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.

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Last Updated on March 25, 2024 by Pragya Chakrapani