[GALLERY} New Ownership, New Vibes: A First Look at Wonderland Park’s 2026 Season

It's only been open a few weeks in Amarillo, but we couldn't wait any longer. The four-year-old granddaughter has been talking about going nonstop for months. We had to make a trip to Wonderland.

Of course, they have new ownership and some changes, so I thought this was a great chance to check them out, but really, this is a big summer for our family. You see, since last season, Laila was just a little too short to ride many of the big rides.

While she was already big enough for the kiddie area and the Rattlesnake, she had much bigger goals this year. She wanted to ride the Fantastic Journey. So anytime it was time to eat, we could get her to have one more bite of dinner by saying it would help her grow taller for the Fantastic Journey. She was ready.

The Growth Spurt Win: Taking on the Fantastic Journey

We were hoping she was finally over 42 inches and could ride that and a whole lot more at the park. We decided it was definitely worth it to get the season pass. We had some family in town this weekend, and they wanted to check out the park too.

Back in Service: Status Updates on Iconic Wonderland Rides

I was excited because I already knew that Shoot the Chute was running again. I discovered upon entering Wonderland that the balloon ride was going again and so was the Texas Intimidator. So they were working on getting things all back and running.

Read More: Shoot the Chute Back: Wonderland Park Water Ride Update

I was hoping to see The Rainbow come back. That just disappeared not too long ago, but no, it's still gone. They do have a new ride, "Crazy Couch," that will be opening soon. Things are looking up.

Season Pass Savings: Spectator Passes and Souvenir Refills

Of course, we are all excited about the season passes, which is one thing that has been needed for a while now. They are back to offering spectator passes again. That is another win with new ownership.

They also offer a souvenir cup or bucket. After a one-time purchase of either for $14.99, you can keep bringing it back for refills for $1.50 all season long. You can get refills of drinks in the cup and choose between popcorn or cotton candy in the bucket. We will definitely be doing that.

We had a great time during our first of many trips out to Wonderland Park this season. My four-year-old granddaughter was able to ride many more rides. She got to finally get on the Fantastic Journey and wanted to ride it again. Note for fellow pass holders: the Fantastic Journey is currently limited to one ride per visit.

She rode the Himalaya, and though it didn’t go backward this time, recent videos suggest that feature might be making a comeback. We didn't get to see that this trip, though. Laila got on the Pirate Ship, Scrambler, Tilt-a-Whirl, Wonder Wheel, Bumper Cars, Shoot the Chute, Rattlesnake River, Big Splash Log Flume, as well as everything in the kids' area. It was definitely a success.

She had many funnel cakes and her favorite Dippin' Dots. With the season pass, we decided that if she just wanted to run to the park and ride a couple of rides and get a refill of popcorn and a drink, it would be well worth it. Here is to many more trips to Wonderland this season.