Whether you’re looking to get vertical on a rollercoaster or just want to indulge in theme park concessions like popcorn and churros, the United States is a haven for amusement wonders. And while the Mouse certainly has a strong grip on amusement park offerings, Disney isn't the only place to let your inner child have some fun. Escape into your favorite movies, see the Great Lakes from insane heights, or go on safari — here are the best theme parks that aren’t Disney.
Universal Studios - Orlando, Florida
Universal Studios has all the charm, magic, and fantasy of Disney but caters more heavily to an adult crowd. From Marvel giants like Spiderman and The Hulk to the enchanting Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you’ll be transported straight into your favorite movies. Be sure to get the full experience by not only visiting Universal Studios itself but also Islands of Adventure, two theme parks for the price of one. Get lost in the quirkiness of Dr. Seuss, search for velociraptors in Jurassic Park, or have your wand choose you at Ollivanders. Whatever your fancy, you’ve come to the right place to be immersed in your beloved cinematic masterpieces and indulge in some heart-pumping coasters like Escape From Gringotts, Jurassic World Velocicoaster, and The Incredible Hulk Coaster.
Cedar Point - Sandusky, Ohio
Overlooking Lake Erie roughly an hour outside Cleveland, Cedar Point is one of America's best and oldest amusement parks. Opened in 1870, the rollercoaster haven is the second oldest theme park in the country, with its first ride being the water toboggan that literally sent riders flying into the lake. Today, visitors can expect the best collection of rollercoasters in the United States with favorites like Millenium Force, Steel Vengeance, and Top Thrill Dragster.
Cedar Point has received several awards for their incredible attractions, including the distinction of being the only park in the world with more than six coasters that go over 200 feet high, and the largest amount of rollercoaster track at one theme park in the world. Needless to say, this might be the crown jewel of amusement for adrenaline junkies. If you’re looking to get around the park with ease, consider purchasing a Fast Pass that will send you right to the front of the lines.
Kings Island - Mason, Ohio
Cedar Point isn't Ohio's only entry on the list. Located just north of Ohio’s burgeoning riverfront metropolis, Cincinnati, Kings Island is home to some of the best rollercoasters in the U.S. Swing from the giant pendulum called Delirium or climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower to get a bird's eye view of the sprawling park. If you're visiting in the summer months, check out their waterpark, Soak City, to cool off after a long day on your feet.
Kings Island recently revealed their newest ride, a giga coaster called Orion, one of only seven in the world. Climb aboard and soar through the skies at 91 mph, reaching heights of 287 feet. Don’t leave the park without trying a few Cincinnati favorites like Skyline Chili or LaRosas’s pizza. The famous blue ice cream, even better in an Icee float, has also been a staple for decades. If you’re looking for a fun road trip idea, connect King’s Island with Cedar Point in the north, just over 3 hours away.
Knott’s Berry Farm - Los Angeles, California
Tucked away in the Buena Park suburb of Los Angeles, Knott’s Berry Farm is a family friendly, western-themed amusement park that’s devoted to, you guessed it, berries. Specifically, boysenberries. Knott’s Berry Farm got its start as a humble berry stand, as the name suggests. But the berry theme goes beyond their slightly kitschy atmosphere and also appears in delicious berry-themed desserts like berry churros and boysenberry fudge. Don’t miss their classic fried chicken dinner for a salty kick to go with your sweet.
Today you’ll find an Old Western Ghost Town to explore and dozens of rides, including hair-raising rollercoasters, to entertain you. Come Halloween, the park transforms into Knott’s Scary Farm enticing spooky lovers near and far with mazes, haunted houses, and ghostly characters.
Busch Gardens - Tampa, Florida and Williamsburg, Virginia
With locations in Florida and Virginia, Busch Gardens combines the thrill of a theme park with heartwarming animal experiences. Depending on which park you visit, you’ll have your pick of exhilirating rides and encounters with furry friends, each with a different theme. Virginia’s Busch Gardens is European themed with a Rhine River Cruise, Escape from Pompei water attraction, and unique animals to visit like Highland cows, wolves, and Clydesdale horses. Florida’s park is themed on the African Serengeti with huge steel coasters, the Congo River Rapids ride, and Serengeti Express where visitors will come face to face with animals like giraffes and zebras. Whether you’re an animal lover or just love getting your adrenaline pumping, there’s a little something for everyone at Busch Gardens.
