How to Plan Your Family Trip to OWA’s Tropic Falls: The Important Details Parents Need to Know

We are thrilled to announce that our thorough research on OWA’s Tropic Falls and Theme Park has yielded valuable insights, which we are eager to share with fellow parents. Planning family trips to unfamiliar destinations can be a formidable task. Nonetheless, by the end of this article, you will be well-equipped to determine whether OWA is an ideal destination for your next family outing. After several trips, we have developed an appreciation and love for the park and hope you will too. Our informative guide represents our sincere thoughts and personal opinions based on our unique family dynamics. We have made an effort to provide a perspective for various ages and needs. Our children’s ages range from 2 to 8. We wish you successful panning!

We would like to thank OWA Parks & Resort for sponsoring this post. To find out more information about OWA, Tropic Falls, season passes and more, you can visit their website here.

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Hours of Operation

First and foremost, be sure the park will be open! They are not open every day during non peak season. While they may not be open every day, they are open on weekends year round!

OWA’s Hours of Operation: Saturdays and Sundays, open on weekdays that coincide with the school Holiday break schedule. The outdoor part of the waterpark is closed November 4-February 28.

Be sure to check out their official calendar for specific dates before heading over. Also, we suggest going while big events are happening, so you get the ultimate experience.

Rides, Slides, & Attractions

Let’s jump right into what rides they offer and who is going to get the most enjoyment from each. We have been on every ride and slide that was open at the time of our visits. We promise to test the ones that were not available as soon as we can and will update. For now, we will share the height regulations for those only.

Some rides require the child to be accompanied by an adult. Our recommendation is to measure your child and see how many rides will be available for them based on height. The eight year old of our group is 50 inches tall and could do everything except Rollin’ Thunder, the big thrill roller coaster.

Even if you have taller children that may meet the requirements, you will have to make the judgement call on whether or not the ride/slide would be too scary or overwhelming for them. We suggest the adults ride the body slides and anything that goes upside down first to determine whether or not it is suitable for their kids. The tube slides allow you to ride with them, making them more family friendly for even the smaller kids.

Theme Park Rides

Toddlers and Up

Tea Time – Classis spinning teacups ride. Great for the whole family. Everyone can ride, but 36″ to ride unaccompanied.

Leap Frog – Bounces up and down like a frog while spinning in a circle. Our kids found this ride amusing, best for up to 7 years old, but the 3 year old loved it. Must be 36″ to ride unaccompanied.

Gully Washer – A little free fall family ride. Our kids loved the gentle drops. Must be 36″ to ride unaccompanied.

Happy Haulers – Adorable truck seating, but moves on a track like a train with small twists and turns. Great for the whole family, but must be 36″ to ride unaccompanied.

Flying Aces – Airplanes that spin and dip. Better for younger kids, but must be 36″ to ride unaccompanied.

Little Kids and Up (At least 36″ tall)

Southern Express – Nice little kiddie coaster all of our kids loved! Goes pretty fast with a few dips and turns that keep it interesting enough for them. Must be 36″ to ride, but 42″ to ride unaccompanied.

Flying Tigers – Cute ride for kids, goes up and down while spinning around. Must be 36″ to ride, but 48″ to ride unaccompanied.

Mystic Mansion – An interactive ride that is very family friendly. Everyone in our group loved this one. There are lots of flashing lights, abrupt noises, and somewhat spooky scenes. You have a “Phantom Blaster” to shoot the characters/objects. The score board was not working, but it was still fun. Must be 36″ to ride, 42″ unaccompanied.

Zip Zap Race – Racecar seats that go around in a circle. Great for the littles, a little boring for the big kids. Must be 36″ to ride, 51″ maximum.

Flutter By – Colorful butterflies lift into the air and fly around in a circle. The interactive pedals are a nice touch for the kids. The 3 to 6 age range is perfect. Must be 36″ to ride, 48″ unaccompanied.

Big Kids and Up (Must be 42″ tall)

Flying Carousel – Classic carousel swings. Our 6 and 8 year olds loved this one. It goes up high and provides a cool view of the park as you make the 360 degree spin. Must be 42″ to ride, 48″ unaccompanied.

Crazy Mouse – A small roller coaster that spins while you move up and down the track. The 5 and 6 year olds enjoyed this one the most. Must be 42″ to ride, 48″ unaccompanied.

Wave Rider – This large ride spins in a circle while moving on a wavy track, which is unique. It was a big hit with the 8 year old! Must be 48″ to ride.

Air Racer – This airplane ride lifts off the ground and spins upside down while dipping. Great for big kids that like to go upside down. We loved it, but this would be the one to give you motion sickness. Must be 48″ to ride.

Alabama Wham’a – Another big kid ride as long, as they are okay with being upside down. This one starts off spinning horizontally but as it picks up speed shifts to a vertical position. The 8 year old approved. Must be 48″ to ride.

Twister – This one was a personal favorite. It spins and swings you all the way around, but has a slight pause while you are suspended upside down in the air. Since our 8 year old did okay spinning, he was allowed to do this one, but it could be scary for some kids. He loved it!

Rollin Thunder – The giant roller coaster sure to cause a thrill. Fun for the adults in our group, but riders must be 51″ to ride, making the 8 year old just shy by an inch. He was able to ride everything other than this.

Unavailable

Sky Balloons – Unavailable during our visit. Must be 42″ to ride unaccompanied.

Rockin’ Raft – Unavailable during our visit. Must be 42″ to ride unaccompanied.

Aerozoom – Unavailable during our visit. Must be 42″ to ride, 48″ unaccompanied.

Wacky Waters – Small splash pad area. Closed during winter season.

Water Park Slides & More

The indoor water park was well-suited for our age group. They were able to enjoy their favorite slides repeatedly and take a leisurely ride down the lazy river when they needed to rest. Although the indoor area is heated, the water temperature is on the colder side, but that did not stop the kids from participating. There are lockers available for rent, changing rooms, showers, and bathrooms. Bring a bag with towels, a change of clothes, sunscreen, soap/shampoo (if you want to shower), and flotation devices for young kids getting in the lazy river. Most of these items are also available for purchase in the convenient souvenir shop that you walk through to enter the waterpark.

Indoor Slides and Rides

Castaway Creek – Located in the center of the park, this lazy river winds around slides and under waterfalls. Fun for the family, but make sure children that can not swim are wearing flotation devices.

Tuki’s Tower – This kid friendly play area is great for the whole family. There are five slides attached to a central stairwell. Three of the slides are smaller, perfect for the toddlers and smaller children. There are two larger slides, perfect for small kids to adults, toddlers too if they are more familiar with the water and aren’t scared. The huge bucket above the slides is an interactive part. It fills with water and dumps every few minutes, giving the people underneath a consistent thrill.

Aqua Chaser – The triple racing slide was a family favorite. We slid down this one multiple times, competing for the best times. To slide, you need a mat (you will find these downstairs in the cave at the end of the slide) and you go down on your belly, head first. There is an average size dip that drops down into a cave underneath other parts of the park. So fun! Must be 42″ to ride.

Citrus Cyclone – This tube slide was fast, but nothing alarming about it. It can be a single or double tube ride. Great for all those tall enough to ride. Must be 42″ to ride.

Forbidden Falls – Another tube ride for up to 2 riders. This one is fast, with a large, fast curve that will sometimes turn you around backwards for the second half of the slide. The “green one” was our favorite tube ride. Supposed to be 48″ to ride. They allowed my 46″ and other smaller children to ride with a parent while we were there.

Piranha Plunge – The name of this one is accurate. This body slide plunges you straight down and around. It is very fast, the drop could be frightening for kids. The adults and the 8 year old slid down once. It is a thrill the first time. Must be 48″ to slide.

Tangerine Scream – This body slide has a straight free fall that sends you down flying. The adults did this one and it was cool, but definitely the one that will have your bathing suit in a bunch. Our 8 year old did not want to do this one. Must be 48″ to slide.

Serpentine Swirl – This is an excellent body slide for everyone. The 8 year old loved it. It was his first solo body slide. Must be 48″ to slide.

Restaurants Inside Tropic Falls

Grub and Libations – Visitors may not bring in outside food, but these restaurants have snacks for everyone. Found inside the water park, they serve the traditional American branded food, such as, burgers and chicken tenders, along with some other great options that are very kid friendly.

Outdoor Water Park Rides

Closed during the winter season, November 4 through February 28.

Big Water Bay – A massive outdoor wave pool with a big screen for watching while in and around the pool. Lots of seating and cabanas for rent. We can not wait to experience this part of the park.

Coastal Curl – Surf simulator intended for teens and adults.

Arcade

The state of the art arcade was definitely a hit. Great if you need a little indoor break. Has all the popular games and then some! We didn’t spend too much time here, but I could see it being utilized more during the hottest months of the year.

Downtown OWA

Throughout the year, OWA presents a wide range of free events that are suitable for families and ideal for celebrating all the holidays. Check out free events happening now, here!

Entertainment

Brandon Syles Variety Show – Variety show indeed, Brandon Styles puts on a family-friendly show sure to be a hit for everyone. He does impressions, comedy, magic, and other talents in a fast-paced enjoyable manner.

OWA Theater – Catch shows, concerts, ballets, you name it, at the OWA Theater. Buy tickets early because they often sell out!

Megaverse – Virtual reality that will immerse you into another realm. Pretty cool for the gamers.

Pickleball at OWA – Pickleball has become the new raquetball. Go play at OWA for one of their many events. Meet other people who love to play!

FlyBAMA – Helicopter rides! With stunning views of the beautiful gulf of Mexico, this is sure to be a treat.

Shopping

Trop Shop – The gift shop located within the theme park, as well as, the indoor water park souvenir shop. If you forget your towel or sunscreen you may purchase some here.

Alvin’s Island – The classic beach shop with any apparel, footwear, gear you may need for the pool or beach.

Fairhope Soap Company – A hand crafted soap shop that makes much more than soap using all the best ingredients.

Brandon Styles Magic Shop – Magic tricks and kits for all ages. Let the kids watch his show and they will want to learn how to do it all!

Fluffy’s Pet Shop – Healthy pet treats, toys, and outfits for your furry friends!

Murder Creek Distillery – This moonshine distillery will knock your socks off with the best flavors!

Native Treasures – Authentic Native American and Native-inspired items including clothing, decor, and jewelry.

Somethin’ Sassy – A gift shop with a little somethin’ for everyone. Cooking supplies, home decor, and spa items are just a few things they sell.

Toys Under Twenty – Games, toys, and activities for kids all under $20. This will be the favorite stop for the littles, but parents will not mind because it is affordable.

The Spice & Tea Exchange – With a huge selection of tea and spices, this place is intriguing for those that love to try new flavors.

Restaurants

C’est Le Vin Wine Bar & Shop – A wine bar that serves top notch beverages for adults only. Their specialty is wine and cheese!

Cozumel Bar & Grill – Family friendly Mexican! It even has an indoor play area for small children.

Groovy Goat – A sports bar type feel with all the screens, but offers a little bit of everything on the menu. Good for gatherings and family friendly. It seems to be the most popular of all.

Towne Tap – Perfect dining spot if you want to branch out a little. It is a European-inspired restaurant that is new, but sure to be a hit.

Gussie’s Grill & Bar – A homey atmosphere, perfect for families looking for more textures and flavors.

Hershey’s Ice Cream Parlor – Seriously good ice cream. A favorite with the kiddos.

And more, including a Starbucks!

Admission and Pass Options

There are several options when it comes to buying tickets. Seniors get a 20% discount in person. Military gets a 15% discount. Children ages 3 and under are free. Save 10% when you purchase online. Click here for all pricing info and to check for any special deals.

Day Pass: These tickets range from $60-$80, depending on the season.

Winter Pass: Valid only for October 1 to February 23 only, $149.99.

Gulf Coast Neighbors Pass: Unlimited visits year round, $229. Locals get a discount, must be in Mobile, Baldwin, or Escambia county.

Ultimate Pass: Unlimited visits and some awesome perks, $269.99.

Lei-Away Plan: Spread out your payments over 5 months! (Winter pass excluded.)

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