Planning a vacation for kids in the USA? Theme parks are the perfect place for a day full of fun and adventure. Indulge in delicious food, take a relaxing river ride or experience thrilling rides at some of the best water theme parks in the USA. These parks are within easy driving distance and offer world-class accommodations.
Here are the 15 best theme parks in America.
1. Hersheypark, Pennsylvania
Hersheypark is a must-see for chocolate lovers. The theme park has a ton of roller coasters, family rides, and water rides, including the new Wildcat Revenge coaster coming in 2023. Your Hersheypark ticket also includes admission to Zoo America, where you can see over 200 animals.
2. Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando)
Opened in 1955, Walt Disney World is the largest theme park in the United States. The 160-acre amusement park features eight theme parks with shows, rides and costumed characters. There’s no shortage of things to do at Disney World. With over 81 attractions, including Alice in Wonderland, Big Thunder Ranch, Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Treehouse, Golden Zephyr and Minnie’s House, your kids will be sure to be bored in a fairy-tale world. There are over 60 shops to buy gifts for your loved ones.
3. Magic Kingdom, Florida
One of the most popular things to do in Orlando, Florida is to visit the Magic Kingdom. Immerse yourself in mesmerizing fireworks, fun musical parades, and adorable Disney characters at the Magic Kingdom in Florida. It was the first of four theme parks built by the Walt Disney World Resort. Since opening in 1971, it has remained as fascinating as ever and remains one of the best theme parks in the world. The kingdom is divided into six themed areas: Main Street U.S.A., Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty Square, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland.
4. Safariland (Chicago)
Exploring an amusement park is one of the most popular activities in Chicago. Safari Land is a 62,000-square-foot popular amusement park with indoor rides and arcade games. The biggest attractions are Tiger Terror and Tilt-A-Whirl. There is also a go-kart track and a 12-lane bowling alley.
5. Universal Studios, Hollywood
6. Six Flags Magic Mountain (California)
One of the best things to do in Los Angeles is visiting Six Flags. Unique thrill rides like Batman: The Ride Backwards, Bizarro, Skull Mountain, Sky Screamer and Slingshot are sure to have you on the edge of your seat and screaming your heart out. Rides like Air Jumbo, Congo Rapids, Great American Road Race, Parachute Training Centre, Safari Off-Road Adventure, Saw Mill Log Flume and Soaring Eagle are great fun for the whole family. Rides like Splash Water Oasis, Road Runner Railway and Daffy’s Deep Diver are popular with kids.
7. Seabreeze Amusement Park, New York
Summer is the best time to visit New York to enjoy theme parks. Seabreeze is the fourth oldest amusement park in the United States. This amusement park features wave pools, tube slides, body flume, lazy river, kiddie slides, and more. Some of the attractions at this amusement park are Jack Rabbit and Log Flume.
8. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Florida
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay features a 19th century African theme where you can explore breathtaking tropical landscapes, see exotic creatures and take thrilling rides. Take the park’s Serengeti Safari to see African wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras and ostriches, that inhabit the spacious area. You can also take a ride on the Skyride cable car to experience breathtaking panoramic views.
9. Cedar Point, Sandusky
The roller coaster capital of the world, Cedar Point, is located on a peninsula overlooking Lake Erie in Sandusky, Ohio. It’s home to 18 thrilling roller coasters. Open since 1870, this 364-acre park is the second oldest amusement park in the United States. Kids can enjoy the Cedar Point and Lake Erie Railroad and the Sky Rides.
10. Dollywood, Pigeon Forge
Dollywood is owned by music star Dolly Parton. This 150-acre park is located in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains in Pigeon Forge. Popular attractions at Dollywood include the Tennessee Tornado Coaster and Lightning Rod.
11. Universal Studios’ Islands of Adventure (Orlando)
Universal’s Islands of Adventure is divided into seven themed zones. These include Skull Island, Lost Continent, Jurassic Park, Toon Lagoon, Marvel Super Hero Island, Seuss’ Landing, and Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You can experience spectacular roller coasters, 4D attractions, multi-sensory rides, and more. Popular shows include the Frog Choir and the Triwizard Spirit Rally. Two popular events held at Universal’s Islands of Adventure are Halloween Horror Nights and Mardi Gras.
12. Kennywood, Pennsylvania
Kennywood in Pennsylvania has rides that range from gentle to very intense. Kids can enjoy the slower-paced options like the merry-go-rounds and paddle boats. The famous Phantom’s Revenge roller coaster is a must-try for the more adventurous. Kennywood also hosts many events, including parades, food festivals, and fireworks parties. The theme park is usually open daily from June to August and on select days from April to January.
13. Kings Dominion, Virginia
Founded in 1975, this 400-acre theme park in Virginia has over 60 rides. Kings Dominion has over 15 rides. This theme park has some great dining options to dine with your loved ones. Browse the stores that offer great and interesting merchandise.
14. Knott’s Berry Farm, California
Knott’s Berry Farm has four uniquely themed sections: Ghost Town, Fiesta Village, Boardwalk, and Camp Snoopy. There are more than 40 rides, including the Stagecoach Adventure, merry-go-rounds, bumper cars, and the Calico Railroad steam locomotive. The park’s most popular and well-known attraction is Timber Mountain, which stands at an elevation of 2,100 feet.
15. Disney California Adventure Park, Anaheim
A trip to Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim is one of the best things to do in California. You’ll feel like you’ve entered a magical world. Take a tram ride through the Buena Vista district, a shopping area filled with Art Deco buildings. Mickey’s Halloween Celebration and the California Adventure Food and Wine Festival are some of the most popular events.
US Visa Guide
When planning your visit to these amazing theme parks, make sure you have a valid US visa. To apply for a US tourist visa from Dubai, you will need to fill out the DS 160 form, which is the standard form for a non-immigrant visa application. You will need to arrange a visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in Dubai, pay the appropriate visa fee, gather the necessary documents, and attend the interview.
Conclusion
America’s theme parks offer thrills, surprises, and delights like never before, satisfying the secret desires of children, adults, and even seniors.
