Amusement parks in Arizona offer year-round fun for children and families. From hair-raising coasters to toddler-friendly attractions, these amusement parks offer something for family members young and old. 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 Arizona amusement parks.
Castles 'n' Coasters
is Arizona's classic amusement park and a favorite destination for Phoenix families and valley visitors. The amusement park features two steel roller coasters, an old-fashioned carousel, a zip-line ride, miniature golf and an arcade.
Signature Ride: Desert Storm
The Desert Storm is the fastest and most turbulent ride at Castles 'n' Coasters. Hang on tight as you careen down the tracks through a series of hair-raising turns, loops and vertical drops.
Classic Coasters, Bird's-Eye Views
The Patriot is a classic roller coaster that's perfect for first-timers, yet thrilling enough for avid riders. Courageous visitors will want to soar across the park on the Skywire, a zip-line ride that offers a great bird's-eye view over the lush miniature golf course.
For a full list of rides, please click here.
Dining Options
Snack bars sell standard amusement park fare, including pizza, hot dogs and popcorn. There are also vendor carts selling ice cream and refreshments.
Safety Record
Our research revealed no notable safety concerns at Castles 'n' Coasters.
Address: 9445 Metro Parkway East Phoenix, AZ 85051Phone: 602-997-7575Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to midnight; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 a.m.Price: $25 per person for Bronze Pass (all-day unlimited rides), $30 per person for Silver Pass (all-day unlimited rides and one round of miniature golf), $35 per person for Gold Pass (all-day unlimited rides, one round of miniature golf and $10 in arcade credits). For a full price list, please click here.
Enchanted Island Amusement Park
is a small amusement park located inside central Phoenix's historic Encanto Park. This family-friendly attraction, featuring a C.P. Huntington train, old-fashioned carousel and bumper boats, is perfect for younger children and their families.
Signature Ride: C.P. Huntington Train Replica
One of the most popular attractions at Enchanted Island Amusement Park is the one-third replica
. Guests are treated to a relaxing seven-minute tour of the park on this popular locomotive.
Historic And Modern Attractions
Enchanted Island is home to the historic
, the oldest continuously operating carousel in Arizona. Guests can enjoy great views of downtown Phoenix via the Parachute Tower, which gently propels riders upward and then glides downward again.
Dining Options
The Enchanted Island snack bar sells popcorn, hot dogs, chicken strips, snow cones, ice cream and refreshments. For more dining options, visitors are also invited to dine at Mulligan's Restaurant at the nearby Encanto Golf Course.
Safety Record
Our research revealed no notable safety concerns at Enchanted Island.
Address: 1202 W. Encanto Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85007Phone: 602-254-1200Hours: Hours vary seasonally. Please call before your visit or refer to the park website.Price: Free park admission. Costs vary according to ride.
Other Noteworthy Parks Near Arizona
What is your favorite Arizona amusement park?
Check out more AMUSEMENT PARKS.
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