Theme parks are a magical childhood experience, an opportunity for family bonding, and a safe place for thrill seekers of just about all sizes. As you start to make plans for Spring Break and summer 2024, you might want to consider the wide range of amusement parks throughout the Pacific Northwest region.
Federal Way
Wild Waves Theme & Water Park is the grand dame Washington water park — it boasts a wave pool, a whole bunch of water slides, several thrill rides, slower-paced kid rides, and more. Open May 18 through November 3, 2024.
Take note: The Fright Fest Halloween event takes place each Friday-Sunday in October and November 1-3.
Salem, Ore.
Enchanted Forest “feels like walking into a storybook,” one visitor reports. Which makes sense: In this forest, storybook fantasy and history come together for a “quirky and cute” experience that’s fun for the whole family. Open March 22-31 for Spring Break, weekends in April and May through June 13, daily from June 14 to Labor Day, and on weekends in September.
Portland, Ore.
Portland’s Oaks Amusement Park opened in 1905 and is one of the longest continuously running amusement parks in the country. With 24 attractions, including the steel roller coaster and a historical carousel, the park strives to preserve such vintage pieces. Park season opens on March 23.
Take note: Don’t miss the classic carnival games or the roller rink – possibly the largest in the U.S.
Athol, Idaho
Silverwood Theme Park — about an hour east of Spokane in Idaho — is the Pacific Northwest’s largest theme park and worth a whole weekend, with seven roller coasters and other attractions. Open May 4 to September 22.
Take note: September 26-October 26, Silverwood transforms into Scarywood with five haunted attractions, nine scare zones, and most rides up and running in the dark.
Vancouver, B.C.
Playland in Vancouver B.C. “ is one of the coolest places to come to during the summer,” says one enthusiastic visitor. Open May to August. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
Take note: Love roller coasters? Be one of the riders on the new electric launch coaster ThunderVolt. And don’t miss The Beast ride, “the most intense ride at the park!”
Grand Mound, WA
Great Wolf Lodge is a theme indoor water park, and hotel, open all year round! You can buy a full or half-day pass to the park and attractions, or book a stay. Water slides, a wave pool, an arcade, and daily events. You’ll find it all can be found here.
Take note: Grab a wand and explore the lodge with MagiQuest. The wands can get a bit expensive but they’re a keepsake your little howlers will treasure and they can continue their adventure next trip!
Cultus Lake, B.C.
Cultus Lake Adventure Park is open all through March (except Wednesdays) and rain or shine from June 25 to September 5. “The rides were great and not just little kid rides; even parents were screaming and having a blast,” according to one visitor.
Take note: Parkwide Easter egg hunt! From March 29 to April 1, you can buy a ticket online in advance to get in at 10:30 am for this epic hunt. Tickets to the hunt also cover regular full-day park admission from 11 to 5:30.
Read more:
Family guide: Kraken Community Iceplex
Free days for 2024 in Washington’s state and national parks
