Do you want to enjoy your vacation with your family with different water rides and watching sea lions, kids’ rides like a mini roller coaster or a kiddie park, or enjoy exciting rides or spinning rides like a spinning roller coaster? Whatever you choose, Texas has it all. When it comes to arranging a fun day or week, Texas has many fantastic possibilities.
With a state of size, you won’t be lacking in anything, especially when it comes to amusement parks. Most parks are located near major cities, making your visit much more enjoyable.
It has a comprehensive collection of the best amusement parks and theme parks with thrill rides like spinning roller coasters, Goliath roller coasters, classic rides such as roller coasters, and many other activities like mini-golf.
You can go and enjoy it with your whole family, so without further delay, let’s look at the most incredible Texas amusement parks and theme parks.
Nearby Amusement Parks in Houston
Houston is the fourth-largest metropolis in the United States, and there is always something exciting to do. There are also plenty of amusement parks within a short distance of the city.
1. Houston Aquarium Theme Park
The Houston Aquarium theme park lies in the heart of downtown Houston. This is one of the top amusement parks in Texas, but it is also quite distinctive in its own right. Its primary basis is a restaurant [with pretty nice food]. As the name implies, it also has a vast aquarium with many types of aquatic life and thrill rides, including a giant roller coaster.
However, if you’re looking for rides, the Houston Aquarium also provides those! The Diving Bell Ferris Wheel, which offers panoramic views of downtown Houston (come at night for a unique view of the city), is the most visible.
A carousel, a 65-foot drop thrill coaster, a bouncy attraction, and even a little Ferris wheel for youngsters are also available.
Check out these more fantastic activities while you’re in Houston:
• Be astounded by The Museum of Natural Science.
• Take a private tour of Houston, including a stop at the infamous NASA Space Center.
• Alternatively, acquire the Houston CityPass to explore the entire city!
• Check out this list of free activities for kids in Houston.
2. Kemah Boardwalk
The Kemah Boardwalk and its theme park attractions are barely 20 miles from downtown Houston, yet you’ll feel a world away. The boardwalk provides something for everyone, from the most daring thrill rides for thrill-seekers to the smallest for family fun; you’ll have a great day.
The Kemah Boardwalk is a family-friendly attraction with eating and amusements. The views are spectacular if you want to spend the day on the boardwalk located directly on the Gulf of Mexico.
The boardwalk features a Ferris wheel, a carousel, the HypnoSpin, the Boardwalk Tower, and Kemah’s wooden roller coaster, the Boardwalk Bullet.
The Boardwalk Beast, a 25-minute high-speed boat ride that maxes out at 40 miles per hour, is also available on the Kemah Boardwalk.
3. Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
Galveston Island, on the Gulf of Mexico, is about 50 miles from downtown Houston. For many years, the Pleasure Pier has been a family favorite, and it’s simple to see why.
You’ll have a terrific time doing whatever you want with rides, food, and shopping. The Iron Shark Roller Coaster, Texas Star Flyer, Pirate’s Plunge, Galaxy Wheel, and Sea Dragon are just a few of the spectacular attractions available here.
There are additional rides for your children, such as a carousel, the Frog Hopper, Texas Tea, and the Lil’ Captain Wheel. There is something for everyone at the Pleasure Pier.
After you’ve got your fill of thrilling rides, you may head to one of several food establishments. Don’t forget to finish your visit with something delicious from Carousel Court Sweets.
Check out some other incredible Galveston activities while you’re there:
• On this Dolphin Sightseeing Tour, look for dolphins.
• Get your adrenaline pumping with a Jet Boat Thrill Ride.
• Ride about town in style in a 1908 Model T Electric Golf Cart.
• Go on a half-day jetty excursion with “reel” men.
• Check out this list of family-friendly activities in Galveston.
4. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown Spring
Texas, as you may know, is hot most of the year. So, going to a waterpark may be your best bet if you want to stay cool.
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is a waterpark located about 20 miles north of Houston. There are numerous waterslides, rides, and pools to choose from. The park has rides for water lovers of all ages and sizes.
The Stingray Racer, Runaway Rapids, RipQurl, a climbing structure for kids called the Treehouse, and Hurricane Bay are among the rides.
It also features a variety of food alternatives for refueling throughout the day. Your day will be complete with everything from burgers and fries to ice cream and loads of outstanding cuisine.
5. Zero Gravity Thrill Amusement Park
Have you ever wished to go to a “thrill amusement park?” Visit Dallas’ Zero Gravity Thrill Amusement Park after that! It is the only one of its sort and strives to be the world’s most extreme thrill park. They offer five major attractions, all of which are high-intensity, high-adrenaline rides.
Their rides are not for the faint of heart, but it is what distinguishes them as one of Texas’ top amusement parks. For example, their “Nothing but Net” ride lifts passengers up 16 stories before dropping them. Without a cable, straps, or a parachute, you’re out of luck. Simply put, a net awaits you at the bottom of your 130-foot plummet.
6. Schlitterbahn Galveston Waterpark
Schlitterbahn Waterpark, located south of Houston in Galveston, is another waterpark alternative. This Texas amusement park has water slides and rides for everyone to enjoy.
There are also more relaxing choices, such as cabanas and a heated pool with a swim-up bar, or you can lounge in the sun. The Bahnzai Pipeline, Cliffhanger, Dragon Blaster, and MASSIV Monster Blaster are among the thrills.
Schlitterbahn also features activities for your younger guests, including a multitude of pools and water structures to climb on. While at Schlitterbahn, you may satisfy your appetite with a choice of food and refreshments.
7. Typhoon Texas Waterpark
Typhoon Texas, located in Katy, roughly 25 minutes west of Houston, is another excellent waterpark choice. The Gully Washer, Duelin’ Daltons, Tidal Wave Bay (wave pool), and Lazy T River are just a few of the spectacular attractions and slides.
Although this is a smaller waterpark than some of the others mentioned, it will undoubtedly fill your day with fun and excitement. Also, if you want to spend some time in Katy, this amusement park is conveniently located.
There is an outlet mall nearby and many excellent food alternatives, and Houston is only a short drive away.
8. Big Rivers Waterpark and Adventures
Big Rivers is another amusement park located just northeast of Houston, with numerous options for fun in the sun. Although the name may be deceiving, this Texas amusement park is more than just a waterpark.
It’s like three parks in one, with wet and dry rides and aerial thrills. Traditional water slides, a wave pool, and a Polliwog Puddle area for your smallest family member are among its waterpark activities.
Wild Isle, a series of inflatable water slides and climbing structures in a lake, is located in another portion of the park. It is referred to as a floating waterpark and challenge course. Big Rivers also offers an aerial ropes course where visitors can climb and zip.
Finally, they have dry experiences such as ax throwing, archery, rock mining, a big outdoor maze, a petting zoo, and a fishing hole. There is plenty to fill your day with excitement and adventure that will satisfy everyone.
Amusement Parks Near Dallas
Dallas is Texas’ second-largest city, and there is no shortage of fun! There are many fun things to do in Dallas, and amusement parks are certainly among them.
9. Six Flags Over Texas Dallas
Six Flags is one of the most famous names in the amusement park industry, and Six Flags Over Texas in Dallas delivers on thrills and excitement.
There are rides for thrill-seekers, rides for families, and rides for children. As a result, you’ll be able to select the ideal match for your group. Throughout the year, they also have live shows and various events. Batman the Ride, Dive Bomber Alley, Judge Roy Scream, Superman: Tower of Power, and Shockwave are among their most popular rides.
For the younger thrill-seekers, there is also a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and some smaller roller coasters. Six Flags is always a good time, and if you’re planning a trip to Dallas, you should include Six Flags Over Texas on your schedule.
Check out some other fantastic events while you’re in the Dallas/Fort Worth area:
• Marvel at the SEA LIFE Aquarium Dallas.
• This eco-friendly tour option allows you to cruise through Dallas.
• Experience the rush of indoor skydiving in Dallas.
• Alternatively, acquire the Dallas CityPass to explore the entire city!
10. Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark and Resort
Great Wolf Lodge is a family-friendly indoor waterpark and resort. So you can stay right in the thick of the action.
Great Wolf Lodge not only has an indoor waterpark, but it also has other attractions. Oliver’s Mining Co., Howlers Peak Ropes Course, MagiQuest, an arcade, and a Build-a-Bear Workshop are among the activities available.
You can refuel and get back to the fun quickly with various food options at the Lodge, including Buckets Incredible Craveables and the Loose Moose Cottage for sit-down dining. Great Wolf Lodge genuinely does have something for everyone.
11. Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark Grand Prairie
Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark is located in Grand Prairie, roughly 20 minutes west of Dallas. Despite being an indoor waterpark, Epic Waters does not have hotel accommodations. It is an independent park.
When the Texas heat gets to you, an indoor waterpark is a terrific location to spend the day cooling down and having fun. It’s one of the few waterparks open all year.
12. Hurricane Harbor Arlington
Hurricane Harbor is located just outside of Dallas in Arlington. This is a six flags water park in the Dallas region that is open seasonally. So, before you depart, double-check the calendar.
The famous water slides and rides, such as the Banzai Pipeline, Dive Bomber, Geronimo, and a Lazy River, are available here. Everyone in your group has a ride and a water experience, from the youngest swimmer to the most daring.
13. Bahama Beach Waterpark Dallas
This is Dallas’ family waterpark, where you can enjoy a day in the Texas sun while staying cool and having a great time.
Coconut Cove, an interactive water playground featuring climbing platforms, water buckets, rope ladders, and three 40-foot slides, is available at Bahama Beach.
If you’re searching for a bigger thrill, try the Riptide Slide or the Bahama Bullet, both enclosed slides that reach 45 feet in the air. It’s also a seasonal waterpark, so check the schedule before you attend.
Amusement Parks Near San Antonio
San Antonio has a variety of fun amusement park options for all ages. If you’re in the San Antonio region, don’t miss out on the following amusement parks for a day of fun!
14. Six Flags Fiesta Texas
All your favorite rides and attractions are available in San Antonio in typical Six Flags form. Six Flags Fiesta Texas has something for everyone in your group to enjoy.
There are thrilling roller coasters, water rides, kiddie rides, and rides for all ages! If you need a break from the coasters, you may attend live entertainment, which is given around the park at various times during the day.
Of course, there are plenty of food options to keep you going, so the fun never stops.
15. Seaworld San Antonio
SeaWorld San Antonio offers the ideal combination of animal interactions, shows, and rides for the entire family. You might easily spend the entire day here watching orcas, dolphins, and beluga whales. In between, you can ride the Texas Stingray, Texas’ tallest, fastest, and longest wooden coaster!
Look no further for a complete list of the finest SeaWorld San Antonio rides. Or, for something a little more low-key, try Wave-Breaker, a rescue coaster in which you’re on a mission on your jet ski.
SeaWorld San Antonio features a carousel, a short roller coaster, and a climbing structure for the youngest members of your group to enjoy.
16. Aquatica San Antonio
Aquatica is sea world’s San Antonio associate amusement park. They are two distinct parks that share the same space.
Aquatica has water coasters and slides, a lazy river, and climbing structures for your younger swimmers. The park also offers chair and cabana rentals for a more peaceful experience if you want to catch some sun while others play.
17. Morgan’s Wonderland
Morgan’s Wonderland is a family-friendly entertainment park. It has 25 Ultra-Accessible attractions spread across 25 acres of land. It is the world’s first amusement park, regardless of age or ability, free of physical and financial limitations.
A carousel, the Butterfly playground, an off-road adventure, Pirate Island, a pirate-themed playground, the Whirling Wonder small Ferris wheel, a train ride, and other attractions are available.
This is a lovely spot to spend the day with your children as they explore and ride on Wonderland’s various interactive attractions.
18. Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Resort New Braunfels
Schlitterbahn Waterpark, located just outside the city, is a terrific way to cool off in the San Antonio area. This amusement park allows you to play and stay, giving you the possibility of nonstop excitement.
Schlitterbahn New Braunfels has everything, from intense water slides to a wave pool and a lazy river. So, whatever you want to do, there is something for everyone.
If you’re not into water slides and thrills, you may rent a cabana and relax in one of the warm pools. Depending on your vacation needs, the resort also provides various hotel options.
19. ZDT’S Amusement Park Seguin
ZDT’s Amusement Park, located just outside the city, is a 10-acre family park. They have a wooden roller coaster, a parachute drop, and go-karts, as well as a jungle playland and a rock-climbing wall, to mention a few attractions.
ZDT also serves tasty food and refreshments throughout the day, including pizza, burgers, funnel cakes, and fried Oreos. A day spent at ZDT’s will not disappoint!
Amusement Parks Near Austin
Austin is only a little more than an hour away from San Antonio, so if you’re going to be in the Texas Hill Country, you can easily visit amusement parks in both towns during your trip.
20. Lake Travis Waterloo Adventures
Lake Travis Waterloo is the place to be if you want to have some fun on the water. Waterloo is known as a “Floating Water Park” because the entire park is built on the lake.
A variety of inflatables provide hours of enjoyment in the sun. There are numerous ways to enjoy your Lake Travis water excursion, from climbing to sliding to swaying and swinging.
21. Austin’s Amusement Park Pflugerville
Austin’s is located just outside of Austin in Pflugerville. Austin’s is an indoor-outdoor amusement park with various exciting activities, including go-karts, mini-golf, batting cages, a climbing wall, bowling, an arcade, and a carousel.
There are rides and activities for everyone at this entertainment park. There are bumper boats and kids’ coasters to keep everyone entertained. Austin’s also includes two dining options: a bar and grill and a buffet.
22. Kiddie Park
Kiddie Park is the oldest children’s amusement park, with plenty of kiddie rides for family pleasure. It was founded in 1925, and many of the rides are original but have been restored.
It has been relocated to the San Antonio Zoo, making it an excellent stop in between seeing animals and other fun exhibits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Amusement Parks in Texas
1. What Are the Best Texas Amusement Parks for Kids?
SeaWorld San Antonio, Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio, Great Wolf Lodge in Dallas, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas are among the top amusement parks for kids in Texas.
2. What Are Texas’ Best Water Parks?
Schlitterbahn Water Park and Resort in New Braunfels, Aquatica in San Antonio, and Lake Travis Waterloo Adventures in Austin are among the top water parks in Texas.
Also check out “Haunted Hotels in San Antonio”
Things to Do in Fort Worth
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FAQs
What is the #1 theme park in the US? ›
Tripadvisor officials named Dollywood the #1 theme park in the United States and the #8 theme park in the world during the 2022 Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Awards. It's an honor that won't come as much of a surprise to Dollywood's park-goers who frequently compliment Dollywood on its exemplary guest experience.
What is the #1 amusement park in the world? ›| Rank | Amusement park | 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Magic Kingdom Theme Park at Walt Disney World Resort | 20,963,000 |
| 2 | Universal's Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando Resort | 10,375,000 |
| 3 | Universal Studios Florida at Universal Orlando Resort | 10,922,000 |
| 4 | Disney's Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort | 11,483,000 |
...
Six Flags Over Texas.
| Attractions | |
|---|---|
| Roller coasters | 13 |
| Water rides | 3 |
| Website | Official website |
- YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK.
- HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK.
- ZION NATIONAL PARK.
- GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK.
- OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK.
- GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK.
- YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK.
- GLACIER NATIONAL PARK.
Not only was Busch Gardens Williamsburg named the "Most Beautiful Park," but it was also named the "Favorite Theme Park" by NAPHA.
What is the most beautiful amusement park? ›- Disneyland, Anaheim, California. ...
- 2. Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida. ...
- Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles, California. ...
- Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio. ...
- SeaWorld, Orlando, Florida. ...
- Knoebels, Elysburg, Pennsylvania. ...
- Knott's Berry Farm, Buena Park, California.
- Yosemite.
- Yellowstone.
- Glacier National Park.
- Grand Canyon.
- Banff National Park.
- Jasper National Park.
- Serengeti National Park.
- Zion National Park.
...
Titan (Six Flags Over Texas)
| Titan | |
|---|---|
| Drop | 255 ft (78 m) |
| Length | 5,312 ft (1,619 m) |
| Speed | 85 mph (137 km/h) |
| Inversions | 0 |
According to the list, the tallest roller coaster in Texas is Titan at Six Flags Over Texas. It stands at 245 feet and is one of three coasters manufactured by Giovanola. A full list of each state's tallest roller coaster can be found on Coaster 101's website.
Is Six Flags Arlington or San Antonio better? ›In San Antonio, the park has a gorgeous red rock quarry as a backdrop, and while the setting in Arlington isn't horrible, it just doesn't compare. City Setting (Things to Do) - On the flip side, when you visit Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington you will have a more activity-filled area to do things outside of the park.
What is the #1 Roller Coaster? ›
Carowinds is a 407-acre (165 ha) amusement park located adjacent to Interstate 77 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The park straddles the North Carolina-South Carolina state line, with a portion of the park located in Fort Mill, South Carolina.
Which park has the scariest rides? ›Kingda Ka — Six Flags Great Adventure, New Jersey
In fact, given its height and speed, it could just be considered the scariest roller coaster in the world as well. The track reaches heights of 456 feet (over 45 stories) before sending riders hurtling down at 128 miles per hour — a speed reached in just 3.5 seconds.
| Rank | Park Name | Deaths per 10 Million Visits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | North Cascades National Park | 652.35 |
| 2 | Denali National Park & Preserve | 100.50 |
| 3 | Upper Delaware Scenic & Recreational River | 68.52 |
| 4 | Big Thicket National Preserve | 66.92 |
Fourteen-year-old Tyre Sampson died after slipping out of his seat while on the Orlando FreeFall ride at ICON Park on March 24. The eighth grader was a star football player who was visiting the theme park with his team.
What is the most famous park in Texas? ›With nearly three miles of Frio River access, plus 1,774 acres of Hill Country adventure, it's no wonder that Garner State Park is Texas' most-visited state park.
What are the top 3 most visited national parks? ›- Grand Canyon National Park: 4.53 million.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: 4.43 million.
- Acadia National Park: 4.06 million.
- Grand Teton National Park: 3.88 million.
- Yosemite National Park: 3.28 million.
- Indiana Dunes National Park: 3.17 million.
- Glacier National Park: 3.08 million.
Every year, millions of visitors come to the park to take in the views and enjoy a bit of outdoor recreation in the desert. Grand Canyon National Park is the second most-visited American national park, covering well over one million acres of predominantly desert landscape in northwestern Arizona.
What park has the best coasters? ›Six Flags Magic Mountain - 20 Roller Coasters
The number one park for the most number of roller coasters—at an astounding 20—is (sound of timpani roll) Six Flags Magic Mountain (sound of cymbal crash).
1. Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, FL, USA – 15,000 hectares.
What is the second best theme park? ›
- 1 – Walt Disney World Resort. There's a reason why they call Orlando Florida's Disney resort a “world”. ...
- 2 – Europa Park. ...
- 3 – Disneyland Resort. ...
- 4 – Disneyland Paris. ...
- 5 – Universal Orlando Resort. ...
- 6 – Carowinds. ...
- 7 – Hersheypark. ...
- 8 – Cedar Point.
Florida has so many world-class theme parks it seems a shame to single one out. Walt Disney World surely rates a mention, however, as the world's largest amusement park. The Orlando site needs to be big because it's also the most visited theme park, with around 50 million visitors a year.
What is the most famous park? ›Central Park, New York
Not only was Central park the first public park in America, but it's also the most visited – with over 25-million visitors each year.
- Yellowstone National Park, USA. ...
- Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia. ...
- Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia. ...
- Banff National Park in Canada. ...
- Khao Sok National Park in Thailand. ...
- Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland. ...
- Grand Canyon National Park in the United States.
The Texas SkyScreamer is hands down the scariest ride at the park. You'll sit down in a chair, your legs will be dangling, while you're raised 400 feet while going in a circle around a giant tower.
What is the oldest roller coaster in Texas? ›#1 – Railroad (1961)
What is the steepest roller coaster in Texas? ›Diabolical roller coaster. The world's steepest dive coaster will be open to the public starting July 30. SAN ANTONIO, Texas — The steepest dive roller coaster in the world stands at 150 feet tall and reaches 60 miles per hour.
What are the fastest roller coasters in Texas? ›SeaWorld San Antonio is unveiling the 'tallest, longest, fastest' wooden roller coaster in Texas, the Texas Stingray, on Saturday, Feb. 29. According to SeaWorld's website, the coaster will include a 100-foot drop with over 15 airtime hills, reaching speeds of 55 miles per hour.
What is the fastest wooden roller coaster in Texas? ›Adventure awaits on the TALLEST, FASTEST and LONGEST wooden roller coaster in the state, the Texas Stingray. Find out how it feels to whip, dip and dive with a 100 foot drop, 3,379 feet of track, and a max speed of 55 mph.
What city is Six Flags in in Texas? ›Six Flags Over Texas is located in Arlington, midway between Dallas and Fort Worth at the intersection of Interstate 30 and Highway 360 (Angus Wynne Jr. Freeway). We are approximately 20 minutes from downtown Dallas and downtown Fort Worth. Our physical location is 2201 Road to Six Flags, Arlington, TX 76011.
What is the number one roller coaster park in the US? ›
1. Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida. With locations in both California and Florida, the Universal Studios roller coaster parks boast some of the most notable attractions of the last 20 years.
What is America's biggest park? ›Biggest of Them All
The uncontested heavyweight champion of the National Park System is Alaska's Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve. At 13.2 million acres, it's larger than Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Switzerland combined.
There are two castle parks in the US—in California and Florida. Disneyland Resort in California has one castle park (Disneyland) and one other park (Disney California Adventure). Walt Disney World Resort in Florida has one castle park (Magic Kingdom) and three other parks (Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios).