Within Alabama, there exist two substantial theme parks: Owa and Alabama Splash Adventure, with the latter being predominantly a water park. For those seeking water attractions, a detailed overview of Alabama’s water parks is available. Alternatively, if one prefers more traditional amusement park experiences, nearby states provide additional options. Noteworthy mentions include Dollywood, which is among the theme parks in Tennessee, and Six Flags Over Georgia, recognized as the largest theme park in Georgia. Below, Alabama’s parks are organized in alphabetical order.
Alabama Splash Adventure
Bessemer (near Birmingham), Alabama
As suggested by its name, Alabama Splash Adventure is primarily dedicated to water-based activities. In addition to its extensive range of water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and other aquatic features, it offers “dry” attractions including a mini train, bumper boats, the Wacky Worm kiddie coaster, and its hallmark ride, Rampage, a well-regarded wooden roller coaster. Access to all attractions is provided under a single admission price, complemented by free parking, complimentary sunscreen, and soft drinks.
The park has an intriguing history, having been the largest amusement park in Alabama when it opened in the late 1990s as a municipally owned venue called VisionLand. However, it encountered financial issues shortly after its launch and subsequently filed for bankruptcy in 2002. In 2003, private entities acquired the park and later rebranded it as Alabama Adventure in 2006, followed by Alabama Adventure Water and Theme Park. In 2012, the park switched ownership again, and the new management renamed it Splash Adventure, opting to close most of the amusement park rides to focus on water attractions.
In 2014, members of the family that previously managed Holiday World in Indiana acquired the property and renamed it Alabama Splash Adventure. Since then, it has gradually reopened several amusement rides such as Rampage, hinting at potential future name changes. The new owners are also planning to enhance the park’s offerings.
As of 2018, the park expanded its lineup of amusement rides, introducing five new attractions, which include classic spinning rides such as Tilt-A-Whirl and Scrambler, the Yo-Yo swing ride, and two rides tailored for younger children: the Splash Express train and Rockin’ Tug.
Owa
Foley, Alabama
Launched in 2017, Owa is a destination project managed by The Poarch Band of Creek Indians. The term “Owa” translates to “big water” in the Muskogee Creek language. The park’s focal point is an amusement area offering a variety of thrilling rides. Standout attractions include Rollin’ Thunder, a towering 225-foot steel coaster reaching speeds of 56 mph with four inversions, Crazy Mouse, a spinning Wild Mouse-style coaster, and Freedom Flyer, an exhilarating swing ride. Furthermore, it provides rides suitable for younger children as well as moderate thrill rides like Southern Express, a family-friendly roller coaster. The park also hosts the Town of Terror event during the Halloween season.
In addition to the amusement park, the resort features Downtown Owa, a shopping, dining, and entertainment hub, with dining options such as Wahlburgers and Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen. Accommodation is available at an on-site Marriott TownePlace Suites.
Southern Adventures
Huntsville, Alabama
This family entertainment center remains operational throughout the year, although it is closed during weekdays in the off-peak season. Attractions include mini-golf, go-karts, bumper cars, batting cages, and carnival rides. Water slides and other aquatic attractions are accessible during the warmer months.
Spring Park
Tuscumbia, Alabama
This modest park features a train, a splash pad, a carousel, and a kiddie coaster.
Waterville USA
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Waterville USA is predominantly a water park, as its name suggests. Its key attractions include a Flowrider surfing experience, a wave pool, a lazy river, and the Screamin’ Demon speed slide. The dry attractions consist of Cannonball Run, a wooden coaster reaching speeds of 50 mph, alongside mini-golf, kiddie rides, go-karts, and a bungee trampoline.
