Uncover the complete guide to Owa Park & Resort. Plan your dream getaway with our top tips, hidden spots, and planning essentials!
Source – Alt: A happy family standing on a sandy beach
During your family vacation down to the Alabama Gulf Coast, you’ll probably need some things to do. Activities the whole family can get involved with and enjoy.
Well, if you’re in search of a picturesque vacation destination filled with thrilling amusement rides, wonderful live performances, charming retail spaces, and enticing food options a stone’s throw from the gorgeous Alabama beaches, look no further than the heart of Alabama Gulf Coast – the fabulous Owa Park and Resort.
Nestled in Foley, Alabama, Owa Park & Resort is an all-encompassing family dream vacation offering an exciting array of experiences to cater to different tastes and preferences.
A destination that beautifully personifies Southern warmth and hospitality, this is a perfect morning, afternoon, day, or even week out – an ideal location for thrill-seekers, food lovers, and shopping enthusiasts alike.
So, get ready to discover the magic, make memorable moments, and explore a plethora of family-friendly activities. Deep dive into this exciting journey and make your next vacation an unforgettable adventure at Owa Park & Resort.
What is Owa Park & Resort?
Source – Alt: the father walks with three kids in the park
Owa Park & Resort is a vibrantly thrilling amusement and entertainment destination nestled in Foley, Alabama.
The name “Owa,” meaning “big water” in the Muscogee Creek language, epitomizes the park’s spirit of adventure and cultural heritage.
Spread over 520 acres, Owa Park & Resort features a fascinating collection of fun-filled activities. It boasts an expansive theme park with thrilling rides, the Downtown Owa shopping and dining district, captivating live performances, and an on-site hotel.
Offering unforgettable experiences for all ages, Owa perfectly blends the adrenaline rush of amusement rides with the beauty and serenity of landscapes.
No matter who you are, what generation you’re from, and what your vacation goals are, Owa Parks is the perfect destination for a truly unforgettable family vacation.
Where is Owa Park & Resort?
Source – Alt: The front of Owa Parks and Resort during a firework display at night
Located in Foley, Alabama, Owa Park & Resort is an easily accessible destination for both local residents and out-of-state visitors.
Fondly known as the gateway to the Alabama Gulf Coast, it’s a stone’s throw away from the beautiful Gulf Shores beaches.
The precise address for your SatNav is Owa Park & Resort, 100 N OWA Blvd, Foley, AL 36535, nestled conveniently near the intersection of the Foley Beach Expressway and County Road 20.
How To Get There
Whether you are a local, a traveler from one of the southern small towns, or an out-of-towner, reaching Owa Park & Resort is a breeze. If you’re in the area, it’s a short trip along the Foley Beach Express.
For those coming from farther away, Owa is only a 45-minute drive from Mobile, Alabama, and less than a one-hour drive from Pensacola, Florida.
The closest airport is the Pensacola International Airport (PNS), approximately an hour’s drive away. Numerous shuttle services and car rentals are available from the airport, ensuring a hassle-free commute to the resort.
If you’re driving, ample parking spaces are available at the resort for a small fee.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Owa Park & Resort
Alabama’s Largest Indoor Water Park: Tropic Falls at OWA 2023
The award-winning Owa Park & Resort is open year-round, presenting a different charm every season. However, if you’re looking for the perfect blend of enjoyable weather and varied events, the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons are often deemed the best times to visit.
In the cooler spring months, the resort starts to come indeed alive.
The temperature is just right to fully enjoy all the outdoor attractions, and the park is adorned with beautiful, blossoming flowers. Special Easter events also add a delightful touch to your visit.
The fall season, however, carries the excitement of Halloween festivities. This is when Owa Park unveils a host of Halloween-themed events, thrilling haunted houses, and night-time entertainment, turning your visit into an unforgettable, spooky adventure.
Oh, and you can probably imagine just how beautiful the Christmas celebrations here are.
Owa Park & Resort offers unique experiences and endless fun, making every trip delightful and memorable regardless of when you visit.
Owa Park & Resort Attractions and Activities
Let’s get into the real reason you’re here.
Owa Park & Resort has an array of attractions and activities designed to ensure that every member of the family experiences a memorable vacation. This is your complete guide and comprehensive round-up of the must-try activities and experiences that will make your visit truly unforgettable.
Tropic Falls Theme Park
Source – A graphic showcasing the $70 million Tropic Falls expansion reported in March 2023
There’s no doubt that theme parks are an excellent place for the whole family. Whether you’re the one who runs from ride to ride and tries to cram as many in as possible or the one pulled around and dares to go on the biggest, most extreme ride about, don’t worry; Owa Parks has something for everything.
Amazingly, Tropic Falls prides itself on 23 stunning attractions, making this a true ride-focused theme park gem of the Alabama Gulf Coast. An ideal balance of adventure and fun with some of the friendliest ride operators in the area.
Here are a few highlights:
- AeroZoom: This family-friendly ride takes the joy of hang gliding to the next level. AeroZoom allows you to dip, tilt, and zoom across the sky – delivering a sensational feeling of freedom or disorientation – depending on what you’re into.
- Air Racer: Another one for the thrill-seekers, Air Racer performs twists, turns, loops, and dives much like an exhilarating air show, promising a unique and exciting experience every time.
- Crazy Mouse: Be ready for a stomach-churning adventure as you rush up, down, and all around the track on this crazy, spinning roller coaster guaranteed to leave you breathless.
- Flutter By: Fly high on the wings of a giant butterfly. This delightful ride offers a mesmerizing aerial view of the park as you twirl through the air. This is an excellent ride for the little ones.
- Mystic Mansion: Haunted houses are always a hit, and this ghastly yet exciting attraction is no exception. Feel your heart pound as you hop into a Ghost Tracker Vehicle to weave your way around, competing to defeat the main ghost, Boocifer.
- Rollin Thunder: Fasten your seat belts and get ready to kick out your feet and scream with delight as you soar up, down, and around through the wild blue on the Rollin Thunder. This is one of the biggest rides in the park, so can you really go home without giving it a shot?
Again, there are 23 attractions here, so there’s loads more to explore, including;
- Mini and not-so-mini roller coasters
- Massive swings
- Teacups
- Water rafts
- Sky-high twisters
- A mini water park
- Bumper cars
And on top of this, Owa has recently announced a $70 million expansion that’s taking place over the next few years, so there are many years of fun to enjoy. It’s basically a full day out, so make sure you pack everything you need and just go and have fun with it all! You’re on vacation, after all.
The Wonders of the Owa Water Park
The Owa Water Park, falling under the umbrella of Tropic Falls, promises a refreshing indoor waterpark retreat for visitors of all ages. Sheltered under a convertible glass roof, the water park is a year-round haven for splash-filled fun.
It features a variety of attractions, fulfilling a range of thrill levels. Here are some of the highlights:
- Aqua Chaser: If you’re in the mood for some friendly competition, Aqua Chaser will be right up your street. Three parallel slides with mats allow the riders to race and see who reaches the bottom first. It’s a playful slide that’s a classic take on the traditional water slide.
- Big Water Bay: Opened March 2023, The Big Water Bay will leave you awestruck with its 30,000 square feet of tropical wave-pool action. It’s an outdoor wave pool that will blow you away and will surely be a hit with the whole family.
- Castaway Creek: For those seeking a slower pace, the Castaway Creek serves as a unique lazy river that winds its way around the indoor water park. It’s the perfect spot to lie back and float your cares away. It’s also a great way to see the rest of the water park!
- Citrus Cyclone: If you’re looking for something a little more daring, hop into your inflatable tube for the Citrus Cyclone. It lets you drop, dive, and splash through high-speed turns. Hold on tight!
- Tuki’s Tower: Don’t worry; little ones can also enjoy the wonders of the water park – a highlight being Tuki’s Tower. It’s a kid-friendly tropical play structure equipped with five slides and a dump-bucket tower. It’s safe, secure, and a lot of fun. You can’t really go wrong.
From high-speed pursuits like the Piranha Plunge and the Tangerine Scream to the Coastal Curl surf simulator’s relaxing vibes, Owa Parks Resort is undoubtedly an oasis of fun and excitement, promising unforgettable aquatic adventures.
Diverse and Delicious Dining at Owa Park & Resort
Source – Alt: A group of friends eating delicious food out at a restaurant
Foodies, rejoice!
We all know that no vacation is complete without good food, and Owa Parks Resort ensures you’re delighted with every meal of the day. Honestly, you could probably book a vacation to Owa Parks just to sample all the food they have on offer.
We like to think of this as an array of downtown Owa’s dining experiences, ones that delight the taste buds and complement the thrill of this family-fun destination.
Here’s a glimpse of what’s on the menu:
- Auntie Anne’s: Don’t miss Auntie Anne’s for a perfect grab-and-go snack. Home to the world’s best soft pretzels, Auntie Anne’s is a crowd-pleaser, satisfying every craving with their warm, freshly baked goodies.
- Baja Grill at Tropic Falls: Located within Tropic Falls, Baja Grill serves up tasty light bites perfect for a mid-adventure pitstop. Previously known as ‘Veranda,’ the grill’s innovative menu meets your hunger pangs with a side of sunshine.
- Breakers Bar & Grill: Located at Big Water Bay, Breakers Bar & Grill lets you refuel without leaving the action behind. Its coastal-inspired menu and refreshing beverages make it an excellent spot for a midday respite.
- C’est Le Vin Wine Bar & Shop: Experience the world of wine at C’est Le Vin. A charming spot for wine enthusiasts, this bar and shop serves an impressive selection of fine wines to enjoy on-site or take home.
- El Diablo Express: Explore the intricate flavors of Mexican cuisine at El Diablo Express. Combining traditional tastes with new-world surprises, this restaurant creates a unique and authentic dining experience.
- Groovy Goat: Groovy Goat tops the list for sports fans, offering the perfect blend of great food, sports entertainment, and exciting arcade games. It’s a one-of-a-kind dining and gaming experience not to be missed.
- Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen: Dine at the famous Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen for a taste of Southern hospitality. Here, classic Paula Deen family recipes are served in a warm, family-style setting – just like mom used to make.
- Sushi Co.: For a taste of the East, head over to Sushi Co. Here, enjoy a variety of freshly prepared sushi that beautifully incorporates traditional flavors and contemporary elements.
And it doesn’t stop there. Throughout the day, don’t forget to stop by these vendors to satisfy any kind of craving you or your little ones may have:
- Hershey’s Ice Cream Parlor
- Murder Creek Distillery
- Valerio’s (which is great for pizza, just saying)
- Slappin’ Daks
- Starbucks
Unforgettable Entertainment at Owa Park & Resort
Source – Alt: A stage show with a cheering crowd and beautiful yellow stage lights
Now, we’ve covered a lot of adventure and fast-paced days out at the Owa Parks Resort, which we all know any trip to coastal Alabama will have when you’re traveling with the family. However, there’s plenty more to see and do regarding available entertainment.
As you can imagine, Owa Parks Resort is a hub for top-notch entertainment that caters to a wide range of interests. There’s such a diverse line-up of live acts, music concerts, magic shows, and special seasonal events; it’s hard to know where to begin, but we’ll try and do it justice.
Here are some highlights to get you in the mood:
Brandon Styles Show
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of entertainment with the talented Brandon Styles, who captivates audiences with his spot-on impressions, mind-blowing close-up magic, and perfectly timed comedic bits. Ranked in the top six in the world at the largest magic competition by the International Brotherhood of Magicians, Brandon brings his masterful skills to the OWA stage. Assisted by his charming wife, Diamond, and daughter, Baylee, this multifaceted family show offers an exceptional experience for all ages.
The 130-seat Brandon Styles Theater boasts state-of-the-art concert lighting, sound systems, projection, and perfect sightlines, creating an intimate and immersive space for unparalleled performances.
In addition to the main show, the theater is home to the Gulf Coast Comedy Fest, Murder Mystery Dinner Shows, and more!
Clash eSports & VR Experience
Step into the future of gaming with Clash eSports & VR Experience at Downtown OWA! Immerse yourself in an exhilarating world of cutting-edge technology featuring first-of-its-kind virtual reality (VR) gaming powered by Megaverse. Dive headfirst into breathtaking 3D landscapes and high-resolution imaging that feels as real as the world around you.
Level up your gaming experience with revolutionary virtual escape rooms. Test your skills in the high-seas adventure of Pirates Fate, a three-room multi-level escape room experience, or face the thrilling challenge of Corridors, a captivating single-level escape room.
Calling all Super Smash Bros fans, show off your skills in the weekly tournaments held at Clash eSports & VR Experience every Saturday.
Looking for more? Embrace the VIP treatment with access to the Arcade and Clash eSports Center at OWA. Choose from various console games featuring Xbox One, PS4, and Nintendo Switch, or explore extensive PC game options.
OWA Theater: Your Destination for Top-Notch Entertainment
Perhaps Owa’s centerpiece to many is the world of live entertainment at OWA Theater.
Nestled inside a state-of-the-art venue, this impressive 430-seat theater boasts crystal-clear sound, stunning lighting, and comfortable seating, ensuring a spectacular and unforgettable show every time.
Throughout the year, OWA Theater hosts a myriad of sellout events and an array of diverse performances. Dive into the enchanting world of imaginative theatrical productions, tap your toes to tribute bands that transport you back in time, or enjoy a hearty laugh at the Christian Comedy Fest.
Experience the thrilling spookiness of our Halloween Horror Shows, or enjoy the relatable wit and humor of the acclaimed production, “Menopause the Musical.” With such a wide variety of shows, there’s always something exciting to look forward to at the OWA Theater.
Apart from these, you can also expect frequent live music performances at the park, featuring local bands and artists, which add a rhythmic touch to your visit.
There’s even the Nightmare Chambers, the premium horror attraction of Owa Parks Resort, a fully-fledged Arcade installation, and camp experiences for the kids!
Well, isn’t that nothing short of magical?
Check out the upcoming events on the website.
A Shopper’s Delight at Owa Park & Resort
Source – Alt: A mum and her daughter carrying shopping bags and coffee while pointing in excitement.
Whether you’re seeking beach essentials, boutique finds, or distinctive souvenirs, shopping at Owa Park promises an adventure. With diverse and singular stores, it’s a paradise for treasure hunters looking to uncover that special something.
Let’s explore the unique retail offerings at Owa Parks Resort:
- Alvin’s Island: Alvin’s Island is your one-stop shop for all things beach-related. From trendy beachwear to beach toys, you’ll be ready for fun in the sun after a stop here.
- Body Tune Plus: For wellness enthusiasts, Body Tune Plus offers a range of products designed to advance natural well-being, including power bracelets, detox foot pads, and more.
- Brandon Styles Magic Shop: Give magic a whirl with fantastic items from the Brandon Styles Magic Shop. From budding magicians to intrigued novices, all will find uniquely entertaining products here.
- Fairhope Soap Company: Indulge in handcrafted, natural body care products at Fairhope Soap Company. Each item here is a testament to purity, freshness, and quality.
- Fluffy’s Pet Shop: Don’t forget about your furry friends! Fluffy’s Pet Shop stocks a wide variety of pet-based products – from toys to treats – that your animal companions will surely love.
- Murder Creek Distillery: Sample and shop a selection of handcrafted, small-batch moonshine at Murder Creek Distillery. Their unique array of flavors guarantees a unique gift or a special treat just for you.
- Native Treasures: Shop for Native American-inspired jewelry, pottery, dream catchers, and more at Native Treasures – the perfect shop for unique souvenirs and gifts.
- Somethin’ Sassy: For trendy clothing, accessories, and novelty items, look no further than Somethin’ Sassy.
- Sweet Tooth at OWA: Stop in at Sweet Tooth at OWA for all your candy cravings. The store boasts an assortment of sweet treats that will make your visit even sweeter.
- The Spice & Tea Exchange®: Widen your culinary horizons at The Spice & Tea Exchange®, where you can find a vast selection of high-quality herbs, spices, and teas. This is a great place to get gifts for those at home.
- Toys Under Twenty: Find a range of delightful toys without breaking the bank at Toys Under Twenty.
- Trop Shop at Tropic Falls: Trop Shop at Tropic Falls caters to everything you need to make your waterpark experience a splash, including swimwear, towels, flip-flops, and more.
- Vacay Everyday Boutique: Find the perfect outfit for your next vacation at Vacay Everyday Boutique. You’ll find everything you need, from stylish swimsuits to beach-ready accessories for a fabulous getaway.
With such diverse shopping opportunities, Owa Park & Resort provides a unique retail experience – one where shopping is genuinely part of the adventure!
Valuable Tips for Your Visit
- Plan Ahead: Before your trip, check the park’s operating hours and the show schedule to strategize your day.
- Stay Hydrated: With so much fun under the sun, it’s easy to forget to drink water. Remember to hydrate often, which is especially important for young kids and older family members.
- Pack Essentials: Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, hats, comfortable clothing, swimwear, and extra clothes for young children. You can buy it at the theme park yourself, but it’s probably more affordable to bring it from home.
- Take Breaks: Ensure everyone stays energized and avoid cranky kids by scheduling regular snack breaks and periods of rest in between activities.
- Consider Your Accommodation: While Owa is home to award-winning towneplace suites and award-winning accommodations thanks to the Marriott partnership, these do come at a cost and restrict you to living on site. This is great if you’re only staying at Owa Resorts, but if you want to explore the surrounding wonders that the Alabama coast has to offer, you want to choose a location off-site!
- Think Safety: Typically, amusement parks and the Owa Resort are busy places and can get crowded around attractions, outside events, etc. Be aware of where everyone is, and maybe even establish a meet-up point in case you get separated.
Conclusion
As you can see, OWA offers a vibrant mix of incredible entertainment and unforgettable performances for the whole family.
After a thrilling day at OWA, there’s nothing quite like refreshing yourself and relaxing at one of Elite Vacation Rentals‘ luxurious waterfront properties.
Serving some of the best and most luxurious properties for enjoying the best Alabama’s Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan have to offer, these waterfront, pet-friendly homes (many of which boast heated pools and boat access) are the perfect basecamp for your family to enjoy Owa and the surrounding area.
So, ready to pack your bags for the dream vacation?
Remember, the best vacations are more than just a journey—they’re an experience.
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