Pack your sunscreen and get ready for a fun-filled adventure to a family entertainment paradise! I am about to take you on the best summer family day trip in Alabama to Tropic Falls. Virtually, of course, and once you learn all the improvements the park has rolled out over the past few years, you'll be ready to hit the road for real. Ready to round out your 2024 summer bucket list before it ends?

Tropic Falls at OWA, formerly known as The Park at OWA, underwent a massive expansion in 2022 and 2023, transforming it into a tropical wonderland of rollercoasters, a water park, and dozens of family-friendly rides and attractions. This award-winning resort, owned and operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, is located in Foley, Alabama, just minutes away from the Gulf of Mexico. You may have heard of another Foley attraction, Lambert's Cafe. If you haven't, keep it in mind if you make this trip.

Getting to Tropic Falls at OWA is a breeze. Just hop on Interstate 65 South and head towards the beautiful Alabama coast. For time reference, it's about a four-hour drive from Birmingham in moderate traffic. New mascot Tuki the Toucan is waiting for you.

Now, let's look at what all you will find beyond the entrance to Tropic Falls, shall we?

A huge (OK, massive) draw to the resort is its 100,000-square-foot indoor water park. Zoom down all 11 adrenaline-pumping water slides, including one that puts you on a 75-foot free-fall with a drop floor that'll leave you screaming for more. If you prefer something more relaxed, a lazy river float is in order.

Outdoor water features include the 30,000-square-foot outdoor wave pool, Big Water Bay, a surf simulator, private cabana rentals, and plenty of places for a bite to eat, beverages, and snacks.

Beyond the aquatic attractions, the theme park has 23 rides and attractions. They range from family-friendly options like the Flying Tigers and Flutter By to more daring thrill rides like the Wave Rider and Rollin' Thunder rollercoaster.

The Flying Carousel puts a spin on the traditional carnival ride, lifting you into the air and spinning you outward with a bird's eye view of the surrounding grounds. This one is a favorite that's suitable for all ages and adventure levels.

After all that excitement, you'll want to take a stroll through Downtown OWA, a pedestrian-only streetscape inspired by Southern small towns. There, you'll find plenty of options for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Tropic Falls even hosts small-town type community events throughout the year, like a Mardi Gras parade and annual Christmas tree lighting.

Tropic Falls at OWA is big on celebrations, even throwing a birthday party for Tuki the Toucan in July. If you can't plan a visit around one of the bigger events, there are always music, screenings and other happenings at the park's OWA Theater, plus regularly scheduled bands performing live music during the summer concert series at OWA Island Amphitheater.

You can find more details about hours and costs on the Tropic Falls at OWA website and keep up with the resort's latest news on the OWA Parks & Resort Facebook page.

We think you'll agree this is the best summer family day trip in Alabama. If you want to extend your stay, check out this Mobile area multi-attraction pass that will save you money on admission fees to over a dozen destinations throughout the area. Let us know if you go, and share your favorite ride or attraction with us.