Arizona Amusement Parks and Theme Parks

Find Roller Coasters and Other Fun in the State

By Arthur Levine

Updated 01/28/19

Castles-N-Coasters roller coaster in Arizona

Castles-N-Coasters

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 intense heat probably also explains why there are not any major outdoor amusement parks or theme parks. 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 we know, Six Flags does not have any 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 capitalize on the many visitors who go there). So far, it's been just that: plans.

The state's amusement parks and attractions are listed below and arranged alphabetically.

  • 01 of 07

    Castles-N-Coasters in Phoenix

    Castles-N-Coasters park in Arizona

    Castles-N-Coasters

    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 in Phoenix

    Enchanted Island in Arizona train ride

    Enchanted Island

    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. There is also a splash zone with sprayers and other ways to get wet and cool down. A climbing wall will challenge older children.

  • 03 of 07

    The Flintsones Bedrock City in Williams

    Its owners call this a "theme park," but there are hardly any attractions at The Flintsones Bedrock City. 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. We are pretty sure the burger is 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 in Tempe

    Funtasticks Family Fun Park Arizona
    Courtesy of Funtasticks Family Fun Park

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

    Continue to 5 of 7 below.
  • 05 of 07

    Old Tucson Studios in Tucson

    Old Tucson Studios Arizona park
    Courtesy of Old Tucson Studios

    Old Tucson Studios is not a theme park, per se. This real, working movie studio has a long-time Hollywood connection. It features tours, exhibits, and Wild West entertainment. Don't go expecting Universal Studios Hollywood. 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 in Queen Creek

    Schnepf Farms 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 in Litchfield Park

    Wildlife World coaster in Arizona

    Wildlife World

    Wildlife World 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. Among the animals exhibited are sea lions, giraffes, stingrays, alligators, and kangaroos.