5 Thrilling Amusement Parks in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
For many families, a beach vacation isn’t complete without a stop at a favorite amusement park.
A game of miniature golf or a race to the finish line in go-karts tops off the list of must-do activities in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Maybe it’s the nostalgia of their childhood vacations, or maybe it’s introducing their own children to new, thrilling experiences. Either way, there are great options on Alabama’s beaches. Here is a quick look at some of the most popular amusement parks in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Amusement Parks in Gulf Shores and Nearby
Waterville USA
906 Gulf Shores Pkwy., Gulf Shores
(251) 948-2106
Bring your family to check out the newly renovated and improved attractions at Waterville USA. Only a quarter mile from the beach, you’ll find a waterpark, amusement park and two escape rooms. Guest favorites include Dune Racer (a six-lane mat racer suitable for all guests who are at least 42 inches tall), Screamin’ Demon (a daring body slide with a 60-foot drop) and Flowrider (a simulated surfing/body boarding attraction where 40,000 gallons of water pumps over a trampoline-style mat creating perfect surfing waves). The younger crowd is not forgotten and will enjoy slower-paced activities like Crystal Waters Lazy River, WaWa World (the Little Pirates’ Waterpark for those 42 inches and below) and Shrimp Boat Village (three-stories of ultimate waterpark fun). Don’t skip the 60- minute escape rooms where clues and hidden hints help teams of two to eight people solve puzzles to escape.
Purchase a general waterpark admission ticket or buy a season pass if you plan to visit the beach multiple times this summer. Go-Karts can be purchased at single ride prices if that’s all you want to do for the day. Don’t forget to ask about group rates and discounts for military and senior citizens. Cabanas are also available for rent for your own private, shaded area as well as food and beverage service.
The Track
3200 Gulf Shores Pkwy., Gulf Shores
(251) 968-8111
The Track Recreation Center has something for everyone in your travel family. Prepare for thrill rides like the Skycoaster and Spinning Coaster that’ll appeal to teenagers, as well as adults, but the younger ones are not forgotten! The Track offers family go-kart rides, mini golf, bumper boats and Kids Country rides. For a thrilling time, don’t miss the signature attraction—Wild Woody, an elevated, multi-level go-kart track that covers three and a half stories with turns and drops. Group packages are available at The Track. Check their website for discounted ticket rates, and be sure to stop by the Gulf Shores or Orange Beach Welcome Center for a rack card with discount.
Adventure Island
24559 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach
(251) 974-1500
From kiddie rides to thrills for the entire family, Adventure Island awaits in the heart of Orange Beach across from Seaside Beach & Racquet Club and Phoenix V Condos. Enjoy mini golf, an arcade, bumper boats, laser tag, go-karts and the eruption of a five-story volcano brimming with fire and sound. Check out their website for a BOGO free coupon.
The Park at OWA
1501 South OWA Blvd., Foley
(251) 923-2111
Just north of the beaches in nearby Foley you’ll find The Park at OWA (oh-wah), a theme park with literally something for everyone. The 22-ride park offers unique shopping and fun dining (Trattoria Pizza & Italian, Paula Deen's Family Kitchen, and Groovy Goat to name a few) along with other entertainment options on this 520-acre property built. Boardwalks run from the onsite hotel to the downtown area of OWA, and inside the park, you’ll find rides for kids (and adults) of all ages. A unique option at OWA is the $5 Non-Rider ticket available for those who only want to watch their kids ride and are not riding themselves.
The most popular amusements are Rollin’ Thunder (OWA’s largest coaster with thrilling twists, drops, and loops), Alabama Wham’a (a fast-moving thrill ride resembling a Ferris Wheel, but oh so different) and Air Racer (feel the thrill of dives and loops in this exciting ride with acrobatic maneuvers). The littles will love the splash pad and, of course, there are midway games for the whole gang.
Purchase a one-day ticket or a season pass and inquire about group rates.
Pirate’s Island Adventure Golf
3201 Gulf Shores Pkwy., Gulf Shores
(251) 968-4653
Pirate’s Island is a unique adventure golf experience suitable for ages 3 to 93 where families chase after pirates like Blackbeard and Captain Kidd. Trek through the seaside village and the tidal lagoon, through caves and mountains following the journey of these infamous pirates. Bring the whole gang to search for buried booty and enjoy scenic landscapes and waterfalls all along the way. Check their website for coupons to save a little cash.
Find more amusement and entertainment options on our website and start planning your thrilling vacation now!
