Amusement Parks Worth the Road Trip
From east to west, the United States has no shortage of amusement parks. Whether you’re looking for a staycation visit, a road trip or flying to your dream destination, there are so many parks to choose from that it can be difficult to decide. Here are some of our recommendations for your next family vacation.
Disney: this is usually the first amusement park or resort that comes to mind, and ask any kid what park they’ll want to visit and most will say Disneyland or Disney World first. With locations in both metro Southern California and Florida, Disney’s within reach of many people. Fox makes it easy for you to reserve a cheap rental car with many locations in both states, close to the major airports and freeways for easy navigation and route planning. Both Disney resorts are highly popular, so be sure to reserve and purchase tickets well in advance, and while you’re booking everything, consider your accommodations so you can add in some of the other amusement parks we recommend below! With so many areas to visit, you may want to plan several days to hit up everything, including Epcot and the Wild Animal Kingdom.
Universal Studios: there are parks in both Hollywood, California and Orlando, Florida, making it the perfect park to add into a trip when you’re already in town to visit Disney. With both locations now offering the Harry Potter Wizarding World, you’ll undoubtedly have a wonderful time, with the only negative being how to fit it all into your trip! Universal City Walk in Hollywood also offers a unique shopping and dining experience and is the home to many types of nightlife for both locals and visitors. Universal’s Islands of Adventure, also located in Orlando, is another offshoot worth the visit.
Knott’s Berry Farm: located in Buena Park, California, it’s a short drive from Disneyland and close to the major freeways as well. It’s an affordable western-themed amusement park with fast coasters as well as rides for the little ones in Camp Snoopy. No visit to the parks is complete without trying the famous boysenberry offerings in the many restaurants, and there is an on-site hotel to make your visit that much easier.
Six Flags: While names like Magic Mountain and Six Flags Over Georgia may come to mind, did you know that there are actually over 15 Six Flags parks in the United States, and several more international amusement parks? Six Flags rides range from crazy coasters and fast rides to white water rafting and rides for small children. Each park is unique and with affordable ticket prices, you may want to try to visit each one when you’re in the area. If you’re into water parks, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in the Los Angeles area is a fun way to cool off from the California sun and is also within a short driving distance from Disneyland and Knott’s Berry farm, making Southern California an amazing amusement park vacation destination.
Cedar Point: Known as the roller coaster capital of the world, Cedar Point, located in Sandusky, Ohio, is a fantastic family destination if you’re located in the eastern United States and don’t want to have to head too far away. Cedar Point has rides for all ages, and if you’re not into riding, there is entertainment, shopping and food options galore. This year, they are celebrating the debut of Valravn, the tallest, fastest and longest dive coaster in the world! Like Knott’s Berry Farm, you can also purchase the FunPix pass, allowing for many photo opportunities throughout the park for one low price!
Schlitterbahn Water Park: unknown to many, Schlitterbahn is a hidden gem located in New Braunfels, Texas, not far from San Antonio, making it a great day trip if you’re visiting someone at Ft. Sam Houston. It’s a 65-acre water park, full of water rides, slides and lazy rivers to keep you all busy for the whole day, whether you want to relax on a beach or get wet and stay active. There are on-site accommodations available, along with restaurants and shops.
Wisconsin Dells: the “waterpark capital of the world” is the perfect stop for someone in the upper portion of the United States. The Dells is known for Noah’s Ark, the largest outdoor water park in the U.S. The Dells is full of various indoor and outdoor water play areas, as well as 90 locations to eat and drink, making it a place as fun for a ladies’ day out, a family adventure or a couples’ day to play in the water like they’re kids again!
Hershey Park: no amusement park list would be complete without including Hershey Park, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Not only does it include much of the namesake-based chocolate and related foods, but it offers rides for all ages, entertainment, shows and options to stay onsite in the Hershey Lodge, hotel or campsite. Like most parks on our list, there are water rides as well as coasters and family rides.
No matter where you are located, an amusement park road trip is within your budget with the help of Fox discount rental cars. We’re located all throughout the United States to help you save money on your transportation, and we’ll help ensure you get a vehicle that fits you and all of your luggage comfortably. Check out our Deals page, updated daily, to find coupons available at the particular location you need. Book online here and know you're saving money on your trip.
Enjoy your upcoming travels and if you visit one of the amusement parks we recommend, we’d love to see your photos! Share them on our Facebook page and travel safe!