Every September, the State Fair of Texas draws thousands of people to Fair Park for Fletcher’s corny dogs, livestock shows, and no less than three haunted house rides. But just as quickly as the masses descend, they flee when the rides are dismantled and the food vendors pack up their deep friers. The place was a glorified parking lot most of the year.
Enter Summer Adventures, a new theme park that officially opened its gates May 4, 2013. It’s pitched as an “island getaway” minutes away from downtown, so prepare to get lei’d. But don’t worry. There’s plenty of shade set up, plus water rides, misters, and pop up geysers to help families stay cool in the dead heat of summer. There’s more than 50 rides (including the familiar Texas Skyway and the massive Ferris wheel, plus new attractions like the Top ‘o Texas, currently the world’s tallest tower ride), party cabanas for rent, and entertainment in the form of BMX bike demonstrations, Steve Martin’s Wings of Wonder bird show, and more. Oh, and you can still get a Fletcher’s.