This family friendly theme park in Altoona hosts a wide array of rides, activities and fun. Expect water rides, rollercoasters, musical performances and more.

Must-see attractions at Adventureland
While the park offers many newer attractions, visitors will want to honor tradition with stops at two of its iconic rides. The Tornado rollercoaster has been serving up thrills for decades. Enjoy the whitewater on the Raging River float. Younger children can enjoy a range of age-specific rides. The price of admission also includes all the fun at the next-door Adventureland Bay water park.

Parking and public transportation to Adventureland
From Interstate Highway 80, take the U.S. Highway 6 exit and follow it south to the park. Expect to pay around $10 for parking on the grounds. No public transportation routes serve the site.

Where to stay near Adventureland
Adventureland Resort and its campground both offer trolley rides to and from the park. Other hotels line the Hwy. 6 corridor and streets near the park. More lodging is available minutes away in Des Moines.

Food at Adventureland
Guests are allowed to bring only water into the park. However, picnic grounds are available outside the gates. Food is available at several locations on the grounds. Descriptions for each, along with menus, are posted on the website. Sam's Saloon, an Adventureland mainstay for decades, offers stage shows along with snacks.

Admission to Adventureland
The site is open daily from late May through late August, with weekend-only hours from late April to late May, and again from late August through September. Expect to pay around $40 for ages 10 and up, and $35 for younger kids and seniors. Ages 3 and under admitted free. If you visit two days in a row, the second visit is at a reduced rate. Get a season membership to enjoy discounted admission and other perks.

Other places to visit near Adventureland
Take the kids into downtown Des Moines for some hands-on learning and fun at the Science Center of Iowa. Stop by the Blank Park Zoo to visit the animals.

Author's bio: Melanie Lageschulte is a freelance writer and editor. She is an Iowa native and has lived in Des Moines for 15 years.