Amusement Parks In San Antonio: A Huffington Post Travel Guide

Amusement Parks In San Antonio: A Huffington Post Travel Guide

Amusement parks in San Antonio are a great way for a family to get out and spend some quality time together. Whether a Saturday adventure, a staycation or a long overdue vacation, San Antonio has everything for family fun and adventure all in one city. As part of a Huffington Post Travel series on family-fun parks, here is our guide to all the key information visitors need to know about San Antonio amusement parks.

Sea World

, whether in San Antonio or elsewhere, provides families a chance to combine fun with learning experiences. Animal encounters can get you up close to penguins, flamingos, dolphins and other sea creatures. Add those to heart-pumping rides and you have a winning combination.

Ride The Beast

Prepare to be scared when you get in line for the Great White. Dubbed the first inverted coaster in Texas, the beast turns you upside down and inside out so many times in 2,500 feet that you will lose count. It would probably be best to go before lunch.

Water Included

Brand new for 2012, Sea World will open a new, re-vamped water park called
, which will replace the popular Lost Lagoon. It will give park-goers a chance to cool off with eight water slides, a raft ride, lazy river rides and a new wave pool.

Snacks And Sandwiches

Sea World has a variety of places to eat, from grab-and-go snacks to sit-down lunches. Enjoy all your favorites including pizza, sandwiches and salads.

Safety Record

Our research revealed no notable news reports of accidents or safety issues at Sea World San Antonio but the Occupational Safety and Health Administration fined Sea World for safety violations regarding the death of a trainer at Sea World in Orlando. In fact, in an
, OSHA officials stated that Sea World has a "history of unexpected and potentially dangerous incidents involving killer whales at its various facilities."

Address: 10500 Sea World Drive, San Antonio, TX 78251Phone: 800-700-7786Hours: Operating hours are mid-May through Labor Day, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday. Select weekend hours, September through December.Price: Adults, $59.99; ages 3 to 9; $49.99; children 2 and younger, free. An annual pass is available for a reduced rate.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Six Flags Fiesta Texas is great for kids of all ages. Where else can you hang out with Bugs Bunny, ride roller coasters, see a top-notch concert and then catch some fireworks? Treat your family to what they really want -- time with you.

Superman It

A popular ride at Six Flags is Superman: Krypton Coaster, one of the largest roller coasters in the Southwest. Oh, and did we mention that it has no floor? If slow is more your style, try the classic Ferris wheel, a traditional favorite.

Other Attractions

Even if you are not a fan of roller coasters, Six Flags Fiesta Texas will keep you entertained. It offers fireworks, live music, concerts, shows and, if you're lucky, Bugs Bunny himself might stop by to say hello. If you like getting wet, you can head over to the adjoining water park.

Food Options

Six Flags is full of dining options, from a quick hot dog or pizza at a concession stand to national chains like Johnny Rockets and Ben & Jerry's.

Safety Record

According to
, there have been reports of minor injuries to riders' heads, necks or backs from the Rattler. Apparently, guests have said the rough ride jostles passengers too much.

Address: 17000 IH-10 West, San Antonio, TX 78257Phone: 210-697-5050Hours: The hours vary. Please check the website for more information. Price: Adults, $54.99; guests 48 inches and under, $39.99; children 2 and younger, free. All tickets purchased online are $39.99.

Other Noteworthy Parks Near San Antonio

What's your favorite amusement park near San Antonio?

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