With over 30 to choose from, you'll find more theme parks in California than in any other state. Since the Santa Clause theme park opened in Indiana in 1946, Americans have had a love affair with roller coasters and themed rides and are willing to pay for them.
California's theme parks vary from movie sets to boardwalks and water parks. You'll find adrenaline-pumping rides for thrill seekers alongside less adventurous yet charmingly fun attractions that keep younger kids just as entertained.
It's no surprise that Disneyland is the most popular theme park in California. Statista reports over 18 million people visited the park in 2019, making it one of the most popular in the world, second only to Walt Disney World in Florida.
California's second most visited theme park is directly across the main gate from Disneyland. According to Statista, almost 10 million people visited the park in 2019.
With blockbuster movie-themed attractions such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic World – The Ride, you'll feel like you've stepped into the movie yourself, which accomplishes what this theme park strives to achieve.
Knott's Berry Farm holds the title of California's oldest theme park. What started as a roadside berry stand now has 160 acres of world-class shows, rides, and attractions to entertain guests.
When you visit Legoland California and discover more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions, everything is fantastic! Although this theme park is geared toward ages 2-12, kids of all ages will enjoy its variety.
With 19 world-class coasters and over 100 rides, games, and attractions, this 260-acre theme park, “Thrill Capital of the World,” will take your breath away.