Guide to Smaller Amusement Parks in the Midwest
Theme Parks With Lower Admission Fees and Shorter Lines
Apr 30, 2009
Amusement parks make for great summer fun. Nonetheless, long lines, extensive walking and costly admission fees make visiting theme parks difficult for some.
Mention the idea of visiting an amusement park in the Midwest, and most will think of the most popular parks in the region such as Cedar Point, Kings Island, Six Flags Great America or Six Flags Missouri. Surprisingly, however, there are some other great amusement parks in the Midwest. These parks offer shorter lines and waiting, cheaper admission fees, less walking and more economical options for dining.
Indiana Beach Amusement Park near Monticello, Indiana
Located in the northwest part of Indiana, Indiana Beach Amusement Park is a good choice for families from Chicago, southwestern Michigan (Kalamazoo, Benton Harbor, etc.) and residents throughout Indiana. The park offers a great mix of thrill, water fun, traditional rides (such as the carousel, ferris wheel and bumper cars) and other entertainment (including games, water ski shows and a boat cruise). While in the park one can choose from a variety of dining options. Some choices include standard park foods like cheeseburgers, fries, ice cream, elephant ears and hot dogs, along with tacos, burritos and italian sausage.
A family of four visiting the amusement park only will spend approximately $100 for admission (depending upon the age of children), and around $140 if choosing to visit the waterpark as well.
Arnold's Park in Iowa
This historical park was built over a century ago. Located in northern Iowa, it is a short distance from Sioux City and Fort Dodge (Iowa), and just a few hours drive from St. Paul/Minneapolis (Minnesota).
The park offers a mixture of very traditional and historic rides like the Legend (a wooden roller coaster that is nearly a century old), ferris wheel and carousel, along with other attractions such as bumper cars, raceway stock kars, a water park, shopping and musical entertainment. When hungry, one can choose to eat a quick meal at one of the park stands, or dine in one of the on-site cafes or restaurants. Some popular food items include hoagies, pizza, scones and fudge.
One of the most economical park choices, a family of four can enjoy a day at the park for around $100. This fee includes a pass for unlimited riding, game tickets and discounts on food and other activities.
Michigan's Adventure in Muskegon, Michigan
Michigan's Adventure Amusement Park is a part of the Cedar Fair Entertainment Company (owners of Cedar Point, Canada's Wonderland, King's Island and various other theme parks). Located in northwestern Michigan in the Muskegon/Whitehall area, this park is just a few hours drive from Detroit, Chicago and northern Indiana. Although it is somewhat small, it offers a plether of activities for families with children of all ages. Some highlights of the park include the Thunderhawk and Shivering Timbers (for the thrillseeker), popular rides like Tilt-A-Whirl and the Sea Dragon (for the somewhat faint of heart) and rides for the little ones such as Winky the Whale and Timbertown Railway. Additionally, Michigan's Adventure offers a separate waterpark with everything from wild rides (like Cyclone Zone) to a small kiddie pool.
A family of four will spend just over $100 for admission as well as parking. The park offers a few on-site dining options. Some food choices include common park foods like hamburgers, hot dogs and ice cream, as well as various barbecue meals.
Many of these parks also offer 2-day passes allowing the family to enjoy a summer weekend get-away. The smaller park is also a good choice for families with children of varying ages. Parents will find it easier to keep up with all of the kids, and the little ones will not be overwhelmed by the size and large crowds at these parks.
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