The 7 best theme parks outside of Orlando for every age group and interest

When someone mentions a theme park vacation, most people immediately think of the amazing parks in Orlando, Florida. But the truth is that there are plenty of other amusement parks across the country where families can enjoy roller coasters, adorable characters, wild food, and more. Places like Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm are rich in history and beloved characters, while Dollywood and Hersheypark offer family fun at home. Even better, our list of the best theme parks outside Orlando for every age group features several small, kid-friendly parks where even the youngest thrill-seekers can visit attractions created just for them.

So if you’re planning your next vacation and want to add a theme park day, keep reading. With exciting theme parks all over the country, chances are there is one near your next vacation location.

Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California

Best for: families and nostalgia seekers

Disneyland Park is full of history. In fact, this year, the park will continue to celebrate its 70th anniversary through August 9th. Families with children of all ages will find plenty to do at the park from early morning until late at night. Little ones will enjoy Mickey’s Toontown, where kid-friendly rides, expansive green spaces to run around, and the chance to meet classic characters like Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, all come together in one place. Adults looking to relive their youth will enjoy taking the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad or taking a peaceful trip on the Mark Twain Riverboat around the Rivers of America.

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Nearest place to stay: Hotel Lulu, a budget hotel just a short walk to Disneyland Park.

Disney California Adventure in Anaheim, California

Best for: families with teenagers and adults traveling together

If your trip takes you to Southern California and you’re traveling with teenagers or a group of adults without kids, you’ll love the adult-centric magic of Disney at Disney California Adventure. While the park has some attractions for little ones, most of the rides are more thrill rides, including my favorite, Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission – BREAKOUT. Additionally, the park has some of the best dining options at the Disneyland Resort, including a number of Asian fusion fast-service spots at San Fransokyo Square and the upscale table-service spot, Carthay Circle Restaurant.

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Nearest place to stay: JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort, a luxury property that feels far from a theme park.

Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California

Best for: thrill seekers and Peanuts fans

Not far from Disneyland is Knott’s Berry Farm, a fantastic amusement park where roller coasters and historic charm come together in one place. The park has a variety of attractions for older kids looking for high-speed thrills and tamer rides for younger kids. Plus, there’s a fantastic land all themed to the Peanuts gang, dubbed Camp Snoopy. You can even meet the dog with the same name in this region here. Don’t leave without trying some of the park’s boyenberry treats, including boyenberry punch, boysenberry funnel cake, and boyenberry-stuffed churros.

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Nearest place to stay: The Knott’s Hotel, an on-site hotel with upgraded amenities and close to parks.

LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad, California

Best for: families with children under 8 years old

LEGOLAND California is a fantastic choice for families with young children who love all things LEGO. The park is filled with more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions, allowing families to have a full day of fun. On March 6, the park will open its newest land, LEGO Galaxy, featuring indoor, family-friendly, space-themed coasters.

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Whatever you do, don’t forget to order Granny’s Apple Fries before you end your day at the parks. Fried apple sticks are sprinkled with cinnamon sugar and are one of LEGOLAND’s signature treats.

Nearest place to stay: LEGOLAND Castle Hotel, an exciting LEGO-themed hotel where kids can continue to make their brick-building dreams come true.

Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Best for: rollercoaster fans and country music fans

National treasure and all-around icon Dolly Parton has her own amusement park located in the Great Smoky Mountains. Dollywood is a fantastic park for roller coaster fans and country music fans. For thrill seekers, nine high-speed coasters await. One of the most intense was the Tennessee Tornado, which had a height of 128 feet and reached speeds of 70 miles per hour.

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Another exciting ride coming to the park this year is NightFlight Expedition, an indoor adventure coaster that will combine a traditional roller coaster with a water ride to create something truly unique. Beyond the rides, the park is filled with all kinds of live music from country to gospel, so when you need a break, grab a slice of cinnamon toast and sit back to enjoy the live performances.

Nearest place to stay: HeartSong Lodge & Resort in Dollywood, an upscale country stay with lots of Dolly touches.

Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri

Best for: history fanatics and families with teenagers

Silver Dollar City is one of my favorite regional amusement parks because of its incredible history and variety of activities to do. This park was built above a cave with its own history. (Pro tip: You can sign up for a cave tour at the front of the park, which is a unique experience worth an hour of valuable park time.) History buffs will love this park for its 1800s charm and the many craftsmen doing things like wood carving and blacksmithing. In addition, teenagers will find garden coasters a great thrill. It should come as no surprise to parents if teens keep rejoining the same lines.

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Nearest place to stay: Hampton Inn Branson on the Strip, basic hotel with free hot breakfast and clean rooms.

Hershey Park in Hershey, Pennsylvania

Best for: candy lovers and water park fans

Hersheypark is filled with rides, but I love that it has an entire water park, The Boardwalk at Hersheypark, right in the middle of the candy-themed attractions. Best of all, the water park is included in your ticket to Hersheypark, so you don’t have to worry about spending more money for a few hours of fun. This water park has an exciting water coaster, the world’s longest mat racing slide, a lazy river, and more. In addition to the water park, make sure you take a photo with one of Hershey’s candy characters, like Twizz and Jolly Rancher.

Nearest place to stay: Hersheypark Camping Resort, a campground with tent and RV campsites, as well as cabins and tiny houses.

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