For screams, chills and thrills, the Big D is home to some of the best theme parks in Texas. From terror-inducing roller coasters to maximum velocity speedways, we’ve done the research so you can enjoy the ride.
Thrill #1: Zero Gravity Thrill Amusement Park
Zero Gravity is for serious thrill seekers. The Texas Blastoff will rocket you straight up to 70 mph and Nothin’ but Net will drop you into a 16-foot free fall. And we mean free fall! There’s no safety harness or rope attached, just a net at the bottom to catch you. Thrill seekers can choose between five different heart-pounding, fear-inducing rides, including Bungee Jumping, Skycoaster, Nothin’ but Net, Skyscraper and Blastoff.
Admission is based on the number of attractions (up to 5) that you wish to ride. Be sure to check the website for special 2 for 1 coupons and other discounts. The park boasts a perfect safety record, thanks to the well-trained staff and state-of-the-art equipment. Height and age restrictions apply, and if you’re under 16 you’ll need the verified signature of a parent or guardian.
Thrill seekers rave Zero Gravity Thrill is a “once in a lifetime opportunity” and “totally awesome!” Just don’t eat before you get on the Skycoaster!
Thrill #2: Six Flags
Six Flags is the quintessential Dallas theme park, and the one that started the entire Six Flags empire. While this isn’t the place for extreme roller coasters (if you want extreme, head to Zero Gravity), there’s a nice mix of rides that will satisfy the entire family.
You’ll find all your classic amusement park rides here, from a splash down coaster and tower of terror to kid-friendly bumper cars and the classic Ferris wheel. The park itself is divided into different themed regions, including Gotham City, Boomtown, Goodtimes Square, Looney Tunes USA, Mexico & Spain, and Texas.
Tickets aren’t cheap, however, so be sure to check the website for special discounts, such as the popular “Everyone pays kid prices” deal. Short on time? For an extra $39.99 you can purchase a ‘Flash Pass’ and flash your way to the front of the line on the most popular rides.
Thrill #3: Hurricane Harbor
Next door to Six Flags in Arlington, Hurricane Harbor is the place to go when the heat and humidity rise in Dallas. Cool off thanks to the 3 million gallons of water that power the parks water rides. These range from sky-high water slides to a trip down the lazy river. If you’re looking for an extra adrenaline rush, don’t miss Geronimo, where you’ll plunge down six straight stories in near free-fall. You can also test your balance surfing at Boogie Beach and race friends down the head-first Kamikaze water slide.
Be sure to bring your own towel, but leave other valuables at home. The crowds get big on the weekends, and security (or lack thereof), can be a problem. You’ll also want to go in a group of at least two to four people as some rides require a partner, and you’ll always want to have an extra person who can hang on to the towels.
Online tickets start at $21.99. That’s some serious bang for your buck for instant summer heat relief!
Thrill #4: SpeedZone Dallas
Accelerate into high gear at SpeedZone Dallas, the best place for go-kart racing in the Big D. Chose from four different tracks for full throttle fun. There’s also miniature golf and wide selection of video games at the arcade. For some midweek madness, visit on “$15 Buck Tuesdays!” where you can also enjoy unlimited video games and miniature golf, all for $15 per person. And on weeknights, hit the tracks for unlimited racing after dark for just $34.95 per person.
Different tracks have different height requirements. If you’re not sure if your children will meet the height requirements, be sure to check the SpeedZone website in advance to avoid disappointment. All drivers of 2-seat karts must be at least 18 years old. SpeedZone is located 15 minutes north of downtown Dallas just off I-35E.
Thrill #5: Screams Halloween Theme Park
During the month of October, get spooked at Screams, a Halloween theme park just 30 minutes south of Dallas. Screams features five haunted attractions, including the Arcane Asylum, Death Trap Maze, Ghoulish Graveyard, Castle of Darkness and 3-D Pirates of Peril Point. Scramble through the dark passageways and test your courage against the ghosts and goblins lurking in the unknown.
When you aren’t escaping a haunted house, have your fortune told, get a henna tattoo or enjoy a candied apple. But don’t let down your guard! You never know what roaming character may sneak up behind you…
Screams is open each Friday and Saturday in October from 7:30pm to 1:30am, and special hours on Halloween. Sorry, but you’ll have to leave the costumes and masks at home. All ages are welcome, but due to the scary environment and attractions, Screams is most appropriate for children aged 10 and older.
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