Wonderland Amusement Park

In the heart of Texas, within the scenic Thompson Memorial Park, lies Wonderland Amusement Park — one of the most beloved family vacation spots in the city of Amarillo. Spanning over 50 acres in the USA, this park offers guests a unique combination of a classic American amusement park and a cozy atmosphere inspired by the famous book "Alice in Wonderland."

Founded back in 1951 as a small playground called "Kiddie Land," Wonderland has evolved into a large-scale entertainment complex. Every year, it attracts up to 230,000 visitors, offering between 30 and 50 diverse attractions: from breath-taking roller coasters to gentle carousels for the little ones. For locals, it’s not just a park, but a vital part of the cultural heritage where generations of Texans have grown up.

The park is famous for its summer traditions and special focus on safety, making it an ideal choice for tourists of all ages. Here, you can find both modern high-tech entertainment and rare handmade attractions that have preserved the spirit of the mid-20th century, adding a touch of pleasant nostalgia to your visit.

To check the latest information about events and special offers, you can use the park's official communication channels.

The main draw of this place is its incredible variety of entertainment. Adrenaline junkies should definitely check out the roller coasters, such as Lil’ Dipper and Spin-o-Saurus, which promise unforgettable thrills. Of particular value is the Fantastic Journey attraction — a unique "handmade" ride created by the park's founder himself, which immerses guests in a world of fantasy and mystery.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, Wonderland offers classic bumper cars, the Hershell Kiddie Boat Ride, and plenty of spinning family carousels. In total, there are more than 30 different areas for play and interaction. Children will love the specialized zones designed specifically for their needs and safety.

Besides the rides, it’s a pleasure just to wander through the well-maintained grounds of Thompson Park, enjoying the shade of century-old trees. Throughout the season, the park regularly hosts themed events and promotions, making every visit unique. It’s a wonderful space to have a family picnic, celebrate a birthday, or simply spend a bright evening with friends, diving into an atmosphere of celebration and carefree fun.

The park is easy to find, as it is conveniently located within Thompson Memorial Park in the northern part of the city. The most comfortable way to get here is by car or taxi (such as Uber or Lyft). The trip from downtown Amarillo takes only about 10–15 minutes via Dumas Drive.

For travelers arriving from further away, the closest air hub is Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA). It’s approximately a 20-minute drive from the airport to the park gates. Spacious parking for visitors is available on-site.

If you prefer public transportation, it’s best to check city bus routes serving Thompson Park in advance, though keep in mind that in the USA, personal transport remains the fastest and most flexible option for family trips.

The history of this place began over 70 years ago thanks to the enthusiasm of Paul and Aleteia Rhoads. On August 12, 1951, a modest "Kiddie Land" opened on a desert plot of land, offering just three rides. Remarkably, in those years, Paul worked at the Air Force base during the day and managed the park himself on evenings and weekends, literally building the future of the entertainment center brick by brick.

In 1969, the project reached a new level: rides for adults were added, including popular bumper cars, and the venue received its current distinctive name — Wonderland. Many of the park's structures, such as the famous Fantastic Journey, were designed and built personally by the founder, giving the place a special, "home-grown" and nostalgic atmosphere that is hard to find in modern chain parks.

For decades, the park remained a family business, passed down through generations of the Rhoads-Borchardt family. A new chapter began in December 2025 when 360 Parks acquired the property, promising to carefully preserve its heritage and unique spirit in preparation for a major 75th anniversary celebration in 2026. For the residents of Texas, this is more than just a business—it is a living icon of the city and a keeper of childhood memories for many generations.

To fully soak up the festive atmosphere and have time to enjoy most of the popular rides, it is recommended to set aside at least 4–6 hours for your visit. This is usually enough for a leisurely stroll and visiting the main areas on a weekday.

If you are planning a visit on weekends or holidays, when lines may be longer, or if you are traveling as a large family with children of different ages, it is better to reserve the entire day. This will allow you to enjoy the coasters, snacks, relaxation zones, and special events often held at Thompson Park without any rush.

Wonderland Park is a seasonal attraction and hospitably opens its doors during the warmer months. Typically, the season begins in March or April and lasts until mid-autumn (October-November). During the peak summer season, the park is usually open daily from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, though during spring and autumn weekdays, the schedule may be limited to weekends only.

It’s important to remember that the operation of outdoor rides is directly weather-dependent. During the winter months, the park is closed for technical maintenance. To ensure your visit goes perfectly, we strongly recommend checking the current opening hours on the official website before your trip.

A visit to the park can easily be combined with exploring other interesting locations in the northern part of the city. Its proximity to natural areas and historic sites allows for a packed full-day itinerary.

The area surrounding the park offers both active water fun and a chance to discover the region's architectural heritage. Below is a list of nearby attractions: