Theme Park Vacations | Family Vacation Critic (2024)

Trending for Theme Park Vacations

The 13 Cheapest Theme Park Hotels in the U.S.

by Tarah Chieffi

The cost of a theme park vacation can easily climb higher than your favorite roller coaster, but it doesn’t have to. One of the easiest…

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19 Best Theme Parks in the World

by Megan duBois

Visiting a theme park is the quintessential vacation for many families, and there are dozens around the world showing off new cultures through rides, games,…

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All 7 Universal Orlando Resort Hotels, Ranked

by Dave Parfitt

Since 2014, Universal Orlando Resort has blossomed from three onsite hotels to seven (soon to be eight), with the opening of Universal’s Endless Summer Resort…

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13 Best Small Amusem*nt Parks in the U.S.

by Dave Parfitt

Small amusem*nt parks are the best amusem*nt parks! Fewer crowds often mean shorter lines, and small amusem*nt parks are usually easier on the wallet, too.…

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10 Amusem*nt Parks That Are Better in the Off-Season

by Cortney Fries

With fabulous festivals and fewer crowds, there are more amusem*nt park thrills to be had in the fall, spring, and even winter. These are the…

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9 Awesome Vacations for Superhero-Obsessed Families

by Jeff Bogle

From Star Wars Days at Sea to Superman’s hometown, we’ve assembled a team of superhero-inspired family vacations that will power-up your next trip.

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8 Surefire Ways to Avoid Amusem*nt Park Crowds

by Karon Warren

Everyone loves the thrills and chills of amusem*nt parks. What they don’t love are the long lines for the newest rides or the bustling groups…

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Family Guide to Universal’s Volcano Bay

by Amanda Norcross

Billed as Universal Orlando Resort’s third park, Volcano Bay is a water park like no other we’ve experienced. Walking into the park is like walking…

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The Best Amusem*nt Park in Every U.S. State

by Lissa Poirot

Summertime has always meant exciting playtime for kids, and what better way to have fun than at an amusem*nt and water park? First appearing in…

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Niagara Falls Waterpark Packages

by Amanda Geronikos

Had your fill of the famous falls and want to do something else while you’re in town? Visit one of Niagara Falls’ water parks in…

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How to Save on Southern California Theme Park Tickets

by Amanda Geronikos

Use these tactics to save money on your vacation to LEGOLAND California, Disneyland Resort, and other theme parks in Southern California.

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Top 10 Tips for Water Parks

by Traci L. Suppa

Planning your first visit to a water park? Don’t get overwhelmed. Use these easy tactics to keep your family happy and healthy during your visit.

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9 Best Waterslides in the World

by Kaitlin Braun

Adrenaline junkies, take note! These crazy waterslides around the world are sure to get your heart pounding.

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LEGOLAND Packages for Families

by Courtney Elko

Find family packages and discounts for hotels near LEGOLAND Florida and LEGOLAND California.

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Annual Events at LEGOLAND

by Amanda Geronikos

Visit LEGOLAND Florida or LEGOLAND California for one of these themed events throughout the year.

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11 Theme Parks Guaranteed to Get Your Family in the Holiday Spirit

by Morgan Agesen

Consider a wintertime visit to one these festive theme parks, with holiday lights, shows, food and more.

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12 Best Theme Parks in Florida

by Beth Luberecki

Choose which theme park(s) you’d like to visit on your next family vacation to Florida!

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LEGOLAND Florida vs. LEGOLAND California

by Traci L. Suppa

See what’s similar and different at LEGOLAND Florida and LEGOLAND California before planning your family vacation.

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Universal Orlando Express Pass vs. Universal Orlando VIP Experience

by Amanda Geronikos

When we visited Universal Orlando Resort, we opted for the VIP Experience, which might as well have been a VVIP Experience. We literally went from…

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7 Universal Orlando Insider Tips

by Amanda Geronikos

Consult our list of insider tips to make the most of your family trip to Universal Orlando Resort.

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24 Hours in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

by Lisa Milbrand

Going to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter? Use these strategies to hit all the highlights in one day — including both Diagon Alley and…

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21 Six Flags Amusem*nt Park Locations, Ranked

by Hilarey Wojtowicz

Six Flags has 21 locations in the U.S. Find one close to home, or plan a road trip afar. Most locations feature water parks, while…

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6 Best Savings Hacks for Theme Park Tickets

by Amanda Norcross

Save on your next amusem*nt park visit by purchasing tickets in advance, staying overnight and more.

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Where to Vacation With Your Family in Florida

by Lissa Poirot

Having grown up in Florida, I am proud to call myself a Floridian. I love that Florida is the top vacation state in the country,…

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12 Best Amusem*nt Parks for Toddlers and Young Kids 2020

by Jackie Perrin

An amusem*nt park will be the perfect spot to visit once quarantine is over, to let your kids blow off some of that steam that…

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Theme Park Vacations | Family Vacation Critic (2024)

FAQs

What are the cons of going to a theme park? ›

Cons: You may have to deal with long lines, crowds, and noise that can be stressful and annoying.

What makes a theme park appealing to tourists? ›

Entertainment Value: Theme parks offer a wide range of entertainment options, including thrilling rides, live shows, parades, and interactive experiences. This variety caters to diverse audiences, making theme parks appealing to families, thrill-seekers, and individuals seeking a fun and entertaining day out.

Are vacations important for kids? ›

Vacations help teach children to adapt to new situations, build their confidence and give them a broader perspective on the world. Let's take a look at the many benefits that come with planning and taking a family vacation. Adults know that finding time to relax and unwind is a hallmark of a good vacation.

What might be the negative impacts on a city if a new theme park is built there? ›

When an amusem*nt park opens or expands in a particular area, it can attract a large number of tourists, which can lead to an increase in crime in the surrounding neighborhoods. This can be especially problematic for those who live in the area and can lead to a decrease in property values.

Why are theme parks declining? ›

Research from the Federal Reserve found that American households had completely depleted their pandemic-era excess savings. Meanwhile, travel agents have pointed to higher ticket prices as a major factor in declining theme park attendance.

Why are theme parks so expensive? ›

“The broader message for the past several years is that Disney is trying to optimize park attendance to get a better experience for people paying full prices for a ticket and to maximize revenue,” Munsil told CNN Travel. He pointed out it costs almost as much to operate Disneyland on a low attendance day as a high one.

What do people like about theme parks? ›

This amusem*nt comes in different ways. Some get an adrenaline rush by going on wild scary rides, like roller coasters. Others like the different shows and the parades. Then there are those who like the characters, or the food.

What makes theme parks so special? ›

While amusem*nt parks often contain themed areas, theme parks place a heavier focus with more intricately-designed themes that revolve around a particular subject or group of subjects. Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom in Florida – Cinderella Castle, the park's icon. Grand Entrance of Warner Bros.

What is the most visited theme park? ›

Visitation at leading amusem*nt and theme parks in the U.S. 2019-2022. With over 17 million visitors in 2022, the most visited amusem*nt park in the United States was Magic Kingdom Theme Park at Walt Disney World Resort, located in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.

Do we really need vacations? ›

Studies have shown that taking time away from the job and everyday stress can have physical and mental health benefits. Vacations are linked to: Lower stress. Less risk of heart disease.

Do I really need a vacation? ›

Taking regular vacations is essential for maintaining good mental health as it helps reduce stress levels while providing much needed restorative downtime away from work-related pressures.

At what age do kids remember vacations? ›

“The age at which a child can remember a vacation can vary from child to child,” explains social psychologist Susan Newman. “But parents want to be sure their children are old enough to enjoy and be able to do whatever the vacation plans cover. The age for this tends to be around 5 or 6.”

How bad are theme parks for the environment? ›

Air Pollution

As theme parks require large plots of land, they therefore tend to be located near urban fringes and away from the city. As tourist have to travel to these parks, Carbon dioxide emissions are generated when the excess gasoline is used as tourist have to use transport to get to these parks.

How do theme parks benefit society? ›

They contribute to tourism, job creation, and local economies by attracting visitors, generating revenue, creating diverse employment opportunities, stimulating related businesses, and prompting infrastructure development. However, challenges include environmental concerns and seasonal employment.

How do theme parks affect the economy? ›

Attractions generate a ripple effect of economic activity, including direct industry sales ($34 billion), capital expenditures ($5 billion), and the ancillary spending of outoftown visitors at local establishments outside the attraction, such as hotels, restaurants, and retailers ($52 billion).

What are the cons of roller coasters? ›

Unfortunately, visitors who ride roller coasters can walk away from these rides dizzy, nauseous, and possibly even severely injured. Some riders experience headaches and brain injuries from banging their head backwards or side to side on over the shoulder restraints.

How many injuries at theme parks? ›

In 2011, 1,204 people were injured at 400 amusem*nt parks, according to the IAAPA. In 2019, there were 1,299 injuries from amusem*nt park accidents in the U.S.

Do theme parks have dress codes? ›

Proper attire, including shoes and shirts, must be worn at all times. The parks are a casual, family-oriented environment.

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