Arizona Amusement Parks and Theme Parks

Find Roller Coasters and Other Fun in the State

By Arthur Levine

Updated 11/18/17

Funtasticks Family Fun Park Arizona
••• Courtesy of Funtasticks Family Fun Park

There aren't many amusement parks in Arizona. In fact, Phoenix and its environs remain one of the few large metropolitan areas in the US without a major park. Given the intense heat, however, it should probably come as no surprise that there are a number of Arizona water parks to provide relief along with fun. The state's amusement parks are listed below.

There used to be a park, Legend City, which operated in Phoenix from 1963 to 1983. Among its rides were the Flower Power and three other roller coasters.

There is a persistent rumor that there is/was/will be a Six Flags amusement park in Arizona. There is not one, however, nor has there ever been one. And as far as I know, Six Flags has no plans to build a park in the state. (By the way, there are similar rumors about a Six Flags park in Florida -- and probably other places.)

However, there have been plans floated to build a major theme park in northern Arizona near the entrance to the Grand Canyon National Park (which would...MORE capitalize on the many visitors who go there). So far, it's been just that: plans.

Before we get to Arizona parks, here are some resources to find nearby fun places and make travel plans:

  • 01 of 07

    Castles-N-Coasters

    Phoenix

    This is the state's biggest park -- but it's not all that big. Attractions include two steel coasters, one of which includes inversions. There are also a few spinning rides, a zip line, a 3D motion theater, go-karts, mini-golf, and other attractions, presented with a castles motif. Some of the attractions, such as the XD Dark Ride, the Castles Cafe, and the arcade are located indoors. Most of the rides and attractions are outdoors.

  • 02 of 07

    Enchanted Island

    Phoenix

    A small park for younger children. Perhaps the most thrilling ride is the Rock-N-Roll, a teacups-style attraction. Other rides include a carousel, a kiddie coaster, bumper boats, and a small train. It is located at Encanto Park.

  • 03 of 07

    The Flintsones Bedrock City

    Williams

    Its owners call this a "theme park," but there are hardly any attractions. There is a train ride, a slide, a model of a dinosaur -- and not much else. You can order a bronto burger at Fred's Diner. I'm pretty sire it's not actually made out of brontosaurus meat. If you go, be sure to have a yabba dabba doo time.

  • 04 of 07

    Funtasticks Family Fun Park

    Funtasticks Family Fun Park Arizona
    ••• Courtesy of Funtasticks Family Fun Park

    Tempe

    The family entertainment center has a few kiddie rides including a mini roller coaster. Other attractions include go-karts, bumper boats, mini-golf, and an arcade.

    Continue to 5 of 7 below.
  • 05 of 07

    Old Tucson Studios

    Old Tucson Studios Arizona park
    ••• Courtesy of Old Tucson Studios

    Tucson

    Not a theme park, per se. This real, working movie studio has a long-time Hollywood connection. Features tours, exhibits, and Wild West entertainment. Don't go expecting Universal Studios. Rides include antique cars, a train, a carousel, and a walk-through mine. You can make reservations to ride horses on the park's trails.

  • 06 of 07

    Schnepf Farms

    Queen Creek

    This is an actual farm and not an amusement park. It does, however, offer a small roller coaster and a carousel which it opens for special occasions.

  • 07 of 07

    Wildlife World

    Litchfield Park

    This is a zoo, aquarium, and safari park with a few rides, such as  a roller coaster, a swing ride, and a log flume. A zip line is also offered.