From Disneyland to Silver Dollar City, Universal Studios to Dollywood – It is no secret that theme parks are top vacation spots for families. But which one should you visit? Here are 8 of the best US theme parks that have something for all ages.
8 of the Best US Theme Parks
Is there anything more fun or exciting than a theme park? Not in my world! We are theme park junkies and love visiting theme parks around the United States.
But not all of us love roller coasters, which is why I’m always on the hunt for theme parks that offer more than the craziest thrill ride.
The following list is not in any particular order. I highly suggest visiting them all!
Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio
If you live in the Midwest, then you have most likely have been to Cedar Point. Did you know that Cedar Point is the second oldest operating amusement park in the USA? Located on 364 acres of space, it’s no wonder visitors have hours of endless fun!
What I love is that you can usually find reduced priced tickets to enter this fun park, which also means more fun for less money!
Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania
Almost all of us have watched in jealousy as a friend went to Hersheypark. One day park tickets are pretty cheap, but the money saving really happens, when you buy two-day park tickets.
This park is most known for the ride the Storm Runner. Launching riders from 0-72 MPH in two seconds and taking them on a wild ride, Storm Runner is an extreme roller coaster! But don’t fear, if that isn’t your type of ride, you’ll find a ton of calmer attractions and water rides to enjoy.
Magic Kingdom Park at Disney World
I couldn’t do a list of the best theme parks without having at least one Walt Disney World park on the list! Magic Kingdom because it has a wide variety of attractions and I love that there really is a ride for everyone. And there is just something about seeing Cinderella Castle that brings tears to my eyes.
Enjoy thrill rides including Space Mountain, Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain or keep the adrenaline in check on it’s a small world, Peter Pan or Jungle Cruise. You might even run into Mickey and Minnie Mouse on your expedition.
Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia
You’ll find that the hottest rides in Busch Gardens is known as Griffon. The Griffon is the second fast dive coaster that features two Immelmann loops along with two vertical drops!
Can’t make it to Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia? There is also one in Tampa, Florida.
I don’t know about you, but my family seem to be empty pits when we’re at a theme park. They are asking to eat every time we get off a ride! The all-day dine ticket works out great for us. You can purchase an all-day dining ticket, right along with your entrance ticket.
Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
If you haven’t been to Dollywood this year, then you haven’t lived. It’s located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and has been rated as a family favorite. Owned by Dolly Parton herself, this is a great wholesome theme park to let loose and have the time of your life.
Dollywood is well known for the Mystery Mine ride. You can get on this ride and experience pure thrill. You may even get a good look at the Smoky Mountains as you visit Dollywood. The park is around 150 acres! You’ll also find a water park on property. Don’t worry, there is plenty of fun awaiting you!
Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California
The original. The park where Walt Disney walked. I remember taking my daughter for the first time when she was six. She’s 21 now and her love for theme parks was born that trip.
And don’t think if you’ve been to one Disney park you’ve been to them all. Nope. Not true. Even though Disneyland Park and Magic Kingdom have some of the “same” attractions – they are NOT the same!
In my honest opinion, Pirates of the Caribbean and it’s a small world are better at Disneyland. Add in the special overlays – Haunted Mansion Holiday and Hyperspace Mountain – Disneyland Park is a must-do!
Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri
Take a step back to a simpler time without missing a beat at Silver Dollar City. Watch Master Craftsman show off their skills at glass blowing, pottery and so much more. Dine on specialty items such as the outdoor skillets.
But don’t think Silver Dollar City is lacking in thrill rides or entertaining attractions! They are home to the world’s fastest, steepest, tallest spinning roller coaster – The Time Traveler. I have heard it is absolutely incredible, but I couldn’t bring myself to try it. It is on my must-do list on my next visit!
READ MORE: Find out why I say Silver Dollar City is THE theme park to visit during the holidays! 23 Must-Dos at Silver Dollar City’s An Old Time Christmas
Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida
Home to Harry Potter, Transformers and Dr. Suess, Universal Studios is filled with lands built around storybooks and movies.
And while many of the attractions are geared towards older kids Suess Landing is perfect for the younger crowd.
But let’s be honest, Universal’s claim to fame is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. And now with Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, Universal Orlando is topping the list of theme park destinations!
Have you visited any of these top theme parks in the USA? I’d love to hear which ones you have visited. Which one has been your favorite?
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