Arizona Amusement Parks and Theme Parks

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 08

Castles-N-Coasters in Phoenix

Castles-N-Coasters park in Arizona — Castles-N-Coasters

Address

9445 N Metro Pkwy E, Phoenix, AZ 85051, USA

Get directions

Phone +1 602-997-7575

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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 08

Crystal Lagoons Island Resort in Glendale

Crystal Lagoons Glendale Arizona — Crystal Lagoons

A combination water park and entertainment center, Crystal Lagoons Island Resort is scheduled to open in 2022. Among its attractions will be a flying theater (think: Disney’s Soarin'), a roller coaster, and a 4D theater. There will also be a 600-room hotel and restaurants.

03 of 08

Enchanted Island in Phoenix

Enchanted Island in Arizona train ride — Enchanted Island

Address

1202 W Encanto Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85007, USA

Get directions

Phone +1 602-254-1200

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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.

04 of 08

Funtasticks Family Fun Park in Tempe

Funtasticks Family Fun Park Arizona — Courtesy of Funtasticks Family Fun Park

Address

221 E Wetmore Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

Get directions

Phone +1 520-888-4653

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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 8 below.

05 of 08

Mattel Adventure Park in Glendale

Mattel Adventure Park Arizona — Crystal Lagoons Island Resort

To be located alongside Crystal Lagoons (see above), Mattel Adventure Park is also scheduled to open in 2022. It will present rides and attractions themed to Mattel toys such as a Hot Wheels roller coaster. There will also be a large go-kart attraction and a Thomas the Tank Engine indoor theme park (which will presumably be climate controlled to provide comfort during Arizona’s often brutal summer weather).

06 of 08

Old Tucson Studios in Tucson

Old Tucson Studios Arizona park — Courtesy of Old Tucson Studios

Address

201 Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85735, USA

Get directions

Phone +1 520-883-0100

Web Visit website

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.

07 of 08

Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek

Address

24810 S Rittenhouse Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142, USA

Get directions

Phone +1 480-987-3100

Web Visit website

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.

08 of 08

Wildlife World in Litchfield Park

Wildlife World coaster in Arizona — Wildlife World

Address

16501 W Northern Ave, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340, USA

Get directions

Phone +1 623-935-9453

Web Visit website

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.