It has the standards: a wave pool, a lazy river and a splash area. This nearby resort features roomy guest suites with plenty of space for families, plus its own indoor pool complex and chocolate-themed treatments in the on-site spa. The parks are open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. So many New Englanders visited the park as children, they return again as parents and grandparents to give the kids the same fairytale experience. Silver Dollar City boasts both a theme park and a water park within 10 miles of the shows and attractions in downtown Branson, Missouri. You know Florida and California are filled with amusement parks, but did you know Pennsylvania ranks right up there for having multiple choices, all within driving range of Philadelphia? The White Water water park is home to 13 acres of water rides, slides, a 500,000-gallon wave pool and a lazy river. The parks are a bit smaller than others around the country, but the best fun youll find outside of New Orleans. Cedar Point also features events, festivals and live shows, so be sure to check the calendar before booking. Little ones will enjoy LEGOLAND, near San Diego, and families will also enjoy smaller parks like Knotts Berry Farm in Orange County. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Arkansas While many of these attractions include rides, Universal Studios Hollywood also offers memorable entertainment running the gamut from encounters with "Jurassic World" dinosaurs to "Despicable Me" carnival games. Arizona 3 Camelot Theme Park, England. North Carolina Kings Island is a 364-acre theme park with its own water park located about 25 miles north of Cincinnati, Ohio. 6 Jardin de Tivoli, France. Cedar Point is the second-oldest operating park in the country, and features 17 roller coasters in three different areas. Try the Tornado or Island Racer water slides, and learn to surf on a FlowRider. Kiddie rides, coasters, a water park, and wholesome family fun are all on offer at this Rochester, New York, amusement park. 8 Yongma Land, South Korea. Amusement Parks and Theme Parks in Kentucky, Theme Parks and Amusement Parks in New Hampshire. The Best Amusement Park in Every U.S. State. Lake Compounce Just because it is Alaska doesnt mean the kids cant enjoy some slip-sliding fun. 7 Pripyat Amusement Park, Ukraine. Of course, Disney World and Disneyland take some of the top spots, since there seems to be something for everyone at these two locations. The amusement parks Wet & Wild Water Park offers waves, lazy rivers, waterslides and the states only swim-up bar for the folks. The Bloomington, Minnesota park offers 27 rides and character fun with Dora the Explorer, SpongeBob and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Enjoy the efficiency of an organized tour led by experts who bring Rome's history to life. Be sure to check out U.S. News' Anaheim-Disneyland travel guide to learn how to plan the perfect Disney vacation. Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, [Read: The Best Restaurants in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Rides and roller coasters are dotted throughout SeaWorld San Diego, including swing rides, spin rides and tantalizing drop rides. If you havent been to Branson, Missouri, you have been missing one of the most popular destinations in the Midwest. Travelers looking to splurge should stay at the award-winning Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, one of the area's top hotels. See you on the midway. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Kennywood also hosts numerous events, from firework parties to parades and food festivals, depending on the time of year. Used with permission. Like its northern counterpart, South Dakotas amusements can also be found at Thunder Road, with a second location in Sioux Falls. Antioch Waterpark, Antioch Aquatica by SeaWorld San Diego, Chula Vista California's Great America, Santa Clara Camelot Golfland Waterslides, Anaheim Castle Park's Buccaneer Cove, Riverside Fiesta Village Pyrite Rapids, Colton Golfland SunSplash Roseville, Roseville Great Wolf Lodge Southern California, Garden Grove Hurricane Harbor Concord, Concord Delaware Connecticut Magic Kingdom Park Orlando, Florida. Click on a state (arranged alphabetically below), and you'll be taken to a listing of all the parks in that state. Oklahoma Thanks to the addition of Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, this Disney World theme park has become increasingly popular among guests of all ages who want to follow in their favorite characters' footsteps. Who needs coasters to enjoy some family time together? For the last eight years, she has been a lifestyle journalist for. SeaWorld, in San Diego, features wet and dry coaster options, along with animal encounters. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. California Whether you want to spend the day on jaw-dropping thrill rides, put in hours chasing down the best fair food or bask in the sun as you float down a lazy river, the best amusement parks in the U.S. boast something for everyone. Silver Dollar City is open year-round (but not every day), while the water park only opens seasonally from late May to early September. Funland has over a dozen carnival-style rides (mostly geared toward kids), games, an arcade, and more. The park is open weekends in late spring and September, but mostly May through August. For anyone not close enough to visit the Gulf Shores, this aquatic fun center in central Mississippi will keep you cool from mid-May through Labor Day. Cedar Point wins title of Best Amusement Park in the USA. Highly advertising itself as the theme park for kids when they start to grow out of Disney is Universal Orlando, with its Universal Studios and Universals Islands of Adventure featuring Harry Potter and Marvel-themed rides, as well as its new water theme park, Volcano Bay, open this summer. The 1880s-inspired theme park itself features almost 40 rides and attractions, including spinning coasters, drop rides, swing rides and more. This article was published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information. Address: 452 E. Christmas Blvd., Santa Claus, IN 47579. Guests can also pair their resort visit with a stay at Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort, which has its own bowling alley, two pools, a meandering lazy river, and several restaurants and lounges to choose from. Dollywood is home to 160 acres of theme park and water park fun with more than 50 world-class rides and a family-friendly atmosphere. Packed with nostalgic experiences and state-of-the-art attractions, Disneyland Park is truly one of the world's most iconic amusement parks. The park is open on weekends in April, May and September, with most of summer open Wednesday through Sunday. Finally, Disney's Animal Kingdom houses rare animals and numerous rides, plus the unforgettable Tree of Life. Both parks open in April and operate through October weekends. Visit Italy, Germany, France, and more all in one afternoon when you go to Busch Gardens Williamsburg, a European-themed amusement park located near the historic Virginia city. The park is also unveiling a brand-new ride in 2023 called Serengeti Flyer, touted as the world's fastest and tallest ride of its kind. Dutch Wonderland Lancaster, Pennsylvania, 19. Dolly Parton-owned Dollywood, located in the picturesque Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, offers a unique combination of thrill rides, family-friendly attractions, musical entertainment, and delicious comfort foods. Visitors who want to stay at this top Ohio attraction should check out Camp Cedar, which offers luxury rental cottages and camping facilities. It's Christmas all year round at Santa's Village, a holiday-themed amusement park with winter and Christmas-inspired rides and attractions in Jefferson, New Hampshire. The most recent accident that comes to mind when discussing theme Parks is the Orlando FreeFall incident that occurred not too long ago in Orlando, Florida. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Here, we've ranked all 23 of the Six Flags parks in America and explained why. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. This section list the top 20 largest amusement parks in Europe in order of annual attendance. Not only does this theme park boast an array of roller coasters, family rides and water rides, but it is home to Hershey's Chocolate World, with every possible chocolate concoction and dessert imaginable. When you think of Florida, of course you think of Walt Disney World, which includes Disneys Animal Kingdom, Disneys Hollywood Studios, Disneys Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. Families can also book the "World-Famous Studio Tour," which takes you behind the scenes of a working movie studio that spans 13 city blocks. Using the natural spring water from Hot Springs State Park, visitors can swim in an indoor or outdoor pool, and play on three waterslides. Holly Johnson and Marisa MndezApril 28, 2023, Gwen Pratesi and Rachael HoodApril 27, 2023, Kyle McCarthy and Ann HensonApril 25, 2023, Brittany Chrusciel and Gwen PratesiApril 21, 2023, Gwen Pratesi and Timothy J. ForsterApril 21, 2023. Let's explore these and other Florida parks, including some of the smaller, lesser-known ones. Michigans largest amusement park is Michigans Adventure in Muskegon. Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, Tags: Travel, Theme Park Vacations, Family Vacations, US Vacations. The oldest continuous operating amusement park in the country, Lake Compounce in Bristol, Connecticut, has been providing thrills since 1846. All three have water park aspects to their amusements, as well. The fourth area, Knott's Boardwalk, takes inspiration from Southern California's beach vibes while offering the park's most extreme roller coasters and a stage for live entertainment. 2 Six Flags Over Georgia: Atlanta Georgia. Laser tag, go karts, mini-golf, bumper cars and boats, batting cages and bungee rides are available daily from May through September, with weekend hours in April and October. Universal's Islands of Adventure also features popular characters but ups the ante with more and larger rides. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Universal's Islands Of Adventure, Orlando. In Tampa, just an hour to the west, is the animal-themed scream park, Busch Gardens. Both parks feature a water park component. Address: 6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason, OH 45040. Indoor parks, which operate throughout the winter, include a giant water park and a small amusement area with bumper cars, laser tag, rock climbing and an arcade. Other notable rides include X-Flight, a wild . Theme parks are usually fairly easy to drive to, depending on where you live, and they can be quite affordable to visit especially if you book ahead. Whether you're looking for world record extreme thrills, local gems, or water park family fun, the United States has the most amusement parks in the . Knoebels Amusement Resort Elysburg, Pennsylvania, 14. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Tampa, Florida, Michael S. Williamson/The Washington Post/Getty Images, 18. William's Grove Amusement Park, Mechanicsburg This amusement park was in operation from . [Read: The Top Things to Do in Orlando With Kids. Fun Spot America Orlando also boasts several premium go-kart tracks for families who want to race each other. Park guests can stay next door at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, a campground equipped with RV and tent sites, rental cabins and cottages, and its own small water park on-site. Summertime has always meant exciting playtime for kids, and what better way to have fun than at an amusement and water park? 10. Yes, send me expert advice, handpicked recommendations, and tips for my family. There are a total of 3,729 state parks in the United States, with 11 states having more than 100 state parks each. This section has the top 20 water parks in North America in order of annual attendance. KNOEBELS AMUSEMENT RESORT , ELYSBURG , PENNSYLVANIA 7. Hurricane Harbor, included with your admission, provides water park fun with waterslides, pools and many ways to stay cool during the parks summer season. The park is called the Roller Coaster Capital of the World due to having roller coasters that go 120 mph and have 80-degree drops! Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi. Whats summer fun without a water park, and Kentucky Kingdom has that too, in the form of Hurricane Bay. SIX FLAGS GREAT AMERICA, GURNEE , ILLINOIS 8. Both land and water fun also feature kiddie and family areas. Located along the shores of Lake Erie, Cedar Point is known for its diverse selection of 70-plus rides, including 18 world-class roller coasters. You wont find too many amusements in North Dakota, where the states lure is enjoying the great outdoors, including the Badlands. When you are done exploring Utahs great national parks, Lagoons kiddie rides, carnival-style rides, wooden roller coasters, log flumes and looping steel coaster will keep you entertained all day long. Image: Source. This film studio theme park features many of the popular attractions that you'll find at its East Coast counterpart, plus the Studio Tour, a tram ride through movie sets. TRAVEL + LEISURE is a registered trademark of Travel + Leisure Co., registered in the United States and other countries. It's time to say goodbye to Disneyland's Fantasmic, and that's ok. On April 22, one of the biggest attraction disasters in theme park history took place when a massive animatronic of Maleficent . Lake Compounce is the oldest, continuously-operating amusement park in North America, having its genesis more than 170 years ago in 1846! 5 Six Flags Great America: Chicago, Illinois. The Golden State is home to two Disney parks, the original Universal pa. Wisconsin Disneyland Park Anaheim. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. 5 Nara Dreamland, Japan. Tokyo Disneyland is very similar to Magic Kingdom in Florida or Disneyland Park in California, but Tokyo DisneySea is unique with its nautical theme, fantastical lands, and beautiful sections. This section lists the top 20 largest amusement parks in North America in order of annual attendance. Hersheypark gives chocolate lovers a cause to rally around. Wisconsin Dells is known as the Water Park Capital of the World, and the massive indoor/outdoor Mount Olympus Water & Theme Park is one of the largest in the area and the state of Wisconsin! Iowas summer attractions can be found outside of the fairgrounds at the seasonal Adventureland in Altoona, not far from Des Moines. New Jersey is home to a number of small amusement parks and water play areas, particularly along the Jersey Shore. Just outside of Salt Lake City is Utahs manmade outdoor attraction: Lagoon. One of the closest nearby options is the TownePlace Suites by Marriott Orlando Southwest Near Universal, which offers several family-friendly room options and a free hot breakfast. It also hosts a marine zoological park and is part of a bigger complex, the SeaWorld Parks, and Resorts Orlando. Universal's Islands of Adventure Orlando, Florida. Theres also a few beach parks in Santa Monica and San Diego. 1: Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio Cedar Point tops the list of best amusement parks in the US, and for good reasons! Holiday World & Splashin' Safari welcomes guests from May through mid-September, but it's open daily in June and July only. This answer is: 3 Six Flags Fiesta Texas: San Antonio, Texas. Everything to Know About Disney World's Roller Coasters, Massachusetts Theme Parks and Amusement Parks. Illinois What are some examples of how providers can receive incentives? Busch Gardens Tampa Bay sits less than 10 miles northeast of downtown Tampa and is open every day of the year. Along Coastal Maine, near Old Orchard Beach and Kennebunkport, is Funtown Splashtown. Ironically, California is home to the most roller coasters, but is seldom looked at as a roller coaster heaven. Just outside of Orlando, there are still some thrills to be found. Today, the park is nearly 35 acres near North Conway, bordering the White Mountains and Mount Washington. Best Answer. What could be better than coasters followed by internationally inspired cuisine? Frontier City, located in Oklahoma City, is the only amusement park in the state, and this summer is opening Wild West Water Works to provide a water park portion to its expanding fun zone. by: Iman Palm. 9 Cypress Gardens, Florida. Kentucky The park is seasonal, and opens for spring break, summer and some fall festivities. Universal Studios Florida Orlando, Florida. Its open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in Thermopolis, Wyoming. Rides for little kids are front and center here, with a carousel, bumper cars, small roller coasters and more at Planet Snoopy. Colorado Get expert advice, handpicked recommendations, and tips for your family all year round! Thrilling roller coasters include El Toro wooden coaster that drops riders 176 feet, and the unbelievably fast Nitro that will have you rolling in all directions at 80 mph. Arcade and carnival-style games, as well as classic amusement park rides like bumper cars, go-karts, and more, make this a fun and affordable option in Central Florida. In the great state of Texas, there isnt just one giant Six Flags amusement park; there are two! Universal Studios Hollywood Los Angeles, California, 8. And the mountains Aerial Adventure Park provides challenging rope courses, zip-lines and suspension bridges on five different courses. Oregon For little kids, WaWa World has splash and play areas for those under 42 inches in height. The park opens in April through summer and weekends in September and October; the water park is open May through August. Hawaii Fun Town at Micke Grove Lodi. Hitting the beaches of South Carolina? The park is also home to Six Flags Safari, where you can meet animals in a variety of programs. Because the park is only 10 miles from downtown Los Angeles, plenty of hotels and resorts are available nearby, including The Garland, Sheraton Universal Hotel and Loews Hollywood Hotel. These are the best theme parks in the United States, according to TripAdvisor. Montana Amusement parks are located all around the world with millions of people visiting them every year. The park is open April through December, with special holiday events and shows. Enjoy thrill rides, waterslides, delicious food and more at these top parks. U.S. Amusement Parks With the Most Deaths & Injuries the Past 10 Years. And both parks feature thrilling roller coasters. Just north of Orlando, in Winter Haven, is a second LEGOLAND location for younger kids. The least expensive and most restrictive annual pass, the Pixie Pass, costs $399. Which US state has the most roller coasters? Travel experts agree there are several advantages to hiring a vacation planner. Meanwhile, the park's thrill rides will spin you every which way or drop you up to 250-plus feet. 2 Mimaland, Malaysia. 4 Six Flags New Orleans, Louisiana. Address: 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, CA 92802. A Guide to Connecticut's Water Parks and Theme Parks, Best New Theme Park Attractions for Little Kids. Knott's Berry Farm is open daily, and the water park welcomes guests from late May to early September. Keep cool in Kansas City at the expansive Schlitterbahn Waterpark. The water park is open seasonally, from the end of May through September, and features a wave pool, a lazy river, FlowRider, and a number of waterslides, from the Screamin Demon 60-foot drop slide to the Triple Dog Dare body slide. Six Flags Magic Mountain is open year-round (though not every day) and sits about 35 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles. With double-looping roller coasters, wooden coasters, and wild water rides like Raging Waters, kids of all sizes will love this amusement park. If you want to spend a few days exploring the park, stay at the iconic Hershey Lodge. If we mean parks that look like those parks, Pennsylvania has the most. They say Florida and California have the most amusement parks, including Diney World, Disney Land and a whole lot others! The addition of her amusement park, Dollywood, provides just one more feature to the beautiful, rolling hills of Tennessee. This amusement park offers over 85 rides and attractions, plus classic snacks like popcorn, caramel apples, lemonade, and more, on Canobie Lake in New Hampshire. Nestled between New York City and Philadelphia, the Jackson location is also not too far from the Shore, making the park easy to get to from anywhere in the state. Disney California Adventure Park Anaheim, California, 11.
