Nothing represents family fun like amusement parks. Think back to your childhood and you’ll remember going (or wanting to go) to one – it’s something that stays with you for a lifetime. Read on to learn more about four amusement parks your family must visit soon.
1. Cedar Point® Amusement Park
If you or anyone in your family is an adrenaline junkie, you won't find any better spot than Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio. It's widely thought to be the roller coaster capital of the world, including favorites like Millennium Force® and Iron Dragon. The 17 thrill-inducing coasters here will keep your whole family amped all day long. The park also features live entertainment attractions, the Dinosaurs Alive exhibit and Soak City Waterpark.
Your family can't miss: Rougarou, Wicked Twister Midway, Lisa's Blonde Lobster Pie
Distance from airport: 1 Hour from Cleveland International Airport
2. Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom®
We're pretty sure that Disney World® is the be-all and end-all of family entertainment. It claims to be "the most magical place on Earth®" and you won't be inclined to argue after spending a few hours here. Fly into the Orlando airport, where you can rent a car to take you to the park at Lake Buena Vista. Your kids will love the thrilling Space Mountain® roller coaster and should check out other popular rides like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad®, and “it’s a small world”®.
Your family can't miss: Splash Mountain®, Pirates of the Caribbean, Peter Pan’s Flight®, Lunch at Be Our Guest Restaurant, Wishes Nighttime Spectacular Fireworks Show
Distance from airport: 25 minutes from Orlando International Airport
3. Knoebels Amusement Resort
Knoebels is a well-known park in Elysburg, Pennsylvania and is the perfect stop for serious roller coaster enthusiasts. It's a 70-mile drive from Harrisburg, so it's a great idea to get a rental car for a day or two while exploring the park and surrounding area. The old-fashioned style of the park is sure to remind folks who grew up in the '70s and '80s of the parks of their childhood. Knoebels also offers free admission and parking if you're just planning to explore the park without riding the coasters. There are plenty of activities for families in addition to the rides – museums, games, playgrounds, swimming in the giant Crystal Pool – even a bald eagle habitat.
Your family can't miss: Black Diamonds, Flying Turns, Haunted Mansion, Time Machine Theater, Knoebels Carousel Museum
Distance from airport: 1 hour 30 minutes from Harrisburg Airport
4. Six Flags Magic Mountain®
Just say the name Six Flags® and your kids will wonder what they did to deserve such an awesome family vacation. Located in Valencia, California, it's super easy to rent a car from LAX and head on over to this dreamy destination. Six Flags Magic Mountain features 19 roller coasters – the most of any amusement park in the world. The newest addition, the Twisted Colossus®, which opened in 2015, has been a huge (and thrilling) attraction for kids and adults alike.
Your family can't miss: Full Throttle®, Jetstream, Batman the Ride®, Green Lantern®, Roaring Rapids®
Distance from airport: 1 hour from LAX International Airport
With so many great theme parks to visit, you and your family can start looking forward to tons of thrill-filled days. Make your travel plans ahead of time so your trip goes off without a hitch and you can enjoy your family getaway to the fullest.
