Best Amusement Parks for Families: Where to Go This Summer

Summer is the perfect time for family fun and thrilling adventures, and there’s no better way to make memories than by visiting an amusement park! Whether you’re looking for kid-friendly rides, water attractions, or character meet-and-greets, there’s an amusement park for every family’s preference.
To help you plan the ultimate family getaway, here’s a list of the best amusement parks for families to visit this summer—packed with fun rides, attractions, and entertainment for all ages!
1. Walt Disney World – Orlando, Florida
Why Families Love It
- Four incredible theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom
- Meet beloved Disney characters
- Attractions for all ages, from classic rides to thrilling roller coasters
Must-Do Attractions for Families
- It’s a Small World – A slow-moving ride perfect for young children
- Space Mountain – A thrilling roller coaster for older kids and teens
- Avatar Flight of Passage – A breathtaking 3D ride through Pandora
2. Universal Studios – Orlando, Florida & Hollywood, California
Why Families Love It
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter with immersive attractions and themed shops
- Movie-themed rides featuring Jurassic Park, Minions, and Spider-Man
- Play areas and 3D shows for younger kids
Must-Do Attractions for Families
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – A thrilling adventure through Hogwarts
- Jurassic World VelociCoaster – A high-speed coaster for thrill-seekers
- The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash – A fun ride for young kids
3. Disneyland – Anaheim, California
Why Families Love It
- A classic Disney experience with two parks: Disneyland and California Adventure
- Smaller and more manageable than Walt Disney World
- Pixar Pier and Avengers Campus offer new attractions for families
Must-Do Attractions for Families
- Pirates of the Caribbean – A fun boat ride for all ages
- Radiator Springs Racers – A high-speed Cars-themed ride
- WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure – An interactive ride for Marvel fans
4. LEGOLAND – Florida, California, New York, Texas
Why Families Love It
- Perfect for kids ages 2-12 with interactive LEGO-themed attractions
- Water parks, mini-golf, and play areas for nonstop fun
- LEGO-themed hotels for an immersive overnight stay
Must-Do Attractions for Families
- Coast Guard Academy – A fun boating adventure for younger kids
- LEGO NINJAGO The Ride – An interactive 3D experience
- LEGOLAND Water Park – A must for hot summer days
5. Hersheypark – Hershey, Pennsylvania
Why Families Love It
- Combines a theme park, water park, and a chocolate factory
- Over 70 rides ranging from kiddie attractions to roller coasters
- Hershey’s Chocolate World lets families make their own candy bars
Must-Do Attractions for Families
- Candymonium – A thrilling roller coaster for adventure seekers
- The Boardwalk Water Park – A great way to cool off in the summer heat
- Hershey’s Unwrapped Experience – A fun, interactive chocolate tour
6. Dollywood – Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Why Families Love It
- Southern charm meets theme park fun with rides, music, and live entertainment
- Great for younger kids, with gentle rides and water attractions
- Seasonal events, including Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration
Must-Do Attractions for Families
- Dollywood Express Train Ride – A scenic ride through the mountains
- Country Fair Area – Classic carnival rides for young kids
- Splash Country Water Park – A summer must for cooling off
7. Wisconsin Dells – Wisconsin
Why Families Love It
- Known as the "Water Park Capital of the World"
- Features a mix of indoor and outdoor water parks for year-round fun
- Amusement parks, boat tours, and wildlife attractions add variety
Must-Do Attractions for Families
- Noah’s Ark Waterpark – The largest water park in the U.S. with slides and lazy rivers
- Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park – A mix of thrilling coasters and water rides
- Original Wisconsin Ducks Tour – A fun land-and-water adventure
From magical castles and thrilling coasters, these top amusement parks for families offer unforgettable summer experiences. Whether your kids love high-speed adventures or gentle rides, there’s a perfect destination waiting for you.
Start planning, pack your bags, and get ready for a summer of fun, laughter, and family memories at one of these incredible amusement parks.