Top 6 Texas theme parks to visit during Fourth of July with your family

Amid Fourth of July festivities and excessive heat, summer is in full swing in Texas. And there are few things more exciting than spending a day at a theme park.

Whether you're seeking the thrills of an amusement park or the cool relief of a water park, Texas has plenty to offer. Travel guidance platform TripAdvisor has compiled visitor reviews to list the state's top six amusement and water parks.

Are any of the top-rated theme parks near you? Here's the list:

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No. 1: SeaWorld San Antonio

With a rating of four out of five, San Antonio's SeaWorld has generated 4,820 reviews. The park offers up-close animal interactions and rides such as the Great White and Riptide Rescue coasters. Locally rescued animals are also featured in the Pets Ahoy comedy show.

In the spring of 2022, Texas' SeaWorld introduced the Tidal Surge as "the world's tallest and fastest ride of its kind." Its two "pendulum-like arms" reach a maximum height of 105 feet and a maximum speed of 68 miles per hour.

Click here to see SeaWorld San Antonio's hours.

No. 2: Six Flags Fiesta Texas

The second Six Flags park in Texas, Six Flags Fiesta Texas is rated four out of five with 3,130 reviews on TripAdvisor. It includes thrilling rides, a water park, shows and more in San Antonio.

Among the theme park's rides is the KID FLASH Cosmic Coaster, described as the "world's first single-rail family racing roller coaster" and the state's only racing coaster.

Click here to see Six Flags Fiesta Texas' hours.

No. 3: Kemah Boardwalk

Kemah Boardwalk overlooks Galveston Bay and is among Bay Area Houston's top attractions, according to TripAdvisor. The platform's 2,282 reviews give it a rating of four out of five. Guests may enjoy amusement rides, waterfront restaurants, live entertainment and more at Kemah Boardwalk.

The family-friendly park offers activities for all ages, from feeding manta rays at the aquarium to riding a miniature train and a 65-foot-high Ferris wheel. Upcoming events can be found on Kemah Boardwalk's website.

Click here for Kemah Boardwalk's visitor information, including hours of operation for amusement rides.

No. 4: Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort

Schlitterbahn New Braunfels ranks fourth on TripAdvisor's list, rated four out of five by 2,345 reviews. Deemed the world's best waterpark by Golden Ticket, the park features river rides, waterslides and an on-site resort.

A new kids' area is now open at Schlitterbahn New Braunfels. Schatze's Storybrook Park offers a miniature version of Schlitterbahn's Master Blaster water coaster, along with six body slides, over 70 interactive water features and more.

Click here to see Schlitterbahn New Braunfels' hours.

No. 5: Six Flags Over Texas

The original Six Flags amusement park, Six Flags Over Texas is rated four out of five with 3,286 reviews on TripAdvisor. The proclaimed "thrill capital of Texas" has 14 roller coasters, including thriller and family rides.

The Arlington park also has character meet and greets and other live entertainment. Special events, such as festivals and holiday celebrations, can be found on the Six Flags Over Texas website.

Click here to see Six Flags Over Texas' hours.

No. 6: Morgan's Wonderland

With a five out of five rating and 390 reviews, Morgan's Wonderland makes TripAdvisor's list of beloved Texas theme parks. With inclusivity as its foundation, the park offers more than 25 accessible rides, playscapes and interactive elements.

Just this year, Morgan's Wonderland in San Antonio introduced the following new rides:

• Rocket's Sky Flight Adventure

• 4D Magic Cinema

• Jette's Wonder Bikes

• Pirate Island Boat Cruises

Click here to see hours for Morgan's Wonderland.

MAP: See top six theme parks in Texas

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: 6 Texas amusement and water parks to visit during July 4th holiday