If you’re planning a trip to Alabama’s Beaches (Gulf Shores and Orange Beach), there’s one nearby attraction you absolutely need to add to your itinerary: OWA Parks & Resort in Foley, Alabama.
Located just 20–30 minutes from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, OWA is a 520-acre entertainment destination right off the Foley Beach Express. It’s the perfect way to extend your beach vacation with a full day (or two!) of rides, water park fun, shopping, dining, and live entertainment.
I’ll be honest—I was blown away by how fun and well done this place is. It’s sparkling clean, beautifully designed, and packed with things to do for visitors of all ages.
Let’s break down where to play, shop, and dine at OWA Parks & Resort.
Where to Play at OWA Parks & Resort
The main attraction here is Tropic Falls, a 23-ride theme park and indoor water park experience that offers something for everyone in the family.
One of the coolest features? The water park is covered by a convertible glass roof, allowing year-round fun with sunshine streaming in.
Inside Tropic Falls you’ll find:
• A 30,000-square-foot wave pool
• A surf simulator
• High-speed water slides
• A beach-style lounging area
Adrenaline seekers should check out Serpentine Swirl and Citrus Cyclone, two of the park’s more thrilling slides.
My favorite? Forbidden Falls, where you and a friend zip down the slide together on an inflatable raft. Even at 57 years old, I had an absolute blast.
Outside in the theme park area, rides like Rollin’ Thunder, Twister, Air Racer, AeroZoom, and Sky Balloons keep the excitement going. There are also Midway Games and carnival-style food stands if you want that classic theme park experience.
And if you need a sweet treat, don’t miss the Dole soft-serve at Tiki Treats. Trust me on this one.
Entertainment at Downtown OWA
Outside the theme park, Downtown OWA offers even more entertainment, making this destination feel like a lively entertainment district.
A few highlights you absolutely shouldn’t miss:
Brandon Styles Theater & Magic Shop
This one surprised me the most—in the best way. Brandon’s magic show is hilarious, interactive, and incredibly entertaining.
OWA Theater
Home to comedy shows, holiday productions, tribute acts, concerts, and more.
Pickleball at OWA
Yes, pickleball lovers—you can even get your game on here. If you’re looking for a stylish new paddle, SXY is the brand we love.
Arcade at OWA
Featuring 50 games with easy swipe-card technology, this arcade is perfect for kids, teens, and adults who still love a good round of Skee-Ball.
Another nice touch: giant screens throughout the venue keep you updated on local sports and big games while you’re enjoying the indoor attractions.
Shopping at Downtown OWA
If you love browsing cute shops while traveling, Downtown OWA delivers.
Some favorites include Native Treasures (regional gifts, art, unique finds), Sweet Tooth at OWA (chocolates, retro candies, soda), Fairhope Soap Company (Handcrafted bath and body products), and Alvin’s Island (classic beach-themed souvenirs and apparel, local chain)
Where to Eat at OWA
All that excitement will definitely work up an appetite, and OWA has plenty of dining options, like these standout spots.
Groovy Goat
A lively sports bar serving burgers, wings, and classic pub favorites.
Cozumel Bar & Grill
Great Mexican cuisine with plenty of flavor.
Waffles R Wild
One of the most creative dining spots here, serving inventive waffle creations all day long.
For something a little different, stop by Murder Creek Distillery for a moonshine flight and a fun tasting room atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit
Tickets to OWA can be purchased several ways:
• Single-day theme park admission
• Tropic Falls water park tickets
• Bundled park tickets
• Two-day passes for additional savings
There’s also free Wi-Fi throughout the parks, which is always a bonus.
And if you’re staying in the area, award-winning accommodations are available right at the resort, making it easy to turn your visit into a multi-day adventure.
The Perfect Addition to an Alabama Beaches Vacation
One of the best things about OWA Parks & Resort is its location.
Since it’s just 20–30 minutes from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you can easily spend a beach day on Alabama’s famous white sand and then head to OWA for an evening of rides, dining, and entertainment.
It’s truly the best of both worlds.
Final Thoughts
I have to say, OWA Parks & Resort surprised me—in the best way possible. It’s clean, vibrant, full of energy, and packed with activities for families, couples, and groups of friends.
Between the rides, water park, shopping, dining, and entertainment, there’s truly something here for everyone. Honestly, I’m shocked more people aren’t shouting about this place from the rooftops.
If you’re planning a trip to Alabama’s Beaches, do yourself a favor and add OWA Parks & Resort to your itinerary. You’ll have a ball.
I was gifted tickets to enjoy the parks as part of a familiarization tour. Opinions and reviews are 100% mine and unbiased.