Valleyfair 2026 Guide: Everything Families Need to Know Before You Go

If you’re looking for an unforgettable family day trip from the Twin Cities, Valleyfair in Shakopee should be at the top of your list. As Minnesota’s largest amusement park, Valleyfair has been creating summer memories for generations with thrilling roller coasters, family rides, kid-friendly attractions, live entertainment, and an included water park. Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, there’s truly something for everyone.

Planning ahead can make the difference between a good day and an amazing one. Here’s everything families should know before visiting Valleyfair in 2026.

Where is Valleyfair?

Valleyfair is located in Shakopee, Minnesota, about 30 minutes southwest of downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, making it an easy day trip for Twin Cities families.

Because it is close to many hotels, restaurants, and other attractions, some families even turn their visit into a weekend getaway.

Buy Your Tickets Online

One of the easiest ways to save money is by purchasing tickets online before your visit. Valleyfair frequently offers discounts on advance tickets, dining plans, Fast Lane passes, and parking when purchased ahead of time. Planning online also helps you skip some of the lines when you arrive.

Know the Ride Height Requirements

If you’re visiting with younger children, checking ride height requirements before your trip can help avoid disappointment.

Under 36 inches

Young guests can enjoy many attractions in Planet Snoopy, including several rides designed specifically for little ones when accompanied by an adult on certain attractions.

36–41 inches

Children begin unlocking additional family rides throughout the park, especially in Planet Snoopy.

42 inches

This is an exciting milestone because it opens up several family favorites, including:

Excalibur
Mad Mouse
Ripple Rapids water ride

48 inches

At 48 inches, many of Valleyfair’s biggest thrill rides become available, including:

Wild Thing
Renegade
High Roller
Steel Venom
Corkscrew
Xtreme Swing

52 inches

Only a few attractions require guests to be at least 52 inches tall, including Power Tower.

A good tip is to measure your child before leaving home so everyone knows which rides they’ll be able to enjoy.

Don’t Skip Splash Soak City

One of the best parts about visiting Valleyfair is that admission includes access to the water park.

Splash Soak City is the perfect place to cool off on a hot Minnesota summer day and includes:

Wave pool
Lazy river
Water slides
Children’s splash areas
Family water attractions
Lounge chairs for relaxing

Many families spend the morning riding roller coasters before heading to the water park during the hottest part of the afternoon.

Be sure to pack:

Swimsuits
Towels
Flip-flops
Waterproof phone pouch
Sunscreen

Is Fast Lane Worth It?

If you’re visiting on a busy summer weekend or holiday, Fast Lane can be worth every penny.

Fast Lane allows guests to bypass the regular queue on many of Valleyfair’s most popular attractions, helping you fit more rides into your day.

It may be worth purchasing if:

You’re only visiting once this season.
You’re visiting on a Saturday.
You have thrill-seeking teenagers.
Your family wants to ride the biggest coasters multiple times.

If you’re visiting on a weekday early in the season or near park opening, you may find wait times much shorter.

Parking Tips

Parking is available directly outside the front entrance.

Families can choose between standard parking and Preferred Parking, which places you closer to the entrance. Preferred Parking is limited and fills quickly on busy days. Re-entry into the parking lot is allowed if you keep your parking receipt or use your season pass.

What to Eat

One thing that surprises many first-time visitors is the variety of food available throughout the park.

In addition to classic amusement park favorites like:

Funnel cakes
French fries
Ice cream
Cotton candy
Soft pretzels

You’ll also find:

BBQ
Burgers
Chicken
Mexican food
Pizza
Panda Express
Auntie Anne’s
Caribou Coffee
Cinnabon
Dippin’ Dots

If your family plans to eat lunch and dinner inside the park, a dining plan can often save money.

What to Bring

Packing smart will make your day much more enjoyable.

Recommended Items

Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen
Refillable water bottle (or a factory-sealed bottle of water)
Portable phone charger
Sunglasses
Hats
Swimsuits
Towels
Change of clothes
Waterproof bag for electronics
Poncho if rain is in the forecast

Outside meals and coolers are generally not permitted, although exceptions are made for guests with certain dietary needs, baby food, and formula. Guests may bring one factory-sealed bottle of water or an empty refillable water bottle.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Arrive Before Opening

Getting there before the gates open allows you to ride the most popular attractions before lines build.

Head to the Back First

Many experienced visitors recommend heading toward the back of the park first and working your way toward the entrance as the day goes on. This strategy often helps you avoid the longest lines.

Download the Valleyfair App

The app lets you:

Check wait times
View park maps
Find restaurants
Locate restrooms
Store tickets and passes
Remember where you parked

Rent a Locker

If you plan to spend time at both the amusement park and Splash Soak City, renting a locker can save you from carrying bags all day.

Stay Hydrated

Minnesota summers can get surprisingly hot and humid. Take breaks throughout the day and drink plenty of water, especially after riding roller coasters or spending time in the water park.

Why Families Love Valleyfair

Valleyfair continues to be one of Minnesota’s favorite summer destinations because it offers something for every age group. Young children can enjoy Planet Snoopy, tweens and teens can spend hours conquering roller coasters, and parents can relax at Splash Soak City or enjoy a meal together between rides.

Whether it’s your family’s first visit or an annual tradition, planning ahead will help you make the most of your day. From thrilling coasters and splash-filled adventures to delicious food and family memories, Valleyfair offers everything you need for an unforgettable Minnesota summer.

If you’re planning a family adventure this season, pack your sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready for a day full of laughter, excitement, and memories your family will be talking about long after the rides have stopped.