A Hidden Gem Since 1947, This Historic Amusement Park In Idaho Falls Has Officially Reopened
By Courtnie Erickson|Published August 22, 2023
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Courtnie Erickson
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From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Idaho Falls was founded in the late 1800s. It began as a small agricultural community that continued to grow and flourish, becoming a popular hub for entertainment and a gateway to outdoor opportunities. In 1947, one Idaho Falls attraction was established that drew in quite a crowd and brought the community together even more — Idaho Falls Funland. This amusement park in Idaho Falls became a hidden gem that unfortunately closed down. However, it recently reopened, bringing a bit of the past back to life.
Located at Tautphaus Park in Idaho Falls is Funland, a small theme park that has been a treasure to the city of Idaho Falls for decades.
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In the late 1940s, the Western Amusement Company leased the land from the City of Idaho Falls to create Funland. They promised the city they would provide two fully-operational carnival rides and a concession stand.
While they certainly met their promise, they delivered even more by providing three carnival rides and a restaurant complete with music, food, and dancing.
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The three rides that were originally built included a merry-go-round, miniature train ride, and an airplane swing.
Several years later, a Ferris wheel and a miniature golf course were also built.
In 2019, Funland was sold to Idaho Falls who ultimately decided to close down the small amusement park to renovate and restore it. Renovations were necessary to improve the safety of the rides, as well as make it more user-friendly and ADA-accessible.
On August 12, 2023, Funland in Idaho Falls reopened with a grand opening celebration complete with all-you-can-ride wristbands, free popcorn, ice cream, food trucks, and more.
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During the event, a 75-year anniversary time capsule was also buried, which included items such as pictures, a newspaper, Squishmallow, and an iPhone with photos of the event.
Today when you visit, you can read a small plaque in front of each ride providing historical information about how the ride was built. Funland will be operated by the Idaho Falls Zoo.
This amusement park is seasonal and open on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are required for each ride and you will buy individual tickets. You can learn about hours and prices on the Idaho Falls website. Check out the Funland at the Zoo Facebook page for even more information.
Have you been to Funland in Idaho Falls? Do you remember this small amusement park years ago? Let us know in the comments.
If this is your first time visiting Idaho Falls, check out this itinerary featuring some of the best things to do in Idaho Falls. You can also book a stay in one of the city’s charming hotels or vacation rentals. I highly recommend spending some time in this eastern Idaho town — there is plenty to do and see!
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