Best Amusement Parks For Kids In The US And Europe {2025}

I’ve grown up visiting some of the best amusement parks in the US with my parents and siblings, and have continued to explore with my family over the last several years. While amusement parks aren’t everyone’s favorite style of vacation, I truly believe the entire family can enjoy it if you go in with the right mindset and choose one of the best theme parks! 

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But why it that? When it comes to family fun, amusement parks are at the top of the list for thrill seekers, those who want to enjoy a variety of rides and parents who want to participate in the fun! Whether you’re looking for classic fairytale magic, thrilling kiddie rides, or immersive-themed lands, there are fantastic options for kids of all ages. 

Of course, there are incredible amusement parks for kids and families in other areas of the world as well, but this will be mainly focused on the US, with a few additions within Europe. 

Here are the top amusement parks for kids in both regions!

Top 20 Amusement Parks for Kids in the United States

Starting with the USA, there are great amusement parks all over the country. Below is a breakdown for each region of America, including the theming, the experience you can expect, and any notable callouts about each park. 

East Coast & Eastern Amusement Parks

1. Walt Disney World (Orlando, Florida)

I couldn’t start with any other theme parks, Disney World is the best of the best. With four theme parks and two water parks on the property, Walt Disney World is a must-visit at least once for every family. The quintessential family amusement park, Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World is packed with iconic attractions like Cinderella’s Castle, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, and Peter Pan’s Flight. Epcot gives a look into the future. Hollywood Studios is a great option for fans of Star Wars and Toy Story. Animal Kingdom is a unique experience with a Safari tour and Avatar rides. 

I have an entire section of this blog all about the ins and outs of Walt Disney World, including the ultimate Disney resort guide, best 4-day Disney itinerary and the perfect rides for kids in Magic Kingdom.

2. Universal Studios Orlando

Orlando is full of great theme parks, you could easily plan multiple family vacations to Central Florida and have a new park to visit each time for many years. There are three main parks and a water park in Universal Orlando. Universal Studios Orlando, Islands of Adventure, Universal Epic Universe (opening May 2025) and the water park, Volcano Bay. 

The Harry Potter theme in each park is beyond belief, and I love how it’s an interactive experience for families. Islands of Adventure has lands like Seuss Landing, featuring kid-friendly rides and characters, Universal Studios has a fun New York experience as well as DreamWorks Land and Epic Universe will focus on Super Mario Brothers and more. 

Universal parks are perfect for the adrenaline junkie in your family as there are multiple old and new roller coasters in each park. If you are deciding between Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, check out this post to understand the differences. 

3. Busch Gardens Williamsburg (Williamsburg, Virginia)

We absolutely love Busch Gardens Williamsburg and had season passes for many years. It is a beautiful park with European-themed lands, gentle rides, and a Sesame Street Forest of Fun for younger guests. There are incredible roller coasters, fun family experiences, top-notch shows and more. We also love the seasonality of the park and the various holidays celebrated throughout the year. 

Water Country U.S.A. is the waterpark at Busch Gardens Williamsburg and it’s the largest in Virginia! 

Where To Stay: Great Wolf Lodge is the perfect pairing for a trip to Busch Gardens! We have stayed here many times and the rooms are so detailed, the water park is great year-round and the overall resort experience is so much fun for everyone- even the older kids! 

4. Busch Gardens Tampa (Tampa, Florida)

Taking it back to Florida with another Busch Gardens theme park. Busch Gardens really does a great job with their theming. One of the coolest experiences in Busch Gardens Tampa is the Serengeti Safari experience by either train or Skyride. There are multiple thrill rides, amazing entertainment shows and really fun seasonal experiences like Mardi Gras and Brews & BBQ. 

Adventure Island is the water park on Busch Gardens Tampa Bay property. 

You can get tickets (sometimes discounted!) for both parks and additional experiences here. 

Where To Stay: This Holiday Inn is a great, local option, but you could also stay near downtown Tampa if you plan to experience the city as well. We love the Hyde Park area! 

5. Dollywood (Pigeon Forge, Tennessee)

Dollywood should be a must visit for all families who love smaller parks with charming details. Dolly Parton brings together Southern vibes, a beautiful property, nice picnic areas and good food options. With a mix of thrilling rides and kid-friendly attractions, Dollywood also offers entertaining live shows and a great dose of hospitality. Don’t forget to try the Cinnamon Bread!

If you are visiting the area this, 5-day Great Smoky Mountains itinerary will show you how to hike, explore, and experience Dollywood during your vacation. I also highly recommend visiting Anakeesta Park if you have time! It’s a unique theme park with an amazing view. 

Where To Stay: Depending on where you want to spend most of your time, if you will spend more than one day at Dollywood or the water park, I suggest staying at one of the Dollywood resorts, the HeartSong Resort, if you plan to explore more of the mountains, a cabin rental in Gatlinburg will be ideal. 

6. Dutch Wonderland (Lancaster, Pennsylvania)

This park is perfectly designed for young children under 10. The theme has whimsical attractions like a dragon-themed coaster and interactive seasonal water park play areas. While it’s not a huge park, it’s worth the visit if you will be in the area! 

Where To Stay: The Cartoon Network hotel is very fun but it isn’t the most fancy resort. If you want to opt for a less-themed but nicer stay, I recommend Eden Suites. 

7. Sesame Place (Langhorne, Pennsylvania)

This Sesame Street-themed park is another amusement park designed specifically for little kids, with gentle rides, character meet-and-greets, and water attractions. If you have fans of Sesame Street in your house, this park is a must-visit! 

Another fun activity in the Pennsylvania area is Crayola Experience in Easton, PA. 

Where To Stay: I recommend staying at one of the partner hotels if you visit! 

8. LEGOLAND Florida (Winter Haven, Florida)

Designed specifically for families with kids aged 2-12, LEGOLAND Florida offers a variety of LEGO-themed rides, interactive attractions, and water play areas. A few of the favorites are The Dragon roller coaster, LEGO Ninjago The Ride, and Miniland USA, which features miniature LEGO versions of famous landmarks. 

Where To Stay: The official Legoland Hotel is very cool to give your family an immersive experience for your vacation! 

9. Story Land (Glen, New Hampshire)

This fairy tale-themed park is perfect for younger kids, featuring attractions based on classic children’s stories. Popular rides include the Polar Coaster, Cinderella’s Pumpkin Coach, and the Antique Cars. Interactive play areas and live entertainment make it a magical experience for little ones with plenty of family-friendly activities. 

Where To Stay: White Mountain Hotel & Resort will be perfect for a family who wants a great vacation, near the theme park and with beautiful views. 

10. Hersheypark (Hershey, Pennsylvania)

I grew up less than two hours from Hersheypark, so we frequented the park. I remember when the waterpark opened in the early 2000s, and it was a whole new experience! You may not be able to guess the theme based on the name- but the park is focused on Hershey chocolates! 

A sweet escape, Hersheypark features rides for all ages, character meet-ups with Hershey candy mascots, and a water park section.

The entire town of Hershey is in on the theme, with Kisses on the lamp posts, an amazing hotel experience including a chocolate spa, and local breweries with their own sweet take on drinks. 

Where To Stay: If you are looking for a nice hotel near the park with free breakfast, this hotel is perfect. If you want a resort experience with unique amenities and a beautiful pool, check out the Hershey Lodge. 

Mid-West Theme Parks 

1. Cedar Point (Sandusky, Ohio)

Located on the shores of Lake Erie, Cedar Point is known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World.” This massive amusement park features over 70 rides, including 18 world-class roller coasters such as the record-breaking Steel Vengeance and the towering Millennium Force. The park’s theme focuses on thrills, with sections designed to immerse guests in different coaster-centric experiences. 

Where To Stay: For those looking to stay nearby, the highly-rated Cedar Point’s Hotel Breakers offers easy access to the park, a private beach, and stunning lake views.

2. Nickelodeon Universe (Bloomington, Minnesota)

Located inside the Mall of America, this indoor theme park features rides based on popular Nickelodeon characters, making it a great year-round option for all ages. 

The park features beloved Nickelodeon characters and themed attractions, such as SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge and Avatar Airbender. Its immersive and colorful atmosphere makes it a hit with families 

Where To Stay: The Radisson Blue hotel is the perfect location for Mall of America! 

3. Kings Island (Mason, Ohio)

Just outside Cincinnati, Kings Island is a premier amusement park featuring a mix of high-speed coasters and family-friendly attractions. The Beast, a wooden roller coaster, is the longest wooden coaster in the world. It’s a must-ride for thrill-seekers! While Planet Snoopy is perfect for younger guests. The park’s theme blends classic Americana with modern thrills. 

Where To Stay: Guests looking for nearby accommodations often choose the Great Wolf Lodge, which offers an indoor water park and family-friendly amenities. We are huge fans of Great Wolf Lodge and have always had a great experience! 

4. Holiday World (Santa Claus, Indiana) 

This unique theme park in Santa Claus, Indiana, is known for its holiday-themed sections, including Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the Fourth of July. Popular rides include The Voyage, one of the world’s best wooden coasters, and Splashin’ Safari, one of the top water parks in the country. 

Bonus: Holiday World offers free soft drinks, sunscreen, and parking, making it a great value for the family! 

Where To Stay: There are multiple great resorts to stay near Holiday World, including Santa’s Cottages Lakeside Resort. You should also consider Lake Rudolph Campground & RV Resort is a highly-rated place to stay, offering cabins, RV sites, and family-friendly amenities.

5. Silver Dollar City (Branson, Missouri)

This 1880s-themed park blends fun with education, offering unique attractions, kid-friendly roller coasters like Fire-in-the-Hole, and live demonstrations of artisan crafts. The Grand Exposition area is perfect for younger children, featuring gentle rides and carnival-style fun. This park also features thrilling rides like Outlaw Run, a record-breaking wooden coaster, and Time Traveler, the world’s fastest, steepest, and tallest spinning coaster. It also boasts live entertainment and craft demonstrations.

Where To Stay: Lodge of the Ozarks is an amazing option and Silver Dollar City will be opening their own resort in 2026! 

Southwest America Amusement Parks

1. Six Flags Over Texas

Located in Arlington, Six Flags Over Texas is the original Six Flags park and boasts a variety of thrill rides, family attractions, and entertainment. It features the legendary Titan coaster, the intense Mr. Freeze: Reverse Blast, and classic Looney Tunes-themed rides for younger guests. With a Texas-inspired theme, the park celebrates the state’s history and culture. 

Where To Stay: The Hilton in Arlington is a great option for families. 

If you ever find yourself in other areas of Texas, San Antonio and Austin both have a lot to offer families. 

West Coast Theme Parks 

1. Disneyland (Anaheim, California)

The original Disney park offers a charming mix of nostalgia and innovation, with attractions like It’s a Small World and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. You will find two theme parks within the Disneyland Resort. Disneyland and California Adventure which focuses on Pixar and Marvel. Both are unique parks with amazing theming and fun rides. 

Where To Stay: We loved our stay at Pixar Place but Candy Cane Inn is another great option! 

2. Universal Studios Hollywood 

Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit for movie lovers, offering thrilling attractions based on blockbuster films. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World: The Ride, and the world-famous Studio Tour are among the park’s biggest draws. With a cinematic theme, this park immerses guests in Hollywood magic. We absolutely love Universal Studios Hollywood and always try to visit when we are in California. It might top Disneyland for me (but only because Walt Disney World has my heart!). 

Where To Stay: The Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City is a top-rated hotel within walking distance, offering luxurious accommodations. 

There is so much to do in the area! I highly recommend having time for a behind the scenes tour as well!

3. LEGOLAND California (Carlsbad, California)

Perfect for young builders, this park has interactive play areas, roller coasters, and a water park, all themed around LEGO. Popular rides include Coastersaurus, The Dragon, and LEGO Ninjago The Ride. Younger kids love DUPLO Playtown, while Miniland USA features intricate LEGO recreations of famous landmarks.

Where To Stay: I’m all about a themed resort, and it’s no different in Legoland. The Legoland Hotel is an experience of itself! 

4. Knott’s Berry Farm (Buena Park, California)

Known for its rich history and family-friendly atmosphere, Knott’s Berry Farm blends classic Americana with exciting rides and entertainment. Visit the Peanuts-themed Camp Snoopy area, as this park is great for younger kids while also offering coasters for thrill-seekers. Family-friendly attractions include the Calico Mine Ride and Timber Mountain Log Ride, while younger kids will love meeting Snoopy and friends. The park’s theme pays homage to the Old West, making it unique among California theme parks. 

Where To Stay: The Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel is the best place to stay, offering convenient access to the park and a charming, rustic ambiance.

Top 10 Amusement Parks for Kids in Europe

Now, here are the best amusement parks for kids around Europe. Granted, these are all over Europe and not limited to specific regions, but hopefully, this will be a helpful list if you find yourself in any of the countries below looking for the ultimate family adventure in a theme park. 

1. Disneyland Paris (France)

Europe’s most famous amusement park, Disneyland Paris is a dream destination for kids who love Disney characters and magical experiences. 

Nearby Cities: Paris! 

2. Europa-Park (Germany)

Germany’s largest theme park offers 15 themed areas, many of which have family-friendly rides, interactive play zones, and whimsical attractions.

Nearby Cities: Stuttgart, Germany, Strasbourg and Colman in France

3. Efteling (Netherlands)

A fairytale-inspired park with enchanting rides, walking trails, and immersive storytelling that brings classic European folktales to life.

Nearby Cities: Halfway between Brussels, Belgium and Amsterdam

4. LEGOLAND Billund (Denmark)

The original LEGOLAND park features LEGO-themed attractions, mini cities, and plenty of hands-on play areas for little builders.

Nearby Cities: Located in Billund. 

5. Tivoli Gardens (Denmark)

One of the world’s oldest amusement parks, Tivoli Gardens offers a charming mix of classic rides, gentle thrills, and beautiful gardens. We absolutely love this theme park! It’s the perfect size to visit in the morning, go enjoy Copenhagen, and come back in the evening. 

Nearby Cities: Located in Copenhagen 

Pro Tip: I highly recommend using the Copenhagen Card if you want to see the city and Tivoli!

6. PortAventura World (Spain)

With dedicated family-friendly sections, this park includes Sesame Street Adventure, kid-friendly coasters, and an adjoining water park.

Nearby Cities: Tarragona 

7. Puy du Fou (France)

More of a historical theme park than a traditional amusement park, Puy du Fou offers spectacular live shows, medieval villages, and interactive experiences for the whole family.

Nearby Cities: Nantes

8. PhantasiaLand (Germany) 

Located in Brühl, Germany, Phantasialand is a beautifully themed park that combines immersive storytelling with thrilling rides. It features six distinct themed areas, including the African-inspired Deep in Africa and the steampunk-inspired Rookburgh. The park is home to innovative coasters such as Taron, a multi-launch roller coaster, and F.L.Y., the world’s first flying launch coaster. With top-tier shows and detailed theming, Phantasialand is a must-visit for theme park enthusiasts.

Check out my friend Anastasia’s video review for all the fun details! 

Where To Stay: The on-site Hotel Ling Bao offers an Asian-inspired retreat with luxurious accommodations, while Hotel Matamba provides an African-themed stay with exotic decor and family-friendly amenities.

Nearby Cities: Bonn and Cologne 

9. Parc Astérix (France)

Based on the famous French comic series, this park has fun-themed attractions and entertaining shows perfect for kids.

Nearby Cities: A short distance from Paris 

10. Liseberg (Sweden)

Located in Gothenburg, Sweden’s largest amusement park has a great mix of thrill rides and gentle attractions for young visitors, plus a magical Christmas market in winter.

Nearby Cities: Gothenburg

I hope this guide to amazing amusement parks is helpful for your family when planning a family vacation, in the USA or in Europe! Whether you’re exploring the enchanting lands of Disney, building memories at LEGOLAND, or experiencing fairytale magic in Europe, these amusement parks offer endless fun for kids. Which one is at the top of your list? Let us know in the comments!