Many of us take a trip to an amusement park for granted. However, not everyone has the same ability to ride or to enjoy all that our favorite parks have to offer. That’s all about to change with the creation of a brand new inclusive park in Missouri that will be designed to include everyone, young and old, of all abilities – whether you’re in a wheelchair, have a disorder like epilepsy, or are just a fan of amusement parks.
When the 60-acre inclusive Spirit of Discovery opens in Wentzville, it will be just the second of its kind – a family-friendly attraction that’s designed with all guests in mind.
Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio is the only other "ultra-accessible" amusement park in the United States.
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The park will be geared toward, according to the Spirit of Discovery, “individuals and their families with Downs syndrome, Autism, PTSD, any person battling a life threatening disease and the hearing, visually, mentally and physically impaired; welcoming EVERY body in tennis shoes to hospital beds.”
The ultra-inclusive park will include a full range of fun, including a playground, splash pads, sensory areas, an arcade, and a dog park. It will also feature rides guests of all abilities can ride.
Once the property has been acquired, organizers estimate that it will take anywhere from two to three years to build. In the meantime, there are ongoing fundraising campaigns to help fund this non-profit amusement park. (No tax money will be used to build the park.)
Admission generally comes with a high price tag at many amusement parks. Spirit of Discovery will be free for disabled guests while others will pay what’s being described as a “nominal” fee. Season and weekend passes will also be available.
Will you visit this one-of-a-kind amusement park in Missouri? Are you excited it’s coming to our state? Let us know in the comments! While you're waiting for Spirit of Discovery to open, visit the inclusive Jake's Field of Dreams Playground.
Are you searching for a new summer adventure in Branson, Missouri? After a while, all the typical family activities can start to feel repetitive—putt-putt, water parks, you name it. That's why I absolutely love The Shepherd’s Adventure Park in Branson, Missouri. With the stunning Ozark Mountains as a backdrop, this park offers six thrilling aerial activities to suit every level of adrenaline seeker. Whether you’re a casual explorer or a hardcore thrill enthusiast, there’s something here for everyone!
The TreeTop Sky Trail is the newest addition to Shepherd’s Family Adventure Park, which is located at the main entertainment park - The Shepherd of the Hills.
These folks get outdoor airborne adventure! For three years, USA Today voted it the best aerial park in the country! Enjoy panoramic views of the Ozark Mountains while you walk across more than 600 feet of suspension bridges. The TreeTop Sky Trail may seem like a laid-back adventure since it’s available for people of all ages. But imagine walking among the tops of trees that can reach up to 60 feet tall (that's about four stories!) supported only by ropes and wooden planks! As your heart rate slows from navigating the moving suspension bridges, take a moment to look around at the breathtaking Ozark Mountains.
In the treetops, you’ll feel truly immersed in nature. Listen for birds and watch for squirrels roaming around. Breathe in the fresh air and soak in the serene beauty of your surroundings. General admission to the park grants you access to the Treetop Sky Trail.
Visit the Inspiration Tower for more panoramic views. I think this is the perfect spot to watch the sunset! Parents, if you can sneak in a date night during your vacation, head there afterward for a romantic experience. For about half the cost of general admission, you can visit the Inspiration Tower independently, but it is included with general admission. It serves as the starting point for the Vigilante Extreme ZipRider.
Grab up to four of your favorite people and zip down from 230 feet in the air! I love the Vigilante Extreme ZipRider zip-lining option because it allows you to be hands-free the entire time. Plus, park admission is not required
The Zipline Canopy Tour takes you across eight platforms over two hours. This activity can be enjoyed independently of visiting the main park. This might be a great option if you're traveling with teens; you can let them loose among the trees while you spend time in the main park with your little ones or catch a show.
The Sky Trek Challenge Ropes Course offers adventure for kids (and adults) of all ages. The Main Course requires a height of four feet, while the Little Tykes Course is for kids under four feet. This is yet another option for immersing yourself in nature and experiencing an exciting ascent at the park. You can reserve your tickets in advance to ensure you get a spot on the day you want to visit. General admission is not required for the ropes course.
I saved the best for last! Have you ever ridden a mountain coaster? You get to control your speed while you soar down 4,800 feet of track. The last time I was on a mountain coaster in Branson, I could not bring myself to go full speed - I was scared. But don’t worry, you’ll be perfectly safe.
The Copperhead Mountain Coaster is the most scenic, fastest, and newest in the Branson area. With options for single and double riders, you can re-ride for about half the price, I usually go down 2-3 times! You can ride the coaster independently of general park admission, but the best value is the Super Park Ticket & Coaster Pass, which offers a package deal for all the aerial adventures.
Are you curious about the park’s namesake? Harold Bell Wright, who spent time on the park's site, wrote the book “The Shepherd of the Hills” published in 1907. The whole park is themed after the stories in the novel regaling characters from the Ozarks and appreciation for the natural beauty of the area. General admission to the park includes a history center, a 9-hole mini golf course, family games, slides, barnyard animals, suspension bridges, photo ops, and more. The park also hosts shows and dinner theater. Branson is known for its shows, including live music, theater, musicals, comedy, and dinner shows; check out this site to see some other entertainment options in Branson.
Be sure to visit The Shepherd of the Hills website to plan your visit. There are activities and festivals related to each of Missouri’s four seasons that you won’t want to miss. See what other attractions await you in Missouri!
Gear up for an action-packed day of fun at Slick City Action Park, billed by some as a waterless water park. It promises all the fun of a water park without the water.
One of the first things you'll notice when you first arrive - besides guests getting some pretty impressive airtime - are all of the slides. Slick City has attractions for all ages, including a Junior Jungle for kiddos three and younger.
The jungle features age-appropriate attractions, including smaller slides, tunnels, and tubes.
You've got your socks (you have to purchase a pair to play), and you're rarin' to go. Where will you start? Race down the Fast Lane against three others. Or, if you want to work your way up to the fast-paced thrills, slip down the Lazy River.
The Lazy River is pictured above. Doesn't it ooze waterpark vibes? The Royal Flush and Big Wave will also look familiar if you're a water park regular.
When you're itching for airtime, climb to the top of the Megalaunch.
The slides are the main attractions, yes, but save some time for shooting hoops at the Sports Air Courts and flipping and jumping at the Freestyle Air Court.
A waiver, which you can find on the action park's website, is required for all guests.
Have you been to Slick City, a waterless water park in Chesterfield, Missouri? What did you think? Is it as epic and as fun as a classic water park? Let us know in the comments! Did you know there's a butterfly house in Chesterfield, Missouri, too? Maybe add it to your must-visit list.
With all there is to do in Chesterfield, why not make an overnight of your visit? Just book a stay at a local Vrbo.
