Valleyfair-Amusement-Park-Shakopee-Minnesota-1
 

Valleyfair Amusement Park

1 Valley Fair Drive
Shakopee, MN 55379

952-445-7600

πŸŽ‰ Celebrating 50 Years β€” 2026 Anniversary Season

Minnesota’s Premier Amusement Park β€” Now Part of Six Flags

Valleyfair has been the Twin Cities’ go-to amusement park since opening day on May 25, 1976 β€” and the 2026 season marks its landmark 50th Anniversary. The park’s biggest milestone year includes a brand-new waterpark experience, all on 90 acres in Shakopee, just 25 miles southwest of downtown Minneapolis.

Location
Shakopee, MN
Park Size
90 Acres
Rides & Attractions
75+
Roller Coasters
8
NEW 2026 Waterpark
Superior Shores
Open Since
1976 (50 Years!)

About Valleyfair in Shakopee, MN

Valleyfair is the Minneapolis–St. Paul area’s premier destination for amusement park fun and the only major amusement park in Minnesota. From eight roller coasters and iconic thrill rides to the all-new Superior Shores Waterpark β€” included with every admission β€” a full day at Valleyfair delivers something for every age and every thrill level.

The park opened on May 25, 1976, with 20 rides on 26 acres, and has grown into a 90-acre destination with more than $96 million invested over its history. In July 2024, a merger between Cedar Fair and Six Flags was completed, making Valleyfair part of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation β€” the largest amusement park operator in North America, with 40+ parks across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The 2026 season is Valleyfair’s milestone 50th Anniversary, marked by its largest waterpark investment ever.


All 8 Roller Coasters at Valleyfair

Valleyfair’s lineup of eight roller coasters spans every thrill level β€” from a towering steel hypercoaster and an award-winning wooden twister to a family coaster inside Planet Snoopy. Minnesota’s largest coaster collection, all in one park.

Steel Coasters

Wild Thing β€” Valleyfair’s tallest and fastest coaster. This steel hypercoaster climbs 207 feet before a 60-degree, 196-foot drop at up to 74 mph. Over a mile of green track makes it one of the longest coasters in the region β€” and a park icon since 1996.

Steel Venom β€” An Intamin LIM-launched impulse coaster that catapults riders forward and backward up twin 185-foot vertical spikes. The reverse spike features a unique holding brake that surprises first-time riders.

Corkscrew β€” A classic Arrow Dynamics steel looper featuring three inversions: a vertical loop and a double corkscrew. A Valleyfair staple since 1980 and the only coaster in the park with inversions.

Excalibur β€” An Arrow Dynamics mine train with steel track on a wooden support structure, built in 1989. Winds through a customized figure-eight layout at the western edge of the park.

Mad Mouse β€” A compact Arrow Dynamics wild mouse-style coaster known for sharp hairpin turns and a notably smooth ride β€” a fun surprise for first-timers.

Cosmic Coaster β€” Located inside Planet Snoopy, this family-friendly coaster (opened 2011) is the ideal first coaster experience for younger riders and one of the park’s 8 official roller coasters.

Wooden Coasters

Renegade β€” Consistently rated one of the best wooden coasters in the Midwest. Built by Great Coasters International and opened in 2007, Renegade features a unique S-shaped twisting first drop, a low-to-the-ground high-speed S-turn, and a thrilling station fly-by. Its Millennium Flyer trains deliver a smooth, snakelike ride beloved by enthusiasts across the country.

High Roller β€” A classic out-and-back wooden coaster that opened on Valleyfair’s very first day, May 25, 1976. High Roller is the only original opening-day coaster still operating at the park β€” making it a nearly 50-year-old piece of Minnesota amusement park history and a must-ride for any Valleyfair visitor.

Signature Thrill & Family Rides

Beyond the coasters, Valleyfair’s flat and thrill ride lineup has something for every member of the family β€” from world-class tower rides to relaxing classic attractions.

Power Tower

The tallest ride in Minnesota at 275 feet β€” capped by the FAA due to nearby Flying Cloud Airport. Three towers deliver two experiences: Turbo Drop riders ascend slowly then plunge to the ground; Space Shot riders are launched skyward from the ground at over 50 mph. Opened 2000.

North Star

A 230-foot Star Flyer swing tower β€” the only ride of its type in the Upper Midwest. Riders in two-person chain-link swings ascend and descend the tower at up to 40 mph with sweeping aerial views of Shakopee and the Minnesota River valley. Opened 2017.

Xtreme Swing

A giant pendulum ride that swings riders in a wide arc high above the park β€” combining weightlessness, speed, and panoramic views in one exhilarating experience.

Thunder Canyon

A river rapids ride set near the park’s western edge alongside Excalibur. The long, winding course through waterfalls and rushing water guarantees a thorough soaking β€” a welcome crowd favorite on hot Minnesota summer days.

Classic Midway Rides

Scrambler, Bumper Cars, Ferris Wheel, Antique Autos, Flying Eagles, and more. Plus the beloved Historic Carousel β€” originally from Excelsior Amusement Park (closed 1973), making it Valleyfair’s oldest ride and a cherished piece of Minnesota history.

Planet Snoopy β€” Built for the Youngest Adventurers

Planet Snoopy is Valleyfair’s dedicated children’s zone featuring 15 rides and attractions β€” including Cosmic Coaster (one of the park’s 8 official roller coasters), Linus Launcher, Flying Ace Balloon Race, Snoopy’s Rocket Express, Peanuts Road Rally, and more. Character meet-and-greet appearances with Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the Peanuts Gang are scheduled throughout each operating day for memorable family photo moments.


Superior Shores Waterpark β€” All-New for 2026, Included With Admission

πŸ†• Brand New for the 2026 Season

Valleyfair’s Biggest Investment in Decades

In honor of its 50th Anniversary, Valleyfair is delivering the largest waterpark investment in the park’s history. The former Soak City waterpark has been demolished and completely rebuilt as Superior Shores Waterpark β€” a brand-new water destination that opens with the 2026 season and is fully included with every admission ticket and season pass.

Construction began in August 2025, with a full rebuild of a large portion of the former waterpark footprint, including new slide towers, a new lagoon area, an expanded children’s water play zone, and updated infrastructure throughout. Superior Shores represents one of the most significant single-season investments in Valleyfair’s 50-year history.

Full ride list, slide details, and opening information for Superior Shores Waterpark: visit sixflags.com/valleyfair for the latest 2026 season announcements.


Signature Seasonal Events

Valleyfair’s calendar extends well beyond summer. These beloved recurring events have become Minnesota traditions β€” specific dates and lineups vary annually, so always confirm on the park’s official calendar.

πŸŽƒ
ValleyScare
Minnesota’s largest Halloween event β€” returning after a hiatus, featuring haunted mazes, scare zones, spine-chilling live entertainment, and specialty seasonal food and drinks each fall.
πŸ‚
Tricks and Treats
Family-friendly daytime Halloween fun β€” themed activities, costume contests, festive games, and fall-inspired food for guests of all ages.
πŸ„
Summer Food Festivals
Seasonal food celebrations spotlighting Minnesota flavors β€” including Corn Fest and events featuring the Twin Cities-famous Juicy Lucy burger.
πŸŽ†
July 4th Fireworks
A patriotic fireworks display synchronized to music β€” one of the Twin Cities’ most popular Fourth of July celebrations.
🎀
Live Entertainment
The Amphitheater, Galaxy Theater, Superior Stage, and Midway Stage host music, dance, comedy, acrobats, and Peanuts character shows throughout the season β€” all included with admission.

Event schedules vary each season. Visit sixflags.com/valleyfair/events for the current season’s full lineup.


Dining & In-Park Food Options

Dining options are spread throughout the park, with something at every price point. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free items are available at multiple locations.

Fresh-Cut Fries
Northwoods Pizza
BBQ Sandwiches
Funnel Cakes
Ice Cream & Novelties
Burgers & Hot Dogs
Vegetarian Options
Vegan-Friendly Items
Gluten-Free Selections
Seasonal Specialty Foods

Valleyfair’s Dining Plans bundle meals at a flat per-person cost β€” available as a single-day or full-season add-on. For groups, catered pavilion meals can be arranged through the park’s group events team at Picnic Point.


Tickets, Season Passes & Add-Ons

As part of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, a Valleyfair season pass includes access to 40+ Six Flags parks across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico β€” making it one of the highest-value passes in the Midwest.

Daily Tickets
Single-day admission including Superior Shores Waterpark (seasonal). Best value purchased in advance online.
Season Passes
Unlimited visits, free parking, exclusive discounts, and access to 40+ Six Flags parks. The smartest way to experience Valleyfair.
Pre-K Pass
Free or reduced admission for young children β€” a great way to introduce little ones to park life.
Fast Lane
Skip the line on 20+ popular rides including Wild Thing, Renegade, Steel Venom, Xtreme Swing, and select waterpark attractions.
Military Discounts
Special pricing available for active duty military, veterans, and military families.
Dining Plans
Bundle meals at a flat per-visit cost β€” available as a daily or full-season add-on to any ticket or pass.

Pricing and pass tiers are set by Valleyfair/Six Flags and change seasonally. Purchase tickets in advance at sixflags.com/valleyfair for the best available pricing.


Plan Your Visit

Getting There

1 Valley Fair Drive, Shakopee, MN 55379. Located just off Highway 169, approximately 25 miles southwest of downtown Minneapolis β€” easily accessible from across the Twin Cities metro.

Parking

On-site parking is available. Season passholders receive free parking. General parking rates may vary by date β€” check the official site before your visit for current pricing.

Accessibility

Valleyfair provides an Attraction Accessibility Program, wheelchair rentals, and individual ride accessibility guides. Visit sixflags.com/valleyfair/accessibility before your visit for full details.

Hours & Calendar

Valleyfair operates seasonally β€” typically late spring through Halloween, with extended hours on peak summer weekends and during special events. Always confirm current hours at sixflags.com/valleyfair.

Tips for Your Day

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Bring sunscreen and pack a change of clothes if visiting Superior Shores Waterpark. Arriving at opening is the best way to minimize waits on the most popular coasters β€” Wild Thing and Renegade are ideal first stops.

Stay in Shakopee

Turn your Valleyfair visit into a full getaway. Shakopee offers a variety of hotels and lodging just minutes from the park. Browse Shakopee hotels β†’


More to Explore in Shakopee

Valleyfair is just one reason to visit Shakopee. Pair your trip with other top regional attractions for a complete Midwest getaway:

βœ“Canterbury Park β€” Live thoroughbred horse racing & year-round entertainment

βœ“Minnesota Renaissance Festival β€” Beloved annual summer and fall tradition

βœ“Mystic Lake Casino Hotel β€” Gaming, dining & live entertainment

βœ“Mystic Lake Amphitheater β€” Premier outdoor concert venue

βœ“Downtown Shakopee β€” Local restaurants, shops & craft breweries

βœ“Chanhassen Dinner Theatres β€” Award-winning dinner theater nearby

Valleyfair Amusement Park

1 Valley Fair Drive
Shakopee, MN 55379

Website Design & Development by W.A. Fisher Co | Report Problems