For the ultimate thrill, few attractions beat a spine-tingling spin on a rollercoaster. Luckily, with state-of-the-art amusement parks scattered all over the world, it’s easier than ever for daredevil travelers to find their adrenaline fix—not to mention top-notch eateries, toddler-friendly rides, and mesmerizing dance and theater performances. After all, the appeal of a great amusement park is its breadth of attractions.
Each year, millions of people set out to find the most dazzling, immersive theme park experiences. Travel + Leisure brings you essential tips on which attractions are drawing the biggest crowds.
Why visit amusement parks?
The newest theme parks transform Blockbuster movies into high-speed rollercoasters, haunted houses, and 4D adventure journeys. Watch your favorite superhero come to life at the world’s largest indoor amusement park, or be the first to ride the Star Wars-themed ‘Millennium Falcon’ in Disneyland.
Hunting for the latest attractions at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter? Want to learn how familiar attractions are keeping things fresh? Travel + Leisure publishes exclusive travel tips and tricks to visiting and enjoying the world’s top amusement parks, always keeping an eye out for the most spectacular, gravity-defying rides and themed experiences. With new developments coming up in Dubai, Hong Kong, and Japan, there’s never been a better time to go. We make sure to send writers to check out newly opened theme parks before anyone else. As you plan your trip, be sure to choose an experience that your family will remember for decades to come.
Know your park
At Travel + Leisure, we’re all too familiar with the logistical puzzle of organizing a group trip, especially to an amusement park. Our detailed guides help you navigate these sprawling mini-cities like a pro—whether it’s skipping the line to popular rides, choosing which restaurants to eat at (and which ones to avoid), or finding the closest public transportation.
Get your feet wet
Not to be forgotten are themed water parks, which allow travelers to take a break from the heat, zoom down water slides to cool off, and even learn about marine life at aquarium-themed exhibits. Filled with exotic themed lands and heart-stopping rides, indoor and outdoor water parks guarantee maximum fun on your next trip.
