Top 7 Amusement Parks in the US That Aren’t Disney

7 Non-Disney United States Theme Parks You Need to Visit

Though parks like Disney and Universal are beloved by people around the world, there are other amusement parks in the US that also deserve some recognition! For anyone seeking thrills or searching for the perfect way to spend a day with the family, you’re in luck! Our experts have pulled together some of our favorite United States theme parks that you’ll need to visit while on your next vacation:

King’s Island

Mason, Ohio

This 364-acre amusement park is just a short drive from Cincinnati and a must-visit attraction in Ohio. Since opening in 1972, the park has expanded to include a water park for the warmer months, Halloween Haunt and the Great Pumpkin Fest during the fall, and a special WinterFest that extends from the end of November until the end of December. Guests will love the many rides available including award-winning roller coasters, a variety of dining experiences, live shows and entertainment, and so much more.

Hershey Park

Hershey, Pennsylvania

Hershey is known for being more than just delicious chocolate—there’s also a whole amusement park in its honor! Hershey is family-friendly with a wide variety of kiddie rides, roller coasters, and waterpark attractions, as well as food and other entertainment options available for people of all ages. With their Christmas Candyland light show, live entertainment, and Santa visits during the holiday season, you’ll never miss out on a chance to visit this exciting park and experiencing all it has to offer.

Knott’s Berry Farm

Buena Park, California

With around 4 million visitors each year, it’s no surprise that Knott’s Berry Farm is a family favorite for those who want to spend time enjoying comfortable California weather and trying out the many rides at the park! Find rides, shows, and dining in all of the different sections of California’s first theme park that make it so memorable including Camp Snoopy, Old West Ghost Town, Fiesta Village, and The Boardwalk. There are attractions for kids of all ages, making it an ideal place to bring the entire family for a day of fun.

Cedar Point

Sandusky, Ohio

Located on beautiful Lake Erie, Cedar Point is the second oldest amusement park in the US and a favorite for both vacationers and locals alike. Known as the Roller Coaster Capital of the World, guests love to explore the many exciting rides the park has to offer, as well as visit the Cedar Point Shores Waterpark that’s also on-site. This park is big on unique experiences like water rentals, glass blowing classes, sunrise VIP tours, and other special events that are hosted throughout the year.

The Island

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

As if there weren’t enough fun things to do in Pigeon Forge, The Island is another exciting option on the list. The Island offers a variety of dining experiences, shopping, and attractions for anyone to find something they love. Families particularly enjoy the many rides, large arcade area, the maze, the Island Show Fountain, laser tag, and the various obstacle-course activities available. Visit for the day or just for a few hours and you’ll be sure to find something for both the children and adults in your party.

Silver Dollar City

Branson, Missouri

As one of the top attractions in popular Branson, Silver Dollar City doesn’t disappoint. The 1880s-inspired theme park has rides for guests of all ages and even has extra special features like a petting zoo, a look into Marvel Cave, authentic 1800s homes, and other distinct attractions. If you want to visit during the winter season, you still can! Silver Dollar hosts a beautiful light display for the holidays, a stunning parade, interactive fun like meeting Santa, shows, family feasts, and more!

Sesame Place

Langhorne, Pennsylvania

If you love the Muppet universe, you’re going to love Sesame Place! This park is wonderful for children with both dry and wet rides, and the chance to meet some of their favorite Sesame Street characters and see the many live shows offered. During Christmas, guests line up to enjoy the seasonal activities like Santa and Rudolph meet and greets, holiday storytimes, Merry Marketplace, parades, light shows, and rides on the Furry Express to see all of the beautiful Christmas lights set up around the property.

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