Best amusement parks for families offer a blend of exciting rides, engaging activities, and fun-filled experiences custom for kids and parents alike. Whether you’re seeking the adrenaline rush of roller coasters or interactive play zones for toddlers, family-friendly amusement parks have something for everyone. Here’s a quick look at some of the best amusement parks for families:
- Hersheypark
- Sesame Place
- Dutch Wonderland
- Knoebels
- Dorney Park
- Idlewild
- Disney World
- Dollywood
- Universal Studios Orlando
- SeaWorld Orlando
Family vacations don’t have to be complex when it comes to planning the perfect theme park visit. Travel tips like choosing the right time to visit, understanding meal plans, and navigating park layouts will ensure you and your family make the most of your day without the stress.
As Gabrielle Reese, an avid traveler and educator with a passion for family trips, I am here to guide you through the best amusement parks for families. With my experience crisscrossing the United States and various theme parks, I hope to provide you with valuable insights to make your park trip unforgettable.
Best amusement parks for families terms explained:
Table of Contents
Top 10 Best Amusement Parks for Families
When it comes to planning a family vacation, finding the right amusement park can make all the difference. Here are the top 10 best amusement parks for families that promise fun, thrills, and memorable experiences for everyone:
1. Hersheypark
Located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, Hersheypark is a chocolate-themed paradise. With over 70 attractions, including the exciting Hershey’s Chocolatetown, this park is perfect for families who love both sweets and thrills. From mild rides for little ones to wild roller coasters, everyone in the family can find something to enjoy.
2. Sesame Place
Ideal for families with young children, Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, brings beloved Sesame Street characters to life. Kids can enjoy fun rides, water attractions, and live shows. The park’s focus on young children makes it a standout choice for families with toddlers.
3. Dutch Wonderland
In Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Dutch Wonderland is a kingdom for kids. With over 35 rides and attractions, including Duke’s Lagoon water play area, this park is designed for families with children under 10. The whimsical theme and friendly staff ensure a magical experience.
4. Knoebels Amusement Resort
Nestled in the Susquehanna River Valley, Knoebels is a classic amusement park with free admission and parking. Families can enjoy over 60 rides, swimming, and even camping. Knoebels’ old-fashioned charm and affordability make it a beloved destination for many.
5. Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
Located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Dorney Park offers two parks for the price of one. Families can enjoy thrilling roller coasters and splash around in one of the country’s best water parks. With a mix of excitement and relaxation, it’s perfect for a fun-filled family day.
6. Idlewild
As the third-longest operating amusement park in the U.S., Idlewild in the Pennsylvania Laurel Highlands offers a blend of classic rides and unique attractions like Story Book Forest. Its family-friendly atmosphere and scenic location make it a charming choice for a day out.
7. Kennywood
Situated near Pittsburgh, Kennywood is a historic park known for its mix of modern thrills and traditional rides. Families can enjoy everything from roller coasters to kiddie rides, making it a versatile option for all ages.
8. Lakemont Park
Home to the world’s oldest roller coaster, Lakemont Park in Altoona, Pennsylvania, combines history with fun. The park offers a variety of family-friendly rides and attractions, perfect for a leisurely day of amusement.
9. Waldameer
Located in Erie, Pennsylvania, Waldameer combines an amusement park with a water park. Families can enjoy classic rides, a wave pool, and water slides, offering a refreshing break from the summer heat.
10. DelGrosso’s Park
Known for its delicious food and family-friendly rides, DelGrosso’s Park in Tipton, Pennsylvania, provides a delightful day of fun. The Laguna Splash water park adds to the excitement, making it a must-visit for families looking to cool off and enjoy great amusement park food.
These parks offer a fantastic range of activities and attractions custom to families, ensuring that every member, from the youngest to the oldest, has a memorable experience. Whether you’re looking for thrilling rides or gentle attractions, these best amusement parks for families have it all.
Best Amusement Parks for Families in the U.S.
When it comes to family-friendly amusement parks in the U.S., there are several standout destinations that offer a mix of thrilling rides, engaging shows, and unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. Here’s a look at some of the top choices:
Six Flags Magic Mountain
Located in Los Angeles, Six Flags Magic Mountain is a roller coaster enthusiast’s dream, boasting more coasters than any other park in the world. With 20 roller coasters ranging from classic wooden tracks to adrenaline-pumping hypercoasters, there’s something for thrill-seekers of all ages. But don’t worry, families with younger kids will find plenty of gentle rides and attractions too, making it a versatile option for everyone.
Disneyland
Disneyland in Anaheim, California, is often referred to as the “happiest place on earth.” With two parks, Disneyland Park and Disney California Trip Park, it offers a magical experience for families. Kids and adults alike can explore iconic attractions like “it’s a small world,” Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Incredicoaster. The close proximity of the parks makes it easy to steer, allowing families to maximize their time enjoying the rides and shows.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood combines the excitement of a theme park with the allure of a working movie studio. The World Famous Studio Tour gives families a behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood magic. Popular attractions include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic World. Younger guests will love rides like The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash, while older kids and adults can enjoy thrilling experiences.
SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego offers a unique blend of marine life exhibits and exciting rides. The park’s new coaster, Emperor, is a must-try for thrill-seekers. Families with younger children will enjoy Sesame Street Bay of Play, featuring kid-friendly rides and character meet-and-greets. SeaWorld’s combination of educational exhibits and fun attractions makes it a great choice for families looking to learn and play.
Dollywood
Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is renowned for its Southern charm and family-friendly atmosphere. With over 50 rides, including the record-breaking Lightning Rod coaster, and a variety of shows and festivals, Dollywood offers a diverse experience. The park’s focus on family values and its beautiful mountain setting make it a standout choice for a wholesome family vacation.
Cedar Point
Known as the roller coaster capital of the world, Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, features 17 world-class roller coasters. The park’s scenic location on Lake Erie adds to its appeal, offering over 70 rides and attractions. Families can enjoy everything from thrilling coasters like Steel Vengeance to family-friendly rides and live shows. Cedar Point’s blend of excitement and relaxation ensures a memorable visit for all ages.
Kings Island
Located near Cincinnati, Ohio, Kings Island offers a perfect mix of thrills and family attractions. With over 100 rides, including the world’s longest wooden coaster, The Beast, and the new Giga coaster, Orion, there’s no shortage of excitement. The Planet Snoopy kids’ area, with its themed rides and character meet-and-greets, is a favorite among young visitors. Admission also includes access to Soak City Water Park, making it an ideal summer destination.
These best amusement parks for families provide a wide range of activities and attractions, ensuring that every family member can find something to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding thrills or more relaxed family fun, these parks offer experiences that will create lasting memories.
Best Amusement Parks for Families in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is a treasure trove of family-friendly amusement parks, each offering unique experiences that cater to all ages. Here’s a look at some of the best amusement parks for families in the state.
Hersheypark
Hersheypark, nestled in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a delightful blend of thrills and chocolate-themed fun. Originally created by Milton S. Hershey for his employees, it now boasts more than 70 attractions, including 15 roller coasters. The newest addition, Hershey’s Chocolatetown, offers a sweet trip for all. Families can enjoy a mix of exhilarating rides and kid-friendly attractions, making it a versatile choice for a family day out.
Sesame Place
Located in Langhorne, Sesame Place is a must-visit for families with young children. This park is themed around the beloved characters of Sesame Street, offering a unique experience where kids can meet their favorite characters. With plenty of rides and water attractions designed for younger visitors, it’s an ideal spot for kids to explore and have fun in a safe environment.
Dutch Wonderland
Dutch Wonderland, situated in Lancaster, is perfect for families with young children. Featuring over 35 rides, including Duke’s Lagoon water play area and Exploration Island with animatronic dinosaurs, it’s a place where imagination comes to life. The park’s medieval theme adds a magical touch, making it a favored destination for families with little ones.
Knoebels Amusement Resort
Knoebels, located in Elysburg, is America’s largest free-admission amusement park. It offers a charming, old-fashioned amusement experience with over 60 rides. Families can enjoy classic wooden coasters and a variety of attractions, from swimming to camping. Knoebels is known for its welcoming atmosphere and affordability, making it a beloved choice for many families.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
Dorney Park in Allentown provides double the fun with its combination of amusement park and water park. Featuring over 100 rides, including eight roller coasters, it’s a haven for thrill-seekers. The large collection of kid-friendly rides in Planet Snoopy ensures that even the youngest family members have a memorable visit. A day here promises a mix of adrenaline and relaxation.
Idlewild
Idlewild, located in the Laurel Highlands, is the third-longest operating amusement park in the United States. It offers a mix of classic rides, live entertainment, and unique attractions like Story Book Forest and Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. The park’s charming setting and family-focused attractions make it a perfect spot for a relaxing and fun-filled family outing.
These parks highlight the diversity of family-friendly attractions in Pennsylvania, ensuring that every family member can find something to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking thrilling coasters or more gentle rides, these parks offer experiences that create lasting memories.
Best Amusement Parks for Families in California
California is home to some of the best amusement parks for families in the U.S., offering a wide range of attractions for all ages. Here’s a look at some of the top family-friendly parks in the state.
Disneyland Resort
Located in Anaheim, Disneyland Resort is the ultimate destination for family fun. Comprising two parks—Disneyland Park and Disney California Trip Park—it offers a magical experience for visitors of all ages. Disneyland Park is where you’ll find the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle and classic attractions like “it’s a small world” and Pirates of the Caribbean. Meanwhile, Disney California Trip Park features thrilling rides like the Incredicoaster and immersive lands such as Pixar Pier and Avengers Campus. With its enchanting atmosphere and diverse attractions, Disneyland is a must-visit for families.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood combines the excitement of a working movie studio with an amusement park. The highlight is the World Famous Studio Tour, where families can explore real film sets. The park’s themed areas, like Jurassic World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, offer thrilling rides and immersive experiences. Family-friendly attractions like The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash provide fun for younger visitors. Universal Studios also offers dining, shopping, and entertainment at CityWalk, making it a comprehensive destination for family outings.
LEGOLAND California
Situated in Carlsbad, LEGOLAND California is perfect for families with children aged 2-12. The park is filled with LEGO-themed rides, interactive exhibits, and 4-D shows. Kids can drive their own LEGO car or enjoy water fun in Pirate Shores. LEGOLAND’s MINILAND USA features miniature versions of famous U.S. landmarks, providing an educational twist to the fun. The SEA LIFE Aquarium, with its hands-on exhibits and marine life encounters, adds another layer of trip for families.
SeaWorld San Diego
On the beautiful Mission Bay, SeaWorld San Diego offers a mix of marine life encounters and thrilling rides. Families can experience up-close interactions with dolphins, orcas, and other sea creatures. The park’s rides, like the new Emperor coaster and the multi-launch Electric Eel, provide adrenaline-pumping fun for older kids and adults. Sesame Street Bay of Play is ideal for young children, offering meet-and-greets with beloved characters and kid-friendly attractions.
Six Flags Magic Mountain
For families who love roller coasters, Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia is the place to be. With more than 20 coasters, it boasts the highest number in any amusement park worldwide. From classic wooden coasters to modern thrill rides, there’s something for everyone. The park also features family-friendly rides like the Magic Flyer and Speedy Gonzales Hot Rod Racers. Right next door, Hurricane Harbor offers a refreshing break with its water slides and lazy river.
California’s amusement parks provide a diverse array of attractions, ensuring that every family member can find something to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking magical experiences, movie-themed trips, or thrilling coasters, these parks offer unforgettable family memories.
Frequently Asked Questions about Family-Friendly Amusement Parks
What is the best amusement park for families?
When it comes to the best amusement parks for families, Hersheypark and Sesame Place are top contenders. Hersheypark, located in Pennsylvania, offers a delightful mix of rides, entertainment, and chocolate-themed fun. It features over 70 attractions, including 14 roller coasters, making it perfect for thrill-seekers and families alike. The park also has a water park, ZooAmerica, and seasonal events that add to its charm.
Sesame Place, also in Pennsylvania, is the only theme park in the U.S. dedicated to the beloved Sesame Street television show. It’s designed for younger children, with kid-friendly rides, water attractions, and interactive shows featuring characters like Elmo and Big Bird. Its close proximity to Philadelphia makes it an ideal day trip for families with young kids.
Which theme park is best for young children?
For families with young children, Sesame Place and Dutch Wonderland are excellent choices. Dutch Wonderland, located in Lancaster, PA, is specifically geared towards kids under 12. It offers over 35 rides, including gentle roller coasters and water play areas, making it a perfect introduction to amusement parks for little ones.
Sesame Place is custom for preschoolers and toddlers, offering a blend of rides, shows, and character meet-and-greets. The park’s smaller size and focus on young children ensure a stress-free experience for parents and a magical day for the kids.
What are the best amusement parks for families in the U.S.?
The U.S. is home to several outstanding family-friendly amusement parks. Disneyland in California is a classic choice, offering a magical experience with its iconic attractions and beloved characters. Families can explore two parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Trip Park, each filled with rides, shows, and themed lands.
Universal Studios offers a different kind of excitement, blending movie magic with thrilling rides. Both Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando provide immersive experiences in themed areas like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Dollywood, located in Tennessee, combines Southern charm with thrilling attractions and live entertainment. It caters to all ages with its blend of rides, festivals, and scenic beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
These parks provide diverse experiences, ensuring memorable trips for families across the U.S. Whether you’re seeking the enchantment of Disney, the cinematic thrills of Universal, or the unique charm of Dollywood, there’s something for everyone.
Conclusion
When planning a family vacation, choosing the right amusement park can make all the difference. At Versed Traveler, we strive to provide you with comprehensive travel information and tips to ensure your family has the best experience possible.
Family vacations are more than just a getaway; they are an opportunity to create lasting memories. With our detailed guides, you can find the perfect amusement parks custom to your family’s needs, whether you’re seeking thrilling roller coasters or gentle rides for young children.
Our Trip Ideas section offers a wealth of information to help you plan every aspect of your vacation. From the best amusement parks for families to tips on navigating the parks, we’ve got you covered.
As you start on your next family trip, the journey is just as important as the destination. With the right information and a little planning, you can make your family’s amusement park experience both fun and stress-free.