Funland at the Zoo will reopen for the 2026 season on Saturday, May 23, bringing visitors back to a restored historic amusement area next to Tautphaus Park Zoo, according to a May 8 announcement from Idaho Falls officials.
The reopening is significant as it marks the first full-scale operation of Funland since its restoration. The park features classic rides such as airplanes, a train ride for younger guests, a carousel, the Octopus, and the Ferris wheel. All rides are set to be open this season along with expanded hours and new promotions planned throughout summer.
“Funland has always been a special place for generations of families in Idaho Falls, and this restoration honors that history while creating something ready for the future,” said Idaho Falls Zoo Director David Pennock. “Visitors will see and feel the care that has gone into every detail, from the rides to the Log Hut to the overall experience.”
The Log Hut café inside Funland is now open both to park guests and members of the public without requiring ride tickets. It continues Funland’s vintage atmosphere while offering food and snacks during visits. Ride tickets can be purchased at $1 per ticket with attractions requiring two to four tickets each; there are also $20 bonus books with 25 tickets available anytime and unlimited-ride Funbands priced at $20 for adults or $15 for children.
Originally developed in 1947 as an attraction connected to Tautphaus Park, Funland was acquired by City of Idaho Falls in 2019 after years under private ownership. Its recent restoration was supported by community investment including about $145,000 from CHC Foundation used mainly on renovating key infrastructure like Log Hut café and Ferris wheel foundations. Additional support came from donors through Tautphaus Park Zoological Society.
All amusement rides have been professionally inspected and rebuilt by licensed companies with updated foundations where needed while preserving their nostalgic character.
Memorial Day weekend will also kick off seasonal programming at Tautphaus Park Zoo such as keeper chats and expanded animal viewing opportunities. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, Tuesday evening hours until 8 p.m. will allow extended visits both at zoo and Funland. Summer events include Party for the Planet on May 30 featuring reduced admission with canned food donations; youth summer camps; and Junior Zoo Crew programs offering teens hands-on experience in animal care.
