s Joyland Amusement Park — Home of the Texas Tech Red Raiders, Lubbock is also home to Joyland, a 25-attraction thrill and water park. Be sure to stop by the park’s concession stand for classic amusement park treats like funnel cake and snow cones. www.joylandpark.com/
- Seguin’s ZDT’s Amusement Park — Home of the highest indoor jungle playground in Texas, ZDT’s Amusement Park has thrill rides and attractions for the most daring Texans in the Lone Star State. Start your day climbing the tallest auto-belay climbing wall in the world, then jump up to 24-feet in the air on Trampoline Thing, and end your day in one of ZDT’s three simulator rides for a thrilling experience in a great local setting. www.zdtamusement.com
- San Antonio’s Morgan’s Wonderland — Visit the world’s first “ultra-accessible” theme park that offers complete accessibility to every ride and attraction for guests with disabilities. The sensory-themed park features a 1930s-style train ride, eight-acre lake, amphitheater, butterfly playground, and more. www.morganswonderland.com
- Austin’s Kiddie Acres — For the tiny tots in your family, Kiddie Acres Amusement Park and Miniature Golf is a year-round magic town for children ages 10 and under. Kiddie Acres has been offering Texans pony rides, carousel, miniature golf, and spots for the perfect picnic since 1979. www.kiddieacres.com/
- Amarillo’s Wonderland Park — Opening in April 2015, the Wonderland Amusement Park will combine thrill and amusement rides with water fun and mini golf in the Panhandle. www.wonderlandpark.com/
- Lumberton’s Adventure Kingdom — From bumper cars to water wars, this castle-themed entertainment park provides a renaissance-themed family fun experience for both kids and kids at heart. Take a swing on the 18-hole mini golf course or bask in the sun afloat a personal swan boat — at Adventure Kingdom the fun is everywhere! www.adventurekingdom.com
- San Antonio’s Kiddie Park — Touted as “America’s Oldest Children’s Amusement Park,” this classic Texas landmark was established in 1925 and features a nostalgic 1920s theme throughout the park. www.kiddiepark.com/
- Carrollton’s Sandy Lake Amusement Park — Tucked off of Stemmons Freeway in Carrollton lies Sandy Lake Amusement Park, a family owned and operated gem touted as “Dallas’ most complete group picnic location.” From a classic arcade to paddleboats on Sandy Lake, this amusement park has something for everyone. sandylake.com
- San Marcos’ Wonder World Park — Settle in for the perfect picnic and party venue, nestled between San Antonio and Austin. This park features a guided tour through an earthquake-formed cave, as well as a Tejas 110-foot observation tower, and an amazing anti-gravity house. www.wonderworldpark.com/
