Best Amusement Park in Every U.S. State

Whether you are a roller-coaster enthusiast or a water-slide aficionado, you can find what you want at America’s thrilling collection of amusement parks.

Not every state touts an amusement park in the grand sense of the word — i.e. towering coasters, death-dying rides and long lines — but every state does provide a park created to bring smiles to children of all ages (that means parents, too!).

Here, we showcase every state’s most beloved amusement park.

Alabama: Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure

Location: Bressemer

Alabama Adventure is the Birmingham area’s signature amusement park, originally opening as Visionland in 1998. In the last five years, the park has grown by 13 amusement attractions and three water-park rides. It has also fully restored its beloved Rampage wooden roller coaster.

TripAdvisor rating: 3.5 (out of 5)

Sample review: “The little ones had a blast. The adults had a good time too. The park is laid out nice and very clean. The rides are fun and the staff are all very friendly and helpful. We are visiting from Texas and it’s just as nice as the ones we have back home.” – BedCab

Alaska: H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark

Wikipedia

Location: Anchorage

Alaska isn’t exactly an amusement-park hotbed. (Nature is the state’s playground.) However, when it gets too cold to feel your face, you can pop into H2O for some faux-tropical fun. The indoor water park offers about a dozen ways to enjoy the water in a climate-controlled indoor environment filled with thatched roofs and palm trees.

TripAdvisor rating: 3

Sample review: “Great family friendly environment…lazy river is relaxing and the master blaster is a must!” – Alaska

Arizona: Castles N’ Coasters

Castles N’ Coasters

Location: Phoenix

It can get quite hot in Arizona, with summer temps often climbing above 100 degrees. But when the weather cooperates, there are 20 different rides and attractions to enjoy at this popular park. Plus, there are bumper boats and a Splashdown coaster that can help cool you off!

Beside the amusements is an 18-hole mini golf course and an arcade.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “This place reminds me of amusement parks when I was a child. If you have children or grandchildren, you’ll be the hero when you take them here. There are lots of rides, food, and space for the kids to have fun.” – Penelope E

Arkansas: Magic Springs Theme and Water Park

Magic Springs Theme and Water Park

Location: Hot Springs

From thrill rides to family fun, Magic Springs brings a bit of abracadabra to Arkansas with three coasters, a water drop, four height-defying rides and attractions geared toward the little ones. Even your antsiest youngsters won’t get bored here, which every parent knows is no small feat!

TripAdvisor rating: 3.5

Sample review: “Being an Arkansas resident you don’t expect much from local theme parks. There just isn’t the population to support it. Magic springs however surprised me…. All in all we had a great experience.” – Gary R

California: Knott’s Berry Farm

Westcoaster

Location: Buena Park

Did you think we’d pick Disneyland, the original Happiest Place on Earth? Think again.

The most-beloved amusement park in California is actually Knott’s Berry Farm, which is older than Disneyland and located just a few miles away.

This park was originally a family-owned farm, evolving into an amusement park as attractions and food stalls were added to cater to farmworkers and, later, visitors. Today, it’s a 57-acre park that sees nearly 4 million people a year.

One reason Knott’s Berry Farm gets the edge over Disneyland is price. An annual pass here, at 98 bucks, is less than what you’ll typically pay for a single day at Disneyland!

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “Fantastic place to visit for extreme rides. Lots to see and do, even if you don’t like the rides. Cool historical buildings and information throughout the park.” – Alison P

Colorado: Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

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Location: Glenwood Springs

For the best views at an amusement park, Glenwood Caverns takes the cake. On thrilling rides like the Glenwood Canyon Flyer, the Cliffhanger Roller Coaster and the Giant Canyon Swing, thrill-seekers soar high above the valley below.

This park also offers a truly distinctive attraction: private tours through three different caves, including one featuring a staged light show to highlight the stalactites, stalagmites and other formations found within.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “We had a wonderful time and the view is indescribable. Great for families of all ages and activity levels.” – FriendlyTravel

Connecticut: Quassy Amusement & Waterpark

Quassy Amusement & Waterpark

Location: Middlebury

One of the most popular amusement parks for people in Connecticut is actually just over the state line in Massachusetts. (And highlighted later as that state’s top park.)

Within state borders, however, is Quassy, which more than holds its own with water slides, a beach and more than 20 fair-style rides.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “This is the way an amusement park should be operated. Although it’s not huge, this is a very fun park, primarily geared towards the little ones.” – Hokiechip

Delaware: Funland

Kurt Wagner / Flickr

Location: Rehoboth Beach

Delaware is a small state and as such doesn’t offer a traditional amusement park covered with roller coasters and giant wave pools. But along its beaches, it does feature attraction-filled boardwalks.

Rehoboth Beach prides itself on providing old-fashioned fun, and you’ll find it at the aptly named Funland, where traditional boardwalk amusements include bumper cars and a Gravitron, famously not for the faint of heart (or stomach!).

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Sample review: “We absolutely love Funland! It is great for the kids and cheap for adults. The kids have a blast and we are not broke afterwards…. Very family-friendly and even when it is packed you don’t wait in long lines.” – Jwalls930

Florida: Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World / Facebook

Location: Orlando

While Disneyland didn’t earn top marks in California, its sister amusement park in Florida stands out as the state’s best. And that’s against some seriously stiff competition.

There are tons of theme and amusement parks in Florida, including two giant Universal Orlando parks with multiple roller coasters and thrill rides, and Busch Gardens, where wild and stomach-churning rides reign.

But with six different theme parks under one umbrella, Walt Disney World is the king. Take your pick: Magical Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and two different (and massive) water parks all deliver the goods. (Though some parks are a bit better than others.)

Hey, they don’t call Orlando “the Land the Mouse Built” for nothing.

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Sample review: “This place is just unbelievable, truly perfect on every single detail. The minute you drive into Disney you feel like you are in another world completely. Pure Bliss!” – Travel Fairyyy

Georgia: Six Flags Over Georgia

Six Flags

Location: Austell

The first of many Six Flags found on this list has been in operation in Georgia since 1967 — making it the second-ever offering from the now-massive Six Flags corporation.

Not content to rest on its laurels, the park —which spans 300 acres just outside of Atlanta — adds new attractions every year, promising more thrills time and again. It also includes the Hurricane Harbor water park to help guests stay cool during Hotlanta’s summers.

TripAdvisor rating: 3.5

Sample review: “Been coming here since I was a child. Always my favorite theme park. Have brought over 50 groups of teenagers here and they love it. The best rides and best experience.” – Andy W

Hawaii: Wet’n’Wild Hawaii

Wet’n’Wild Hawaii

Location: Kapolei

Hawaii doesn’t need roller coasters when it boasts tropical rainforests, blue ocean and long, sandy beaches. But just in case you get bored with all of that, the closest you’ll find to an amusement park is Wet’n’Wild on the island of Oahu.

The park’s 25-plus rides and attractions include excellent waterslides and (appropriately) a surf simulator. Squeeze in a full day’s fun in one place, before decompressing with a Mai Tai on the beach.

TripAdvisor rating: 3.5

Sample review: “We had the best time celebrating a birthday weekend at Wet’N’Wild…. Will definitely go back, Can’t wait to spend another fun filled day at Wet’N’Wild.” – Betsy

Idaho: Silverwood Theme Park

Fox28 Spokane

Location: Athol

Roller coasters seem to go on for miles in this North Idaho amusement park. There are more than 65 rides and attractions, including four massive coasters.

As is the new norm, the park also operates a water park on the premises known as Boulder Beach Water Park.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “Silverwood is an amazing theme park! My favorite part about it is that it has activities for all ages. I go to Silverwood every year, and this year we went to the water park side and had a blast!” – Skyy T

Illinois: Six Flags Great America

Visit Lake County

Location: Gurnee

When it opened as Great America in 1976, it brought killer amusement rides to the Chicagoland area and lured travelers from all over the Midwest to sample its coasters.

Part of the Six Flags family, the park remains a major draw, adding new attractions — there are now more than 100! — each season so return visitors never lose interest.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “What going to an attraction park is all about! This is a great place to go with family & friends. It has many different attractions and the rollercoasters are a must-do!” – chuert

Indiana: Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari

Location: Santa Claus

Just because a town is named after a jolly old elf doesn’t mean you can’t have a jolly good time there any time of year.

This duo park features a water park filled with slides and an amusement park boasting some of the world’s longest roller coasters. (The Mammoth Water Coaster is a third of a mile long, while the wooden coaster Voyage stretches for 1.2 miles!)

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Sample review: “I’ve been to many other amusement parks and this one probably takes the cake for several reasons: You can actually get through the whole park in one day; the lines are never too long; drinks are free and they actually have fun, thrill-seeking rides.” – Nicole B

Iowa: Adventureland

Location: Altoona

The amusement park Adventureland came first, followed by the Adventure Bay Waterpark for cool-down fun. Combined, the parks offer more than 100 rides.

For shopping and eating, there’s also a wonderful Main Street modeled after Disneyland’s.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “We had adults and children of all ages and were able to ride plenty of rides! Coasters are great!” – Cidne

Kansas: Schlitterbahn

Groupon

Location: Kansas City

The most well-known park in Kansas, Schlitterbahn, faced tragedy in 2016 when a 10-year-old boy died on Verrückt, then the world’s tallest water slide. Earlier this year the water park was purchased by the Cedar Fair Entertainment Company, and if it reopens in 2020, it will have a new name.

Unfortunately, this is the only major park in the Sunflower State, but with its status in question, you can also venture over to the epic Worlds of Fun amusement park, located just across the border in Kansas City, Missouri.

TripAdvisor rating: 3.5

Sample review: “Nice clean waterpark. Extremely friendly staff. Nice gift shop. Clean restrooms. Water was clean & rides looked kept up. Plenty of lounges, shade, & it wasn’t crowded the day we went.” – Katherine C

Kentucky: Kentucky Kingdom

Kentucky Kingdom

Location: Louisville

Churchill Downs may have racing horses, but Kentucky Kingdom has racing coasters. One-hundred-foot drops, loops and inversions at high-flying speeds are just some of the diversions available at this popular amusement park.

With its Hurricane Bay water park, Kentucky Bay has more than 70 rides in total, offering thrills for all ages.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “The roller coasters at Kentucky kingdom we’re great! At first when you pull up they look a little small compared to where I’ve been but maaaaan…. they packed a powerful punch that gave me the adrenaline rush I was looking for!” –Godscreation19

Louisiana: Dixie Landin’

Visit Baton Rouge

Location: Baton Rouge

Louisiana’s biggest amusement park provides high-adrenaline fun on coasters like the Ragin Cajun and the Splinter water coaster, which just may soak you at the end.

Residents and visitors can also beat summer humidity in the bayou by exploring the park’s Blue Bayou water-based attractions.

TripAdvisor rating: 3.5

Sample review: “We love going to Blue Bayou every time we visit Baton Rouge…. I like the lazy river and wave pool the most, but the racer slides sure give you a rush!” – Mel1ssarae

Maine: Funtown Splashtown USA

Coaster Gallery

Location: Saco

You’ll only get one coaster at Funtown Splashtown, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have a ball when spending the day at Maine’s water and amusement park. Take a ride on the wooden Excalibur coaster and feel mighty before enjoying the park’s additional rides and games.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “Enjoyed our first visit to Funtown Splashtown. Family visit with kids 16 and 9. Great mix of rides for all ages, water park was great.” – Craig D

Maryland: Six Flags America

Theme Park Tourist

Location: Bowie

The Washington-Baltimore area’s amusement park offers many of the same coasters and adventure rides that you’ll find at other namesake Six Flags parks — which is to say, get ready to scream.

Although this is smaller than many of the Six Flags parks, it does include a water park and an array of thrill rides.

TripAdvisor rating: 3.5

Sample review: “Always a pleasure visiting and will be back soon. Great rides and good food. Good souvenirs and happy people.” – Cosmopolitan47982

Massachusetts: Six Flags New England

Location: Agawam

The largest amusement park in New England, formerly known as Riverside (after its location), practically shares a border with Connecticut and has been providing summer amusements since long before Six Flags put its touches on the park.

There are eight massive roller coasters, while Hurricane Harbor’s water park features nine refreshing tube slides.

TripAdvisor rating: 3.5

Sample review: “We had an amazing time at Six Flags New England…. Amazing for any kid or adult even for that matter.” – OllieObieOrzo

Michigan: Michigan’s Adventure

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Location: Muskegon

This classic amusement park has all the bells and whistles one wants of a day out — coasters, spinning rides, kiddie rides and, yes, a water park.

There are 250 acres and more than 50 rides here, making this the largest amusement park in the state. (And Michigan is famously amusement-park happy.)

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “Great place for a fun summer day. Both the water park and the amusement park offer lots of activities for adults, teens and children to enjoy.” – Roberta F

Minnesota: Nickelodeon Universe

Explore Minnesota

Location: Bloomington

At America’s largest mall, the Mall of America, you’ll find a full-scale amusement park inside! The largest indoor theme park occupies seven acres with Nickelodeon-themed characters, entertainment and, of course, plenty of rides — even an indoor roller coaster.

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Sample review: “If you have kids this is the place to go. They have great rides for kids large and small. They have something for adults, as well…. Mall of America is a fun place.” – Joel C

Mississippi: Geyser Falls Water Theme Park

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Location: Gulfport

What Mississippi lacks in roller coasters and amusement parks, it makes up for in ways to cool off in the summer. Geyser Falls and its pools, water slides, lazy river and soaking buckets will be so entertaining, your fingers will prune and you won’t even notice.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “Geyser Falls is a nice place to take the kids for a fun filled day. The staff were all really nice. Lots of fun.” – crystallangley1984

Missouri: Silver Dollar City

Herschend Family Entertainment

Location: Branson

For more than 50 years, Silver Dollar City has been the main attraction in Missouri’s Branson, offering 30 different rides and attractions in a throwback 1880s-themed setting. Coasters? They are here. So, too, are live shows and demonstrating craftsmen.

Six times a year, seasonal festivals lure new visitors and repeat guests alike.

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Sample review: “Been going here since I was a child, and go often as an adult! Love it, amazing rides, shows, food, and shops. Will continue to go here. It’s one of my favorite places to go!” – Tawana

Montana: Big Sky Waterpark

Big Sky Waterpark

Location: Columbia Falls

Montana is a wide expanse of a state with thousands upon thousands of acres of spectacular untouched wilderness. Here, natural landscapes, not man-made attractions, are the draw — so amusement parks aren’t really a thing.

The closest you will find is Big Sky Water Park, a small water park for when visitors get tired of seeing all the beautiful national-park lands.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “This water park is fun for the whole family. Our group had kids the ages of 18 -2 and everyone of them found things to do.” – Kim T

Nebraska: Fun-Plex

Google

Location: Omaha

Like Montana, Nebraska’s sprawling land lacks coasters and man-made thrills. But Fun-Plex attempts to bring pleasure to the people of Omaha with its tube slides that spin riders on a wet-and-wild experience.

On land, Go-Karts, a Tilt-a-Whirl, bumper cars, mini-golf and kiddie rides allow all ages to be kids again.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “This is such a great establishment, that has been here for many years. It continues to deliver a fun day for a ‘lower than your typical theme parks’ price.” – Linda K

Nevada: Adventuredome Theme Park

Colorful Places

Location: Las Vegas

Las Vegas is famous for its casinos, with a few offering amusement-park rides to entice the entire family to visit. Circus Circus is home to Adventuredome, a theme park beneath the casino’s dome.

The world’s only double-loop, double-corkscrew indoor roller coaster gives outdoor-park rides a run for their money.

TripAdvisor rating: 3.5

Sample review: “We have visited the amusement park several years in row and my kids love it. Great atmosphere and many things to do. Plus, it’s indoors.” – Mrs K

New Hampshire: Story Land

Comfort Inn & Suites

Location: Bartlett

Long a favorite for families with young children in New England, Story Land brings classic fairytales — including Humpty Dumpty and the Three Little Pigs — to life in an intimate setting. Families have been enjoying its charms since 1954.

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Sample review: “Loved every minute! This place is very relaxed and friendly. No need to feel rushed or like you are going to miss out on something. A good old days kind of place!” – Sheldon S

New Jersey: Six Flags Great Adventure

Six Flags Great Adventure

Location: Jackson Township

Six Flags continues to wow in New Jersey, providing scream-worthy coasters for visitors from the state and nearby New York City (and beyond!). Offering more than 100 rides and attractions, with new ones on the horizon, this is Jersey’s largest outdoor park.

That said, it has a new worthy rival: Nickelodeon Universe, which this year opened an indoor park akin to its Minnesota location in the American Dream shopping mall in Meadowlands.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “It is a great place to ride different types of rides. There are family rides and thrill rides. I love taking my young nephew… I can’t wait to share this magical place with him.” – Nikki M

New Mexico: Cliff’s Amusement Park

Cliff’s Amusement Park / Facebook

Location: Albuquerque

Since it opened in 1959, Cliff’s has offered a seasonal carnival full of rides every year. There are nearly two dozen rides and attractions here, with plenty of twists and turns on coasters, as well as slides and tubes at the WaterMania water park.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “This is a local amusement park with something for everyone, big kids, little kids. In the summer admission includes a small water park.” – nexmexjags

New York: Luna Park

Twitter

Location: Coney Island

When you think of Coney Island, this is the park you are envisioning. While it isn’t the original, it’s the new and modern-day amusement park on the boardwalk featuring roller coasters, a giant Ferris wheel, carnival rides and arcade games. Best yet? It’s close to the beach.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “Went on a day visit from holiday in Manhattan. Some rides a bit scary for the little ones but Luna Park is excellent fun for thrill seekers.” – ewanaglen

North Carolina: Carowinds

Carowinds

Location: Charlotte

Carowinds is located in North Carolina, just over the border from its southern neighbor. Coasters? Check. Water park? Check. Live entertainment? Check.

In fact, there are 105 acres of amusement at this fun-filled park.

TripAdvisor Rating: 4

Sample review: “A friend and I spend a week traveling to different amusement parks in different locations. Carowinds is generally one of our favorite parks.” – Amusementparkguy

North Dakota: SuperSlide Amusement Park

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Location: Bismarck

We’re back in the upper reaches of the U.S., where animals outnumber people. This means you won’t find coasters, but you will find kiddie games to help while away long summer days.

This really is a place for the little ones, with a super slide, bounce house and games in a riverside setting. Residents love it, even if it is not much.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “Great local amusement park located in the lovely Sertoma Park. Rides for all ages, bank shot basketball, mini golf, super slide, bounce house and some water games—great for those hot days!” – MNC880

Ohio: Cedar Point

Cedar Point / Facebook

Location: Sandusky

Sandusky is considered the roller-coaster capital of the world. The reason? Cedar Point.

One of the most beloved amusement parks in the country (if not the most beloved), Cedar Point is slowly taking over Lake Erie just as Disney took over Orlando. Hotels, water parks and the ever-growing main attraction make Cedar Point an experience for an entire vacation.

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Sample review: “Cedar Point is perfect for coaster fans. With an insane 18 roller coasters, this place has some of the best and baddest coasters out there.” – Benjamin E

Oklahoma: Frontier City Theme Park

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Location: Oklahoma City

With its Wild West theme, expect to have a wild time at Frontier City.

The park features carnival-style rides mixed in with roller coasters and a water park. But what really sets it apart are its store fronts straight out of a Western town and regular gun-fight shows.

TripAdvisor rating: 3.5

Sample review: “Great time with family! Kids loved it. Just the right size park for fun. The kids rode everything they wanted…. We will be back!” – Sharon C

Oregon: Oaks Amusement Park

Location: Portland

Take a roller-skating rink and marry it to a Midway with carnival games, a roller coaster and miniature golf, and you have the quaintest (and best) amusement park in Oregon.

You’ll even find a dance pavilion for events, evoking a scene from an olden-days movie.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “Oaks Park has been a part of my life since I was probably 6-7 years old…skating in the beginning…picnics as a kid….weddings several times…now I take my grandkids.” – john g

Pennsylvania: Knoebels Amusement Park

Visit PA

Location: Elysburg

If anyone mentioned Hersheypark or Dorney’s as the best amusement park, they haven’t been to Knoebels yet. Once you go, you’re hooked. This family-owned park is free to enter and you can ride the rides you like, including massive roller coasters and water rides, all using low-priced tickets.

Lines are practically non-existent, and you’re welcome to bring your own food and even pets. This is how all amusement parks should be!

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Sample review: “Free parking, no admission fee, delicious food, camping sites–Knoebel’s has everything! Friendly service and free entertainment throughout the summer. Rated best carousels and wooden roller coasters in the US.” – barbodorizzi

Rhode Island: Atlantic Beach Park

Only In Your State

Location: Westerly

The only roller coaster you will find in the small state of Rhode Island is at Atlantic Beach Park. This beachfront park is historic — the second-oldest in the country — and still contains its original carousel, as well as a kiddie coaster and other family-style rides.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “Atlantic Beach is a small seaside amusement park for children and has a small Dragon roller coaster, designed primarily for children, but bigger kids can ride too.” – Davidjellis

South Carolina: Family Kingdom Amusement Park

Visit Myrtle Beach

Location: Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach has long been South Carolina’s go-to for summertime fun, and Family Kingdom is an iconic beachfront amusement park that has been entertaining people for generations.

There are more than 30 classic carnival rides, Go-Karting, a wooden roller coaster and the state’s largest Ferris wheel.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “What a fun afternoon with kids!! The rides were a great variety for different ages and we had fun playing the games!” – CLTJennifer

South Dakota: Rush Mountain Adventure Park

Travel South Dakota

Location: Keystone

In a state that is most famous for its mountain-carved presidents, amusement parks as we traditionally conceive of them don’t exist.

Filled with state and national parks, South Dakota instead inspires outdoor activity, including at its “amusement park.” The Rush Mountain Adventure Park will give you thrills on its mountain coaster, the only coaster in the entire state. There is also zip lining and an overhead climbing challenge course.

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Sample review: “Being out in the countryside and riding a roller coaster through the pine trees was amazing.” – Birdtreemom

Tennessee: Dollywood

Dollywood / Facebook

Location: Pigeon Forge

Dolly Parton brought her sunny disposition back home to the Smoky Mountains by building this amusement park with a country theme.

There is, naturally, a ton of live music, along with holiday celebrations and, yes, roller coasters and water slides.

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Sample review: “One of the nicest staffs in an amusement park in the country. Great rides, excellent shopping and most beautiful scenery around.” – Randy Stephens

Texas: Six Flags Over Texas

City of Arlington

Location: Arlington

The last Six Flags on our list exemplifies the company’s commitment to wild fun, boasting 35 scream-inducing rides and attractions.

On tap for next year is the Aquaman: Power Wave coaster, an engineering marvel that will send riders plunging down onto a track built over water. (It’s being billed as the world’s first launch-style water coaster.)

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “The place has a large assortment of rides. I found the park is easy to get around and those looking for max thrill will find plenty to do. Overall the place is a great value.” – Robert L

Utah: Lagoon Amusement

Salt Lake Magazine

Location: Lagoon Park

There are over 50 rides and 40 games found at Lagoon Amusement, a family-owned amusement park that promises the largest kiddie play area in the country. The X-Venture rides are for shrieking, Lagoon A Beach gives you that slash factor, and you can go back to the Wild West in Pioneer Village.

TripAdvisor rating: 3.5

Sample review: “We are from California and have visited many of the theme parks there. But we’ve never had such a all around fun day as we did at Lagoon. The park is great and in a beautiful location and we spent the whole day there. We think it’s a cross between Six Flags Magic Mountain and Knott’s Berry Farm but, without the long lines and high prices.” – Charles

Vermont: Santa’s Land USA

Chris Mays / Brattleboro Reformer

Location: Putney

Vermont’s ski mountains provide its residents stimulation in the winter, but Santa’s Land provides a different diversion. For more than 60 years, children have enjoyed the North Pole-themed fantasy land, although the rides are very much geared toward little kids.

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Sample review: “My grandparents brought me there when I was a child and my mom when she was a child. I always remembered the place and the feeling associated with being there.” – heidiwc79

Virginia: Kings Dominion

Kings Dominion

Location: Doswell

Overlooking 400 acres of Virginia is Kings Dominion and its giant roller coasters with drops visible for miles. Touting the look and feel of a Six Flags outpost, this amusement park offers more than 60 rides and attractions and has been providing the fun for 45 years.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “They have a wide variety of rides from toddlers all the way to teenagers to parents and grand parents… It’s such a fun place to be with either just a friend or with the whole family.” – Eddie F

Washington: Wild Waves Theme & Water Park

Love Exploring

Location: Federal Way

Wild Waves is more than a water park. Despite its name, it also offers a variety of coasters, including the iconic Timberhawk Ride of Prey, a wooden beast.

Visitors enjoy two parks in one here, with 30 rides at the amusement park and another 10 in the water park.

TripAdvisor rating: 3.5

Sample review: “We have been to Wild Waves several times. There is a large parking lot and the park is kept clean despite so many visitors. Rides are plentiful and there is a combination of both water and dry rides… OH and our kids love the wave pool.” – Chris H

West Virginia: Camden Park

Negative-G

Location: Huntington

With more than 30 rides, games and attractions, Camden Park is West Virginia’s traditional amusement park, in operation for 100 years! The rides are a bit more tame than at other spots on this list, but ticket prices are low and provide good bang for the buck.

TripAdvisor rating: 3.5

Sample review: “If you love vintage, it doesn’t get any more vintage than Camden Park, although the super-wobbly wooden roller coaster derives its thrill factor more from age than high-speed technology! Old-school and charming.” – motherwv

Wisconsin: Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park

Theme Park Review

Location: Wisconsin Dells

Water parks are huge in Wisconsin Dells and Mt. Olympus has one of the best, along with a land-based park featuring five roller coasters.

Located on a 1,600-acre resort, this epic park makes for a great trip in all seasons.

TripAdvisor rating: 3

Sample review: “Mt. Olympus is a very large waterpark / amusement park, so the perfect blend of wet and fun.” – Todd Dahlquist

Wyoming: Snow King Mountain

Snow King Mountain Resort

Location: Jackson

Jackson is known around the world for its massive ski-mountain resort. But when the snow melts, the mountain brings more alpine adventures with its “coaster” and slide down the hills.

Snow King also offers treetop challenges for those not afraid of heights.

TripAdvisor rating: 4

Sample review: “All of us had fun and wanted to stay longer! Would recommend for a little family fun! The slide was awesome… The place does not disappoint.” – megank04