The ultimate guide to top amusement parks in the U.S.: Thrills, rides, and family fun

For those seeking exciting thrills, classic fair food, or a relaxing day on the lazy river, the top amusement parks in the United States have something for everyone in the family. These parks are conveniently located near accessible by car, affordable with early reservations, and offer nearby accommodation options such as family-friendly hotels with pools and campgrounds. Here is a list of some of the best amusement parks in the country to assist you in planning your next family adventure, writes US News.

Kennywood: West Mifflin, Pennsylvania Situated near Pittsburgh, Kennywood boasts a mix of thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and attractions suitable for visitors of all ages. Visitors can enjoy the Phantom’s Revenge roller coaster and numerous seasonal events at the park.

Knoebels Amusement Resort: Elysburg, Pennsylvania Dubbed as ‘America’s Largest Free Admission Amusement Park,’ Knoebels offers a pay-per-ride model, catering to visitors of all ages with a variety of kiddie rides, family rides, and thrilling attractions. On-site accommodation options include campgrounds and cottages.

Hersheypark: Hershey, Pennsylvania Home to Hershey’s Chocolate World, Hersheypark provides a combination of roller coasters, family rides, chocolate-themed attractions, and the ZooAmerica wildlife park.

Fun Spot America: Orlando, Florida A cost-effective option in Orlando, Fun Spot America offers a diverse range of rides and attractions, including go-kart tracks and the new Unicorn Taco Sundae.

Walt Disney World Resort: Orlando, Florida Comprising four unique theme parks, Walt Disney World Resort includes Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, each offering a distinct experience with various attractions and lodging options within the resort.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Tampa, Florida Busch Gardens combines elements of a theme park, zoo, and water park, featuring a wide selection of rides and live shows. The park is home to the new Phoenix Rising coaster and the Serengeti Flyer.

Universal Orlando Resort: Orlando, Florida Universal Orlando consists of three separate parks: Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Theme Park, each providing a unique selection of rides and attractions.

Dollywood: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Dollywood offers a blend of theme park and water park attractions with more than 50 rides. The park’s new Dolly Parton Experience is set to open in May 2024, featuring exhibits about Dolly Parton’s life and career.

Legoland Florida Resort: Winter Haven, Florida Legoland Florida Resort includes a Lego-themed amusement park, water park, and Peppa Pig Theme Park, designed primarily for younger children with its rides and attractions.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas: San Antonio, Texas Renowned for its 16 thrilling rides, Six Flags Fiesta Texas also offers family-friendly attractions and the Hurricane Harbor San Antonio Water Park, with new features coming in 2024.

Cedar Point: Sandusky, Ohio Situated by Lake Erie, Cedar Point features approximately 70 rides, with 18 of them being thrilling roller coasters. A highlight of the park is the upcoming Top Thrill 2 coaster set to open in 2024, promising to be the tallest and fastest triple-launch strata coaster in the world.

Discover the ultimate thrill-seeking destinations across the U.S. with our guide to top amusement parks. From Pennsylvania’s Kennywood with its mix of adrenaline-pumping coasters and family-friendly attractions, to Florida’s Fun Spot America offering affordable fun in Orlando, and iconic experiences at Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the chocolate paradise of Hersheypark, diving into adventure at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, or enjoying Dollywood’s blend of rides and country charm, each park promises unforgettable experiences for all ages.