Home to much more than just the theme park haven of Orlando, America has plenty of offerings for thrill seekers right across the country, so you’re never too far from a great day out! With so much choice and so little time, here are our 5 favourite US theme parks, perfect for adrenaline junkies. Will you dare to visit them all?
DisneyWorld
Where: Orlando, Florida
OK, some may argue that DisneyWorld actually counts as four theme parks, but with each park offering something unique, we just had to include them all! Start your visit exploring the fairy tale setting of The Magic Kingdom, the most iconic of the Disney parks, before branching out to the others.
Hollywood Studios, a homage to all things Tinseltown including the new Star Wars attractions, is perfect any film film lovers, whilst Animal Kingdom offers a real safari tour around the grounds. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, lions, rhinos and all sorts of other magnificent creatures!
Finally, head to Epcot, a unique park celebrating international cultures and innovation. Virtual reality plays a big part, with simulators and educational experiences taking favour over big rollercoasters, but the park is still well worth a visit.
Knott’s Berry Farm
Where: Los Angeles, California
Modelled to reflect California’s frontier history, Knott’s Berry Farm really does give you a taste of history. With attractions that include the longest, tallest and fastest wooden rollercoaster on the west coast and the giant Timber Mountain flume, you’ll be transported right back to the Old West.
Universal Studios Orlando
Where: Orlando, Florida
Boasting multiple movie themed zones across two parks, Universal Studios Orlando is a must for any pop culture lover. Fully immerse yourself in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter by visiting Diagon Alley before hopping on the Hogwarts Express to Hogsmead. If Harry Potter isn’t your thing, try exploring Jurassic Park or Springfield to get the excitement flowing.
The parks do boast some truly fantastic rides, including the Incredible Hulk Coaster and the iconic Jurassic Park River Adventure, but, much like DisneyWorld, the setting is the true star of the show! Where else can you start your day wand shopping in Diagon Alley and finish it with a cold Duff at Moe’s?!
Six Flags Magic Mountain
Where: Valencia, California
There are Six Flags theme parks dotted across the states but Magic Mountains is often cited as having the best rides of them all, dubbing itself the “Thrill Capital of the World”! With 19 rollercoasters, this park doesn’t waste time with the pageantry of Disney and Universal, instead focusing on packing in as many world class thrill rides as possible, making it a mecca for adrenaline junkies everywhere! Are you brave enough to take it on?
Cedar Point
Where: Sandusky, Ohio
Taking the title of “Rollercoaster Capital of the World”, Cedar Point gives Magic Mountain a run for its money in the thrill stakes. 18 coasters are scattered around the massive park, alongside over 70 other rides so you’ll definitely be able to fill your time. If you need to give your heart a break, try the resort’s water park, beach or golf course for a more relaxing day out.
