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Immerse yourself in unforgettable adventures at the world’s top theme parks when you visit Orlando. Whether it’s the magic of  Walt Disney World ® Resort , endless excitement at  Universal Orlando Resort , an aquatic wonderland at  SeaWorld ® Orlando , or building family fun at  LEGOLAND ® Florida Resort , Orlando has theme parks that are perfect for you.

Our theme parks continually have  new projects  on the horizon, too, so even the most frequent visitors will always find fresh ways to create lasting memories, year after year, in Orlando: Theme Park Capital of the World.

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No destination on Earth has more — or more iconic — theme parks than Orlando. At Walt Disney World Resort alone, you’ll find Magic Kingdom ® Park , EPCOT ® , Disney’s Hollywood Studios ® and Disney’s Animal Kingdom ® Theme Park , plus Disney’s Blizzard Beach ® and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon ® water parks. With so many imaginative options to choose from, as well as dining, shopping and fun at Disney Springs ® , and more than two dozen official hotel properties and other accommodations , you’ll never run out of unforgettable, memory-making adventures at Walt Disney World .

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Head to Universal Orlando Resort to explore both lands of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ™ at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure , each of which has plenty of other unique experiences in store. Then, dive into carefree island life with wild thrills and complete relaxation at Universal Volcano Bay water theme park. You can also opt for dinner, entertainment, shopping and more at Universal CityWalk , located at the nexus of Universal Orlando’s parks, or an amazing stay at one of Universal Orlando’s official hotel properties and other nearby accommodations . And get ready for Universal’s newest theme park, Universal Epic Universe, which is coming in 2025 with even more thrilling experiences.

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For up-close animal encounters and pulse-pounding rides, SeaWorld Orlando’s main theme park has you covered. You can also take advantage of sandy beaches and thrilling rides at Aquatica ® Orlando , or enjoy serene relaxation, awe-inspiring animal encounters and all-inclusive food and drinks at Discovery Cove ® ( reservations required ). SeaWorld is also an official partner of several nearby hotels , which provide guests with special park benefits.

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Last but not least, children and their families can have a blast with kids-focused rides and plenty of building opportunities at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, which includes LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park and an onsite water park that’s available as an upgrade to regular park admission. LEGOLAND Florida Resort is also home to the world’s first Peppa Pig Theme Park , designed especially for little ones. It all makes LEGOLAND Florida the perfect place to build a day of fantastic family fun.

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100 Best Theme Parks in the World

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Looking to experience an injection of excitement and buzz? Discover our selection of the best theme parks in the world.

There’s no form of escapism quite like a theme park. Whether you’re discovering magical characters or enjoying the thrills of an exciting ride, theme parks offer a great day out for adults and children alike.

1 – Walt Disney World Resort

There’s a reason why they call Orlando Florida’s Disney resort a “world”. The mega-resort Walt Disney World features four marvelous parks to lose yourself in the wonderful world of Disney.

Magic Kingdom

They say fantasy becomes a reality at the Magic Kingdom, and who are we to argue? Mix it with Mickey Mouse and friends and then jump on thrilling rides, iconic like Space Mountain.

Epcot is split into two sections: Future World, which features space-themed rides, and World Showcase, a place to discover the globe.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Feel the force at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with a range of Star Wars-based attractions, as well as other characters that include some of Disney’s most well known.

Animal Kingdom

Head to Animal Kingdom and encounter wild animals, fun jungle trails, high-speed rides and don’t miss a visit to Pandora – The World of Avatar!

2 – Europa Park

The largest theme park in Germany, Europa Park is located in Rust. Attractions include Pirates in Batavia, which is an electrifying underground boat ride experience.

3 – Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Resort has two parks in Anaheim, USA and is full of fun-filled Disney delights from Mickey, Mini and the crew.

Disneyland Park

Disneyland Park is the original home of Disney-themed lands. And it’s your chance to experience famous attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean, the Haunted Mansion, and Star Wars Galaxy Edge.

Disney California Adventure Park

Go on an adventure with live shows from the characters of Frozen and meet a range of Disney characters.  Disney California Adventure Park has something for all ages, including the Avenger Camp — which is coming soon.

4 – Disneyland Paris

On the outskirts of Paris is where you will find the European version of Disneyland , one of the best theme parks in the world. There are two parks to explore: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.

Magical attractions and entertainment are on offer at Disneyland Park, including Sleeping Beauty Castle and Mickey’s Philharmagic. Experience a taste of Disney, euro style.

Walt Disney Studios Park

The magic of Disney really comes alive at Walt Disney Studios Park, where you can immerse yourself in the worlds of Disney and Pixar. From a 4D rat race to Ratatouille: The Adventure, there’s plenty of fun to be had.

5 – Universal Orlando Resort

One of the world’s most famous theme parks, the three parks at  Universal Orlando Resort sees more than 10 million visitors per year.

Universal Studios Florida

Prepare to be amazed at adrenaline-filled attractions based on all your favourite TV shows and movies. Feel the highs and lows on Harry Potter, Transformers and The Simpsons-themed rides.

Islands of Adventure

Islands of Adventure does just what it says on the tin: offer heart-racing rides. Go up high, dip down low and get soaked on thrilling rides like Jurassic Park River Adventure

Volcano Bay

Get ready to make a splash at Volcano Bay, where water meets lava. You’re guaranteed a great day of fun, whether you feel the thrills at Krakatau Aqua Coaster or take it easy at Waturi Beach.

6 – Carowinds

If you’re looking for world-class rollercoasters and exciting attractions, get yourself and the family down to Carowinds . Located on the state line between North and South Carolina, the park offers an exciting entertainment destination for guests of all ages.

7 – Hersheypark

Located in Pennsylvania, USA, Hersheypark is more than 100 years old and was originally built for employees of the Hershey chocolate company. The award-winning park has more than 70 rides and attractions to immerse yourself in.

8 – Cedar Point

Opened in the late 1800s, Cedar Point is one of the older US theme parks. Located in Ohio, it spans 364 acres and is known as the roller coaster capital of the world.

9 – Universal Studios Japan

There’s world-class entertainment on offer at Universal Studios Japan , where you can enjoy great rides like Flight of the Hippogriff. The Osaka-based theme park also features Spider-Man and Jurassic Park-themed attractions.

10 – Efteling

In Kaatsheuvel, you’ll find Efteling , Holland’s largest theme park which is also known as The World of Wonders. Attractions include adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters and spectacular park shows.

11 – Hong Kong Disneyland

If you’re on holiday in Hong Kong and looking for one of the best theme parks in the world, visit Disneyland Hong Kong . There are a bunch of exciting rides to experience, including the Jungle River Cruise and Tarzan’s Treehouse.

12 –  SeaWorld Orlando

Embrace the aquatic life at SeaWorld Orlando with loads of exciting attractions. From rollercoasters to infinity falls, you’ll be sure to make a splash at SeaWorld Orlando.

13 – Tokyo Disney Resort

Tokyo Disney Resort brings the magic of Disney to Japan with two parks to explore. Make memories at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea.

Tokyo Disneyland

Embrace the world of Disney, no matter your age, and enjoy magical shows and exhilarating rides at Tokyo Disneyland . Well-known attractions include Monsters Inc. Ride and Go Seek and Star Tours.

Tokyo DisneySea

Are you ready for the sea life at Tokyo DisneySea ? Make friends with Nemo on the SeaRider and go on a magical experience with 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.

14 – Six Flags Magic Mountain

Originally named Magic Mountain, Six Flags Magic Mountain is a world-famous Californian theme park. There are themed areas to discover, including a DC Universe, which offers rides and attractions based on the likes of Batman and Superman.

15 – Ocean Park

Seek out thrills at Ocean Park and Ride the Arctic Blast or experience the Wild Twister and much more at one of Hong Kong’s favorite theme parks.

16 – Dollywood Parks & Resorts

You don’t need extreme sports to feel the rush at Dollywood Parks & Resorts . The amusement park features two award-winning parks where you can experience a host of exciting rides that will push your limits.

Enjoy festivals, events and attractions at the Theme Park. Rides include DropLine, which sees you plummet more than 20 stories. Are you brave enough for the drop?

If the thrills and chills of the Theme Park aren’t enough, head to the Water Park and make a splash. Slide through the waters with rides such as Fire Tower Falls, a free-fall ride that propels people down slides while reaching heights of 70 feet.

17 – Alton Towers

Arguably the UK’s favorite theme parks, Alton Towers is the home of world-famous rides such as Oblivion, Nemesis and Galatea. You’ll need nerves of steel to ride them, mind.

18 – Puy du Fou

Puy du Fou is a historical theme park in Western France and was voted one of the best theme parks in the world. Go back to the medieval ages and immerse yourself in French history with a range of exciting shows like The Phantom Birds Dance.

19 – Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore brings a raft of movie and TV characters to life with exciting shows and thrilling rides. Highlights include Transformers The Ride: The Ultimate 3D Battle.

20 – Tivoli Gardens

Old meets new at Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, an amusement park that first opened in 1843. It sits right in the center of the city and has a range of rides, games, musicals, gardens and major concerts. With its grand status, it’s no wonder Tivoli Gardens is considered one of the best theme parks in the world.

21 – Six Flags Great Adventure

Enjoy more Six Flags , this time in New Jersey, and go on a great adventure. Popular attractions include Batman: The Ride, Cyborg Cyber Spin and Skull Mountain.

22 – Shanghai Disneyland Park

Disney has some of the best theme parks in the world, no matter their location. Shanghai Disneyland Park adds to the excellent options with great rides like Roaring Rapids and Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue.

23 – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay is home to Busch Gardens , a 335-acre African-themed animal park. Enjoy thrilling rides, discover more than 200 species of animals that are typically found in national parks , and watch spectacular shows.

24 – PortAventura

Enjoy sun, sea, and adrenaline in Spain with a trip to PortAventura . There are 43 rides to experience in total, including a catapult that flings you at 135km in just three seconds.

25 – Six Flags México

Six Flags Mexico brings all the fun with plenty of attractions. Enjoy a DC Superhero Themed area, as well as villages based on different countries and cultures.

26 – Gardaland

Gardaland is located in northeastern Italy and includes Gardaland Park, Gardaland Sea-Life, and Legoland Water Park. It’s owned by the Merlin Group and was first opened in 1975.

Gardaland Park

Feel the force on adrenaline-pumping rides like the Raptor and the Blue Tornado. Or jump on Oblivion and face the black hole.

Gardaland Sea-Life

Discover the aquarium at Sea-Life with its 13 themed areas which display 5,000 examples of 100 different species. Embark on a water-led interactive journey at one of the best theme parks in the world.

Legoland Water Park

Build your way to fun at Legoland Water Park, where you can slide and splash about until your heart’s contempt. Dive into Lego bricks and enjoy interactive water games.

27 – Lotte World

You will find the world’s largest indoor theme parks at Lotte World in Seoul, South Korea. There’s also an outdoor amusement park called Magic Island and an artificial island to explore.

28 – Six Flags Over Georgia

Six Flags Over Georgia will take you a bending and winding ride across 293 acres of theme park. Feel the highs and lows of roller coasters with thrill rides like the Great American Scream Machine

29 – Ferrari World

Put the pedal to the metal at Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi. Find out what it’s like to be a Scuderia Ferrari driver with thrilling rides and roller coasters. Get ready for the G-Force!

30 – Kings Island

Head to Ohio, USA and discover the fun at Kings Island . This 364-acre amusement park has been going strong since the seventies and features Banshee, a 4,124-foot long coaster.  

31 – Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari

A combination theme and water park, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari is located in Indiana, USA. Rides include The Voyage, which will have you screaming to the max.

32 – Ferrari Land

Get ready and accelerate to another Ferrari Land , this time in Tarragona, Spain. There’s an interactive gallery with all things Ferrari, but what you really came for is the heart-racing attractions like Free Fall Tower.

33 – Warner Bros. Movie World

Situated on the Goldcoast of Australia, Warner Bros. Movie World is a theme park centered around your favorite movie characters. Rides include the Batwing Spaceshot, which sees you shoot 60 meters sky high.

34 – Nagashima Spa Land

Nagashima Spa Land is located in Japan and features thrilling rides, roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and a water park. Steel Dragon 2000 is the main attraction — it’s the longest roller coaster in the world.

35 – Paultons Park

If you’re looking for a family-themed day out, head to Paultons Park in the UK. There are 70 rides to try, including Peppa Pig World, which is based on the popular children’s cartoon.

36 – Chimelong Ocean Kingdom

Situated in Zhuhai, China, Chimelong Ocean Kingdom is a popular theme park that features a range of rides. Go on the Parrot Coaster and see if you can handle the third tallest roller coaster in the world.

37 – Blackpool Pleasure Beach

One of the most visited tourist attractions in the United Kingdom, Blackpool Pleasure Beach has been a staple of Blackpool since the late 1900s. Experience the thrills on the Big One, which was once the largest roller coaster in the world.

38 – Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is a 138-acre animal theme park in California. It’s famous for rides like The Joker, which is based on the notorious Batman villain.

39 – Astérix Park

Based on the popular comic book series Asterix and voted as one of the best theme parks in the world, Asterix Park offers plenty of thrills and chills. Rides are themed on the legendary characters like Obelix and hit speeds of up to 90km per hour. Clearly

40 – Phantasialand

Brühl in Germany is the home to Phantasialand , a theme park with 13 exciting rides. Try the Black Mamba roller coaster and reach heights of 85 feet.

41 – Sunway Lagoon

Sunway Lagoon is a popular amusement park in Selangor, Malaysia. There’s a theme park, water park, wildlife park, scream park and a Nickelodeon park for the little ones.

42 – Knott’s Berry Farm

Sometimes the smaller parks end up being some of the best theme parks in the world. That’s certainly true of Knott’s Berry Farm in California, which has around 40 fun rides to discover.

43 – Universal Studios Hollywood

Head to La-La Land for Universal Studios Hollywood , a movie-themed amusement park with thrilling rides. Top attractions include Fast & Furious Supercharged and Harry Potter and The Forbidden Journey.

44 – Heide Park Resort

The largest amusement park in Northern Germany, Heide Park Resort features plenty of exciting rides. Get wet on Krake, experience the G-force on Flight of Demons and feel your stomach churn on the Gyro Drop Tower.

45 – Prater

You will find Prater located in Leopoldstadt, the second district of Vienna in Austria. It first opened to the public back in 1766 and features roller coasters like Megablitz and Super 8 Bhan.

46 – Legoland Windsor Resort

The UK’s version of Legoland feels like it has an element of royalty, so close is it to Windsor Castle. A trip here is a fun family day out with rides and an impressive miniature recreation of some of the world’s most famous landmarks.

47 – Thorpe Park Resort

One of the closest theme parks to London, Thorpe Park has a range of thrilling rides that will leave you breathless. Stealth goes from 0 to 128km in just 1.9 seconds.

48 – Gröna Lund

Gröna Lund , otherwise known as Gronan, is a theme park in Stockholm. Its city center location means it’s smaller than your average theme park, but there are still fun rides to enjoy, like the Insane roller coaster.

49 – Futuroscope

Futuroscope is a French theme park based upon multimedia, cinematographic and audio-visual techniques. Enjoy 3D and 4D shows, along with regular attractions.

50 – Beto Carrero World

Beto Carrero World is located in Penha, Brazil, and is considered to be one of the signature amusement parks in the state of Santa Catarina. Rides and attractions include 4D experiences and an animal world.

51 – Leolandia

You will find Leolandia in the province of Bergamo, Italy. It has a range of fun roller coasters, water rides, animals and miniature models of Italian landmarks.

52 – Movie Park Germany

Explore seven areas based on movies and tv shows at Movie Park . Located 50km north of Dusseldorf, attractions and rides are themed on Star Trek, Avatar, and Looney Tunes, to name a few.

53 – Ramoji Film City

Ramoji Film City is more about experiencing a theme-world of movies than it is thrilling rides. It’s certified as the largest studio complex in the world by The Guinness Book of Records and is spread across 1,666 acres.

54 – Djurs Sommerland

Djurs Sommerland is an amusement park located in Djursland, Denmark. There are seven roller coasters to try, with the fastest one reaching speeds of 90km per hour.

55 – Parque Warner Madrid

Located on the outskirts of Madrid, Parque Warner Madrid brings the world of Warner Bros. to Spain. Many rides are named after superheroes and villains like Superman, Batman and Lex Luthor.

56 – Legoland Deutschland Resort

Legoland Deutschland Resort in Germany has plenty of great Lego moments to offer. There are worlds to explore and rides to enjoy as you let your imagination run wild.

57 – Walibi Holland

Walibi Holland is situated in Biddinghuizen and offers plenty of rides and attractions. Jump on one of the roller coasters and feel the rush with speeds of almost 90km per hour.

58 – IMG Worlds of Adventure

In Dubai, you’ll find IMG Worlds of Adventure . The indoor amusement park was the first mega themed destination in Dubai and today features five zones of attractions, as well as live shows.

59 – Fårup Sommerland

Another popular Denmark theme park, Fårup Sommerland is one of Europe’s largest tourist attractions. You won’t be short of things to do with more than 60 rides to experience.

60 – Siam Park

Siam Park is located in the suburbs of Tenerife and is one of the most popular theme parks in Europe. There are plenty of rides where you can make a splash, including The Dragon, Tower of Power and Vulcano.

61 – Walibi Belgium

Formerly a Six Flags park, Walibi Belgium is located close to Brussels and features attractions for all ages. Thrill-seekers will love Buzzsaw, while those looking for something slightly more relaxed can enjoy a spot of go-karting.

62 – Nigloland

Set in the French county of l’Aube, Nigloland is one of the most visited theme parks in France after Disneyland Paris. There are six thrill rides and four water rides to enjoy.

63 – Canada’s Wonderland

Canada’s Wonderland is around 25km from Toronto and was the first major theme park in Canada. Rides can be as relaxing as the antique carousel or as thrilling as Dragon Fyre, which climbs 78 feet.

64 – Energylandia

The largest amusement park in Poland, Energylandia features several exciting areas to discover. Take the kids to Fairytale Land, feel the thrills at Extreme Zone, and get soaked at Water Park.

65 – Chessington World of Adventures Resort

Chessington World of Adventures Resort is a great day out for the entire family. Go on safari and sample 40 rides and attractions at the nearest theme park to London.

66 – Plopsaland De Panne

Plopsaland De Panne is located near the Belgian coast and offers a range of fun things to do, from seeing animals to going on rides. The Anubis ride reaches 90km in just two seconds.

67 – Chimelong Paradise

Chimelong Paradise , located in Guangzhou,  is the largest amusement park in China and features 10 Inversion Roller Coaster, only one of two roller coasters in the world with 10 inversions.

68 – VGP Universal Kingdom

What started as a park offering small rides evolved into a full-on amusement park. VGP Universal Kingdom is located in Chennai and has water rides, thrilling attractions and snow games.

69 – Isla Mágica

Set in Seville, Isla Mágica is a popular theme park with rides and water attractions. There’s also cinematic and live shows to enjoy at the park.

70 – Sundown Adventureland

Visit Sundown Adventureland in Nottinghamshire for a family-fun day out. The children’s theme park is full of rides and activities for the little ones, including the popular Rocky Mountain Railroad.

71 – Hansa-Park

A seasonal amusement park in Sierksdorf off the Baltic Sea, Hansa-Park spans 113 acres and features 125 attractions. Roller coasters include The Oath of Karnan, which reaches speeds of 127km per hour.

72 – Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

Discover the World of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London . A must-visit for Harry Potter fans, there are different events and attractions to enjoy throughout the year.

73 – Legoland Malaysia

Visit Legoland Malaysia and embrace the wonderful world of Lego. Legoland Malaysia is the country’s first international theme world and features fun attractions like Lego Kingdom.

74 – Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Six Flags Fiesta Texas is one of San Antonio’s most popular attractions and features several pulsating rides. Do you have the nerve to ride Iron Rattler, which has a staggering 171-foot drop.

75 – Fuji-Q Highland

Fuji-Q Highland is located in Japan and is a theme park located near Mount Fuji. It opened in 1968 and has several famous roller coasters, such as 259-foot tall Fujiyama.

76 – La Ronde

An amusement park in Montreal, Quebec, La Ronde was initially built for the 1967 World Fair. Now operated by Six Flags, it’s the second-largest theme park in Canada and has plenty of rides and attractions, including Chaos, a seven-story loop roller coaster.

77 – Gold Reef City

South Africa’s Gold Reef City is located in Johannesburg and is home to some of the country’s biggest and fastest attractions. Each ride is given a fear factor rating, with Anaconda coming in the highest at 9/10.

78 – Aquaventure Waterpark

Slide through shark-filled lagoons and make a huge splash at Aquaventure Waterpark in Dubai. It’s home to more than 30 rides and attractions, including The Leap of Faith, which sees you plunge from nine storeys high. Aquaventure Waterpark is included in the 100 most fun things to do in Dubai !

79 – Wonderla Bangalore

Wonderla Bangalore in Bengaluru, India really does have it all. Enjoy thrilling rides on the roller coasters, reach the highs on a Ferris wheel, get soaked with water rides, and experience virtual reality.

80 – Legoland Billund Resort

Embrace your love of Lego at Legoland Billund Resort in Denmark. The original lego park, Legoland Billund Resort is also located next to the first-ever factory which produced the iconic toys.

81 – Leofoo Village Theme Park

The Leofoo Village is a theme park and safari located in Taiwan. There are three roller coasters to experience, including Screaming Condor, and inverted shuttle coaster.

82 – Enchanted Kingdom

Experience a magical time at the Enchanted Kingdom in the Philippines. There are shows to enjoy, a 7D motion interactive theatre and heart-stopping roller coasters.

83 – Legoland Japan Resort

Indulge in the world of lego at the Legoland Japan Resort , the first-ever Legoland theme park in Japan. More than two million people pass through its doors to enjoy Lego Factory, Miniland, Knight’s Kingdom and much more.

84 – Fantawild Adventure Wuhu

In the Anhui Province of China is where you’ll find Fantawild Adventure Wuhu , the country’s largest theme park. It’s more than 3,000 acres and contains 15 zones of fun, excitement and thrills.

85 – Bakken

The Danish certainly know how to do theme parks and can lay claim to having the world’s first. Bakken opened in 1583, which makes it the oldest amusement park in the world.

86 – Imagicaa

Imagicaa is a theme park located in Khopoli, India and spans more than 130 acres. There are three parts to the park — a theme area, water park and snow park — and indoor and outdoor rides to enjoy.

87 – Seoul Land

Enjoy more than 40 rides at Seoul Land , which is located in Seoul, South Korea’s capital. Attractions include World Plaza, Adventure Land, Fantasy Land, Tomorrow Land, and Samchulli Hill, which translates to “thousand-mile hill”.

88 – Dreamworld

You’ll find a place of dreams at Dreamworld on the Australian Gold Coast. The theme park and zoo is Australia’s biggest amusement park with more than 40 rides and attractions to enjoy.

89 – Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Busch Gardens is themed around various European countries and is well known for its roller coasters, such as Griffon, Loch, Alpengeist, and Ness Monster. The park is located in Virginia, USA.

90 – Sea World

Discover a mammal park, oceanarium, and theme park at Sea World in Australia’s Gold Coast. There are thrilling rides to experiences, as well as animal exhibits and fun family attractions.

91 – Six Flags Great America

Six Flags Great America is Chicago’s quintessential theme park. It features 17 roller coasters, 9 themed areas, and a 20-acre water park called Hurricane Harbour. Are you ready for the thrills and chills on land and water?

92 – Liseberg

Liseberg is the most-visited amusement park in Sweden and first opened in 1923. There’s a range of thrill rides at the Gotberg-based park, including Aero Spin, AtmosFear and Helix. Families can enjoy lighter attractions, such as the Juke Box.

93 – Everland

Located in Yongin, South Korea, Everland is the country’s largest theme park. Visit the themed areas, such as Zootopia, Magic Land and European Adventure, which has a Mystery Mansion where you can shoot at ghosts.

94 – Silver Dollar City

Silver Dollar City is an 1800s-themed park that’s located off Missouri Route 76. There are seven exciting roller coasters, including Fire in the Hole, the primary park attraction.

95 – SeaWorld San Diego

An animal theme park, oceanarium, outside aquarium and marine mammal park, SeaWorld San Diego is the place to go for water lovers. Roller coasters include Electric Eel, which stands at 150 feet tall.

96 – Kings Dominion

There are more than 60 rides to experience at Kings Dominion , a theme park located in Doswell, Virginia, USA. Visitors can also enjoy shows and attractions, such as live music and dance performances.

97 – Happy Valley Beijing

Happy Valley Beijing was designed with distinctive landscapes in mind, with rides focusing on different themes. There are more than 40 rides altogether, 10 of which are extreme thrill rides. There’s also an IMAX theatre withs seven screens, and a shopping complex.

That’s our pick for the 100 best theme parks in the world. From thills to family days’ out, there’s something for everyone in our selections.

98 – EsselWorld

EsselWorld is India’s largest theme park and features several thrill rides, as well as fun things to do for all the family. Get wet on water-themed rides like Shot-N-Drop and feel the G-Force with Zyclone.

99 – Six Flags New England

The oldest amusement park in the Six Flags Chain, Six Flags New England is still one of the best theme parks in the world. One of the most exciting thrill rides includes Catwoman Whip, which is based on the Catwoman character.

100 – Tibidabo Amusement Park

Located in the Collserola Ridge in Barcelona, Tibidabo Amusement Park is more than 100 years old. It’s Spain’s oldest amusement park and features 1928 Avió airplane ride, a single-car carousel that gives the impression of flight above the city.

We hope you enjoyed our selection of the best theme parks in the world. Is your top choice on the list? Tell us about your favorite theme park in the comments below. 🙂

18 hottest new theme park attractions for 2021

Summer is on its way and, for many, that means theme park vacations with the family — especially for anyone looking to make up for amusement park trips that didn't come to fruition in 2020.

Much has been postponed and delayed by the pandemic, but 2021 is likely to see more openings than 2020 ushered in — even if many opening dates still remain vague.

Florida's theme parks, for example, rebounded this spring to levels that often pushed capacity limits.

In California, strict COVID-19 restrictions kept Disneyland Resort in Anaheim closed for a whopping (and no doubt walloping) 13 months. Under California's new health and safety guidelines, however, Disneyland is now set to reopen this week on April 30.

Universal Studios Hollywood reopened on April 16, and Knott's Berry Farm will open its doors to season passholders on May 6 and to the general public on May 21.

Legoland California reopened on April 15 and, after missing its slated 2020 opening, Legoland New York is set to have its grand reveal in 2021, although there's still no news on the official date for that.

While some openings are still in limbo, there are a few new roller coasters and rides that have already opened in 2021 — or are coming soon — to put on your radar for theme park fun this summer and fall.

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Walt Disney World Resort

Remy's ratatouille adventure.

Originally slated to open in 2020, Walt Disney World finally announced Oct. 1, 2021, as the official opening date for this favorite trackless ride from Disneyland Paris that's debuting in Orlando.

Timed to launch with Walt Disney World Resort's 50th anniversary , Chef Remy's attraction shrinks you to his size (there's no height requirement, so this is a great family ride) for a rollicking adventure through Gusteau's Parisian restaurant from the Pixar hit "Ratatouille." It all unfolds within the France Pavilion at Epcot, which is being expanded to accommodate the new ride.

La Crêperie de Paris

If you've been wondering if you can get a good crêpe around here, the answer will be oui in Orlando, at least, when La Crêperie de Paris opens Oct. 1 with both table and quick service inside the expanded France Pavilion. Fans of the quintessential French snack who've missed Europe during the pandemic will appreciate the presence of buckwheat galettes and French hard ciders (the typical accouterment to crêpes, when in France) on the menu.

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

Two-night immersive adventures aboard the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser — essentially a Star Wars-themed hotel — are still said to be coming soon to Hollywood Studios in 2021, with no specific date announced for opening day. Stays at this new hotel, which surely won't come cheap, will include a trip to the bridge of the Halcyon and lightsaber training.

Drawn to Life by Cirque de Soleil

The debut date for this new Cirque du Soleil spectacular at Disney Springs that's being called "a love letter to the art of Disney animation" remains unknown, but is still rumored to be coming in 2021. Cirque du Soleil saw massive layoffs in 2020 in Orlando, so we're keeping our fingers crossed for a strong comeback to the stage.

Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park

After being closed for most of 2020 due to the pandemic, Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park reopened on March 7 to welcome spring break-goers to landlocked Orlando in true liquid fun fashion. Highlights include Cross Country Creek which, at 3,000 feet long, is one of the longest lazy rivers in the country.

Dates still haven't been confirmed for 2021 when it comes to when, or if, this new Epcot restaurant nestled between Mission: Space and Test Track might open. However, we're looking forward to peeping views of the Earth's curvature and the International Space Station while dining on "modern American cuisine," whatever that might entail. Disney has so far announced that the drinks selection will include "1,000 bottles of the world's finest wines and a wide selection of craft beer," which does sound otherworldly.

Disneyland Resort

Avengers campus.

Just having Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park finally set to reopen April 30 after a crushingly long stretch of pandemic closure is in and of itself is one of the biggest pieces of park news to report. So, it's extra exciting for West Coast theme park lovers that Disney California Adventure Park is opening a brand-new superhero-themed land, the Avengers Campus , on June 4.

Web Slingers: A Spider-Man Adventure is the ride everyone is talking about — an interactive screen ride open to all heights and ages, with good family fun all but guaranteed.

Note that park reservations at Disneyland are a new requirement in 2021. Here are a few more ways Disneyland will be different when it reopens .

Universal Orlando

Jurassic world velocicoaster.

Universal is calling this new roller coaster, opening June 10 at the Islands of Adventure theme park, the "apex predator" of roller coasters. And if hurtling along at 70 miles per hour with velociraptors as your wingmen sounds like you're brand of fun, you won't want to miss what will take the lead as Florida's fastest and tallest launch coaster.

Surrounded by detailed rock work and lush landscaping that begets dinosaurs, Jurassic World VelociCoaster promises to make stomachs lurch when it propels riders 155 feet up into the air and then dives into an immediate 80-degree drop — the coaster's signature "top hat" move that has people who yearn for these kinds of thrills counting the days till early June.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Secret life of pets: off the leash.

A crew of 64 animal robot figurines is your supporting cast in this heartwarming new family ride at Universal Studios Hollywood that debuted when the park reopened on April 16.

Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash takes riders on an old-school theme park journey as pets inspired by the movie franchise cavort all around you, luring you into their world of fancy New York City apartments and back-alley antics. At one point, motion-tracking technology even turns the rider, ever so briefly, into a pup for more silliness and smiles all around.

SeaWorld Orlando

Ice breaker.

There's still no update from SeaWorld for when, exactly, in 2021 this new Arctic-themed coaster will open near to the park's Wild Arctic attraction and blast us all with its presence.

Set to be SeaWorld Orlando's first launch-style coaster, Ice Breaker will have both backward and forward launches and flip riders' stomachs with a reverse launch into what's being called the "steepest beyond vertical drop" in Florida, from 93 feet high and a white-knuckle 100-degree angle.

Altitude Burgers

With open-air dining next to Wild Arctic and Glacier Bar, this new build-your-own burger bar (with a chicken sandwich and limited pizza options, too) opened in March as a replacement for Mango Joe's.

SeaWorld San Diego

Hold on to your hats (and sunglasses). Delayed from its originally planned opening for 2020 because of you-know-what, SeaWorld San Diego's all-new dive coaster, Emperor, is still bookmarked for a 2021 opening, according to the park website. With top speeds of 60 miles per hour and a top drop of 150 feet, Emperor's superlative will be the "tallest and fastest floorless dive coaster in the state" (try saying that five times in rapid procession) when it finally debuts.

Fun fact: SeaWorld San Diego is the only place in North America to see the emperor penguin.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens Tampa has no shortage of extreme roller coasters yet continues to one-up itself on a regular basis. Originally scheduled to open in 2020 -- and with no specific date announced beyond a vague "2021," much to the annoyance of fans of the park on Twitter -- the next one-upper coaster contender will be Iron Gwazi.

With three inversions, top speeds of 76 miles per hour and a maximum height of more than 200 feet, it's set to be the fastest and steepest hybrid coaster in the world. The ultimate bragging right on this ride will be a 91-degree drop from 206 feet.

Legoland Florida

Brickbeard's watersports stunt show.

New in February, Legoland Florida's newest stunt show on Lake Eloise, at the heart of the park, features a brand-new female Lego pirate character and an all-new flyboard act designed to thrill. You can count on seeing classic on-water stunts in the show, too, including ski pyramids, barefoot skiing, jump acts and daredevil wakeboarding.

Here's everything you need to know about staying at Pirate Island Hotel at Legoland Florida .

Legoland New York

There's still no opening date on the books for New York's first Legoland outpost , but the largest Legoland to date is confirmed as opening this summer in Goshen in New York's Hudson Valley. The park was originally slated to open last summer but was delayed due to the pandemic.

Also opening in 2021, presumably with the park, Legoland Hotel will offer guests daily complimentary breakfast, kids entertainment, a heated pool and — what parent won't love this? — a separate kids' sleeping area in all 250 of its rooms.

Knott's Berry Farm

Knott's Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair

When Knott's Berry Farm finally reopens on May 6, it will come with the debut of this brand-new interactive 4D dark ride. Riders climb aboard vehicles equipped with jelly blasters (to recover stolen pies, of course) for an adventure through reimagined show scenes from the park's original dark ride. Wily pie-stealing coyotes abound as you try to win the blue ribbon for boysenberry pies at the country fair.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Dare devil dive flying machines.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas' newest ride debuted in March in the form of a steampunk-themed thriller called Dare Devil Dive Flying Machines. Set within the themed Crackaxle Canyon area of the park, the four-seat ride plays out like an aerial dogfight with banks, loops and dives that thrill.

Six Flags Great Adventure

Jersey devil.

What's a new roller coaster without a superlative to its name? When it launches this summer (exact date still unannounced) at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey, the park's Jersey Devil coaster will break three records at once as the tallest, fastest and longest single-rail roller coaster in the world. Among the hit list of thrills riders will experience on the coaster's 13-story-high track: a zero-gravity roll and 180-degree stall.

Bottom line

This summer theme parks will be abuzz with activity as more Americans are vaccinated and willing to travel to more crowded locations. Families that may have gone camping at a national park , booked a vacation rental home or taken a road trip last summer may now be planning their theme park return.

Just remember that things will look and feel a bit different with ongoing COVID-19 safety protocols — including physical distancing and mask-wearing — in place. But if your family is ready to try some new coasters and attractions, this summer promises tons of fun and thrills.

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I've Visited All the Theme Parks in Florida — and These Are the Best Ones

These are the best theme parks in Florida, from Disney to Universal and beyond.

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

Florida is known for its white-sand beaches, year-round sunny weather, and a collection of some of the world's best theme parks. Here, you can enter the enchanting world of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando or shrink down to the size of a toy at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s also the place where coasters take you to new heights at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and everything is awesome for mini thrill-seekers at Legoland Florida.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit all the parks in the state; here are 10 of the best theme parks in Florida so you can start planning your next trip.

Magic Kingdom

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

This park set the standard for the Florida theme park industry we know today when it opened in 1971. Today, Magic Kingdom Park bridges the old with the new, inviting guests to relive the tales of childhood and enjoy beloved attractions, like Pirates of the Caribbean. It’s also the home of Disney World's newest ride, TRON Lightcycle/ Run , a thrilling roller coaster.

Magic Kingdom is the park I often find myself returning to again and again, with its picture-perfect Cinderella Castle and the old-timey feel of Main Street, U.S.A. There’s a distinct charm here that hasn’t been replicated, and that feeling of nostalgia is especially palpable in classic attractions like It’s a Small World and Haunted Mansion.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

EPCOT is a unique park that started as a passionate vision from Walt Disney; its name stands for the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. While it didn’t exactly pan out as he expected it to, it stands alone as one of the very best theme parks in the world , marrying entertainment with education in a world's fair-inspired experience. World Showcase features 11 different countries presenting their cultures through shopping, dining, and attractions. The other half of Epcot sparks imagination and inspiration, with a focus on advances in technology that explore space, time, and the future depicted in one-of-a-kind attractions, like Spaceship Earth and Living With the Land.

It’s my favorite park to dine at, thanks to its year-round restaurants — the very best at Disney World — and acclaimed food festivals. It also shines from season to season, with enchanting holiday décor in the winter and stunning topiaries come spring, offering something new to see visit after visit. Disney movie fans will also find some of the best film-inspired attractions, including high-spirited Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind , one of the longest indoor roller coasters in the world.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios takes the yesteryear glam of Tinseltown and combines it with the biggest films of the modern age, inviting park goers to step into the worlds of these beloved franchises. Without a doubt, its showstopper is the immersive Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge , a pioneering feat of Walt Disney Imagineering. Here, all five senses take an intergalactic journey with otherworldly bites and trailblazing experiences, like the astonishing Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance . And park newcomer, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, is pure family fun.

My very favorite rides at Disney World are here, including The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, known for its unique ride system, and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. I also enjoy the vibrant Toy Story Land, adorably themed with stellar character interactions and great rides, including all-ages roller coaster Slinky Dog Dash. Its unique dining options have become a family mainstay, like the delightfully quirky Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater, which invites diners into a dimly lit indoor movie theater as they munch on American eats from within retro cars.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney World’s most beautiful park is inspired by the company’s devotion to animal conservation; they even tapped legend Jane Goodall to consult on the project’s conception. The park explores vast cultures of the globe, from Africa to Asia, within scenic lands. Its pinnacle, Pandora — The World of Avatar, will impress Avatar film superfans and casual viewers alike. Here, you can find one of Disney World’s best rides , the exhilarating 3D flying simulator attraction, Avatar Flight of Passage.

A visit here isn’t complete without experiencing Kilimanjaro Safaris, which guides riders on a tour of a wildlife reserve with hundreds of majestic creatures. Tapping into its global inspiration, food here is some of the most eclectic and ambitious I’ve found at Disney World.

Universal Studios Florida

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

Inspired by the greatest moments from entertainment history, Universal Studios Florida is a movie and television-themed park that began as an actual working studio. Several lands pay homage to iconic backlot sets, including San Francisco and New York, and it’s since evolved to include a colorful Minion Land, Simpsons -themed Springfield U.S.A., and an upcoming DreamWorks Land. This is also where muggles can find The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Diagon Alley, one of the most impressive theme park feats of all time.

The Wizarding World here is a real treat, from its Butterbeer ice cream to Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts, a 3D indoor roller coaster that captivates with thrills and fun. Potter aside, the park carries a very retro feel maintaining much of the charismatic nature it debuted with in the 1990s. And I hope it never gets rid of the classics, like the E.T. Adventure dark ride and Men in Black Alien Attack. This park is all about the little nuances to me, like roaming characters impersonating Hollywood greats and kitschy entertainment as depicted in Universal’s Horror Make-up Show.

Related: The Complete Guide to Universal Orlando Resort — Including Everything to Know About the Theme Parks, Hotels, and More

Universal Islands of Adventure

A short ride on the Hogwarts Express (or walk to the gate) will take you to Universal Orlando's second theme park, Universal Islands of Adventure. Here, Universal takes its nod to movie magic and adds a serious dose of thrills, most notably in the form of its two best roller coasters, the impeccably themed Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and the heart-pounding Jurassic World VelociCoaster. You’ll also find a Harry Potter- themed land that transports guests to the snow-capped streets of Hogsmeade and even inside the iconic Hogwarts Castle.

There’s a transportive nature to this park that I just love as I wander from one highly themed land to the next, including the whimsical Seuss Landing. It’s a true day-to-night park that’s easy to navigate, home to incredible rides, and packed with lots of gems, including some of the best restaurants at Universal Orlando . 

Legoland Florida

Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images

Themed to the brightly hued bricks, Legoland Florida is the place for the next generation of thrill seekers, home to entry-level roller coasters and kid-friendly attractions. The park's newest attractions include Pirate River Quest, a scenic boat ride through the former Cypress Garden, and Lego Ferrari Build & Race, a hands-on experience like no other. And park goers ages five and under can visit the first-ever Peppa Pig Theme Park, centered around the beloved British cartoon character.

While the attractions may focus on younger guests, this is really a park for everyone. I could spend hours exploring Miniland and its large-scale Lego structures portraying iconic cities around the globe. The park’s signature apple fries are worth a visit alone. And with several on-site resorts, a water park, and two theme parks, it’s become a bona fide destination.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Nik Wheeler/Corbis via Getty Images

Home to over 50 attractions, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an animal-focused theme park with an emphasis on pushing boundaries. Here, you’ll find the tallest and fastest inverted roller coaster in the world, Montu, as well as the area’s largest zoo, with over 200 animal species. One of its newest coasters is the adrenaline-pumping Iron Gwazi which ascends 206 feet in the air and reaches speeds of up to 76 miles per hour.  

While Disney festivals get all the attention, this park's award-winning Food & Wine Festival is reason alone to visit and wows me with globally inspired bites and live entertainment.

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon

Courtesy of Disney World

Find quintessential Disney storytelling at Typhoon Lagoon, one of Disney World’s two water parks. There’s a rich backstory as you visit a former tropical paradise that’s been wrecked by a typhoon. It’s a delightful mix of approachable thrills and family fun, as evident with Miss Adventure Falls, an immersive whitewater family attraction. And you’ll feel a world away from Magic Kingdom as you float Castaway Creek, an over 2,000-foot-long lazy river.

There’s an effortless, relaxed vibe at Typhoon Lagoon, and although the slides are great, the highlight for me is North America’s largest wave pool set against a towering mountain. Snacks abound, including delicious Caribbean-inspired bites and even the famous Dole Whip.

Related: Disney Water Park Guide: What to Know About Typhoon Lagoon vs. Blizzard Beach

Universal’s Volcano Bay

Universal Creative took its excellence in theme park design and applied it to the world of water parks for the first-of-its-kind Volcano Bay. The park is 25 acres of pure South Pacific-inspired paradise centered around a 200-foot human-made volcano. Plus, Universal flexes its culinary skills with inventive foods so good you’ll forget you’re at a water park.

Admittedly, I’ve never been a water park person, but this one truly blows the others out of the water. If I’m feeling daring, I’ll ascend the daunting steps to the top of the volcano for the thrilling Ko’Okiri Body Plunge. I also love the fast-moving Fearless River which requires guests of all ages and sizes to wear a lifejacket because it’s that intense. But there’s also plenty to do for the non-sliders, like lounge on white-sand beaches or hit up one of the many beach bars reminiscent of a tropical resort.

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Find Theme Parks and Amusement Parks by U.S. State

Whether you'll be on vacation and want to include roller coasters and other park fun on your trip, or you are just seeking nearby parks for a day trip, this is your one-stop resource for locating theme parks and amusement parks throughout the United States. From the major destination parks in Florida and California to small, family-operated parks in more remote locations, you'll find them all here.

Before we get to the theme park listings, here are some other resources that you might find helpful:

• 2015 Ride Guide: Find Out What's New at the Parks
• Guide to Disney World
• Guide to Disneyland Resort
• Find Six Flags Parks
• 15 Best Theme Park Attractions
• Looking for water parks? Go to the Guide to Water Parks in the U.S.

OK, on to the state-by-state theme park listings. Click on a state (arranged alphabetically below), and you'll be taken to a listing of all the parks in that state. Click on a theme park, and you'll be taken to a profile of that park. Have fun. See you on the midway.

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UPDATE May 11 - In the new video construction update posted to YouTube by Jack Silkstone we get to see that the new entrance sign is now installed with work currently taking place on putting the name and wings in place to complete it.

The speakers have been programmed on the lift hill which is now being tested as the trains dispatch and then start their ascent up the 236ft UK's tallest roller coaster.

The most exciting part of this update comes at timestamp 6:00 when we get to see the first human riders on the back of Hyperia. This shows we have now entered the human testing phase where employees of MACK Rides are now beginning their testing.

At timestamp 7:30 we see the new queue line shop which is being constructed. Landscaping continues around the site. The fence posts have all been installed to the queue line and are now waiting for the gold panels to be added.

The site cabins have been removed and we expect to see the plaza being added in preparation for the official opening of Hyperia on Friday 24th May.  

May 9 - Thorpe Park has recently released the new television advert for Hyperia which will take the crown as the UK's tallest and fastest roller coaster when it opens on Friday 24th May.

Thorpe Park has just released the brand new television advert for Hyperia, the UK's tallest and fastest roller coaster. See it for yourself...

May 8 - After months of construction, we are now in the month of May meaning we are only a few weeks away from the official opening of Hyperia at Thorpe Park on Friday 24th May.

In the new Hyperia construction video posted to YouTube by Jack Silkstone we get to see all the latest updates. Firstly, Hyperia will have a huge entry portal which can be seen at timestamp 0:51. The gold fencing for the queue line is currently being installed.

As testing is continuing during the day on both trains now, the work onsite including on the splash down and the installing of the speakers to the lift hill is all happening in the evening and at night when testing has finished.

At timestamp 6:15 we get to hear that the ride camera for Hyperia is going to be at the bottom of the dip just before you go up into the outerbank element.

April 27 - As we head closer and closer towards the official opening of Hyperia at Thorpe Park on Friday 24th May it is interesting to see the latest progress being made on site.

In the latest update posted to YouTube by Jack Silkstone we get an update on all the latest developments. On the first test run of Hyperia back on 16th April, the train ascended the lift hill at 0.5m per second. We hear that the train is expected to run at 5m per second up the lift hill on a normal daily basis.

There will be four queue lines for Hyperia including disabled access, Fast Track, Single riders and then the normal queue line. They will merge at the foot of the stairs into two lines where it is thought that there will be two lines heading up the steps with single riders on one side and then normal/fast track on the other. Those guests unable to use the stairs will be directed to the left at the bottom of the stairs to access the lift.

Lighting and audio are being added on the exterior and interior of the station building. At time stamp 7:20 we get to see the progres being made on the splash down effect at the end of the ride which is currently being worked on with the pumps now being installed.

Work is being done on the Hyperia gift shop which will include on-ride photos and a whole host of Hyperia merchandise. At time stamp 9:50 we get to see close up footage of the second Hyperia train which arrived recently to Thorpe Park. It is currently still covered in plastic but it is expected to be uncovered checked and filled with water dummies very soon in order for testing to begin. We will then see Hyperia testing two trains on the roller coaster to get prepared for the opening day on Friday 24th May.

April 23 - With all UK theme park fans eyes watching Hyperia at Thorpe Park as it continues to test ahead of its official opening on Friday 24th May, there has been some interesting news revealed by the park this week.

According to a YouTube short posted by Digital Dan , Hyperia will have a total of 14.8 seconds of airtime, when guests will be lifted out of their seats, which is a huge amount of time considering the total ride itself is only going to be approximately 50 seconds long.

April 19 - There is more exciting news from Thorpe Park this week as the second train for Hyperia has now arrived on site and is located in the maintenance building.

In a new video posted to YouTube by UK Theme Parks we get to see further testing being done on the first Hyperia train which arrived onsite earlier this week and we see footage of the second train arriving and being put in the maintenance building.

With only just over a month now remaining, Thorpe Park have quite a long way to go to ensure necessary landscaping is finished onsite as well as the completion of the retail location before the official opening day which is Friday 24th May. 

April 18 - Unsurprisingly, YouTube is now full of first test run videos forHyperia, the UK's new tallest and fastest roller coaster which is set to officially open at Thorpe Park on Friday 24th May.

In a new video posted to YouTube by Theme Park Worldwide we get to see footage of the second day of Hyperia testing from a range of angles, giving us a really clear look at this new highly anticipated rollercoaster.

We are getting extremely excited for the opening day and would love to know what you are most looking forward to about Hyperia. Let us know your thoughts by leaving us a comment below or on our Facebook page.

April 17 - It was the sight UK theme park fans had been waiting a long time for. Yesterday (April 16), Hyperia at Thorpe Park made its first complete test.

In the video posted to YouTube by Jack Silkstone who has followed the construction of Hyperia in its entirety from the beginning we can see the train crest the top of the 236ft lift hill and complete its first test run.

When Hyperia opens at Thorpe Park on Friday May 24th it will take the crown from The Big One at Blackpool Pleasure Beach as the UK's tallest roller coaster. It will also clinch the record from neighbour roller coaster, Stealth at Thorpe Park as the fastest roller coaster in UK.

For anyone who wants to get the complete feeling of being at the park when Hyperia did its first complete test run, Theme Park Worldwide did a live stream and this is embedded below. As can be seen in the video, it was a very slow first ascent up the lift hill.

We are very excited to see further testing over the coming weeks and landscaping and preparations being completed ahead of Hyperia's official opening on Friday 24th May.

April 16 - There has been further excitement in the last few days as Hyperia's train has been moved from the Maintenance building to the station.

This has been captured in a new video posted to YouTube by Jack Silkstone which is embedded below. At timestamp 4:34, we get to see and hear that preparations for testing are fully underway including extensive safety parameters including the further installation of ride fencing which currently have temporary signage which will be replaced before opening with permanent signage.

Now that the Hyperia train is on the track, the engineers can complete preparations for ride testing which is expected to begin imminently. As can be seen in the video, the water dummies have already been positioned on the train ready for testing. These water dummies will allow MACK rides and Thorpe Park to simulate bodies to ensure all testing is completed and everything is ready for Hyperia's grand opening on Friday May 24th.  

April 13 - The Hyperia trains have now been revealed at Thorpe Park. In the new video posted to YouTube by Jack Silkstone we get to see the complete journey of the Hyperia trains from their arrival at Thorpe Park to the grand reveal in the maintenance building on the Hyperia site.

So, it was Tuesday March 26th that the trains arrived at the engineering workshop located behind the Swarm.

At timestamp 2:07 we see the trains being unloaded from the lorry at the park all covered in white protective cellophane.

On April 10th the train begun to arrive on the Hyperia site in the maintenance building. The grand reveal video was released by Thorpe Park yesterday (April 12th) and shows the 5 cars of the first Hyperia train. Each car holds four riders giving a total of 20 riders per train.

At timestamp 11:30 we get to see the Hyperia train very close up as Silkstone films underneath the trains showing the wheel configurations, magnets and anti-roll back.

The Hyperia cars have the traditional clam-shell MACK Rides restraints with a lap bar rather than over shoulder harness giving riders a feeling of freedom when they ride. These are the same as ICON at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

The wings are on the front car along with the Thorpe Park name. The orange and black colours are striking contrasted with the white bars on the sides of the restraints.

Let us know your thoughts regarding the reveal of the new Hyperia trains by leaving us a comment below or on our Facebook page. 

April 9 - At the end of March, Thorpe Park announced the official opening date for Hyperia which is fast approaching on Friday May 24. 

In a new video posted to YouTube by Jack Silkstone we see that preparations have begun for ride testing. The ground work for the ride area fencing is now taking place. The fence posts are going into place for the queue line and the queue area as you enter the station has been caged as a safety feature. Netting is also being added as the queue line is directly under the roller coaster.  A new sign has been added to the station building which reads "Welcome Fearless".

We eagerly await news of the first test run on Hyperia which is expected very soon and look forward to bringing you footage of this exciting milestone.

April 4 - In the new video construction update posted to YouTube by Jack Silkstone we get to see the chain for the chain lift being installed. The queue line and exit path is being marked out and infrastructure is being added to the Hyperia gift shop.

We are expecting to see the queue line being put into place in the coming weeks as well as further landscaping. We all eagerly await the arrival of the train and for testing to begin. We will continue to keep you updated.

March 27 - Thorpe Park has just announced that Hyperia will officially open on Friday 24th May just in time for the half term holiday in the UK. 

This is extremely exciting news and we can't wait to take a ride on the UK's new tallest and fastest roller coaster. Thorpe Park released the following video this afternoon.

March 7 - It is now official, Hyperia at Thorpe Park has been topped off meaning that all the track is installed and complete.

In a new video posted to YouTube by Theme Park Worldwide, we get to see footage of the moment when the last piece of Hyperia track, the crest of the hill, was lifted into place.

After months of construction, Hyperia is complete! We now await news of the arrival of the ride vehicles and for testing to begin. With the track now complete, the speculation of an end of April opening may seem more plausible, however there is still extensive testing to be done as well as a lot of work to finish on the station, landscaping and the plaza before we can expect news of an opening date. We will be sure to keep you posted as further developments are announced.

Co-founder of the site alongside her amazing Husband Nick who had the vision and inspiration to create Theme Park Tourist from scratch. Natalie has always been amazed by theme parks and thinks nothing beats walking around a Disney Park soaking up the sights, sounds and magical atmosphere hand in hand with the ones she loves.

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16 Top California Theme Parks

From magical lands to thrilling roller coasters, explore an array of options for your amusement.

Courtesy of Castle Park

Castle Park offers mini golf, an arcade, 27 rides and more for all to enjoy.

The Golden State prides itself on dynamic coastal cities, rugged mountain and desert landscapes, and stunning beaches sweeping across the shoreline of Southern California. For its geographical diversity and plenty of other reasons, travelers flock to the state for vacations of all kinds, from relaxing resort getaways to excursions through California's natural landmarks and state parks.

Visitors seeking a variety of family-friendly fun are in luck, as California is also known for its plethora of theme parks. Families can select from options associated with the Disney brand, beach town boardwalk parks, and amusement venues that combine the thrill of roller coasters and theme rides with a water park.

If you're currently in planning mode for your next family vacation, these top California theme parks should be on your radar.

Six Flags Magic Mountain: Valencia

Courtesy of Six Flags Magic Mountain

About 35 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles , Six Flags Magic Mountain is a family-friendly amusement park with rides and attractions geared to visitors from every age group. The park currently features 19 roller coasters, with a 20th – Wonder Woman Flight of Courage – slated to open in summer 2022 as the world's longest and tallest single-rail coaster. Other attractions at one of the top theme parks in the U.S. include an array of smaller rides for kids and families, as well as myriad on-site dining and nightly entertainment. The park offers both single-day admission and passes that work all summer long.

For longer visits, consider a stay at the Best Western Valencia Inn or the Courtyard by Marriott Valencia nearby.

Address: 26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia, CA 91355

Sesame Place San Diego: Chula Vista

Sesame Place San Diego just opened to guests for the first time in early 2022, yet the park is already popular with families who love meeting their favorite Sesame Street characters like Elmo. Spread across 17 acres less than 20 miles from San Diego , Sesame Place San Diego is the only theme park on the West Coast based entirely on the popular show, with its East Coast counterpart situated near Philadelphia. Visitors to the San Diego location will find 18 Sesame Street-themed rides and slides, including a kid-friendly roller coaster, a 500,000-gallon wave pool and a musical play area with interactive features. This theme park is the first in the San Diego area to open as a Certified Autism Center; its focus on accessibility makes it a great amusement option for families seeking certain accommodations.

If you're planning a visit to Sesame Place and looking for where to stay, an array of San Diego-area hotels are nearby. Family-friendly options include the Hampton Inn & Suites Imperial Beach San Diego and the Holiday Inn Express San Diego South - National City, an IHG hotel.

Address: 2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista, CA 91911

Read: The Top Things to Do in San Diego With Kids

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom: Vallejo

Families will find an endless number of kid-approved things to do and see at this combined amusement and wildlife park in Vallejo, about 30 miles from San Francisco . Six Flags Discovery Kingdom boasts a variety of animal attractions, thrill rides and live entertainment. Children who love wildlife can get to know dolphins at a show, watch tigers swim or stroll through an underwater tunnel to study the sharks, while thrill-seekers can hop on the park's Batman ride, Dare Devil Chaos Coaster or The Joker – a "maniacal" new coaster.

With so many animals to see, rides to enjoy and food to sample, you may consider a multi-day park visit to experience all Six Flags Discovery Kingdom has to offer. Nearby hotels and resorts include the Courtyard by Marriott Vallejo Napa Valley and the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and Spa Napa Valley - American Canyon.

Address: 1001 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo, CA 94589

San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Escondido

Courtesy of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is the perfect place to take animal lovers who want to see creatures like giraffes and elephants up close. This park, located a little more than 30 miles northeast of San Diego and its counterpart zoo, lets you book an array of safaris that focus on different species and work well for different age groups; transportation options range from truck to zip line to balloon. The Roar & Snore Safari for all ages even includes a sleepover experience in the park and lets you get up close and personal with animals going about their nighttime activities. Younger guests to the park will also enjoy riding the carousel, petting goats and exploring the play areas. To stop by the San Diego Zoo after traversing its sister Safari Park, purchase a two-visit pass.

If you prefer to visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park by day and stay elsewhere at night, consider booking one of many hotels nearby, including the Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla or the San Diego Mission Bay Resort .

Address: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, California 92027

Read: The Top Zoos in the U.S.

Sonoma TrainTown Railroad: Sonoma

The founder of Sonoma TrainTown Railroad once described this one-of-a-kind attraction as a "10-acre elaborate table top railroad, which is outdoors and rideable," summing up what has been drawing railway enthusiasts and families to this park for more than half a century. In addition to 20-minute trips on a quarter-scale train to visit a tiny town and petting zoo, this dynamic theme park in Sonoma boasts railroad-themed rides such as the Iron Horse Carousel and High Iron Ferris wheel.

Upscale accommodation options only half a mile away include MacArthur Place and The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa . Staying in this Northern California city will give you time to check out its world-class wineries after you finish traveling the tracks of TrainTown.

Address: 20264 Broadway, Sonoma, CA 95476

See more of Sonoma: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos

Legoland California: Carlsbad

If you're hoping to find a Lego-themed park with endless opportunities for fun and state-of-the-art amenities, Legoland California is worth checking out. This park in Carlsbad, about 30 miles north of San Diego, immerses kids in the Lego universe with roller coasters, factory tours, themed rides and building experiences galore. Children can climb aboard a pirate ship, dig for dinosaur fossils, practice for their Legoland driver's license or construct their own Coast Guard boat out of Legos before racing against other watercraft.

Guests who want the full experience of this amusement park can book a stay at the adjacent Legoland California Resort , which has themed rooms and interactive Lego features throughout, as well as nightly entertainment for kids.

Address: 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008

SeaWorld San Diego: San Diego

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The nearly 200-acre SeaWorld San Diego in the Mission Bay neighborhood of San Diego offers a lot more than educational presentations and interaction with amazing animals like dolphins, beluga whales, harbor seals and orcas; this park also features countless white-knuckle rides and roller coasters to break up the fun. The park's newest coaster, Emperor – named for Emperor penguins and dubbed the world's tallest, fastest and longest dive coaster – dangles and drops passengers 90 degrees without a floor. Brave that 14-story vertical drop or check out other popular rides such as the Electric Eel multi-launch coaster, the Shipwreck Rapids water ride and the kid-friendly Tentacle Twirl.

Guests who want to spend a few days exploring SeaWorld and other attractions in San Diego can book a stay in the nearby Bahia Resort Hotel or perhaps the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina , one of the best family hotels in San Diego.

Address: 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, CA 92109

See more of San Diego: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos

Disneyland Resort: Anaheim

Disneyland Resort in Anaheim hardly needs an introduction. The original Disney resort is always perfect for families who want to greet beloved characters and relish some rides at the happiest place on Earth. The park itself is stuffed with amazing features, from its character dining experiences to attractions like Davy Crockett's Explorer Canoes and the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Fan-favorite thrill rides include Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and the Indiana Jones Adventure, but Disneyland Resort packs in heaps of fun for visitors of all ages.

Of course, no trip to the park would be complete without a stay at the iconic Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa , by far one of the top hotels in the area.

Address: 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, CA 92802

See more of Anaheim-Disneyland: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos

Knott's Berry Farm: Buena Park

Knott's Berry Farm is worth a visit for family-friendly fun in a theme park that began as a roadside berry stand in the 1920s. Now spanning 160 acres, this amusement destination is home to an array of world-class rides as well as Knott's Soak City, a water park that features 23 slides, a wave pool and more. The theme park itself is broken up into four areas for different tastes and ages: the Camp Snoopy park and its kid-friendly attractions; the Old West Ghost Town with coasters galore; the Fiesta Village homage to California's Hispanic heritage; and the Boardwalk area with swing rides, drop rides and other gravity-defying thrills.

If you're planning a visit, you will definitely want to stay at the Knott's Berry Farm Hotel located right next to the park. Room options are big enough for families, and the hotel has a large outdoor pool with a kids' splash zone.

Address: 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, CA 90620

Belmont Park: San Diego

Courtesy of Belmont Park

San Diego's Belmont Park is the typical beach boardwalk theme park teeming with rides and activities for everyone in your crew. Fun attractions for the family include the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, Zero Gravity drop ride, Krazy Kars bumper cars and old-fashioned Tilt-a-Whirl, to name a few. Visitors can also shop the day away at boardwalk boutiques and snack on favorite fair foods such as corn dogs, Dole Whips and grab-and-go tacos.

Hotels near Belmont Park include Paradise Point Resort & Spa and the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina.

Address: 3146 Mission Blvd., San Diego, CA 92109

California's Great America: Santa Clara

For an entertainment opportunity less than 10 miles from San Jose in Santa Clara, California's Great America offers day and season passes with unlimited visits, so it's a good choice for a family vacation or for a visit if you live nearby. Either way, this park situated in Silicon Valley offers more than 60 rides ranging from a carousel to a swing ride to roller coasters, as well as live music performances and the on-site South Bay Shores water park. Popular coasters at the park include Demon and Flight Deck, both of which turn passengers upside down as they glide by at lightning-fast speeds.

You'll find many hotels and resorts to stay at nearby, particularly in Santa Clara. Popular lodging options near the park include the Hyatt Regency Santa Clara and the Hilton Santa Clara .

Address: 4701 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, CA 95054

See more of San Jose: Things to Do | Hotels | Photos

Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park: Gilroy

Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park, about 30 miles south of San Jose, offers something fun for everyone, though this destination is definitely geared toward families with smaller kids in tow. Rides and attractions, all designed with the park's garden theme in mind, include a spinning strawberry ride, a rattlesnake kiddie coaster, a Ferris wheel above the greenhouse and an ornate carousel. This theme park's majestic gardens showcase flowers, plants and scenery that evoke a time gone by; its small water park features a splash garden, boat rides and small waterslides.

While Gilroy is a small town away from the hustle and bustle of California's major cities, there are still plenty of places to stay nearby. Hotels less than 5 miles from Gilroy Gardens include Econo Lodge of Gilroy and the Days Inn by Wyndham Gilroy.

Address: 3050 Hecker Pass Highway, Gilroy, CA 95020

Universal Studios Hollywood: Universal City

Universal Studios Hollywood is easily one of the most popular theme parks in California and one of the top things to do on any trip to Los Angeles, given its location just 10 miles from the city and the sheer number of attractions to explore throughout the park. Guests will enjoy embarking on the Flight of the Hippogriff roller coaster in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter or hiding from realistic dinosaurs on the Jurassic World ride. Visitors can also spot and interact with characters throughout the park, such as the Simpsons, the Minions or Shrek, or engage with a variety of other entertainment options.

Some of the best hotels within a few miles of Universal Studios include The Garland in North Hollywood and the Loews Hollywood Hotel .

Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608

See more of Los Angeles: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Santa Cruz

One of the top things to do in Santa Cruz , this boardwalk and amusement park is perfect for a day trip or a few days of fun. In addition to sampling the roller coasters and rides found at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk , visitors can partake in mini golf, laser tag, arcade games and bowling. Thrill-seekers may be pleasantly surprised by the scare factor of the park's attractions, including the Double Shot drop ride and the Fireball spinning swing ride. Of course, fun fair foods like crepes, pizza and street tacos provide a pleasant aroma throughout the boardwalk for your nose to follow when the time comes for a snack break.

Places to stay less than a mile from this amusement park include the Ocean Pacific Lodge and the Seaway Inn.

Address: 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060

See more of Santa Cruz: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos

Castle Park: Riverside

About 50 miles east of Los Angeles, Riverside's Castle Park offers amusement options to suit every traveler's style, whether you want to ride some rollers coasters, play a round of mini golf on one of four courses, hit up the arcade or explore the water features at the on-site Buccaneer Cove water park. Castle Park boasts 27 rides for visitors to try, including the kid-friendly Merlin’s Revenge coaster, the mild Dragon Flyer ride that takes guests into flight and the 35-foot-high Screamin’ Demon roller coaster. Performances and events such as a magic show are offered year-round, and you can join in the park's dance parties all summer long.

There are lots of places to stay nearby if you want to spend a few days enjoying the rides and family-friendly attractions. To stay within a mile of Castle Park, you could book a room at the Days Inn by Wyndham Riverside Tyler Mall or the Riverside Inn & Suites.

Address: 3500 Polk St., Riverside, CA 92505

Pacific Park: Santa Monica

Located on the pier of Santa Monica , the beachfront Pacific Park is another boardwalk theme park jam-packed with things to do and see. You'll find 12 thrill rides within the park, including an oceanfront roller coaster and the world's first solar-powered Ferris wheel. Inkie’s Scrambler takes riders through a series of twists and turns as they spin more than 11 revolutions per minute. In between rides, families can play midway games, browse seaside shops, and nosh on favorite snacks like pizza, burgers and funnel cakes.

A stay in nearly any Santa Monica hotel or resort will get you close to Pacific Park, but properties situated less than a mile from this destination include the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel and the Viceroy Santa Monica .

Address: 380 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401

See more of Santa Monica: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in California
• The Best California Beaches
• The Top Things to Do in California
• The Top Amusement Parks in the U.S.
• The Top Indoor Amusement Parks in the U.S.
• The Top Indoor Water Park Resorts in the U.S.
• The Top Water Parks in the U.S.
• The Top Disney Luggage

Tags: Travel , California Vacations , Theme Park Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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25 U.S. Tourist Attractions Americans Are Most Captivated by, State-by-State Breakdown

Posted: May 17, 2024 | Last updated: May 17, 2024

No matter where you live in the U.S., there’s a chance you’ve wanted to visit the other 49 states. But is the attraction you want to go to the one residents in other states want to see the most, too? 

You could go to America’s many national parks, amusement parks, or even to the beach. Or you could want to visit unique and important cultural or historical sites outside of your state’s border. One of the best things about the U.S. is how much there is to see and do. 

Anna Spanish ran a study to determine which tourist attraction is the most popular among residents in each state. Spoiler alert: Residents in many states are more captivated by tourist sites in other states. See if the attraction you want to visit the most makes the list. 

Measuring Searches Per State

Anna Spanish compiled their results from data taken from Google searches. They calculated specific keywords and search phrases around traveling to over 100 U.S. tourist attractions to present a total number of searches for each attraction. 

It’s worth noting that Anna Spanish’s results vary from data that counts popularity in different ways. For example, Times Square in New York City was reportedly the most visited tour spot in the U.S. In contrast, Anna Spanish’s rankings lean towards which attractions Americans have an interest in or plan to visit one day, not necessarily if they’ve already been there.

Great Smoky Mountains

Universal Studios Hollywood

Antelope Canyon

Niagara Falls

Alcatraz Island

Connecticut

Myrtle Beach

Las Vegas Strip

Grand Canyon

Glacier National Park

Acadia National Park

Rehoboth Beach

Massachusetts

Silver Dollar City

Statue of Liberty

Mississippi

Mount Washington

New Hampshire

White Sands National Park

Death Valley National Park

Museum of Modern Art

North Carolina

North Dakota

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Universal Orlando Studios

Pennsylvania

Cumberland Fall

Rhode Island

South Carolina

South Dakota

West Virginia

Mount Rushmore

Grand Teton National Park

Most Popular U.S. Attraction

Beaches are some of the most popular attractions in Anna Spanish’s ranking, with Myrtle Beach taking the top spot as the most popular tourist attraction overall. South Carolina’s 60 miles of beach is known as the Grand Strand, which gets its name from the old definition of “strand,” which means land bordering the water. 

Myrtle Beach is also beloved among golf fans. It’s known as the mini golf capital of the world, featuring more courses per square mile than any other area; you can try your hand at over 100 full golf courses when you want a break from the beach. 

National Parks Rank High

National parks appear 16 times in Anna Spanish’s ranking. The approximately 70 million-year-old Grand Canyon in Arizona is the most popular national park attraction, rising to number one in three states. 

The Grand Canyon is the sixth-deepest canyon in the world, trailing the number one Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon in Tibet by 2 miles. The Grand Canyon is still incredible to see, with a depth of 18 miles and a length of 277 miles. 

Americans Love Natural Wonders

Based on Anna Spanish’s study, Niagara Falls is one of the most popular attractions in America, featured as number one in seven states. The waterfalls may not be the biggest in the world, but they’re reportedly the fastest moving . Many Americans are eager to witness the falls in person to fully experience the 3,000 tons of water that pass through every second. 

Niagara Falls is split between New York and Canada. Visitors across the world have noticed a distinct green color of the water, which is attributed to the massive amounts of salt and minerals running through the falls.

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Most and Least Visited States

Data company YouGov compiled the states Americans have visited the most and least. How many of the states on their list have you been to?

Most and Least Visited States by Americans

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Universal Orlando announces annual passholder preview dates for DreamWorks Land

Preview dates happening memorial day weekend.

Haley Coomes , Digital Content Producer

ORLANDO, Fla. – Adventure awaits at a new themed land in Universal Studios inspired by beloved characters from DreamWorks Animation, and Annual Passholders can get early access.

On Tuesday, passholders received an email notice about an “exclusive passholder preview.” On May 21, passholders can make a reservation for themselves and up to eight more passholders to experience the all-new DreamWorks Land.

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Select times will be available May 24 - May 27.

Passholders will need their pass and ID numbers ready when making a reservation. Space is limited and is first come, first serve. Universal said the exclusive preview is a technical rehearsal subject to occasional delay, closure, or cancellation, and some elements of the land may not be available during this time.

DreamWorks Land — which takes over the former Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone area — will allow guests to explore Shrek’s Swamp, enjoy the Trollercoaster, and interact with Po in the Panda Village. Last month, Universal Studios announced that DreamWorks Land will be one of four new additions rolling out this summer, along with the Mega Movie Parade, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular, and Hogwarts Alley.

DreamWorks Land opens to the general public on June 14. Universal Studios isn’t the only park offering special passholder previews. For information on previews for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, click here .

In the Loop: Theme Park Scoops gives you the latest and greatest info from all the Central Florida parks.

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Copyright 2024 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Haley coomes.

Haley is a digital content producer for ClickOrlando.com and first started as a News 6 producer in October 2014. She's a graduate of Indiana University with a Bachelors of Arts degree in journalism. She specializes in theme parks and lifestyle writing.

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The Battle for Central Florida Tourism Dollars Is Ratcheting Up

in SeaWorld , Theme Parks , Universal Orlando , Walt Disney World

The theme park battle in Central Florida is about to reach epic levels, literally. With Universal Orlando about to open Epic Universe, Walt Disney World must devise something to draw guests away from its cross-town rival.

It seems like Universal Orlando is dropping more information about Epic Universe every day , including bringing guests inside SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and adding more Harry Potter attractions.

Related: While Disney Dawdles, Universal Announces Opening Date for Another New  theme park

For its part, the Walt Disney World Resort is adding Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to Magic Kingdom and has promised significant expansions of Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom.

But with all this competition between Central Florida’s big two, the little guy may get squeezed out of the theme park game. However, SeaWorld Orlando CEO Marc Swanson is trying to keep that from happening to his park.

SeaWorld’s CEO Mark Swanson said:

On Epic, I don’t have a crystal ball. I’m not suggesting Epic won’t have an impact or anything like that. I’m sure there’s going to be days where they are going to be very crowded. Generally, we view new things in the market that we expect will bring people to market as good for us and the industry as a whole. We’ve competed here certainly for a long time. I like what we have to offer.

Swanson met with SeaWorld Orlando investors to assure them that his theme park would have no attractions to draw in guests even after Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando had completed their big expansion projects.

Part of SeaWorld’s draw is its price. Tickets to SeaWorld are generally cheaper than those to Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort.

Since the end of the pandemic, SeaWorld Orlando has dramatically expanded its footprint, including adding the steepest rollercoaster in Florida. It is also working on building a new family-friendly penguin-themed coaster.

The theme park is also hosting its Halloween Haunted House event for the fourth year in a row, trying to compete with Disney World and Univeral Orlando’s Halloween events.

Like its rivals, SeaWorld has the Aquatica Water Park and Discovery Cove to keep guests on the property longer. However, unlike its competitors, SeaWorld still does not have a hotel complex on its property, which puts it at a disadvantage.

Swanson told investors that SeaWorld Orlando saw a two percent bump in visitors in the first quarter of this year, which led to a one percent rise in total revenue. But with guest levels flattening at Disney World and Universal Studios, how much longer can this spike last for the smaller Central Florida theme parks?

However, Swanson believes that after 50 years in Central Florida, SeaWorld will continue to bring in visitors, even after Disney World and Universal have completed their significant renovations.

Is SeaWorld a must-visit when you are on vacation in Central Florida? 

Disney Theme Parks: Strong Attendance But Signs of a Reset

Jesse Chase-Lubitz , Skift

May 7th, 2024 at 12:43 PM EDT

Theme park attendance is normalizing after record highs, but Disney eyes cruises as a major growth area with heavy investment planned.

Jesse Chase-Lubitz

Disney’s executives said Tuesday they see strong attendance at the company’s theme parks but that the attendance numbers marked a slowdown from recent highs.

In the last months of last year, the parks set all-time records, and now a reset is underway.

“In terms of attendance, what we’re basically communicating is relative to the post-COVID highs, things are tending to normalize,” said CEO Bob Iger. “We still see in the bookings … as we look ahead … [signs that] indicate healthy growth in the business. So we still certainly feel good about the opportunities.”

CFO Hugh Johnston also pointed to a cooling off: “We are seeing some evidence of a global moderation from peak post-Covid travel,” he said. Separately, Johnston said Disney is “leaning heavily” into cruises.

“The cruise business, frankly, is one that has an enormous number of opportunities for us over time,” Johnston said. “We expect to get excellent returns out of the business.”

Disney investing for growth

On Tuesday the company reported results for the three months ending March 31, the second quarter in the company’s fiscal calendar.

Disney said in February that it would nearly double its expenditure on its experiences business by investing $60 billion in expanding its theme parks and cruise lines over the next decade, with most of that money going towards increasing capacity.

Its experiences business — which includes parks, its cruise line, and its consumer product sales — increased its capital expenditures by 8% to $2.6 billion. The capital went primarily to improve park attractions and expand its cruise ship fleet.

Disney’s theme park growth

The quarter saw strong results in the company’s “experiences” unit, with a 12% increase in segment operating income and a 60 basis point margin expansion.

• Domestic park revenue was up 3% year-over-year while operating income was flat. Walt Disney World Resort drove higher operating income. Higher average ticket prices offset higher operational costs despite cost-saving efforts. The company didn’t specify numbers.
• The company saw lower results at Disneyland Resort. However, executives noted that they recently greenlit the resort’s expansion plans in Anaheim, California.
• The company had improved operating income from Hong Kong Disneyland Resort — supported by increased attendance, average ticket prices, and food, beverage, and merchandise spending. A new exhibit, World of Frozen, has boosted interest since its debut in November 2023.

Disney executives anticipated “robust operating income growth for the Experiences business for the full fiscal year.”

Disney to Nearly Double Parks Spending to $60 Billion Over 10 Years

CEO Bob Iger is investing in Disney’s amusement parks because they’re profitable. But that’s bad news for rival parks owners like Six Flags and Cedar Fair.

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Tags: cruise , cruise lines , disney , disney cruise line , disney parks , earnings , experiences , theme parks , tourism , Travel Experiences , Travel Trends

Photo credit: Walt Disney World. Source: Pixabay stinne24 / Pixabay

Arnolds Park unveils new mural ahead of opening day

ARNOLDS PARK, IA (KTIV) - Arnolds Park Amusement Park will kick off its summer season Saturday. But, before the gates opened, they cut the ribbon on a new mural at the park.

That mural celebrates the park’s rich history, and the talented eighth graders form Okoboji Middle School who made it happen.

Those students are part of the Okoboji Middle School’s ‘No Boundaries’ class, which provides students with a passion-based, real world learning experience, where they learned to collaborate with business professionals, raise funds, and hire an artist.

“We partnered up with Arnolds Park, and then we found a muralist names Lili Lennox,” said 8th grade student Khloe Dormheath. “And, we asked her if she could make a mural out of past and present features of Arnolds Park, and she did it.”

As a result of their work, when visitors take a train ride through Arnolds Park Amusement Park, they’ll now go on a journey through the past, present, and future.

“This really came from the students, so we told them about the history of the trains and how trains really started the tourism up here at Arnolds Park,” said Arnolds Park Amusement Park CEO Jon Pausley. “And they said, ‘how do we represent the past to now?”

“We came up with it fading from past features, to newer features of the lakes area,” said 8th grade student Cooper Boone. “The main rides around here, so like the Queen, we have the old Queen, and the newer Queen. We have the legend in the mural and just older main parts of the lakes.”

“A lot of grandparents ride this with their young grandkids, so it is a great opportunity for them to point out that they remember when the Queen I was here, and I remember when the Nutty Bar stand was here back in the day when it was first started. So just a unique opportunity for them to enjoy it,” said Jon Pausley.

While their mark has been made on the park for years to come, the students will take the lessons they learned along the way with them wherever they go.

“We started in November, and so it took about nine months to get it all done,” said 8th grade student Jon Pausley. “Working as a group is really import and, and collaboration is probably the most important construct to have.”

The mural is now a permanent fixture at Arnolds Park.

To catch a glimpse for yourself, just hop on a train ride, at the amusement park, any time.

Copyright 2024 KTIV. All rights reserved.

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Disneyland | What will Disneyland build first in theme park…

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Disneyland | what will disneyland build first in theme park expansion, the anaheim city council gives final unanimous approval to the disneylandforward proposal..

What will Disneyland build first? An Avatar themed land ? A Marvel E-ticket ride ? The Arendelle Castle from the World of Frozen ?

The answer is likely far less fantastical and much more practical.

The Anaheim City Council gave final unanimous approval to the DisneylandForward proposal on Tuesday, May 7. The newly approved plan goes into effect in early June.

ALSO SEE: First look at Avatar themed land proposed for Disneyland

The DisneylandForward expansion plan updates a 1990s Anaheim city plan to allow for a mix of theme park, hotel, retail, dining and entertainment on the eastern and western edges of the Disneyland resort.

The Immersive Theme Park westside expansion envisions a theme park on the Downtown Disney and Lilo and Stitch parking lots woven amid the Disneyland Hotel and Pixar Place Hotel.

The Disney Entertainment Destination eastside expansion would bring together theme park experiences, hotels, retail, dining and entertainment on the Toy Story parking lot next to the Anaheim Convention Center.

DisneylandForward has dangled 10 themed lands based on Avatar, Tangled, Frozen, Peter Pan, Zootopia, Toy Story, Black Panther, Coco, Tron and Encanto as potential expansion projects in Anaheim.

ALSO SEE: DisneylandForward proposal allows 300-foot-tall thematic icons

Where does Disneyland start? What gets built first?

Disney executives have talked a lot lately about Avatar, Frozen and Wakanda themed lands — but those fantasy lands likely won’t appear at the Disneyland resort for at least a few years.

What Disneyland likely needs to build first is far less sexy.

The DisneylandForward plan includes an already approved 17,000-space parking garage on an employee parking lot along Disney Way. The new Disneyland garage — which would be one of the largest in the world — would be connected to the parks via a pedestrian bridge over Harbor Boulevard.

The DisneylandForward plan also calls for the eastside parking structure to have direct connections from the Santa Ana (I-5) Freeway — a complex project that would require cooperation from Caltrans and other state officials.

The parking garage, pedestrian bridge and freeway connection projects would likely need to begin before or in tandem with any World of Pandora.

Because Avatarland — which seems the likely contender to be the first DisneylandForward theme park project to break ground — is widely anticipated to be built on the Hollywood Land backlot area of Disney California Adventure.

The underused backlot isn’t large enough for a World of Pandora — but there’s plenty of space if Walt Disney Imagineering pushes the boundaries of the land out into the Disneyland bus depot along Harbor Boulevard.

SEE ALSO: First look at Avatar themed land proposed for Disneyland

The bus depot becomes obsolete unused space with the opening of the Eastside parking garage which could receive buses from the Toy Story parking lot and local off-property hotels. Disneyland would likely build a security checkpoint at the new Eastside garage like the one at the Pixar Pals and Mickey and Friends garages.

Disneyland also needs to address traffic issues before bringing millions of new visitors to the resort area to see all the wonders planned for the next four decades.

Disneyland has pledged to invest $85 million for street improvements in the theme park resort area — including widening Katella Avenue near Harbor Boulevard and expanding the sewer line along Katella.

Part of Disneyland’s pledge includes a $40 million payment allowing Disneyland to take over sections of city roads — including a stretch of Magic Way. Disney won’t take over Magic Way until the city completes intersection improvements along Ball Road at Disneyland Drive and Walnut Street.

DisneylandForward promises to bring millions more visitors to Anaheim.

The combined attendance of Disneyland and Disney California Adventure could nearly double from 26 million visitors today to 40 million to 50 million within 10 to 15 years if Disney builds everything in the DisneylandForward proposal, according to Dennis Speigel, an industry expert with International Theme Park Services.

All those people are going to need a place to sleep — which means a new Disney hotel will likely break ground early in the first decade of DisneylandForward.

DisneylandForward concept art of the Eastside retail area on the Toy Story parking lot features a central lagoon surrounded by shops and a low-rise hotel with a parking structure near the corner of Katella Avenue and Haster Street.

SEE ALSO: Disneyland may bring back PeopleMover and Skyway for theme park expansion

Getting visitors to the parks from the Eastside hotel and parking garage could be accomplished via “ themed ride systems ” like the Disney Skyliner at Walt Disney World or the former Tomorrowland PeopleMover at Disneyland — both mentioned as options in the DisneylandForward plan.

Details about the Avatar land proposed for the Disneyland resort and other initial elements of DisneylandForward coming to the resort will likely be revealed during the D23 fan event on Aug. 9-11 at the Anaheim Convention Center.

Beyond Pandora, a Frozen-themed land would be the next likely project to come out of the DisneylandForward plan. The World of Frozen themed land debuted at Hong Kong Disneyland in November and a similar Frozen Kingdom is coming to Tokyo DisneySea in June.

A carbon copy of one of the two Frozen lands or pieces from both would be a natural fit for the Disneyland expansion envisioned north of the Disneyland Hotel. The Disneyland expansion across Disneyland Drive would likely extend across a pedestrian bridge that connects at the dead end of Critter Country.

SEE ALSO: Look inside Frozen land pitched for Disneyland expansion

What comes next is anyone’s guess.

A Toy Story or Coco themed land would make sense as the first project in the Disney California Adventure expansion into the parking lot south of Pixar Place Hotel. The DCA expansion would likely extend across a pedestrian bridge that connects the Paradise Gardens food court and the Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind attraction.

A Coco land would pair nicely with DCA’s Paradise Gardens that has served as a base for Viva Navidad celebrations. A Toy Story land would expand Pixar Pier across Disneyland Drive toward the recently rethemed Pixar Place Hotel.

In the decades to follow, the Disneyland extension could get Tangled, Peter Pan and Zootopia lands while the DCA extension could get the Black Panther and Encanto lands dangled in DisneylandForward pitches over the past three years.

SEE ALSO: Look inside Zootopia land pitched for Disneyland expansion

Imagineering could also go in a completely different direction based on a surprise Disney, Pixar, Marvel or Star Wars movie hit that hasn’t even been dreamed up yet. Anything could happen in the next 40 years now that Disneyland has been given the freedom to build whatever it wants.

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