Looking for heart-pounding roller coasters, classic funnel cakes, or a fun-filled day your kids will never forget? The best amusement parks in the U.S. offer all of that and more. From world-famous theme parks in Florida and California to family-friendly destinations tucked across the country, America is home to some of the most exciting parks on the planet.
Many of these top parks are within driving distance for millions of travelers, and with early planning, a visit doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you prefer luxury on-site hotels, water-park resorts, or nearby campgrounds, there are options for every budget and travel style.
In this guide, we’ve ranked the 20 best amusement parks in the United States based on ride quality, visitor experience, family appeal, thrill factor, and overall value. Below, you’ll find everything you need to plan the perfect theme-park getaway — including what makes each park special and who it’s best for.
Read : Top Cheap Weekend Getaways in the U.S. for 2026
Kennywood: West Mifflin, Pennsylvania
Located just outside Pittsburgh, Kennywood is one of the most historic amusement parks in the United States. Founded in 1898, the park combines classic attractions with modern thrill rides, making it popular with both families and roller coaster enthusiasts.
In 2026, Kennywood is set to reopen the highly anticipated Steel Curtain, Pennsylvania’s tallest roller coaster and the ride featuring the highest inversion in North America. The park spans the full spectrum of attractions — from gentle rides like paddle boats and a vintage carousel to intense favorites such as Phantom’s Revenge, one of the most acclaimed steel coasters in the country.
Kennywood also hosts numerous seasonal events throughout the year, including fireworks nights, themed festivals, Phantom Fall Fest, and Holiday Lights. The park generally operates from April through December, with daily hours during peak summer months.
Situated approximately 10 miles southeast of downtown Pittsburgh, Kennywood sits along the scenic Monongahela River, offering convenient access from the city.
Lodging Tip:
The Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh West Homestead/Waterfront is located less than 5 miles from the park, making it a convenient option for visitors who prefer minimal driving.
Kennywood Quick Facts
- Name: Kennywood
- Location: West Mifflin, Pennsylvania
- Founded: 1898 (opened in 1899)
- Original Developer: Monongahela Street Railway Company
- Later Operators: F.W. Henninger & Andrew McSwigan
- Best For: Families, kids, and classic roller coaster fans
- Signature Ride: Phantom’s Revenge
- Notable Ranking: USA Today Top 10 Amusement Park
- Address: 4800 Kennywood Blvd., West Mifflin, PA 15122
Read: Most Underrated Small Towns in America
Knoebels Amusement Resort: Elysburg, Pennsylvania
Located in central Pennsylvania, Knoebels Amusement Resort is one of the most unique and beloved amusement parks in the United States. Family-owned since its founding in 1926, the park is best known for its free-admission model and classic ride lineup.
In late 2024, Knoebels completed a renovation of its popular Giant Flume, bringing the classic log ride back into operation. Unlike most theme parks, Knoebels does not charge an entry fee — guests can walk in freely and pay only for the rides they choose, earning it recognition as America’s largest free-admission amusement park.
The park’s attractions are well balanced, with gentle rides for younger children, family-friendly classics, and thrill rides for adrenaline seekers. Standout attractions include Black Diamond, a dark ride themed around a coal mine, the refurbished Giant Flume, and Impulse, an inverted steel coaster that features four inversions and a dramatic vertical spike.
Operating days and ride availability vary significantly by season, so visitors are advised to check the park’s schedule before planning a trip.
Knoebels also offers on-site lodging, including two campgrounds, a bed-and-breakfast, and cottages that can accommodate up to 16 guests. Nestled near the Poconos, the park is surrounded by scenic mountains and regional attractions, making it a great base for a multi-day getaway.
Address:391 Knoebels Blvd., Elysburg, PA 17824
Quick FactsQuick Facts About Knoebels
About Knoebels
- Name: Knoebels Amusement Resort
- Location: Elysburg, Pennsylvania
- Founded: 1926
- Founder: Henry Knoebel and the Knoebel family
- Best For: Families, kids, and classic amusement park fans
- Signature Ride: Phoenix (widely ranked as a top wooden roller coaster)
- Notable Attractions: Phoenix, Impulse, Black Diamond, Giant Flume
- Unique Feature: Free admission; pay-per-ride system
- Ride Count: 60+ rides and attractions
- Address: 391 Knoebels Blvd., Elysburg, PA 17824
Hersheypark: Hershey, Pennsylvania
Hersheypark’s rolling out the Twizzlers Twisted Gravity for 2025, a pendulum swing that’ll claim the title of tallest S&S Screamin’ Swing on the planet.
Beyond the coasters and water attractions, this central Pennsylvania park leans hard into its chocolate heritage. Hershey’s Chocolate World sits on-site, stocked with every sugar-loaded variation you can think of. Your park ticket also covers ZooAmerica, where you can walk past 200-plus animals native to North America without paying extra.
Hershey Lodge sits close enough for multi-day park access without the commute. The suites give families actual breathing room, there’s an indoor pool setup that keeps kids occupied, and the on-site spa works chocolate into its treatment menu if that’s your thing.
Address:100 Hersheypark Drive, Hershey, PA 17033
Others Information
- Name: Hersheypark
- Location: Hershey, PA
- Founded: 1906
- Founder: Milton S. Hershey (Hershey Chocolate Company)
- Best for: Families, kids, chocolate-themed rides & coasters
- Capacity: Seasonal; high summer crowds
- Ranking: Multiple Applause Awards winner
- Other: Employee leisure park turned major theme park
Six Flags Great Adventure: Jackson Township, New Jersey
Six Flags Great Adventure is dropping THE FLASH: Vertical Velocity in 2025, North America’s first super boomerang coaster. A year later, they’re launching a record-breaking coaster that’ll reset expectations for the category.
The park sits roughly 25 miles east of Trenton and under 100 miles from Philly. Sixty-six rides total, with standouts like Medusa, Nitro, and El Toro pulling serious crowds. Beyond the coasters, a rotating calendar of live entertainment features dance festivals, patriotic-themed nights, Summerbration events throughout the summer, and an Oktoberfest setup. Hurricane Harbor water park operates within the same grounds wave pool, slides that’ll spike your pulse, and Splash Island with 50-plus interactive water elements for younger visitors.
Operating schedule runs late March through December, but expect weekend-only hours during spring, late fall, and winter. Daily schedules shift constantly.
Lodging angle: Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa connects directly to the park and sprawls across 350 acres of safari terrain. Over 1,200 animals from six continents roam the property.
Address: 1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson Township, NJ 08527
Others Information
Name: Six Flags Great Adventure
Location: Jackson Township, NJ
Founded: 1974
Founder: Warner LeRoy (acquired by Six Flags in 1977)
Best for: Thrill-seekers, families, safari adventures
Capacity: Seasonal high crowds; part of 510-acre resort
Ranking: Major Six Flags park with top coasters
Other: Includes Hurricane Harbor water park, Wild Safari
Walt Disney World Resort: Orlando, Florida
Walt Disney World rolled out Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in 2025, refreshed the Country Bear Musical Jamboree, and launched Dream the Night Away – a new nighttime parade that caps off evenings in the park.
Disney World’s reputation isn’t accidental. Four separate parks operate under the resort umbrella. Magic Kingdom anchors the experience with Cinderella Castle and the “It’s a Small World” boat ride that’s been around since the beginning. EPCOT centers on global culture – food, attractions, rotating festivals that spotlight different regions. Hollywood Studios built out Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, which drops guests into that universe with surprising detail. Animal Kingdom houses endangered species alongside rides, all surrounding the Tree of Life centerpiece.
Lodging runs the spectrum across the resort, with perks tied to staying on Disney property – early park access, shuttle systems, themed pools. Orlando hotel options beyond the Disney bubble are extensive if you want alternatives. The footprint here is massive, so mapping out your days before arrival saves frustration once you’re navigating crowds.
Address :1375 East Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Others Information
- Name: Walt Disney World Resort
- Location: Orlando, FL
- Founded: 1971
- Founder: Walt Disney (opened by Roy O. Disney)
- Best for: Families, kids, immersive themes across 4 parks
- Capacity: ~58,000 acres; 50M+ annual visitors
- Ranking: World’s most visited resort
- Other: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Tampa, Florida
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s launching Wild Oasis in 2025, a kid-focused section with climbing structures, educational scavenger hunts, and hands-on water play zones.
The park blends theme rides, water attractions, and a legitimate zoo housing 200-plus animal species. Tigris stands out as a triple-launch coaster that hits hard, while Cobra’s Curse offers a family-friendly spin experience. There’s also a 300-foot drop tower and a whitewater rafting setup among the mix. Live performances and seasonal programming run throughout the year. The park sits under 10 miles northeast of Tampa’s downtown core and operates 365 days.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa USF Near Busch Gardens handles the basics well complimentary breakfast and a shuttle that runs directly to the park gates save you the hassle of navigating Tampa traffic first thing in the morning.
Address: 10165 McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612
Others Information
- Name: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
- Location: Tampa, FL
- Founded: 1959
- Founder: Anheuser-Busch
- Best for: Families, animal exhibits, thrill coasters
- Capacity: 335 acres; 4M+ annual attendance
- Ranking: Top among United Parks & Resorts
- Other: Africa-themed zoo & rides
Universal Orlando Resort: Orlando, Florida
Universal Epic Universe opens in May – the fourth park inside Universal Orlando Resort. This addition brings entirely new themed zones: How to Train Your Dragon environments, a Universal Monsters section, Super Nintendo World, and another Wizarding World of Harry Potter installation.
By summer 2025, Universal Orlando will operate four distinct parks. Universal Studios Florida centers on film and TV franchises – Harry Potter, Despicable Me – with rides designed for broader age ranges. Islands of Adventure features similar character properties but scales up the intensity and size of its attractions. Volcano Bay functions as the water park component with slides and wave pools. Epic Universe introduces fresh intellectual property – How to Train Your Dragon, Universal Monsters, Super Nintendo World, and Dark Universe, among them. Each park requires a separate admission, although multi-park passes offer a discount on gate fees. The resort runs year-round with hours shifting daily and seasonally.
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort sits on-property with an in-house bowling alley, dual pools, a lazy river, and multiple dining and bar options for guests who want to stay within the Universal ecosystem.
Address: 6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819
Others Information
- Name: Universal Orlando Resort
- Location: Orlando, FL
- Founded: 1990 (Universal Studios Florida)
- Founder: MCA Inc. (NBCUniversal) with Rank Organisation
- Best for: Thrill-seekers, families, movie-themed rides (Harry Potter)
- Capacity: 541 acres; high seasonal crowds
- Ranking: Second-largest Orlando resort after Disney
- Other: Includes Islands of Adventure, CityWalk
Dollywood: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Dollywood’s rolling out the I Will Always Love You Music Festival from March 14 through April 13, 2025 – expect continuous live performances throughout the run.
Dolly Parton’s 160-acre complex splits between theme park terrain and water attractions, packing in 50-plus rides aimed at keeping families engaged. Tennessee Tornado drops riders 128 feet through a mountain tunnel while pushing close to 70 mph. Lightning Rod mixes wood and steel construction into a hybrid coaster that consistently draws crowds. Younger visitors get their own dedicated section with scaled-down options like Black Bear Trail and Busy Bees. Splash Country handles the water side with a lazy river and multiple slide configurations. Operating window stretches mid-March through early January, though daily schedules shift throughout the season.
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa keeps guests on property with dual pool areas and dedicated programming for kids who need to burn off energy between park days.
Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Others Information
- Name: Dollywood
- Location: Pigeon Forge, TN
- Founded: 1986
- Founder: Dolly Parton with Herschend Family Enterprises
- Best for: Families, kids, Smoky Mountain culture & coasters
- Capacity: 160 acres; 3M+ annual visitors
- Ranking: #1 U.S. amusement park (TripAdvisor), Applause Award winner
- Other: Crafts, shows, Dollywood Express train
Legoland Florida Resort: Winter Haven, Florida
Legoland Florida’s dropping a SEA LIFE Aquarium in May underwater viewing areas paired with educational programming that walks visitors through marine ecosystems.
This three-part complex, about 50 miles south of Orlando split between Lego-themed attractions, water park sections, and the Peppa Pig Theme Park. The main Legoland area runs 50-plus rides and experiences, most calibrated for younger visitors rather than thrill-seekers. You won’t find intense coasters here the design skews toward families with elementary-age kids. Life-sized Lego sculptures populate the grounds, and character meet-and-greets cycle through daily. Ticketing breaks into single-park access, multi-park combinations, or annual passes. Gates stay open year-round. California and New York also operate Legoland locations stateside.
Three on-site hotels handle overnight stays: Legoland Hotel, Pirate Island Hotel, and Legoland Beach Retreat all within walking distance of the entrance.
Address: 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884
Others information
- Name: Legoland Florida Resort
- Location: Winter Haven, FL
- Founded: 2011
- Founder: Merlin Entertainments (on the former Cypress Gardens site)
- Best for: Kids 2-12, Lego-themed rides & builds
- Capacity: 145 acres; family seasonal crowds
- Ranking: Second-largest Legoland worldwide
- Other: Water park, Peppa Pig area, hotels
Six Flags Fiesta Texas: San Antonio, Texas
Six Flags Fiesta Texas drops three attractions in 2025: CYBORG Cyber Revolution, SHAZAM! Tower of Eternity, and METROPOLIS Transit Authority.
San Antonio’s Six Flags installation built its reputation on high-intensity coasters that cater to riders chasing speed and drops. The lineup also includes gentler options for families, plus Hurricane Harbor San Antonio handles the water park component. The main park operates 365 days, while Hurricane Harbor runs April through September on a limited schedule. Six Flags operates over a dozen locations across North America.
Lodging within striking distance: Home2 Suites by Hilton San Antonio at the Rim, Courtyard by Marriott San Antonio Six Flags at The RIM, and La Cantera Resort & Spa all sit close enough for easy park access.
Address: 17000 Interstate 10 E., San Antonio, Texas
Others Information
- Name: Six Flags Fiesta Texas
- Location: San Antonio, TX
- Founded: 1992
- Founder: USAA Real Estate & Gaylord Entertainment (Six Flags from 1996)
- Best for: Families, thrill coasters, Texas-themed shows
- Capacity: 200 acres; seasonal high crowds
- Ranking: Top Six Flags park with award-winning coasters
- Other: Iron Rattler, Superman launches
Cedar Point: Sandusky, Ohio
Cedar Point is launching Siren’s Curse in 2025 – North America’s longest, tallest, and fastest tilt coaster when it opens.
This Lake Erie park runs 100-plus rides and attractions, with 18 roller coasters in the mix. Steel Vengeance stands out as a hyper-hybrid design, while Valravn sends riders straight down at 90 degrees before throwing in a 270-degree barrel roll. Beyond the coasters, Cedar Point schedules festivals, seasonal events, and live entertainment throughout its operating window – worth checking their calendar before locking in dates. The main park operates May through October. Cedar Point Shores Waterpark shares the property and cools off with slides and wave pools, although admission is required separately.
Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point puts you within walking distance of both parks. The luxury campground offers RV hookups, lakefront cottages, and deluxe cabins that accommodate up to 10 guests.
Address: 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH 44870
Others Information
- Name: Cedar Point
- Location: Sandusky, OH
- Founded: 1870
- Founder: Louis Zistel (beach resort), later G.A. Boeckling
- Best for: Thrill-seekers, roller coaster enthusiasts
- Capacity: 364 acres; 3M+ annual visitors
- Ranking: “Roller Coaster Capital of the World”
- Other: Second-oldest U.S. park, now Six Flags
Silver Dollar City: Branson, Missouri
Silver Dollar City’s rolling out three updates for 2025: a spring festival that’s new to their calendar, a combined drone and fireworks spectacle, and a live tree lighting ceremony when the holidays hit.
The complex sits under 10 miles from Branson’s downtown entertainment strip and splits between a theme park and a water attraction. The 1880s-themed main park packs roughly 40 experiences, spinning coasters, free-fall towers, swing rides, and the usual suspects. White Water sprawls across 13 acres with slides, a half-million-gallon wave pool, and a lazy river that circles the property. Silver Dollar City gates open March through December, while White Water operates only late May through early September.
Silver Dollar City Campground plants you in the Ozark Mountains with shuttle service running directly to the park entrance. Free Wi-Fi, a pool, cabin options, and spots for tents or RVs round out the setup.
Address: 399 Silver Dollar City Parkway, Branson, MO 65616
Others Information
- Name: Silver Dollar City
- Location: Branson, MO
- Founded: 1960
- Founder: Herschend Family (Marvel Cave lease 1950)
- Best for: Families, kids, 1880s crafts & coasters
- Capacity: 61 acres; high seasonal crowds
- Ranking: Top U.S. theme park awards
- Other: Marvel Cave origin, family-owned
Kings Island: Mason, Ohio
Kings Island’s Soak City water park is rolling out a RiverRacers dual-racing water coaster for 2025, along with seven waterslides designed for younger guests.
The park spreads across 364 acres, about 25 miles north of Cincinnati, and includes both the main theme park and its integrated water park. Families with younger children get plenty here. Planet Snoopy features a carousel, bumper cars, and scaled-down coasters. That said, adrenaline junkies have options too, with over 20 high-intensity rides and coasters. The Beast (opened 1979) remains the world’s longest wooden roller coaster, while Orion holds the park records for speed, height, and length among steel coasters. Operating season runs late April through early September, with varying hours depending on the month.
Camp Cedar provides on-site lodging through upscale rental cottages and traditional camping spots for visitors wanting to stay close to the action. Cincinnati hotels offer another route to spend time checking out the city first, then make the short drive north to the park.
You’ll find Kings Island at 6300 Kings Island Drive in Mason, OH 45040.
Others Information
- Name: Kings Island
- Location: Mason, OH
- Founded: 1972
- Founder: Taft Broadcasting (from Coney Island relocation; Gary Wachs key figure)
- Best for: Families, thrill coasters, kid areas
- Capacity: 364 acres; 3M+ annual visitors
- Ranking: Major Six Flags park with record coasters
- Other: Hanna-Barbera themes originally
Kings Dominion Theme Park: Doswell, Virginia
Kings Dominion in Virginia drops Rapterra in 2025, a launched wing coaster that’ll claim records for both height and track length in its category worldwide.
The park packs 60+ attractions across its footprint, mixing family zones with serious coasters, plus live entertainment and its own Soak City water park. Planet Snoopy handles the younger crowd, while the 20-acre water section delivers slides, wave action, a lazy river, and splash zones for cooling off.
Coaster highlights? Pantherian climbs 305 feet before an 85-degree plunge that drops 300 feet, and Tumbili, a 4D spinner, creates genuine zero-g moments mid-ride. The park sits just under 25 miles north of Richmond. Operating season stretches late March through early September, with weekend-only operation during the spring months. Schedule shifts by month.
Lodging nearby: Tru by Hilton Thornburg and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson in Doswell put you close to the gates without the drive from Richmond.
Kings Dominion sits at 16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, VA 23047.
Others Information
- Name: Kings Dominion
- Location: Doswell, VA
- Founded: 1975
- Founder: Taft Broadcasting / Family Leisure Centers (sister to Kings Island)
- Best for: Families, thrill coasters, water park
- Capacity: 400 acres; high seasonal crowds
- Ranking: Major Six Flags park with 13 coasters
- Other: Eiffel Tower replica, Lion Country Safari origin
Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari: Santa Claus, Indiana
Good Gravy! launched in 2024, a family coaster that sends riders careening through a chaotic Thanksgiving feast setup.
Holiday World in southern Indiana runs an unusually generous operation: free soft drinks, sunscreen, WiFi, and parking come standard. The attractions mirror American holiday traditions: Gobbler Getaway for families, Firecracker bumper cars, Reindeer Games, and Star Spangled Carousel. Three wooden coasters have racked up industry recognition, and Thunderbird marked the nation’s first launched wing coaster when it debuted. Your ticket covers Splashin’ Safari too, where wave pools and waterslides handle the heat.
Holiday World operates May through early November, with Splashin’ Safari running mid-May to mid-September. Certain months shift to weekend-only schedules, and daily hours change throughout the season.
Lodging: Santa’s Lakeside Cottages provides one nearby option. Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph sits adjacent to the park RV sites, tent spots, rental cabins, cottages, plus a small water park for campground guests.
Location: 452 E. Christmas Blvd., Santa Claus, Indiana
Others Information
- Name: Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
- Location: Santa Claus, IN
- Founded: 1946 (as Santa Claus Land)
- Founder: Louis J. Koch
- Best for: Families, kids, holiday themes & water rides
- Capacity: Seasonal; free soft drinks, high summer crowds
- Ranking: Top wooden coasters (The Voyage #1 often)
- Other: Family-owned Koch family, America’s first theme park
Knott’s Berry Farm: Buena Park, California
Camp Snoopy got a complete overhaul in 2024, bringing Snoopy’s Tenderpaw Twister Coaster, Sally’s Swing Along, and a dedicated theater space to Knott’s Berry Farm’s kid-focused zone near Anaheim.
The property has come a long way from its 1920s agricultural beginnings; now it’s a full-scale park divided into four themed sections. Old West Ghost Town leans into frontier aesthetics with saloon stops and Western coasters. Fiesta Village nods to California’s Hispanic heritage through its architecture and attractions. Knott’s Boardwalk channels SoCal beach culture while housing the park’s most intense coasters and a performance stage.
The park runs year-round, with Soak City operating late May through early September. Don’t skip Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant the fried chicken platters and boysenberry cocktails are worth the detour.
Where to stay: Knott’s Hotel sits on property, putting both the main park and Soak City Waterpark within easy walking distance.
Address: 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, CA 90620
Others Information
- Name: Knott’s Berry Farm
- Location: Buena Park, CA
- Founded: 1920s (park 1940)
- Founder: Walter Knott
- Best for: Families, kids, thrill coasters
- Capacity: Seasonal high crowds
- Ranking: Top U.S. theme park
- Other: Boysenberry origin, now Cedar Fair/Six Flags
Six Flags Magic Mountain: Valencia, California
Six Flags Magic Mountain has a 21st coaster coming in 2026 billed as North America’s first of its type, though specifics remain under wraps for now.
The Valencia park handles both ends of the thrill spectrum. Families get bumper cars, swing rides, and a miniature railway that works for all ages. Adrenaline chasers face rides that’ll fling you sideways or send you plummeting 250+ feet. Wonder Woman: Flight of Courage took the single-rail crown in 2022, 131 feet tall, 3,300 feet of track. Operations run year-round.
Logistics: The park sits roughly 35 miles northwest of downtown LA. Hotels cluster nearby Best Western Valencia/Six Flags Inn & Suites and Embassy Suites by Hilton Valencia both put you close.
Address: 26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia, CA 91355
Others Information
- Name: Six Flags Magic Mountain
- Location: Valencia, CA
- Founded: 1971
- Founder: Newhall Land & Farming Co. and Sea World Inc. (Six Flags from 1979)
- Best for: Thrill-seekers, 20+ roller coasters
- Capacity: 209 acres; high seasonal crowds
- Ranking: Most coasters in a U.S. park
- Other: Thrill Capital of the World
Disneyland Park: Anaheim, California
“Walt Disney – A Magical Life” opens at the Main Street Opera House this May.
Disneyland calls itself the world’s happiest destination, and the castle-centered park does pull it off for most visitors. You’ll find Sleeping Beauty’s fortress at the center, the Pirates of the Caribbean boat ride that inspired the film franchise, and distinct themed sections built to create those “remember when” moments families chase. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge landed in 2019 with lightsaber workshops, themed dining, and multiple attractions pulling from the franchise. The park operates daily.
Where to crash: Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa handles the luxury end, it’s consistently rated among Anaheim’s top properties. Check U.S. News’ Anaheim-Disneyland guide for trip-planning intel.
Address: 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, CA 92802
Others Information
- Name: Disneyland Park
- Location: Anaheim, CA
- Founded: 1955
- Founder: Walt Disney
- Best for: Families, kids, Disney magic & classics
- Capacity: 160 acres; 18M+ annual visitors
- Ranking: First Disney park, Happiest Place on Earth
- Other: Original 18 attractions, ongoing expansions
Universal Studios Hollywood: Universal City, California
Universal Fan Fest nights launch in 2025, and Super Nintendo World just added Frosted Glacier, an interactive feature for park guests.
The Hollywood property pulls you into franchises you already know, Harry Potter’s wizarding world, King Kong’s jungle chaos, and Springfield from The Simpsons. Beyond rides, the park stages live encounters with Jurassic World raptors and drops you into Minion Land carnival games straight from Despicable Me. The World-Famous Studio Tour gets you onto active soundstages and backlots where productions actually shoot. Open 365 days
Downtown LA sits just 10 miles away, which means lodging clusters nearby The Garland, Sheraton Universal Hotel, and Loews Hollywood Hotel all work.
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Others Information
- Name: Universal Studios Hollywood
- Location: Universal City, CA
- Founded: 1915 (studio tours from 1964)
- Founder: Carl Laemmle
- Best for: Families, movie fans, studio tours & rides
- Capacity: 415 acres; high daily crowds
- Ranking: Pioneering film studio tour park
- Other: Evolved from working studio
SeaWorld San Diego: San Diego, California
SeaWorld San Diego drops two attractions in 2025: Jewels of the Sea (a jellyfish-focused experience) and a reworked Journey to Atlantis coaster.
The park spreads its rides across multiple categories: swings, spinners, and free-fall drops mix with full-scale coasters. Emperor holds California’s dive coaster records for height, speed, and track length. Seasonal programming rotates through Halloween Spooktacular and the more intense Howl-O-Scream. Operations run daily, with sister parks in San Antonio, Orlando, and a 2023 addition in Abu Dhabi.
Lodging: No on-site hotels exist, but SeaWorld partners with nearby properties for package deals. Bahia Resort Hotel sits on Mission Bay’s waterfront, close enough for easy park access.
Address: 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, CA 92109
Others Information
- Name: SeaWorld San Diego
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Founded: 1964
- Founder: Milton Shedd, Ken Norris, David Demott, George Millay
- Best for: Families, marine animals, shows & rides
- Capacity: 189 acres; 400K+ first-year visitors
- Ranking: Original SeaWorld park
- Other: Now United Parks & Resorts
Why Trust TourGid
At TourGid, we’ve learned that short breaks often beat extended vacations—not just because they fit your calendar better, but because they’re easier on your finances. Our contributors have personally visited budget-conscious destinations throughout the U.S., from overlooked state recreation areas to under-the-radar coastal towns, always tracking actual expenses and pinpointing where you can trim costs without losing what makes a trip worthwhile. The places featured here come from our own travels and input from readers who’ve mastered the two-day escape. These aren’t locations we discovered through algorithms—we’ve verified the details, checked current pricing, and included them because they consistently offer genuine experiences without the financial pressure that usually accompanies planning a getaway.