Summer is upon us, and that means it is time to stretch out the legs, grab a cooler and head for the great outdoors. For thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies, summer is a glorious time. A time when amusement parks and county fairs open their doors to endless hours of fun, twisting and turning, flipping and spinning, and speeding to unthinkable heights on monster roller coasters and tilt-a-whirls. Yes, summer is a glorious time for those who love a good ride. With that, ResortsandLodges brings you this summer’s Top 5 Amusement Parks in America.
1. Cedar Point – Sandusky, Ohio
Dubbed the roller coaster capital of the world, Cedar Point comes equipped with an astonishing 17 coasters in one park. If 17 coasters do not keep you entertained, we don’t know what will. Expert coaster-goers and thrill seekers claim that Millennium Force is arguably the fastest and greatest steel roller coaster on the planet. Of course, there is only one way to find out! The park is adjacent to Cedar Point Resort, an outstanding and award-winning family resort with accommodations to match the thrill of the park.
2. Six Flags Magic Mountain – Valencia, California
If you thought 17 coasters at Cedar Point was a lot, think again. Six Flags Magic Mountain takes the cake with 18 coasters on its grounds. Located a stones throw from Los Angeles, the park has a little something for everyone, including the famed and feared Green Lantern roller coaster, a steel medley that will show you the definition of vertical and send you for a few 360-degree flips.
3. Magic Kingdom – Lake Buena Vista, Florida
It is hard to argue with anything that will put an immediate smile on the faces of your kids. That is exactly what Magic Kingdom has been doing for years. This summer looks to be no different. The famed amusement park and enchanted wonderland of Disney characters are a can’t-lose combination for a family vacation. From Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, to Splash Mountain and Tom Sawyer Island, the park truly does have something for all ages to enjoy.
4. Hersheypark – Hershey, Pennsylvania
For the sweet tooth in all of us, there is perhaps no better place on earth than Hersheypark. This little delight is as sweet as it sounds. Hershey, Pennsylvania, was founded in 1903 by Milton Hershey. Since that time, it has turned into a playground for thrill seekers, young and old alike. Equipped with golf course, zoos, amazing rides, and even a chocolate spa that will lather you in cocoa, Hersheypark is a must see this summer.
5. Busch Gardens – Williamsburg, Virginia
When we say explore the great outdoors, you might be wondering how to do that in a concrete and steel amusement park…we don’t blame you. Never fear, Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia, gives you the best of both worlds. Packed with enough high-speed rides to keep the timid away, the park integrates the natural beauty of the area in very nicely. You will be face-to-face with snakes, wolves, wild birds, etc. That alone could be enough to thrill you.