Family Guide to Funderland Amusement Park in Sacramento
Funderland Amusement Park is easily one of Sacramento’s top spots for entertaining young kids. Located inside William Land Park, this old-school amusement park has been creating family memories since 1946. It offers classic rides designed especially for younger children while still giving parents and grandparents plenty of opportunities to join the fun.
Our family has visited Funderland several times over the years, and it has become one of those places that the kids often request. The rides are just the right size for little ones, the park is easy to navigate, and the atmosphere feels nostalgic without feeling too outdated. It is the kind of attraction where kids can enjoy rides over and over while parents actually get to relax instead of spending the day walking across a massive theme park.
Whether you’re planning your child’s first amusement park visit, celebrating a birthday, or simply searching for fun things to do with kids in Sacramento, this guide covers everything you need to know before you go.
Where Is Funderland?
Funderland Amusement Park is located inside William Land Park in Sacramento, directly across the street from Fairytale Town and just a short walk from the Sacramento Zoo. Because all three attractions sit next to each other, many families turn the area into a full day of exploring.
The park’s central location also makes it an easy stop for visitors staying in downtown Sacramento or anyone looking for a fun weekend activity without driving far.
Address:
1350 17th Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95822
One of the biggest perks is that parking throughout William Land Park is completely free, making Funderland one of the more affordable family attractions in Sacramento.
How to Decide Between Funderland and Fairytale Town?
One of the questions I hear most often is whether families should visit Funderland or Fairytale Town. The answer really depends on your child’s age and interests.
If your kids love rides, trains, carousels, and amusement parks, Funderland is the better choice. The unlimited rides keep little ones entertained for hours, and many attractions allow parents to ride along, making it a fun experience for the whole family.
If your children prefer climbing, imaginative play, and exploring, Fairytale Town may be a better fit. The park is filled with storybook-themed play structures, interactive exhibits, gardens, and friendly farm animals. Instead of standing in line for rides, kids spend their time running, climbing, pretending, and discovering new play areas.
After visiting both with my own family, I don’t think you can go wrong with either one. They offer completely different experiences, which is exactly why they work so well together.
If your budget and schedule allow, I highly recommend visiting both attractions on the same day. They sit directly across from one another inside William Land Park, so it’s easy to walk between them. We usually spend the morning at Fairytale Town while the kids have lots of energy to explore, then head across the street to Funderland for rides in the afternoon. It makes for one of the best family days out in Sacramento.
Why Families Love Funderland
Unlike large amusement parks that can feel overwhelming for younger children, Funderland was built specifically with families in mind.
The park features ten kid-sized rides and attractions, many of which parents can ride alongside their children. Instead of spending hours waiting in long lines, kids can usually experience their favorite rides multiple times during the same visit.
Some of the biggest reasons families continue coming back include:
- Rides designed specifically for younger children
- Parents can ride most attractions with their kids
- Unlimited rides included with admission
- Compact layout that is easy to navigate
- Plenty of shade from mature trees
- Free parking
- Birthday party packages
- Walking distance to Fairytale Town and the Sacramento Zoo
For toddlers and elementary-aged kids, it offers just enough excitement without becoming overstimulating.
The Rides at Funderland
One of the best parts of visiting Funderland is that every ride feels approachable for young children. There are no giant roller coasters or intense thrill rides. Instead, you’ll find colorful classics that have entertained Sacramento families for generations.
Some guest favorites include:
Flying Dragon Roller Coaster
This gentle coaster is often the biggest adventure younger kids experience during their visit. It delivers just enough speed to feel exciting without being too intense.
Funderland Express Train
The miniature train circles the park and is a favorite for every age. It is also one of the few attractions available for expectant mothers and certain guests with mobility restrictions.
Classic Carousel
Beautifully maintained and full of nostalgic charm, the carousel is one of those rides children never seem to outgrow.
Crazy Teacups
Kids can control how fast they spin, making every ride perfect for their own speed.
Red Baron Airplanes
Young pilots can soar through the air while parents ride beside them.
Backroads Buggies
Children love taking the wheel as they cruise around the track in colorful vintage-style cars.
Oscar the Fisher
This gentle ride has become one of Funderland’s signature attractions and is especially popular with preschoolers.
Fort Funhouse
More than just a ride, this multi-level play structure gives kids a chance to climb, crawl, and burn off even more energy between attractions.
One of our favorite things about Funderland is how many rides adults can actually enjoy alongside their kids. Instead of standing on the sidelines watching, parents become part of the experience, creating memories together.
Height Requirements and Ride Restrictions
One of the biggest questions parents have before visiting Funderland is whether their child will be tall enough to ride everything.
The good news is that Funderland is designed with younger children in mind, so most preschoolers and elementary-aged kids will be able to enjoy the majority of the attractions. Some rides do have minimum height requirements or require an accompanying adult for smaller riders, so it’s worth checking the current ride guidelines before your visit.
If you’re visiting with toddlers, don’t worry. There are still plenty of rides they can enjoy, especially when riding with a parent or another responsible adult. My advice is to measure your child before you go so there are no surprises once you arrive.
How Much Does It Cost?
One of the reasons I recommend Funderland to local families is that it is much more affordable than spending the day at a large theme park.
Admission is based on unlimited rides rather than individual ride tickets, making it easy for kids to enjoy their favorites as many times as they want.
Current admission includes:
- Unlimited Ride Wristband: $21 per person
- Children under 2: Free
- Seniors (60+): $15
- Military discount: Available with valid ID
- Season passes: Available for families who plan to visit multiple times each year
If you’re only accompanying your child and do not plan to ride, check Funderland’s current admission policy before your visit. Policies occasionally change, especially during special events and holiday celebrations.
For the latest pricing and seasonal promotions, visit the official Funderland website before you go.
Hours of Operation
Funderland operates seasonally from early February through late November, with hours varying throughout the year. During the busy summer season, the park is typically open Wednesday through Friday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The park is generally closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, except during select holidays and special events.
Because operating days and hours change throughout the spring, fall, and holiday seasons, I always recommend checking the online calendar before heading out. Funderland occasionally adjusts its schedule for school breaks, private events, weather, or extreme heat, and the official calendar is updated with the most current information.
What Age Is Funderland Best For?
Funderland is ideal for children between about 2 and 10 years old.
Toddlers love the gentle rides and manageable size of the park, while preschoolers and younger elementary-aged kids usually want to ride everything multiple times. Older siblings can still have fun, especially if they’re visiting with younger brothers or sisters, but the attractions are definitely geared toward younger children.
If your kids are entering their tween years and are looking for bigger thrills, they may outgrow Funderland. Fortunately, being located inside William Land Park makes it easy to combine your visit with other nearby attractions that appeal to older kids.
Pair Your Visit With Fairytale Town
One of my favorite ways to spend the day is by visiting both Funderland and Fairytale Town.
Since they’re located directly across from one another inside William Land Park, it is incredibly easy to walk between the two attractions. Younger kids especially love this combination because each destination offers something completely different.
Fairytale Town focuses on imaginative play with storybook-themed playgrounds, climbing structures, farm animals, and interactive exhibits. After spending the morning exploring castles and fairy tale scenes, kids can head across the street for an afternoon filled with rides.
If your family has the time, I highly recommend purchasing admission to both attractions. Together they make one of the best family day trips in Sacramento without ever needing to move your car.
Don’t Skip the Sacramento Zoo
Just a few minutes away on foot, you’ll also find the Sacramento Zoo.
Adding the zoo to your itinerary turns a simple outing into a full day of family fun. Kids can see giraffes, big cats, primates, reptiles, and dozens of other animals before or after enjoying the rides at Funderland.
Because everything is located inside William Land Park, moving between attractions is easy, and you’ll only need to park once. For visiting families or grandparents entertaining the kids for the day, this combination offers excellent value and keeps everyone busy from morning until late afternoon.
Food and Drinks at Funderland
You don’t have to leave the park when hunger strikes. Funderland has a snack bar serving family-friendly favorites that are perfect for a quick meal or afternoon treat.
The menu typically includes items like pizza, hot dogs, corn dogs, chicken tenders, soft pretzels, popcorn, nachos, ice cream, cotton candy, and other classic amusement park snacks. You’ll also find fountain drinks, bottled water, juice, and other refreshments to help cool off on warm Sacramento afternoons.
There are shaded picnic tables throughout the park where families can sit down and take a break between rides.
If you’re planning to spend the entire day in William Land Park, another option is to pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in one of the nearby grassy areas before returning to the rides.
Birthday Parties at Funderland
If your child dreams of celebrating with rides instead of a traditional party venue, Funderland is one of the most popular birthday party destinations in Sacramento.
Birthday party packages include reserved party space and unlimited rides for guests, making it easy for parents to enjoy the celebration without organizing entertainment themselves. Kids can spend the party riding their favorite attractions together, while adults relax and socialize nearby.
Party packages and pricing vary depending on the group size and selected options, so it’s best to reserve well in advance, especially for spring and fall weekends when dates fill quickly.
Tips for Visiting Funderland
A little planning can make your visit even more enjoyable.
Here are a few tips we’ve learned from our visits:
- Arrive shortly after opening for the shortest ride lines.
- Visit in the morning during the summer to avoid Sacramento’s hottest temperatures.
- Dress kids in comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes for climbing and rides.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles during warmer months.
- Measure younger children before your visit if you’re unsure about height requirements.
- Plan at least two to three hours to experience every ride without feeling rushed.
- If you have extra time, combine your visit with Fairytale Town or the Sacramento Zoo for a full day of family fun.
Is Funderland Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, especially if you have young children.
While teenagers may prefer larger amusement parks with high-speed roller coasters, Funderland shines because it was built specifically for younger kids. The manageable size, affordable admission, unlimited rides, and nostalgic atmosphere make it one of the best family attractions in Sacramento.
Every time we visit, I’m reminded why generations of Sacramento families continue coming back. There is something special about watching little kids experience their first roller coaster, wave from the train, or ask to ride the carousel “just one more time.”
If you’re looking for a low-stress outing where the whole family can enjoy spending time together, Funderland is an easy recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should you plan to spend at Funderland?
Most families spend between 2 and 4 hours at the park. Because rides are close together and lines are usually manageable, that’s plenty of time for children to ride their favorites multiple times.
Is Funderland good for toddlers?
Yes. Funderland is one of the best amusement parks in Northern California for toddlers and preschoolers. Many rides are designed specifically for younger children, and several allow adults to ride along.
Is parking free?
Yes. Parking is free throughout William Land Park, although lots can fill up quickly on weekends, holidays, and during special events.
Can adults ride the rides?
Yes. Adults can accompany children on many of the attractions, making the experience fun for the entire family.
Can you visit Funderland and Fairytale Town in one day?
Definitely. The two attractions are located directly across from each other, making them one of the best family day trip combinations in Sacramento. If you have extra time, you can also add the Sacramento Zoo, which is just a short walk away.
Final Thoughts
Funderland has been a Sacramento tradition for generations, and after visiting with my own family, it’s easy to understand why. The park offers just the right mix of classic rides, affordable pricing, and a relaxed atmosphere that lets kids simply be kids.
Whether you’re planning your toddler’s first amusement park visit, looking for an easy weekend activity, or putting together a full day at William Land Park with Fairytale Town and the Sacramento Zoo, Funderland is one of the best family attractions in Sacramento.
If you haven’t visited in a while, it’s worth making the trip. Sometimes the simplest family outings end up creating the memories that last the longest.
