Amusement Parks in Utah: A Complete Guide to the Best Theme Parks in the State

Utah is home to some of the most exciting and thrilling amusement parks in the United States. These parks offer a wide range of attractions and rides that cater to all ages, making them perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike. From roller coasters to water parks, Utah's amusement parks offer something for everyone.

One of the most popular amusement parks in Utah is Lagoon Amusement Park. Located in Farmington, this park has been entertaining visitors for over 130 years. With over 50 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and carnival games, Lagoon Amusement Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and exciting day out. Another popular amusement park in Utah is Evermore Park in Pleasant Grove. This unique park is themed like a European village and offers a wide range of adventurous experiences for both children and adults. With endless popular characters, buildings, and quests, Evermore Park is a one-of-a-kind experience that is sure to delight visitors of all ages.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, Utah's amusement parks are a must-visit. With so many exciting attractions and rides to choose from, you'll never run out of things to do. So, pack your bags, grab your family and friends, and get ready for a thrilling adventure at one of Utah's amazing amusement parks.

Top Amusement Parks in Utah

Utah is home to some of the best amusement parks in the United States. Whether you are looking for thrilling roller coasters or refreshing water rides, you will find it all in Utah. Here are the top amusement parks in Utah that you should definitely visit.

Lagoon Amusement Park

Lagoon Amusement Park is the most popular amusement park in Utah. Located in Farmington, it has been entertaining visitors for over 130 years. The park has over 60 rides and attractions, including seven roller coasters, a water park, and a historic Pioneer Village. Some of the most popular rides at Lagoon are Cannibal, Wicked, and Colossus: The Fire Dragon.

Cowabunga Bay Water Park

Cowabunga Bay Water Park is the perfect place to cool off during the hot summer months. Located in Draper, it has over 12 water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. The park also has a kiddie pool area for younger children. Some of the most popular rides at Cowabunga Bay are the Bomb Bay, the Point Break, and the Raging Waterslide.

Cherry Hill Water Park

Cherry Hill Water Park is a family-friendly water park located in Kaysville. It has over six water slides, a lazy river, and a pirate ship play area for younger children. The park also has a camping and RV park, making it a great place to spend the weekend with your family. Some of the most popular rides at Cherry Hill are the Double Dragon, the Pirate's Cove, and the Cardiac Canyon River Run.

In conclusion, Utah has some of the best amusement parks in the country. Whether you are looking for thrilling roller coasters or refreshing water rides, you will find it all in Utah. So, pack your bags and head to Utah to experience these amazing amusement parks for yourself!

Thrilling Rides and Attractions

Utah is home to some of the most thrilling amusement parks in the country. From roller coasters to water slides, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the most exciting rides and attractions you can find in Utah's amusement parks.

Roller Coasters

If you're a thrill-seeker, Utah's amusement parks have some of the best roller coasters in the country. One of the most popular is the Cannibal at Lagoon Amusement Park. This ride drops you 208 feet at a 90-degree angle, making it one of the steepest drops in the world. Another exciting ride is the Fire Dragon at the same park, which has five inversions and reaches speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.

Water Slides

Utah's amusement parks also have a variety of water slides for those looking to cool off on a hot day. Lagoon A Beach, located within Lagoon Amusement Park, has four giant waterslides, including the Rattlesnake Rapids, which takes you down a 60-foot drop. Another popular water slide is the Dinosaur Drop at Seven Peaks Water Park, which has a 65-foot drop and reaches speeds of up to 40 miles per hour.

Alpine Coaster

The Alpine Coaster at Park City Mountain Resort is a unique ride that takes you on a scenic journey through the mountains. You control the speed of your car as you wind down the track, which spans over a mile and reaches speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. This ride is perfect for those who want a thrilling experience without the extreme drops and inversions of a roller coaster.

In conclusion, Utah's amusement parks offer a variety of thrilling rides and attractions for visitors of all ages. Whether you're looking for a steep drop on a roller coaster or a refreshing water slide, there is something for everyone.

Family Fun

Utah's amusement parks are not just for thrill-seekers. They have plenty of family-friendly activities that will keep everyone entertained for hours. Here are some of the best activities you can enjoy with your family:

Playgrounds

Utah's amusement parks have some of the best playgrounds in the country. They are perfect for younger children who may not be able to enjoy the bigger rides. The playgrounds are usually designed to look like castles, pirate ships, and other fun themes. They have slides, swings, and climbing structures that will keep your kids entertained for hours.

Mini Golf

Mini golf is a classic family activity, and Utah's amusement parks have some of the best courses around. The courses are usually themed, with obstacles like windmills, waterfalls, and other fun challenges. They are designed for all ages, so everyone in your family can enjoy a round of mini golf together.

Bowling

If you need a break from the rides, bowling is a great option. Utah's amusement parks have bowling alleys that are perfect for families. They usually have smaller lanes and lighter balls, so even young children can play. Plus, they often have arcade games and other fun activities nearby, so you can make a whole day out of it.

Overall, Utah's amusement parks are a great place for families to have fun together. Whether you're looking for a playground, mini golf, or bowling, you're sure to find something that everyone in your family will love.

Water Fun

Utah is known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities, and water fun is no exception. Whether you're looking for a lazy river, pools, or water slides, Utah has it all. In this section, we'll explore some of the best water attractions in Utah.

Lazy River

If you're looking for a relaxing way to spend a hot summer day, look no further than Utah's lazy rivers. Lagoon Amusement Park's Lagoon-A-Beach offers a lazy river that winds through the park, letting you float along and soak up the sun in style. The lazy river is a family-friendly activity that everyone can enjoy, and it's a great way to cool off on a hot day.

Pools

Pools are a classic way to enjoy water fun, and Utah has plenty of options to choose from. Seven Peaks Waterpark in Provo offers a variety of pools, including a wave pool, a kiddie pool, and a lap pool. The park also offers cabanas for rent, so you can relax in style while you enjoy the water.

Splash Summit Waterpark

Located in Farmington, Utah, Splash Summit Waterpark is one of the best water attractions in the state. The park features a variety of water slides, including the thrilling Double Bowls Eye and the Tornado, which sends you spinning down a giant funnel. If you're looking for a more relaxing experience, the park also offers a lazy river and a wave pool.

In conclusion, Utah offers a variety of water attractions for visitors and locals alike. From lazy rivers to pools to water slides, there's something for everyone. So grab your sunscreen and get ready to make a splash!

Indoor Fun

Utah has a variety of indoor amusement parks that offer fun activities for people of all ages. Whether you're looking for a place to have a birthday party or just a fun day out with friends, Utah's indoor amusement parks have you covered.

Laser Tag Arena

Laser tag is a popular activity that is enjoyed by people of all ages. Utah has several indoor laser tag arenas that offer a fun and safe environment for players. One of the popular laser tag arenas in Utah is Laser Quest. Laser Quest has multiple locations across Utah, including Salt Lake City, Provo, and Sandy. They offer a variety of laser tag games that are suitable for players of all ages.

Another popular laser tag arena in Utah is The Rush Funplex. The Rush Funplex is located in Syracuse and offers a variety of laser tag games and other fun activities. They have a large laser tag arena that is perfect for groups of all sizes.

Indoor Fun Center

Utah's indoor fun centers offer a variety of activities, including arcade games, bumper cars, and mini-golf. Boondocks Fun Center is a popular indoor fun center that has multiple locations across Utah. They offer a variety of activities, including laser tag, bumper cars, mini-golf, and arcade games. They also have a restaurant that serves a variety of food and drinks.

Another popular indoor fun center in Utah is All Star Bowling & Entertainment. All Star Bowling & Entertainment has multiple locations across Utah, including West Jordan, Tooele, and Draper. They offer a variety of activities, including bowling, arcade games, laser tag, and bumper cars. They also have a restaurant that serves a variety of food and drinks.

Overall, Utah's indoor amusement parks offer a variety of fun activities for people of all ages. Whether you're looking for laser tag or an indoor fun center, Utah has you covered.

Haunted Houses and Nighttime Fun

Utah has a variety of haunted houses and nighttime attractions that are perfect for thrill-seekers and horror lovers. Here are two of the most popular spots:

Nightmare on 13th

Located in Salt Lake City, Nightmare on 13th is one of the oldest and most well-known haunted houses in Utah. With over 30 years of experience, they have perfected the art of scaring visitors. The attraction features a variety of spooky rooms, including a twisted carnival, a haunted swamp, and a zombie apocalypse.

Nightmare on 13th is open from September to November and offers a variety of ticket options, including VIP passes for those who want to skip the line. They also have a "lights-out" event for those who want an even more terrifying experience.

Evermore Park

Evermore Park is a unique nighttime attraction that combines elements of a haunted house with a fantasy adventure. Located in Pleasant Grove, the park features immersive sets and live actors who guide visitors through a variety of spooky and magical experiences.

One of the most popular attractions at Evermore Park is "Lore," a haunted house that takes visitors through a creepy mansion filled with ghosts and other supernatural creatures. The park also features a variety of other nighttime events, including a Halloween festival and a winter wonderland.

Overall, Utah has a variety of haunted houses and nighttime attractions that are perfect for those who want a good scare. Whether you're looking for a traditional haunted house experience or something more unique and immersive, there's something for everyone in Utah.

Nearby Attractions

Utah is not just about amusement parks. There are many other nearby attractions that you can visit during your stay. Here are a few of them:

George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park

Located in Ogden, George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park is a must-visit attraction for dinosaur lovers. The park features life-size dinosaur sculptures, interactive exhibits, and a museum with real fossils. The park is open year-round, and there are guided tours available for groups.

Crystal Hot Springs

If you want to relax and unwind, head over to Crystal Hot Springs in Honeyville. The natural hot springs are said to have healing properties, and there are several pools and water slides for visitors to enjoy. The facility also offers camping and RV sites, making it a great place for a weekend getaway.

Pirates Cove Activity Pool

Located in Herriman, Pirates Cove Activity Pool is a popular destination for families with young children. The pool features a pirate ship, water cannons, slides, and other water play equipment. There are also picnic areas, a concession stand, and a gift shop on site.

In addition to these attractions, Utah is home to several national parks, including Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Arches. These parks offer stunning natural beauty and a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing.

Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Utah has something for everyone. So, make sure to add these nearby attractions to your itinerary during your visit to Utah.

Lodging and Health Clubs

When planning a visit to Utah's amusement parks, it's essential to consider your lodging options and health club amenities. Here are some options to consider:

Lodging

There are plenty of lodging options near Utah's amusement parks, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. Some popular options include:

• Lagoon's RV Park & Campground: Located adjacent to the Lagoon Amusement Park, this park offers RV and tent camping sites, as well as cabins for rent.
• Best Western Plus Layton Park Hotel: This hotel is located just minutes from Lagoon Amusement Park and offers amenities such as a fitness center, indoor pool, and hot tub.
• Crystal Hot Springs: This natural hot spring resort is located near several of Utah's amusement parks and offers camping and cabin rentals, as well as hot spring access.

Health Clubs

Staying active and healthy during your trip to Utah's amusement parks is essential. Many hotels offer fitness centers, but if you're looking for a more extensive health club experience, consider these options:

• VASA Fitness: With several locations throughout Utah, VASA Fitness offers a variety of fitness classes, weightlifting equipment, and cardio machines.
• Gold's Gym: With locations in Salt Lake City and Layton, Gold's Gym offers personal training, group fitness classes, and state-of-the-art equipment.
• Life Time Athletic: Located in South Jordan, Life Time Athletic offers a full-service health club experience, including a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and tennis courts.

No matter where you choose to stay or work out, be sure to prioritize your health and wellness during your visit to Utah's amusement parks.

Conclusion

Utah is home to several amusement parks that offer a range of thrilling rides, exciting water attractions, and fun activities for the whole family. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or looking for a fun day out with your loved ones, Utah's amusement parks are guaranteed to offer an amazing experience.

One of the best things about these parks is that they are open during most of the year. From March through October, you can enjoy the sun and the outdoors while experiencing all the rides and attractions. However, it's important to check the weather before heading out to the parks, as Utah's weather can be unpredictable at times.

When it comes to amusement parks in Utah, there are several options to choose from. While some parks like Disneyland and Universal Studios may be more well-known, Utah's parks have their own unique charm and attractions that make them worth visiting. In fact, some of our clients on TripAdvisor have rated Utah's amusement parks as some of the best in the country.

Overall, whether you're looking for a family-friendly park or a park with more intense rides, Utah has something for everyone. So, if you're planning a trip to Utah, be sure to add one of these amusement parks to your itinerary for a fun-filled day of adventure and excitement.