Amusement parks in Missouri are more abundant than you might think. This state is actually a great place for families, couples and seniors to visit on vacation due to the many amusement parks and other entertainment and dining options. In particular, Branson, Missouri, is a popular destination within the state for both residents and tourists, partly because it is home to one of the area's largest amusement parks. 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 Missouri amusement parks.
Silver Dollar City
Silver Dollar City is one of the top attractions in Branson, Missouri. With an 1880s Ozarks theme spread over 61 acres, the amusement park offers just as many educational opportunities as fun and exciting rides. According to the
, the park is also the site of six major festivals each year along with several shows and concerts.
The PowderKeg
According to the park's website, the signature ride at Silver Dollar City is the
. This thrilling roller coaster shoots riders to speeds of 53 miles per hour in under three seconds. From there, the ride goes through a series of breathtaking twists and turns.
Other Attractions
Silver Dollar City is packed with educational attractions, including the below-ground sights at Marvel Cave, the fun house at Grandfather's Mansion and a trip back to the Ozarks in the 1880s at McHaffie's Homestead. Thrill-seekers will enjoy the Giant Swing, the WildFire roller coaster and the Thunderation runaway train. Some seasonal rides are also incorporated each year, says the
.
Food
Silver Dollar City offers just about any food options you could want, including barbecue favorites, burgers, fries, subs, salads, soups, pasta, chili, ice cream, pie, kettle corn, funnel cake and pretzels. Breakfast, lunch and dinner meals are all available to make it easier to spend your whole day at the park.
Safety Record
Our research reveals no notable news reports of safety issues or accidents at Silver Dollar City.
Address: 399 Indian Point Road, Branson, MO 65616Phone: 417-338-8189Hours: The park is open from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. June through July and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.August through October. Price: Adults, $90; children ages 4 to 11, $70.
Six Flags St. Louis
Six Flags St. Louis, located just 30 miles outside of its namesake city, is an amazing amusement park for thrill ride lovers. With huge roller coasters, family rides and kiddie areas, everyone can find something to enjoy at this Six Flags location. Plus, the park includes plenty of shopping, entertainment and dining opportunities as well.
Signature Ride
The American Thunder roller coaster is the signature ride at Six Flags St. Louis. According to the
, this wooden coaster stands eight stories tall and drops with a breathtaking 90-degree turn, which is quickly followed by numerous hills and banked turns. The coaster, which is 2,700 feet long, reaches speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.
Other Attractions
The amusement park also contains several other popular roller coasters, such as The Boss, Xcalilbur and Pandemonium. According to the
, Six Flags St. Louis also contains numerous family-friendly rides and kiddie rides as well.
abound at this amusement park, with daily shows like the Country Unplugged, Street Beats and the Rock 40 Night Show.
Food
A number of snack stands and restaurants are located throughout the park. Visitors can get everything from hamburgers and pizza to funnel cakes and ice cream at Six Flags St. Louis. Stop by the Character Cafe, Friar Tuck's or Hurricane Harbor Food Court to check out just a few of the food options at this amusement park.
Safety Record
Our research reveals no notable news reports of safety issues or accidents at Six Flags St. Louis.
Address: 4900 Six Flags Road, Eureka, MO 63025 Phone: 636-938-5300Hours: The park is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. June through August.Price: Adults, $44.99; children, $34.99; free admission for children 2 and younger.
Other Noteworthy Parks Near Missouri
What's your favorite roller coaster in Missouri?
Check out more AMUSEMENT PARKS.
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