As the weather continues to warm up, there’s no denying the itch to get outside. Take a quick day trip or a weekend getaway to a family favorite – Magic Springs!

Visiting the park has been a tradition for Arkansans for decades – and this year Magic Springs is celebrating 40 years of fun! Arkansas’ only theme and water park is planning a 2018 season full of big celebrations. 

The theme park opens for the season on Saturday, April 7 and the water park opens May 12. A full schedule of the park's hours for the year is available here.

So pick a weekend and mark your calendars — here are three reasons that a visit to Magic Springs is worth the drive down to Hot Springs:

1. The all-new Brain Drain ride is hair raising fun!

The season will start with a bang as the park opens an all-new, 13-story thrill ride. Brain Drain is not for the faint of heart. Riders will take a slow climb to the top, allowing views of the Ouachita Mountains for a few gorgeous moments, then plummet down for an exhilarating ride. Brain Drain is the park’s first new ride in 10 years and is perfect for the thrill-seeker in your family.

2. Summer concerts for everyone!

Magic Springs is bringing an incredible lineup for their 2018 Summer Concert Series. Enjoy 14 high-energy performances by top artists across a variety of genres. This series is sure to fit your musical taste with acts like En Vogue, Martina McBride, Kansas, Lauren Alaina, Crowder, an '80s hair band festival and many more.

3. Celebrate 40 years of fun!

July 22 is the park’s 40th birthday party! Join in the fun with a special birthday party-themed day, full of funnel cakes and contests where guests can win prizes. Other promotions and announcements will be shared through the park’s social media channels as the season continues.