Nothing says summer like a trip to the amusement park, whether you’re vacationing near a park or making it the focus of your summer road trip, kids (and parents) love the fun and thrill of roller coasters, rides and midway games!
About OWA Amusement Park and It’s Accommodations:
Centered on a 14 acre lake, OWA Amusement Park is the Alabama Gulf Coasts newest and coolest spot for family fun and entertainment. Located in Foley, Alabama, OWA is the perfect side trip if you’re already at the beach or will make a perfect weekend destination.
Located on the property is the beautiful Marriott TownePlace Suites. We couldn’t have been happier with our stay there. The room was spacious, the staff was friendly, they even have a kids hangout area with foosball and a flatscreen. Our favorite spot in the hotel quickly became the expansive back patio that over looks the park and lake. Comfortable seating and a fire pit make it the perfect space to sit, relax and unwind after a fun filled day at the park.
Because of it’s close proximity to the park, we loved that we could park our car and didn’t have to use it again until we checked out. Walking to the park and all of the restaurants in Downtown OWA was a breeze, but if you decide to drive, parking at the park and downtown OWA is free. The Marriott TownePlace offers free continental breakfast to it’s guests, so you can fuel up before heading out!
Downtown OWA:
Inspired by some of Coastal Alabama’s most beloved small towns, this is a streetscape designed for strolling, dining, shopping and entertainment. From the vintage streetlights to the shade of balconies, visitors are reminded of their favorite downtown spots in places like Foley and Fairhope.
The mix of offerings in Downtown OWA is familiar, too. Popular Coastal Alabama shops and restaurants share the streets with some of the biggest names in the country, like Paula Deen and Wahlburger’s. And while it’s all within earshot of roller coaster thrills, Downtown OWA is located outside The Park at OWA’s gates, so there’s never an admission charge.
Activities at OWA:
In addition to the 21 amusement park rides, OWA features games, and the new interactive splash pad, Wacky Waters. Throughout the day inside the park, there are fun family activities like face painting, hula hooping, limbo, dancing and more. You will also find a few shows happening in the park and in Downtown OWA like the skippers, a high flying group that bounce around wowing crowds, and at night, GLOWA a night time block party with fun music, and lights. (shows subject to change based on season)
Being near the beach during the summer means you will probably get some afternoon showers. If you find yourself needing to get out of the rain or heat for a bit, the Arcade is the perfect place. The arcade is located right outside of the park, so admission is not required to play in the arcade.
Dining at OWA:
There is absolutely no shortage of food options at OWA. Inside the park they have the standard Amusement park food and snacks (make sure to try the little doughnuts, they are yum!) In downtown OWA you have a variety of options, we started our trip with a late lunch at Wahlburgers (as in Marky-Mark-and-the-Funky-Bunch-NKOTB Wahlburgs..) So for any NKOTB fan girl, like myself, you’ll see this as a must do. While I didn’t benefit from any unexpected celebrity sightings, I did thoroughly enjoy the food. The burgers were truly delicious and the onion straws didn’t disappoint.
Our other favorite spot was the Groovy Goat, and their “tableside nachos your way.” Groovy Goat is a perfect place to end your day, with sports, live music and a great menu. Bonus, it’s attached to the arcade so the kids can play while you wait for your food!
Other options around Downtown Owa include Crazy Donuts and an Auntie Anne’s/Cinnabon – 3 words… Caramel. Pecan. Roll.
Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen and Tratorria Pizza and Italian are both set to open soon!
Booking a Trip to OWA:
Room Rates and Availability vary based on season and day of the week.
As we mentioned above, staying on property is super convenient if you’re making this the focus of your getaway, but if you’re already at the beach, the drive over is quick and easy.
On the OWA website you can search for current deals and specials, like their “Everyone’s a kid” ticket pricing or their “Summer Night” Savings.
The Future of OWA:
While we think that the park is pretty great already, we were excited to learn about their future plans. As you walk the streets of the downtown area, you can see that they have BIG plans to bring in more shops and restaurants in addition to the expansion of a full outside water park, 4 more hotels, RV resort and resort level condominiums.
The future for OWA is bright and we’re excited to watch it grow!
What our Kid Reporters have to say:
“I was never bored, the rides were really fun and they have rides for all ages, I can’t wait to go back!” -Elizabeth
“My favorite thing there was the Cinnabon! I wish I had gotten on the Twister, maybe I’ll do that one next time!” -Harper
“I had so much fun at OWA, my favorite ride was the Twister!” – Avery
Additional parent note: The park is super clean, it seems well run and lines move quickly, we noticed an uptick in crowds later in the day, which is no surprise given the summer heat.
PIRC is a confidential phone response center that links adult callers to mental health resources for children and teens.
Visit the Zoo during Zoo Fun Days to take advantage of discounted admission – $5 off all admission tickets! Guests will have the opportunity to get up-close with the elephants in Trails of Africa, experience Predator Zone, enjoy a Red Diamond Sea Lion Show and be surrounded by and feed* beautiful lorikeets in the Schaeffer Eye Center Lorikeet Aviary. Come learn how the Zoo uses enrichment activities to help keep the animals mentally and physically fit. Guests can also see live animal demonstrations, feedings, chat with the keepers and more! *Additional cost.
McWane Science Center opened its doors to the public on July 11, 1998, and have been sparking wondering and curiosity in the Birmingham community and beyond ever since! You’re invited to help them celebrate this special occasion with a two-day birthday bash! Join them for some incredible demonstrations, interactive activities, and of course cake, Saturday and Sunday, July 14th and 15th!
