The Top 16 East Coast Amusement Parks for Family Fun

Looking for some thrill and excitement on the East Coast? Look no further. In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the best amusement parks on the East Coast. From roller coasters to water slides, these parks have it all. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for a fun day out with the family, these amusement parks are sure to deliver.

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Here are the best amusement parks on the East Coast:

1. Universal Orlando Resort, FL

best east coast amusement parks

Universal Orlando Resort in Florida is undoubtedly one of the best amusement parks on the East Coast. From thrilling rides to immersive experiences, it offers something for everyone. The park’s highlight is undoubtedly The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Here, fans can explore Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, ride the iconic Hogwarts Express, and even try Butterbeer. Other attractions include adrenaline-pumping roller coasters like The Incredible Hulk Coaster and Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.

For those seeking a more laid-back experience, there are uniquely themed areas such as Jurassic Park and Toon Lagoon. These areas are perfect for family-friendly adventures or simply enjoying the atmosphere.

Additionally, Universal Orlando Resort boasts top-notch shows like The Blues Brothers Live and the spectacular nighttime show Cinematic Celebration. 

2. Animal Kingdom, FL

best east coast amusement parks

Another great option is the Animal Kingdom in Florida. This sprawling park is perfect for animal lovers and thrill-seekers alike. From the moment you step foot inside, you’ll be transported to a world of adventure and excitement.

Get up close and personal with exotic animals from around the globe at attractions like Kilimanjaro Safaris and Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, hop on rides like Expedition Everest or Avatar Flight of Passage that will leave you breathless.

Animal Kingdom also offers a wide range of dining options, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants with delicious cuisine. This Park is one of my all-time favorites. It also made the top list of this Reddit user’s top amusement parks they have visited.

3. Magic Kingdom, FL

best east coast amusement parks

No trip to Florida is complete without a visit to the iconic Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort. Known as “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” this theme park offers endless family fun and enchantment.

From classic attractions like Cinderella’s Castle to thrilling rides such as Space Mountain, Magic Kingdom has something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the world of your favorite Disney characters, watch enchanting parades, and witness spectacular fireworks displays.

With themed rides, live entertainment, and plenty of magical moments, a day at Magic Kingdom will create memories that will last a lifetime.

4. Six Flags Great Adventure, NJ

Located in the heart of New Jersey, Six Flags Great Adventure is a thrill-seeker’s paradise. This amusement park is home to some of the world’s most exhilarating roller coasters.

This includes the legendary Kingda Ka, which holds the record for being the fastest roller coaster in North America. With a variety of thrill rides, live entertainment, and themed areas, Six Flags Great Adventure offers endless excitement for visitors of all ages.

Whether you’re a fan of intense coasters or prefer more family-friendly attractions, this park has something for everyone. So buckle up, hold on tight, and get ready for a wild adventure at Six Flags Great Adventure.

5. Hersheypark, PA

Nestled in the sweet city of Hershey, Pennsylvania, Hersheypark is a delightful combination of chocolate-themed fun, water attractions, live shows, and thrilling roller coasters. This family-friendly park offers something for everyone.

From gentle rides for younger visitors to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters that will leave thrill seekers craving more. Don’t forget to visit The Boardwalk, Hersheypark’s water park.

Here you can cool off on water rides and soak up the sun in the wave pool. With live entertainment, charming themed areas, and of course, plenty of sweet treats, Hersheypark is a must-visit destination for families looking for a fun-filled adventure.

6. King’s Dominion, VA

Located in Doswell, Virginia, King’s Dominion is a premier amusement park that offers a wide range of thrill rides, water attractions, and family-friendly fun. With a variety of roller coasters, including the iconic Dominator and Intimidator 305, adrenaline junkies will be in coaster heaven.

The park also features a water park, Soak City, where visitors can ride water slides, float along a lazy river, and enjoy the wave pool. Families with younger visitors will appreciate Planet Snoopy, a themed area with rides, shows, and meet-and-greets with beloved Peanuts characters.

King’s Dominion has something for everyone, making it the perfect place for a day of excitement and entertainment.

7. Carowinds, NC

Another top East Coast amusement park that deserves a mention is Carowinds. Located on the border of North and South Carolina, Carowinds is a thrilling amusement park that brings together the best of both states.

With a water park, roller coasters, thrill rides, and family attractions, there’s something for everyone at Carowinds. Cool off at Carolina Harbor. This is the park’s water park, where you can ride water slides, relax in the lazy river, or splash around in the wave pool.

For thrill-seekers, there’s no shortage of excitement with roller coasters like Fury 325, Intimidator, and Afterburn. Families with younger visitors will enjoy the family-friendly attractions, live entertainment, and themed areas.

As the sun sets, stay for the spectacular nighttime shows, fireworks, and live performances. Whether you’re seeking water park fun, adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, or family entertainment, Carowinds has it all.

8. Six Flags America, MD

Situated just outside of Washington D.C., Six Flags America is an amusement park that offers a thrilling combination of roller coasters, water attractions, live entertainment, and family fun. The park features a variety of water rides and slides.

This visitors to beat the summer heat at Hurricane Harbor Water Park. For thrill-seekers, the park boasts exhilarating roller coasters, including the popular Superman: Ride of Steel coaster. Explore themed areas, enjoy live shows, and indulge in delicious park food during your visit.

Six Flags America is a great place to make lasting memories with family and friends.

9. Canobie Lake Park, NH

This amusement park also deserves a mention when it comes to the best East Coast amusement parks. Situated in Salem, New Hampshire, Canobie Lake Park is a family-friendly amusement park that offers a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages.

From thrilling roller coasters to water attractions, live entertainment, and delicious park food, there’s something for everyone at Canobie Lake Park. Enjoy family fun with rides like Untamed, a wooden coaster, or cool off at Castaway Island Water Park.

Don’t miss the live entertainment, including concerts and shows, which are sure to keep the whole family entertained. With plenty of options for family fun, Canobie Lake Park is the perfect destination for a summer adventure.

10. Six Flags New England, MA

Located in Agawam, Massachusetts, Six Flags New England is an amusement park that offers a thrilling experience for visitors of all ages. With a water park, thrill rides, live entertainment, and world-class roller coasters, there’s no shortage of excitement at this park.

Cool off at Hurricane Harbor Water Park, which features water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. Thrill seekers will love the park’s roller coasters, including the record-breaking steel coaster, WICKED CYCLONE.

With themed areas, live shows, and plenty of options for family fun, Six Flags New England is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers.

11. Morey’s Piers, NJ

Morey’s Piers is another top choice if you are looking for a fun amusement park experience on the East Coast. Located in Wildwood, New Jersey, Morey’s Piers is a seaside amusement park that offers a unique blend of water park fun, roller coasters, and family entertainment.

The park features three amusement piers, each offering a different theme and a variety of rides and attractions. Cool off at one of the water parks, ride thrilling roller coasters, and enjoy family fun attractions suitable for visitors of all ages.

From classic rides like the Ferris wheel to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, Morey’s Piers offers a memorable experience against the backdrop of the Jersey Shore.

12. Luna Park, NY

Situated on the iconic Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York, Luna Park is a historic amusement park that has been delighting visitors since 1903. From thrilling rides to live entertainment, there’s something for everyone at Luna Park.

The park features a variety of attractions, including roller coasters, family rides, and kiddie rides, ensuring fun for visitors of all ages. Take a spin on the historic Cyclone wooden roller coaster, enjoy the stunning views from the Wonder Wheel, or try your luck at the games and arcades.

With its nostalgic charm and classic attractions, Luna Park is a must-visit destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.

Related: Top 21 Best Boardwalks on The East Coast

13. Knoebels Amusement Resort, PA

Located in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, Knoebels Amusement Resort is a family-owned and operated park that offers a unique blend of classic amusement park attractions and family fun. What sets Knoebels apart is its commitment to providing an affordable and inclusive experience for visitors.

With free admission, visitors can enjoy the park’s attractions, including wooden roller coasters, thrill rides, water attractions, and live entertainment, without breaking the bank. Knoebels offers plenty of options for family fun, making it the perfect place for a summer getaway.

14. Busch Gardens, VA

With its unique combination of thrilling roller coasters and a beautiful European theme, it offers an experience like no other. The park’s most famous ride, Apollo’s Chariot, is a must-try for any adrenaline junkie as it reaches speeds of up to 73 miles per hour and provides breathtaking drops and twists.

Additionally, Busch Gardens is home to an array of entertaining shows including live music performances and animal presentations featuring majestic creatures such as eagles and wolves. As you stroll through the park, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world with meticulously designed landscapes that resemble European countries like Italy, France, Germany, and England. 

15. Sesame Place, PA

Located in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, Sesame Place is the perfect amusement park for families with younger visitors. Inspired by the beloved Sesame Street characters, this park offers a variety of attractions, shows, and water rides that will delight children of all ages.

From thrilling water slides to gentle rides, there’s something for everyone at Sesame Place. Meet Elmo, Big Bird, and the rest of the gang, enjoy live shows, and splash around in the water attractions. With its focus on family fun and entertainment, Sesame Place is sure to create lasting memories for your little ones.

16. Dorney Park, PA

Dorney Park, located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, is one of the best amusement parks on the East Coast. This park offers a perfect mix of thrilling coasters and family-friendly attractions.

From the adrenaline-pumping Steel Force roller coaster, which features an exhilarating drop of 205 feet and speeds up to 75 mph, to the more relaxed White Water Landing water ride, there is something for everyone at Dorney Park.

The park’s atmosphere is casual and laid-back, making it a great place to spend a fun-filled day with friends or family. In addition to its impressive array of rides, Dorney Park also hosts entertaining live shows and boasts an extensive selection of delicious dining options.

What Makes these East Coast Amusement Parks Stand Out?

What sets these East Coast amusement parks apart from the rest? It’s not just their thrilling roller coasters, water attractions, or family fun options, but a combination of all that makes them stand out. These amusement parks have been carefully designed to provide guests with an unforgettable experience, catering to thrill seekers, water slide enthusiasts, and families looking for a fun-filled adventure.

With their world-class attractions, themed areas, live entertainment, and delicious food, these parks go above and beyond to ensure visitors have the time of their lives. Whether you’re zooming through the air on a roller coaster, splashing down a water slide, or simply enjoying quality time with your family, these amusement parks deliver on their promise of creating lasting memories.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the East Coast of the United States is home to some of the best amusement parks in the country. From the thrilling rides at Universal Orlando Resort and Six Flags Great Adventure to the magical experiences at Magic Kingdom and Hersheypark, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re in Florida, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or any other state along the East Coast, you’re sure to find an amusement park that will create lasting memories for you and your family. So get ready to experience the excitement, the thrill, and the joy that these amazing amusement parks have to offer. Plan your visit today and embark on an unforgettable adventure!

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