As the Visit America editorial team, we pride ourselves on delivering confident, specific, and never generic travel advice. We've compiled everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip to this vibrant entertainment destination, featuring a theme park with thrill rides, a variety of dining and shopping options, and live entertainment, all providing family-friendly fun in a resort setting.
Why Visit The Park at OWA
The Park at OWA offers a unique blend of thrills, relaxation, and entertainment, making it a standout destination on Alabama's Gulf Coast. Unlike many standalone theme parks, OWA is a sprawling 520-acre resort that integrates a theme park, an indoor water park, an outdoor wave pool, a vibrant downtown district, and on-site lodging. We find its comprehensive nature particularly appealing for families and groups seeking diverse activities without constant travel between venues. The name "OWA" itself is inspired by the Muscogee Creek language, meaning "big water," a nod to its impressive water attractions.
Beyond the rides, Downtown OWA offers a free-to-enter district filled with shops, restaurants, and year-round entertainment, ensuring there's always something to do, even for those not riding the attractions. The resort consistently hosts special events, from seasonal festivals like "Spring into Fun" and "Summer with a Splash" to holiday celebrations, enhancing the visitor experience throughout the year.
For those looking to explore more of what Alabama has to offer, OWA's location in Foley is just minutes from the stunning white-sand beaches of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, making it an excellent base for a broader coastal Alabama adventure. We highly recommend exploring our guide to the Best places in Alabama for more inspiration, and specifically our Gulf Shores & Orange Beach guide for nearby coastal attractions.
Who It's Best For
The Park at OWA truly caters to a wide audience, making it an ideal choice for various types of travelers. Our team believes it's especially well-suited for:
- Families with Children: With 23 theme park rides ranging from kid-friendly spins to exhilarating roller coasters, plus the expansive Tropic Falls Indoor Water Park and outdoor wave pool, there's endless fun for all ages. The free-to-enter Downtown OWA also provides ample entertainment and dining options for families.
- Thrill-Seekers: The Tropic Falls theme park boasts a variety of high-intensity rides, including signature roller coasters and attractions like the Air Racer and Wave Rider, designed to get your adrenaline pumping.
- Couples & Adults: While family-focused, OWA isn't just for kids. Downtown OWA features diverse dining, lively bars, and live entertainment, including events like karaoke nights and magic shows. The resort also hosts adult-friendly events and has several bars and restaurants.
- Shoppers & Diners: Downtown OWA is a destination in itself, offering a wide array of unique shops and diverse dining experiences, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants.
- Sports Enthusiasts: Adjacent to OWA is the Foley Sports Tourism Complex, making it a convenient lodging and entertainment hub for those attending sporting events. OWA also features indoor pickleball courts.
Ultimately, if you're looking for a destination where you can "thrill, then chill," as the OWA slogan suggests, this resort delivers.
Getting There & Parking
Understanding how to get to The Park at OWA and where to park is straightforward, as the resort is designed for easy access.
How to Get There
The Park at OWA is conveniently located in Foley, Alabama, just a short drive from the Gulf Coast beaches. Its address is 101 South OWA Boulevard, Foley, AL 36535.
- By Car:
- From I-65 South: Take Exit 34 (Highway 59 South) to North Foley. Continue southbound on the Foley Beach Express. OWA is situated at the northwest corner of the Foley Beach Express and County Road 20.
- From I-10 South: Take Exit 49 (Baldwin Beach Express Southbound). OWA is located at the northwest corner of the Foley Beach Express and County Road 20.
- From Gulf Shores & Orange Beach: OWA is less than half an hour away from Gulf Shores, making it a quick and easy drive for those staying on the coast.
Parking
One of the best perks of visiting OWA is the parking situation. Our team confirms that OWA offers multiple on-site parking locations, all of which are complimentary for guests. The main parking lots can be accessed from South OWA Boulevard. For those visiting the Marriott TownePlace Suites or the OWA Theater, North OWA Boulevard provides direct access. This free and plentiful parking eliminates a common travel hassle and cost.
Top Things to Do
When considering things to do at The Park at OWA, visitors will find a diverse array of attractions spread across its various districts. From heart-pounding rides to leisurely strolls, there's something for every pace and preference.
Tropic Falls Theme Park
The centerpiece of OWA is Tropic Falls, an award-winning theme park featuring 23 rides designed for all ages and thrill levels. Our team recommends arriving early to beat the crowds, especially during peak season. Key attractions include:
- Thrill Rides: For adrenaline junkies, rides like the Air Racer, Wave Rider, and Rollin' Thunder roller coaster provide exhilarating drops, spins, and inversions. Minimum height requirements apply to many of these rides.
- Family Rides: Options like the Mystic Mansion, Happy Haulers, and Flying Aces offer fun for the whole family to enjoy together.
- Kid-Friendly Rides: Younger visitors can delight in attractions such as Tuki's Tower, Leap Frog, and Sky Balloons.
The theme park is part of the larger Tropic Falls complex, which also includes the water park. A general admission ticket for Tropic Falls, which includes both the theme park and water park, costs $69.99 in 2026. Theme park admission only is $29.99.
Tropic Falls Indoor Water Park & Outdoor Wave Pool
Adjacent to the theme park, Tropic Falls boasts the region's largest indoor water park, complete with a convertible roof for year-round tropical fun. This is a fantastic option for beating the Alabama heat or for a rainy day. The water park features towering 75-foot-tall water slides, a relaxing lazy river, and an outdoor wave pool with a surf simulator. Grub, a quick-service restaurant, and Libations, a tropical-themed cocktail bar, are conveniently located within the indoor water park.
Downtown OWA
Downtown OWA is a vibrant, admission-free district offering a diverse range of things to do at The Park at OWA, even if you're not planning to hit the rides. We love that it's open seven days a week, with hours varying by business.
- Shopping: Browse unique boutiques and shops like Alvin's Island, Fairhope Soap Company, and The OWA Store for souvenirs, apparel, and local goods.
- Dining: From casual eateries to sit-down restaurants, Downtown OWA has a culinary option for every taste. Highlights include Cozumel Bar & Grill for Mexican cuisine, Groovy Goat for American fare, Jon Smith Subs, and Waffles R Wild – The Speakeasy. You'll also find sweet treats at Hershey's Ice Cream Parlor and Tiki Treats.
- Entertainment: Catch a show at the Brandon Styles Theater, offering a variety of family-friendly and adult-oriented performances. The Arcade at OWA provides classic fun, and Aura Adventures offers evening entertainment. Seasonal fountain shows at Lake OWA are a highlight, featuring synchronized water, music, and light effects.
- Pickleball at OWA: For sports enthusiasts, OWA recently opened four state-of-the-art indoor pickleball courts, complete with a pro shop and membership options.
Whether you're exploring the thrilling rides or enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Downtown OWA, there are plenty of things to do at The Park at OWA to fill your day.
Are there The Park at OWA Hiking Trails?
While The Park at OWA itself is an entertainment complex and not primarily a nature preserve, our team notes that it is located in a region rich with outdoor opportunities. Therefore, dedicated "The Park at OWA hiking trails" within the immediate resort property are not a prominent feature. The focus here is on amusement and structured entertainment. However, for visitors seeking to combine their OWA trip with some time in nature, there are excellent options nearby.
Just a short drive from OWA, you'll find places like Graham Creek Nature Preserve in Foley, which offers fantastic hiking opportunities. This preserve provides a natural escape with trails suitable for various activity levels, allowing you to experience the diverse ecosystems of coastal Alabama. Additionally, the expansive Gulf State Park, located near Gulf Shores, boasts miles of paved and unpaved trails for hiking and biking, offering stunning views of the Gulf Coast's natural beauty. So, while you won't find "The Park at OWA hiking trails" on the resort map, plenty of natural beauty and outdoor activity awaits just beyond its gates.
Best Time to Visit
Choosing the best time to visit The Park at OWA can significantly enhance your experience. Our team has a few recommendations:
- Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November): These seasons generally offer the most pleasant weather, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. You'll likely encounter fewer crowds than in the peak summer months, leading to shorter lines for rides and a more relaxed atmosphere in Downtown OWA. Spring brings special events like the "Spring into Fun" celebration, including car shows and a hot air balloon festival.
- Summer (June-August): While summer is peak season with extended operating hours, it also brings higher temperatures, humidity, and larger crowds. However, the Tropic Falls Indoor Water Park and outdoor wave pool provide an excellent way to cool off. OWA kicks off summer with "Summer with a Splash" events. If visiting in summer, we advise planning your day strategically, perhaps focusing on the theme park in the morning and the water park in the afternoon.
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: To avoid the largest crowds, we recommend visiting on weekdays, especially during the spring and fall. Weekends, particularly Saturdays, will naturally be busier, especially during special events.
- Special Events: OWA hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations like Christmas in the Park and Mardi Gras at OWA. Check their official calendar for specific dates and times, as these can be a draw but also increase crowd levels.
Keep in mind that Tropic Falls theme park hours vary seasonally, with extended hours during holidays and summer. Downtown OWA, however, is generally open seven days a week.
Where to Stay Nearby
When planning your visit, understanding "The Park at OWA lodging" options is key to a convenient and enjoyable stay. The resort offers on-site accommodations, and there are numerous hotels in the surrounding Foley area.
On-Site at OWA
For ultimate convenience, our team highly recommends staying at the:
- Marriott TownePlace Suites at OWA: This award-winning hotel is located directly adjacent to the park, just steps away from the action. It's an extended-stay hotel, offering spacious suites with full kitchens, complimentary Wi-Fi, and smart TVs, making it ideal for families. Guests can enjoy a complimentary hot buffet breakfast, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. Season pass holders may also receive discounts on lodging here.
- Tropic Hideaway RV Resort: For those traveling with an RV, OWA also offers a luxury RV park on-site, providing another convenient lodging option.
Hotels Near The Park at OWA
Beyond the immediate resort, Foley offers a range of hotels to suit different budgets and preferences. Many are just a short drive from OWA and the Tanger Outlet Center. Some of the best hotels near The Park at OWA include:
- Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Foley: Blends modern amenities with coastal charm, offering new guest rooms, smart TVs, and an outdoor pool. It's located just minutes from OWA and the Gulf Coast beaches.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Foley - N Gulf Shores: Offers an outdoor pool, gym, and free Wi-Fi, conveniently located near OWA, the Foley Sports Tourism Complex, and Tanger Outlets.
- Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Foley - North Gulf Shores: A centrally located option with amenities like a hot tub, seasonal outdoor pool, and complimentary buffet breakfast.
- Quality Inn Foley - Gulf Shores North: Another well-regarded option offering comfortable stays for visitors.
When selecting your Park at OWA lodging, consider the benefits of staying on-site for proximity to the attractions, or exploring nearby Foley for a wider selection of hotel brands and price points. Many hotels in Foley also offer easy access to other local attractions and dining.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
To help you make the most of your visit, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary for The Park at OWA, balancing thrills with relaxation and exploring the wider resort.
Day 1: Theme Park Thrills & Downtown Delights
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Theme Park Immersion
- Arrive at The Park at OWA early, ideally around 9:00 AM on Friday or Saturday, or 10:00 AM on other weekdays when the park opens. Take advantage of the complimentary parking.
- Head straight to Tropic Falls Theme Park. Focus on the most popular thrill rides first, like the Air Racer and Rollin' Thunder, to beat the initial crowds.
- Explore the various themed areas, enjoying a mix of high-energy and family-friendly rides.
- Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Quick Bites in Tropic Falls
- Grab a casual lunch at one of the eateries within Tropic Falls, such as Baja Grill, known for its tropical-inspired theme park favorites.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Downtown OWA Exploration
- Transition to Downtown OWA, which offers free admission.
- Browse the unique shops for souvenirs and local crafts.
- Enjoy a sweet treat at Hershey's Ice Cream Parlor or Ben's Pretzels.
- Catch a Fountain Show at Lake OWA, running daily at the top of the hour and every half hour.
- Evening (5:00 PM - Close): Dinner & Entertainment
- Dine at one of Downtown OWA's diverse restaurants, such as Cozumel Bar & Grill for Mexican cuisine or Groovy Goat for a lively atmosphere.
- Consider catching a live performance at the Brandon Styles Theater or enjoying some karaoke at Groovy Goat.
- If the theme park is open late (until 10:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays), consider a few more rides under the lights.
Day 2: Water Park Fun & Relaxation
- Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Indoor Water Park Adventure
- Dedicate your morning to Tropic Falls Indoor Water Park. Enjoy the region's largest indoor water park, featuring multiple slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool.
- The heated waters make it a comfortable experience regardless of the outside temperature.
- Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Water Park Refreshments
- Enjoy lunch at Grub, the quick-service restaurant within the indoor water park, or grab a tropical drink at Libations.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Leisure & Local Exploration
- Depending on your energy levels, you have a few options:
- Return to Theme Park: If you purchased a 2-day ticket, head back to the theme park for any rides you missed or want to re-experience.
- Relax at the Hotel: Enjoy the amenities of your chosen OWA lodging, such as the pool at the Marriott TownePlace Suites.
- Explore Foley: Visit local attractions in Foley, such as the Foley Railroad Museum or Tanger Outlet Center for some shopping.
- Depending on your energy levels, you have a few options:
- Evening (5:00 PM - Close): Farewell Dinner & Reflection
- Enjoy a final dinner at a restaurant of your choice in Downtown OWA or venture out to a local Foley establishment.
- Reflect on your exciting trip to The Park at OWA Alabama, perhaps with a leisurely stroll around Lake OWA.
Is It Worth Visiting?
From our perspective as independent US travel authorities, the question "is The Park at OWA worth visiting" can be answered with a resounding yes, especially for specific types of travelers. OWA offers a compelling package that sets it apart from many other entertainment venues.
The combination of a well-maintained theme park with 23 rides, a significant indoor water park, and a free-to-enter dining, shopping, and entertainment district in Downtown OWA creates a resort experience that offers excellent value. The complimentary parking is a significant bonus, eliminating an often-hidden cost of theme park visits. For families, the ability to move between dry rides, water attractions, and casual dining without leaving the property is incredibly convenient.
While it may not have the sheer scale of some mega-theme parks, its more manageable size often translates to shorter lines and a less overwhelming experience, which many visitors appreciate. The ongoing development and seasonal events also mean there's always something new to experience. If you're seeking a comprehensive, family-friendly entertainment destination on the Gulf Coast that blends thrills with relaxation and a vibrant atmosphere, then we confidently say that The Park at OWA is absolutely worth visiting.
Last updated: 2026-07-05 by the Visit America team.