East Sacramento Connect

Looking for a day packed with thrills, splashes, and snacks just a short drive from East Sacramento? You’re in luck. This corner of California is bursting with amusement and water parks that deliver big fun without a long road trip. From classic rides to wild water slides, here’s your guide to the best parks within 30 to 50 minutes of East Sacramento.

Theme Parks That Make Kids (and Adults) Grin

Funderland Amusement Park: Kid-Sized Thrills in the Heart of Sacramento

Funderland Amusement Park has been a Sacramento favorite since 1946. Located in William Land Park, just minutes from East Sacramento, this spot is designed for families with younger kids. Think ten classic rides, including a pint-sized roller coaster and a carousel, all set under shady trees. Most rides are made for kids ages 2 to 9, but parents and grandparents can join the fun on nine out of ten attractions.

Admission is pay-one-price, which means unlimited rides all day. Children under 34 inches tall get in free, adults pay $18, and kids pay $25. There’s a concession stand for snacks and drinks, and plenty of photo ops for that perfect family shot. Parking is free, and you’re right next to the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town, so you can make a whole day of it.

Where: William Land Park, Sacramento
How far: About 10 minutes from East Sacramento

Urban Air Adventure Park: Bounce, Climb, and Zip Indoors

Urban Air Adventure Park on Arden Way is where energy gets unleashed. This indoor park isn’t just about trampolines (though there are plenty). You’ll find climbing walls, a ropes course, laser tag, mini go-karts, dodgeball, and even an indoor zipline. There’s a dedicated area for kids under 7, so little ones don’t miss out.

Pricing starts at $15.99 for little jumpers and goes up to $36.99 for all-access passes. Urban Air socks are required (and no, your favorite fuzzy ones from home won’t cut it). The Urban Café inside serves up pizza, chicken tenders, loaded waffle fries, and ICEEs—perfect for refueling between adventures.

Where: 1700 Arden Way, Sacramento
How far: About 15 minutes from East Sacramento

Water Parks: Make a Splash Without Going Far

Wake Island Waterpark: Giant Floating Playground

If you want to cool off and burn some energy, Wake Island Waterpark in Pleasant Grove is the place. Just 20 minutes from downtown Sacramento, this is the largest waterpark on the West Coast. The main draw is the floating obstacle course—think slides, swings, trampolines, and hamster wheels, all on water. There’s also cable wakeboarding, a Ninja Race Course, a zipline, and sandy beaches for relaxing.

You can buy a day pass for unlimited fun, and there are food options on-site to keep hunger at bay. This park is great for all ages and skill levels, whether you’re a daredevil or just want to float and watch the action.

Where: Pleasant Grove
How far: About 30 minutes from East Sacramento

Golfland Sunsplash: Slides, Waves, and Mini Golf

Golfland Sunsplash in Roseville is a double whammy: a water park and a classic amusement park rolled into one. The water side features slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and a kids’ play zone. On dry land, you’ll find mini golf, go-karts, laser tag, and an arcade.

This park is perfect for families with kids of all ages. If you want a break from the sun, head inside for arcade games or a snack. The food court has everything from pizza and burgers to funnel cakes.

Where: Roseville
How far: About 30 minutes from East Sacramento

Aquatic Centers: Local Splash Zones

For a budget-friendly day, check out city-run aquatic centers like the North Natomas Aquatics Complex, Roseville Aquatics Complex, or the West Sacramento Aquatic Center. These spots offer pools, splash pads, water slides, and play structures—perfect for younger kids or anyone who wants to swim without the crowds.

What to Pack for a Park Day

Don’t let forgotten essentials ruin your fun. Here’s a quick checklist for your next park adventure:

• Refillable water bottle (hydration is your friend)

• Sunscreen and a hat (shade isn’t always guaranteed)

• Swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes for water parks

• Comfortable shoes (you’ll be on your feet)

• Snacks (if allowed) or plan to enjoy park food

• Phone charger or portable battery

• Waterproof pouch for valuables

• Sunglasses and lip balm

• Band-aids and hand sanitizer (just in case)

• Park tickets or passes loaded on your phone

Check each park’s rules about outside food and drinks before you pack your cooler. Most parks have plenty of food options, but lines can get long during peak hours.

Food and Fun Beyond the Rides

You don’t have to settle for soggy fries and lukewarm pizza. Urban Air’s café offers everything from loaded waffle fries to chicken tenders and ICEEs. At Funderland, grab classic fair treats or cool off with a cold drink. Wake Island and Golfland Sunsplash both have snack bars and picnic areas, perfect for a quick bite or a family lunch.

If you want to eat outside the park, Sacramento’s food scene is packed with options. From burgers near Sutter Health Park to tacos and wood-fired pizza in Midtown, there’s something for every craving. Grab a bite before or after your visit and make the most of your day out.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

East Sacramento’s best amusement and water parks are closer than you think. Whether you’re looking for classic rides, wild slides, or just a place to cool off, there’s a park nearby ready to deliver a day of fun. Pack your bag, grab your crew, and let the good times roll.