Amusement park attendance is on the rise, and it’s no wonder why, amusement parks are the perfect destination for a weekend excursion that can satisfy all types of travelers. Theme parks are commonly known as family friendly destinations but can also be great for a group of friends or even a romantic getaway. Finding an amusement park close by, or traveling across the country for the chance to ride a 200 foot roller coaster with a scenic background might be the perfect vacation you have been searching for.
Travelers seeking a thrill can visit Cedar Point, located in Sandusky, Ohio. Commonly known as the Roller Coaster Capital of the World, Cedar Point has been a top amusement park destination since it opened in 1870. The park eagerly pushes the limits to build record-breaking roller coasters and thrill rides. This summer the park is introducing its 17th roller coaster, the Rougarou, which will be the first floorless coaster of its kind.
Travelers sticking to a budget can head to Elysburg, Pennsylvania where Knoebels Amusement Resort is located in a small wooded valley with a creek-fed swimming hole. This award winning amusement park is also a picnic grove and campground, making it easy to plan an affordable weekend exploring the park, picnicking and camping out. The park is the largest free-admission park in the US, allowing travelers to choose to purchase a ride all day ticket or pay per ride as you walk through the park.
If interested in a romantic retreat, take dinner and a movie to a new level by visiting Dollywood, located in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. Dollywood received two Golden Ticket Awards, prestigious awards ranking the “Best of the Best” in the amusement industry, for Best Shows and Best Food. At Dollywood travelers can enjoy a delicious dinner while watching a fabulous live show. The park is currently celebrating its 30th anniversary so there are a lot of extra events planned throughout the summer to celebrate.
For interaction and stimulation, Universal’s Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida, has plenty to offer. Providing rides, shows, and interactive attractions including Jurassic Park, Harry Potter, Dr. Seuss, and Marvel Superheroes that it brings to life, this park is a great place for families with children. Orlando has an extensive amount of hotels and resorts to choose from that can include pools and entertainment that can turn this into a well-rounded family getaway.
The combination of zoo animals and thrill rides at Busch Gardens in Tampa, Florida allows travelers to see wildlife while walking from ride to ride. With a tropical landscape, exotic animals, live entertainment, and numerous thrill rides this animal theme park can be a nice escape from an urban environment. Busch Gardens regularly hosts events like the Food and Wine Festival which make this park a fun vacation for groups of friends.
With over 300 amusement parks in the United States it isn’t hard to locate one nearby. Each park can cater to different types of travelers, from thrill-seekers, to foodies, to show enthusiasts, making it easy to see why this growing trend isn’t slowing down.