Discover the Best 5 Amusement Parks in Arkansas

Arkansas, a state known for its rich natural beauty, vibrant cities, and outdoor adventures, is also home to a number of amusement parks in Arkansas that offer fun, excitement, and memories for all ages. From Little Rock to Hot Springs, Arkansas features an array of parks, each offering a unique experience, from thrilling roller coasters and water parks to historical attractions and nature-inspired fun. Let Teeholic show you that!

1. Magic Springs Theme and Water Park – Hot Springs: Arkansas’ Premier Park

Magic Springs Theme and Water Park: A Thrilling Adventure in Hot Springs

Located in Hot Springs, Magic Springs Theme and Water Park is the largest and most well-known amusement park in Arkansas. Combining a traditional theme park with a water park, Magic Springs offers the best of both worlds, making it a perfect destination for thrill-seekers and families alike. With its vast array of rides, water attractions, and live entertainment, it’s no wonder that Magic Springs is one of the most popular parks in the state.

The park is home to several thrilling rides, including The Gauntlet, a steel coaster with intense drops, inversions, and high-speed thrills, and Arkansas Twister, a classic wooden coaster that has been providing thrills for years. For adrenaline junkies, The X-Coaster is a must-ride, known for its unique inverted design and smooth but thrilling loops. If you’re looking for family-friendly fun, The Frog Hopper, The Ferris Wheel, and Kiddie Coaster are perfect options for younger children.

Magic Springs also has a water park section, Crystal Falls, where visitors can enjoy wave pools, lazy rivers, water slides, and splash zones. Attractions like the Tornado water slide, which swirls riders through a giant funnel, and Calypso Bay, a large pool with slides and interactive play areas, provide plenty of ways to cool off during the summer months.

Top Attractions & Best Time to Visit

• The Gauntlet and The X-Coaster are thrilling coasters that provide high-speed thrills and intense loops.
• The Ferris Wheel and Kiddie Coaster offer a more relaxing experience for younger guests.
• Crystal Falls provides water fun with slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.

The best time to visit Magic Springs Theme and Water Park is during spring or early fall. These months offer comfortable weather, and the park is typically less crowded than during the peak summer season. However, visiting during the summer months allows you to fully experience both the theme park and water park attractions when the weather is perfect for water-based fun.

2. Arkansas State Fair – Little Rock: A Classic Carnival Experience

Arkansas State Fair: A Celebration of Fun, Food, and Entertainment

The Arkansas State Fair, held annually in Little Rock, is a beloved tradition for families across the state. Although not a year-round amusement park, the fair features a wide array of carnival rides, games, entertainment, and agricultural exhibits, offering a unique and festive experience that attracts visitors from all over.

The fair’s carnival rides include classics such as the Ferris Wheel, Tilt-a-Whirl, Bumper Cars, and Carousel, providing a nostalgic carnival atmosphere. The fair also features more modern rides, such as The Spider, a spinning ride that whirls guests through the air, and the Starship 2000, a thrilling ride that spins riders in every direction.

In addition to the rides, the Arkansas State Fair offers exciting attractions like live music performances, rodeo shows, and livestock exhibits that highlight the state’s agricultural heritage. The fair also provides plenty of food stalls where guests can enjoy classic fair food, including corn dogs, funnel cakes, and cotton candy.

The Arkansas State Fair is a great way to experience a classic carnival atmosphere while also learning about the state’s culture, traditions, and history. It’s a family-friendly event that provides something for everyone.

Top Attractions & Best Time to Visit

• Ferris Wheel and Tilt-a-Whirl offer a classic carnival ride experience.
• Live music performances and rodeo shows provide additional entertainment options.
• The fair’s food stalls are perfect for enjoying tasty fair treats.

The best time to visit the Arkansas State Fair is during its annual event, typically held in October. This is when the rides, games, food, and entertainment are in full swing, offering a completely fair experience. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, try visiting on weekdays, as weekends tend to get busier.

3. Riverfront Park – Little Rock: A Scenic, Family-Friendly Experience

Riverfront Park: A Relaxing Adventure by the Arkansas River

Located in Little Rock, Riverfront Park offers a relaxing and scenic family-friendly experience with beautiful views of the Arkansas River. While not an amusement park in the traditional sense, Riverfront Park features several attractions, including the Riverfront Skatepark, the Playground at Riverfront Park, and the Bernice Garden, making it an ideal location for a day of outdoor fun.

The Riverfront Skatepark is a popular destination for skateboarding enthusiasts, featuring ramps, rails, and other elements that make it a top spot for skating in the area. The Playground at Riverfront Park is perfect for young children, with climbing structures, swings, and slides that provide hours of fun. The park’s Bernice Garden offers a tranquil space for visitors to relax, with beautiful gardens, sculptures, and fountains.

In addition to these attractions, Riverfront Park is also home to several walking trails, providing visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful stroll along the river while soaking in the natural beauty of the area. Riverfront Park hosts seasonal events such as outdoor concerts and food festivals, making it a great place to enjoy some local culture.

Top Attractions & Best Time to Visit

• The Riverfront Skatepark offers a fun place for skateboarders to practice their tricks.
• The Playground at Riverfront Park is ideal for young children to enjoy outdoor play.
• The Bernice Garden provides a peaceful, scenic experience with gardens and fountains.

The best time to visit Riverfront Park is during spring or fall, when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. These seasons also provide beautiful views of the Arkansas River, with the fall foliage and spring blooms adding extra beauty to the park. Visiting during weekdays will allow you to enjoy the park at a more leisurely pace, without the larger crowds typically seen on weekends.

4. Wild River Country – North Little Rock: Arkansas’ Largest Water Park

Wild River Country: The Ultimate Water Park Experience

Located in North Little Rock, Wild River Country is Arkansas’ largest and most popular water park, offering a wide range of water attractions for families and thrill-seekers alike. With a variety of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, the park provides a perfect place to cool off during the hot summer months.

One of the most popular attractions at Wild River Country is the Tornado, a high-speed water slide that spirals riders through a giant funnel before plunging them into a pool below. For those looking for an even more thrilling experience, the Whitewater Express slide delivers sharp turns, steep drops, and plenty of twists to keep riders on the edge of their seats. The Wave Pool is another favorite, providing visitors with simulated ocean waves for a fun, beach-like experience.

For families with younger children, Wild River Country offers the Kiddie Cove, a water play area with gentle slides, fountains, and interactive water features that are perfect for little ones. The Lazy River provides a relaxing experience where guests can float along a gentle current, soaking in the sun and enjoying the park’s serene atmosphere.

Top Attractions & Best Time to Visit

• The Tornado delivers high-speed thrills with a giant funnel drop.
• Whitewater Express offers twisting and turning excitement for thrill-seekers.
• The Kiddie Cove provides a safe and fun area for younger children to splash around.

The best time to visit Wild River Country is during summer, when the water attractions are in full operation and the weather is perfect for a water-filled day of fun. For fewer crowds, consider visiting during early summer or late summer, when schools are back in session, and the park is less crowded.

5. The Arkansas River Trail – Little Rock: A Scenic and Active Adventure

The Arkansas River Trail: Outdoor Fun for All Ages

While not a traditional amusement park, the Arkansas River Trail in Little Rock offers a unique, outdoor adventure that combines scenic views with recreational activities. This 17-mile-long trail runs along the Arkansas River, providing opportunities for walking, jogging, biking, and sightseeing. It’s a perfect spot for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of the area.

The trail connects several of Little Rock’s most popular attractions, including Riverfront Park, Two Rivers Park, and the Big Dam Bridge, which spans the Arkansas River and is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the United States. Along the trail, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the river, the downtown skyline, and the surrounding nature. The trail also passes by several parks, playgrounds, and picnic areas, making it ideal for a family outing or a relaxing day in nature.

Top Attractions & Best Time to Visit

• Big Dam Bridge offers stunning views of the Arkansas River and is a must-see spot for visitors.
• Riverfront Park provides a scenic, peaceful atmosphere with plenty of recreational opportunities.
• The Arkansas River Trail offers excellent hiking, biking, and walking paths with breathtaking views.

The best time to visit the Arkansas River Trail is during spring or fall, when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its peak. The cooler temperatures make for a more comfortable experience, and you can enjoy the beauty of nature while exploring the trail.

Show Your Arkansas Adventure with Teeholic’s Apparel

Before an exciting visit to the amusement parks in Arkansas, take with you a piece of your adventure with Teeholic’s American States Collection. Featuring stylish and comfortable tees that showcase Arkansas’ iconic landmarks, Teeholic’s collection lets you carry a part of your trip with you. These apparel are also perfect to be:

• A team uniform when you travel with your family or buddies
• A gift for your loved ones
• A comfortable piece for casual use 

Wear your Arkansas pride and relive the excitement of your amusement park experiences with Teeholic’s comfortable and stylish apparel!

Unforgettable Fun at Arkansas’ Amusement Parks

Arkansas offers a variety of amusement parks and attractions that cater to all interests and ages. From the thrilling rides at Magic Springs Theme and Water Park to the nostalgic fun of Old Orchard Beach Amusement Park, there’s something for everyone in the Natural State. Whether you’re seeking water fun, outdoor adventures, or classic carnival experiences, Arkansas has it all.

So, pack your bags, grab your Teeholic tee, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure at the best amusement parks in Arkansas. The fun and excitement are waiting for you!