A GUIDE TO THE BEST THEME PARKS IN THE US FOR FAMILY FUN
As a family-friendly destination, amusement parks and theme parks have been a popular choice for many years. These parks offer a thrilling experience for all ages, from roller coasters to water rides and other attractions that provide fun and excitement.
With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which amusement park or theme park is the best fit for your family. Here are 10 top amusement parks in the US for family fun.
OVERVIEW OF EACH AMUSEMENT PARK
WALT DISNEY WORLD, ORLANDO, FLORIDA
Walt Disney World is the most popular amusement park in the US, with its four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and its water parks. Magic Kingdom is the most famous, with its iconic Cinderella Castle and classic rides like Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain.
Epcot is a park that celebrates the innovation and culture of the world, with attractions like Spaceship Earth and Soarin’. Hollywood Studios is a movie-themed park, with attractions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land.
Animal Kingdom is a wildlife-themed park with attractions like Expedition Everest and Kilimanjaro Safaris. All the parks offer a unique experience that will be fun for all ages.
CEDAR POINT, SANDUSKY, OHIO
Cedar Point is known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” with over 70 rides, including 17 roller coasters. It’s a great option for thrill seekers. The park also has a beautiful beach, water rides, and family-friendly attractions like the Snoopy-themed Planet Snoopy.
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS, ORLANDO, FLORIDA
Universal Studios is a popular choice for movie lovers, with its two theme parks: Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Universal Studios has attractions based on popular movies like Harry Potter, Despicable Me, and The Simpsons. Islands of Adventure has thrill rides like The Incredible Hulk Coaster and Jurassic Park River Adventure.
DOLLYWOOD, PIGEON FORGE, TENNESSEE
Dollywood is a family-friendly park with over 50 rides and attractions, including roller coasters and a water park. The park also has live shows, dining options, and shopping. Dollywood is also known for its Southern-style hospitality and its connection to country music superstar Dolly Parton.
HERSHEYPARK, HERSHEY, PENNSYLVANIA
Hersheypark is a chocolate-themed park with over 70 rides and attractions. Hersheypark is also known for its Hershey’s Chocolate World, where you can learn about the history of chocolate and see how it’s made.
KNOTT’S BERRY FARM, BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA
Knott’s Berry Farm is a popular destination with its 40+ rides and attractions, including several roller coasters. Tempt your tastebuds with events such as Knott’s Boysenberry Festival.
SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN, VALENCIA, CALIFORNIA
Six Flags Magic Mountain is known for its thrilling roller coasters, with over 19 coaster options. The park also has family-friendly rides and attractions, a water park, and live shows. Six Flags Magic Mountain is also home to the world-class roller coaster, the Revolution.
BUSCH GARDENS, WILLIAMSBURG, VIRGINIA
Busch Gardens is a European-themed park with over 40 rides and attractions, including several roller coasters. Busch Gardens is known for its beautiful gardens and its connection to Anheuser-Busch, the brewery company that established the park.
LEGOLAND, CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
Legoland is a park based on Lego toys, with over 60 rides and attractions. Legoland is also known for its Miniland USA, where you can see famous US landmarks made entirely out of Lego bricks.
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
Most parks are busiest during the summer months, so consider going during the off-season for shorter wait times and lower prices. Many parks offer discounts on tickets if you buy them online or in advance. Consider staying at a hotel near the park to make your visit more convenient. Many hotels offer packages that include park tickets and other perks.