Valleyfair

Valleyfair
Operating season: May to October

Valleyfair, located in Shakopee, Minnesota, is the largest amusement park in the Upper Midwest. Offering a great combination of thrill coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions, Valleyfair has been a regional staple for decades and continues to draw visitors from across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and the Dakotas.

History & Background

The park opened in 1976 and was acquired by Cedar Fair in 1978. It now operates under Six Flags following the 2024 merger. Valleyfair has steadily expanded its collection of rides, shows, and the Soak City Water Park, making it one of the top summer destinations in the region.

Ticket Prices & Packages

  • 1-Day Tickets: ~$40–$70 depending on season

  • Season Passes: Available with food, drink, and parking options

  • Fast Lane Passes: Skip-the-line access for top rides

  • All-Day Dining & Drink Plans available

  • Water park access is included with admission

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Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit

Valleyfair operates from early May through late October, including fall festivals.

Typical hours: 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM, longer in summer.

Best times to visit:

  • Weekdays in June or early August

  • September for lighter crowds and cooler temps

  • October weekdays for the Tricks and Treats fall events

Top Rides & Attractions

  • Wild Thing – Hypercoaster with a 200-foot first drop and sweeping curves

  • Renegade – Wooden coaster known for a twisted layout and aggressive pacing

  • Steel Venom – Intense launch coaster with vertical spikes

  • High Roller – Classic out-and-back wooden coaster

  • Excalibur – Hybrid steel coaster with sharp turns and airtime

  • Power Tower – Double launch/drop tower

  • Corkscrew – Iconic Arrow coaster with inversions

Family & Kids Rides

  • Snoopy’s Rocket Express – Elevated monorail ride through Planet Snoopy

  • Peanuts 500, Flying Ace Balloon Race, and Charlie Brown’s Wind Up – Kid-friendly fun

  • Ferris Wheel, Carousel, and Antique Cars – Timeless family rides

  • Northern Lights – Smooth family coaster perfect for younger thrill-seekers

  • Planet Snoopy – Huge area dedicated to younger guests

Soak City Water Park

Included with admission, open late May through Labor Day, featuring:

  • Breakers Pipeline – High-speed tube slides

  • Ripple Rapids – Lazy river

  • Wave Pool – Surf-style wave generator

  • Barefoot Beach – Kids’ splash playground

  • Panic Falls Body Slides – High-intensity slides for older kids and adults

Cabanas and lockers are available for rent near the water park entrance.

Seasonal Events

  • Grand Carnivale (Summer) – Parade, global cuisine, and live shows

  • Halloween Tricks and Treats (Fall) – Family-focused fall festival

  • School Days (Spring) – Special discounted events for school groups

  • Food Festivals and special events throughout the year

Dining Options

  • Chicken Shack – Fried chicken, tenders, and sandwiches

  • Valleyfair Pizza & Pasta – Quick family meals

  • Northwoods Grill – Burgers, hot dogs, and American classics

  • Sweet Spot and Dairy Queen – Ice cream and treats

  • Food trucks and seasonal stands during festivals

Mobile ordering and Dining Plans are available at many locations.

Hotels & Accommodation

No on-site hotel, but many options nearby in Shakopee, Eden Prairie, and along Highway 169:

  • Hampton Inn Minneapolis/Shakopee – Closest option with breakfast

  • Baymont by Wyndham Shakopee – Budget-friendly and family-sized rooms

  • Hyatt Place Eden Prairie – Short drive, upscale amenities

  • RV parks and camping areas nearby for longer stays

Many local hotels offer shuttle packages to Valleyfair during summer.

Getting There & Parking

Address: 1 Valley Fair Dr, Shakopee, MN 55379
Located just off US-169, about 30 minutes southwest of Minneapolis.

  • General Parking: $25

  • Preferred Parking: $35–$45

  • Accessible parking and EV charging are available

  • Rideshare pickup/drop-off zone near the entrance

Tips for Visiting

  • Ride Wild Thing and Steel Venom first thing in the morning

  • Bring swimwear and towels for Soak City

  • Download the Valleyfair app for maps, wait times, and mobile ordering

  • Grand Carnivale is a great summer event with parade performances and food booths

  • Check for special ticket discounts in August and September

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