Adventureland Resort

About

Adventureland Resort has been a cornerstone of Iowa family entertainment for over 50 years. Located near Des Moines, this amusement park combines classic thrills with modern attractions across its sprawling grounds.

The park features a mix of rides for every comfort level. Thrill-seekers can take on iconic coasters like Tornado and Outlaw, while newer additions like Draken Falls and Flying Viking bring fresh excitement. For families with younger children, gentler rides and attractions are spread throughout the park. There's something here for every age and energy level.

Adventureland's water park adds another dimension to the experience. On hot Iowa summer days, it's the perfect place to cool down between coaster runs. The combination of dry rides and water attractions means you can easily fill a full day - or even a weekend if you stay at the resort.

Beyond the rides, you'll find dining options, an arcade, and seasonal events that keep things interesting throughout the operating season. The resort side of things means you don't have to rush. Stay overnight and spread your visit across two days at a relaxed pace.

For trip planning, the park is conveniently located just off Interstate 80, making it easy to reach from anywhere in the Des Moines metro area and beyond. Parking is available on-site. If you're coming from out of state, the park sits roughly in the center of Iowa, within driving distance of several major Midwest cities.

Adventureland consistently ranks among the top things to do in the Des Moines area. It's not trying to be a massive destination park - and that's part of its charm. The atmosphere feels more personal and less overwhelming than larger theme parks. Lines tend to be shorter, staff tend to be friendlier, and the whole experience feels like a genuine Midwest tradition rather than a corporate production.

Whether you're a local family looking for a summer day out or a traveler passing through Iowa, Adventureland offers an honest, fun-filled experience worth the stop.

Accessibility

Adventureland Resort provides several accessibility features for guests with disabilities. Wheelchairs and electric scooters are available for rental - they can be reserved in advance online or picked up inside the entrance at Main Street Marketplace. Bringing your own mobility device is also an option.

All restrooms throughout the park have ADA-accessible stalls. Family restrooms are located at the Arcade and inside the water park, offering more space and privacy for guests who need assistance.

The park has an accessibility guide available that covers details about individual ride requirements and accommodations. Some rides may have specific physical requirements for safety reasons, so reviewing this guide before your visit is recommended.

The water park area includes features designed with accessibility in mind. A wheelchair-accessible playscape and splashpad are available, giving guests with mobility challenges a way to enjoy the water attractions.

For guests who need adaptive equipment, the broader resort area offers options including adaptive fishing gear, bikes, trikes, kayaks with tow motors, and tandem kayaks. This equipment can open up outdoor activities that might otherwise be difficult to access.

Parking is available on-site, though specific details about designated accessible parking spaces should be confirmed directly with the resort. Contact Adventureland Resort for the most current information on accessible parking locations, service animal policies, sensory accommodations, and any companion or accessibility pass programs that may be available. Their team can also help answer questions about specific ride accessibility and any seasonal changes to available services.

More accessible places in Iowa

• Outlets of Des Moines (Altoona)
• Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden (Des Moines)
• Science Center of Iowa (Des Moines)
• Figge Art Museum (Davenport)
• Herbert Hoover National Historic Site (West Branch)
• National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium (Dubuque)