Adventureland Park
4.3(8.9K)google
3.3(171)yelp
Roller CoasterWater ParkKidsFamilyYouth-FriendlyOutdoorThrilling
Overview
Adventureland Resort (often referred to as Adventureland for short) is a theme park in Altoona, Iowa (just northeast of Des Moines). It is marketed as the Home of Iowa's Best Thrills.
Practical Info
Mon10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tue10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wed10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thu10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Fri10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sat10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sun10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Suggested Duration6-10 hours
Best TimeThe peak summer months of June through August are ideal for this outdoor theme park. It is highly recommended to arrive at 9:30 AM on a weekday (Monday through Thursday) to beat the heavy weekend crowds. Sprint directly to marquee coasters like 'The Monster' right at the 10:00 AM opening, and catch the Ferris wheel illuminated against the golden twilight for the perfect photo.
Getting ThereLocated in Altoona. Driving is the premier option; from downtown Des Moines, take I-235 E east, merge onto I-80 E, and take Exit 142 for US-65 N/Hubbell Ave. Follow the distinct brown tourism signs onto Adventureland Dr, which routes vehicles directly into the park's massive, dedicated paid asphalt parking lot.
Travel Tips
- Admission seamlessly covers both the theme park and Adventure Bay water park; purchasing tickets online in advance via the official platform bypasses heavy gate surcharges, securing up to a $20 discount per person.
- The on-site full-service Adventureland Campground features complete electrical hookups; staying here during peak summer seasons serves as a prime cost-saving alternative to eliminate daily park parking fees and morning traffic grids.
- Adventure Bay water park structures close instantly during severe storms or when temperatures drop below 70°F; park entry security checkpoints are rigorous, maintaining an absolute ban on outside food and open beverages.
Reviews
Positive
- Great family theme park with an awesome water park area, and the newer roller coasters offer some solid thrills.
- The park is well-maintained and clean with nice landscaping. Lines are reasonable and staff are friendly.
- It nicely balances nostalgia with modern rides, making it an excellent destination for families with small kids.
- The water park has plenty of shaded areas and lounge chairs; getting the combo ticket is worth a full day of fun.
Heads up
- Food and drink prices inside are outrageously expensive for very mediocre quality, standard theme park overpricing.
- Some of the older, nostalgic roller coasters are frequently shut down for maintenance, reducing ride options.
- In peak summer, lines for major rides lack adequate shading and directional signs could be clearer.
- General admission is hefty, and you are forced to pay for an expensive fast pass if you want to avoid massive waits.