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10 Best Amusement Parks in America
America doesn’t lack for having the best amusement parks. Whether you’re a daredevil and want to ride the tallest, scariest roller coasters in the world or prefer just eating park food, a day at the park can be a super fun experience.
One great thing about theme parks is that you can usually find one within driving distance. This makes amusement parks a reasonable choice for a family vacation or weekend giveaway, especially if money is an issue. Amusement parks are also great for capturing memories for kids. When I was a child, my family took me to several parks in Michigan, California, Ohio and Florida, so I have great memories from those trips.
The best theme parks also have convenient lodging nearby, making the trip truly seamless. That’s not to mention the awesome water parks that are often attached to today’s theme parks. Also, even though theme parks are meant for kids, it’s obvious that adults can have just as much fun at them, too.
Read on for our list of the 10 best amusement parks in America, from Cedar Point to Hersheypark. All of these are famous for their attractions, food and more. What’s your favorite? Reach out to us on social media and let us know.
10. Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Dollywood is a favorite that’s located in the Great Smokey Mountain area. Of course, it’s named after the one and only Dolly Parton. If you’re a country music fan, this is a must-see stop. Even if you aren’t a huge country music listener, it’s a great, traditional amusement park.
Top Destination For Family Vacations | Pigeon Forge, TN
Happy Memorial Day! To celebrate we are offering a free Dollywood's Splash Country dining pass to everyone who purchases a 2023 Two-Park Season Pass by midnight. Hurry, this offer is available online only!
9. Kings Island, Mason, Ohio
Kings Island Theme Park is a little bit off the radar, but it’s a great park. It’s known for not only its amusement park but also its fantastic water park. Kings Island features a range of coasters, Planet Snoopy for the kids and more.
Kings Island Theme Park | Roller Coasters Water Park | Admission
Get great deals on Kings Island, one of the largest theme parks in the Midwest. Save on park admission tickets and enjoy the famous roller coasters and award-winning kids area.
8. Legoland, Carlsbad, California
Legoland is simply legendary. Whoever had the idea to make an entire amusement park dedicated to Legos is a genius. The amusement park offers fun rides, live entertainment and more. You’ll find a Legoland Water Park, too.
Awesome Awaits at LEGOLAND® Parks and Hotels
Fun, colourful and inspirational, LEGOLAND® is where awesome awaits for families looking for a great day out, or the ultimate vacation experience. Visit our theme parks and hotels located in Florida, California and New York
7. Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, Virginia
Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia, is one of those parks that you just hear about a lot. I feel like I’ve been hearing about it since I was a little kid, but I’ve never been there. Busch Gardens is known for being extremely beautiful and scenic, which is rare for an amusement park.
Theme Parks & Attractions in Tampa Bay and Williamsburg - Busch Gardens
Visit us and experience our animal attractions, exhibits and educational series, with spectacular rides and attractions happening daily. Visit your nearest Busch Gardens theme park in Tampa Bay, Florida and Williamsburg, Virginia.
6. Knott's Berry Farm, Buena Park, California
Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California, is another spot that I’ve had the pleasure of visiting. When I was a kid, my family took me to California to see my aunt, and we went to not only Disneyland but also Knott’s Berry Farm. The amusement park has more than 165 rides, attractions and more. They also have fun holiday and Halloween events.
Knott's Berry Farm
Fun is always in season at California's original theme park. Explore 160 acres of world-class rides, shows, restaurants and attractions in four themed areas: Ghost Town, Fiesta Village, The Boardwalk and Camp Snoopy. Adrenaline junkies can test their limits on more than a dozen scream-inducing rides.
5. Six Flags Magic Mountain, Valencia, California (and in many other states)
Six Flags Magic Mountain is another huge name when it comes to parks. The spot, located in Valencia, California, is known for its amazing coasters. What’s cool is that the park offers a mix of scary-type coasters for the big kids (and adults) and tame coasters for the kids (and wimpy adults, like me). Other Six Flags parks also belong here, too, as the chain has lots of locations across America.
4: Disney California Adventure Park, Anaheim, California
If you want that Disney experience but live on the West Coast, then you’re much closer to Disney California Adventure Park, aka “Disneyland,” than you are to Disney World. I’ve actually been to both parks, since my aunt lives near Disneyland, and I went as a kid. The park is super fun for those of any age, and it really gives you that Disney movie experience, but in a park. The park has been updated over the years, but it’s more classic than Disney World.
Disney California Adventure Park
Explore Disney California Adventure Park, where some of your favorite Disney, Pixar and Super Hero stories come alive! Plan a visit to Disneyland Resort in California and immerse yourself in pure fun-from attractions, Character sightings, dining, shopping and more.
3. Hersheypark, Hershey, Pennsylvania
If you’re in the Pennsylvania area, then you absolutely have to go to Hersheypark. The park, which is owned by Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, helps to keep Milton S. Hershey’s legacy alive. Not only do you get chocolate (yum!), but Hersheypark also offers roller coasters, water rides and more fun.
The Largest Amusement Park in PA
Visit Hersheypark to experience family rides, thrilling coasters, and so much more! Get your tickets now, or become a 2023 Season Pass Holder.
2. Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom, Orlando, Florida
There is something simply classic about Walt Disney World. It should be every kid’s right of passage to go here. I’m fortunate that my parents took me to Disney World twice when I was little. I loved meeting my favorite princesses, but there is plenty to do for adults at the park, too.
Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida
Welcome to Walt Disney World. Come and enjoy the magic of Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL. Plan your family vacation and create memories for a lifetime.
1. Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio
Cedar Point is legendary in the Midwest. The park is considered the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” since it has so many fantastic coasters to ride. If you’re looking for major thrills, plus stuff to do for the family, Cedar Point is a great spot. Plus, it’s not as pricey as some of the major parks.
Cedar Point Amusement Park
Cedar Point is A Place Like No Other™ in Sandusky. For more than 150 years, families have chosen the Lake Erie resort as their destination to connect with each other and create new memories.
