Mark Your Calendars, As This Gigantic, Inclusive Amusement Park Is Coming To Missouri
By Beth Price-Williams|Published September 02, 2022
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
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.
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.
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