Thompson Memorial Park

Imagine vast green spaces stretching over 100 acres in the heart of the Texas plains. Thompson Memorial Park is more than just an urban recreation area; it is a true historical landscape and one of the largest public spaces in the city of Amarillo, USA. It combines the tranquility of nature with the thrill of modern entertainment, making it a mandatory stop on any traveler's itinerary.

One of the park's main jewels is the Thompson Memorial Rose Garden—a magnificent rose garden home to more than 3,000 rose bushes. It is one of the largest and most impressive flower gardens in the state, open for walks year-round. Additionally, the Thompson Memorial Veterans Memorial is located on the park grounds, creating an atmosphere of solemnity and remembrance.

For those seeking activity, the park offers various opportunities: from fishing on the picturesque lake to playing disc golf on specially equipped courses. The famous Wonderland Amusement Park is also located on-site, making it an ideal destination for family vacations. Manicured lawns and shaded alleys turn Thompson Memorial Park into a perfect refuge from the city's hustle and bustle.

To plan your visit and check for upcoming events at Thompson Memorial Park, you can use the contact information provided below. The park administration is ready to answer questions regarding picnic area reservations or swimming pool rules. For your convenience, we have summarized the main information in the table below.

A visit to this place promises to be packed with activities: here, you can spend time in quiet contemplation as well as active movement. Be sure to stop by the rose garden, where you can stroll among thousands of fragrant blooms at any time of year. If you prefer peace and quiet, head to the lake in the center of the park—it is regularly stocked with fish, so you can often find fishing enthusiasts enjoying the view of the water's surface.

For families with children, Wonderland Amusement Park will be the main center of attraction. Here, you'll find classic carousels, thrilling roller coasters, and bumper cars that provide an adrenaline rush for both adults and kids. On hot days, the Thompson Pool is a true lifesaver—a modern water complex with a "lazy river" and water slides where you can cool off and have fun with the whole family.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the walking and cycling trails winding through the natural landscape, as well as the 9-hole disc golf course. After your walk, you can set up a cozy lunch in one of the many picnic areas while admiring the well-kept lawns. Don't forget to visit the Veterans Memorial to pay your respects to heroes in a calm and solemn setting.

The easiest way to reach this picturesque corner of Amarillo is by car. The park is located at 2401 Dumas Dr, with convenient access from the US-87 and I-40 highways. The drive from the city center takes only about 10–15 minutes, and spacious free parking is provided directly on the premises for visitors.

If you prefer public transportation, you can use the Amarillo City Transit (ACT) bus network. Routes running along Dumas Dr will take you to the nearest stop, which is just a few minutes' walk from the park's main gates. Additionally, it is convenient to call a taxi or use Uber and Lyft services from anywhere in the city or from Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA)—the trip from the airport takes approximately 20–25 minutes.

The history of this place is inextricably linked with the name of Ernest O. Thompson, a veteran and prominent city mayor who took office in 1929. He initiated large-scale improvements to the city's infrastructure, which eventually turned abandoned land into a blooming oasis. Interestingly, the area of hundreds of acres in the north of the city was originally used as a dump, but through the efforts of city employees and careful planning, it was cleared and transformed into one of the state's largest parks.

A significant milestone in the park's development was 1951, when Paul and Alathea Rhoads founded Wonderland Amusement Park on an undeveloped plot of land. It all began with a small "Kiddie Land" featuring just three rides, but over time, the project grew into a full-scale amusement park that is still managed by the Rhoads family and serves as a cultural symbol of the region. City authorities actively supported its growth, leveling the ground and planting thousands of trees to create a cozy atmosphere for visitors.

The modern appearance of the park continues to be updated. For instance, the popular Thompson Pool water complex opened in its current form in the summer of 2021. It replaced the old structure that had served the citizens for 87 years. Today, the site features modern slides and a lazy river, highlighting the city's commitment to preserving historical heritage while adding contemporary amenities for new generations of tourists.

To fully experience the atmosphere and explore all the key locations, a typical visitor will need between 3 and 6 hours. If your goal is a quiet stroll through the rose garden, a visit to the veterans memorial, and a few laps on the walking trails, you can easily manage in a couple of hours. This is an ideal option for those looking to take beautiful photos and enjoy the silence by the lake.

However, for families planning a visit to the amusement park or spending time at the Thompson Pool water complex, it is best to set aside a full day. The combination of active entertainment, fishing on the lake, and a leisurely picnic in the fresh air turns a park visit into a complete day-long adventure where everyone can find something to enjoy.

Thompson Memorial Park warmly welcomes guests daily from 05:00 to 00:00. This wide time range allows both early morning runners and those who appreciate evening walks under the Texas starlight to enjoy the beauty of the area.

Please note that additional facilities on the grounds, such as Wonderland Park and Thompson Pool, have their own seasonal operating schedules, which may change depending on the weather and time of year. We strongly recommend checking the park's official website before your trip to confirm the current operating hours for specific entertainment zones.

Exploring the park's surroundings can significantly enrich your Texas travel experience. Located nearby are both exciting entertainment centers and iconic historical sites, easily accessible on foot or with a short trip.