10 Best Theme Parks in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is not just a Hollywood dream, but also home to some of the best theme parks in the world! Whether your inner child is craving a thrilling roller coaster ride, VR adventures, or a tour around a Disney castle, LA has it all waiting for you to explore. Enjoy the adventures of Universal Studios, a fairytale of Disneyland, or thrilling rides at Six Flags Magic Mountain, the choice is all yours! So grab your camera to capture some memories and tie your laces as we explore the best LA theme parks that will have you screaming (either from pure excitement or gut-wrenching rides).

Let's begin with the most predictable on this list yet one of the most famous theme parks in the World. Disneyland, which is seven decades old, and Disneyland California Adventure, which is a newer extension of this franchise, offer the experience of a lifetime with its thrilling roller coasters, stage performances, fireworks, character parades, and mini-themed worlds starting from Marvel, to Pixar, and Star Wars. The park is famously known as “The Happiest Place on Earth” and surely they prove it by providing world-class entertainment and adventures.

Another park that made it to this list is Universal Studios, one of the best theme parks in Los Angeles. The rides in this park draw inspiration from various movies, including Fast and Furious, The Walking Dead, The Mummy, The Simpsons, and many more. Visitors can also enjoy the Hippogriff roller coaster while exploring the pumpkin patch. Before visiting the park, it's best to download the app of the park to learn more about timings, rides, and maps.

With fun rides, unlimited entertainment, shops, and dining spots without big crowds, Knott's Berry Farm is a fantastic substitute for famous and crowded parks like Disneyland. Its popular Ghost Town is the oldest theme park in the United States and has authentically deserted structures and vintage rides including the Calico Mine Train and Timber Mountain Log Ride. There are rides available for small children and coasters like GhostRider and HangTime for thrill-seekers. Moreover, Knott's Soak City Water Park is a cool haven and the New Fiesta Village debuted attractions with Hispanic influences in 2023. With that many options and variety, it's hard to miss this one!

A dream for every thrill seeker, Six Flags Magic Mountain caters to strong individuals, as the rides are sure to push your limits. But don’t worry, the park also offers some calmer and slower rides as well. The famous coasters worth checking out include the Goliath, X2, Tatsu, and a few others. If you are an individual traveling with a family of small kids, we’ll recommend other parks like Disneyland because this one leans a bit more on an adult side.

With gorgeous views of the ocean, Pacific Park should be at the top of your list. The rides here are perfect for all ages, the Ferris Wheel being a highlight, giving beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, and the fast roller coaster being the best option for adults if craving some action. The timings are 11 AM to 12 AM and the ticket price per ride is around 5 to 10 dollars.

LEGOLAND California Resort is the best theme park, especially for LEGO lovers. It is situated in Carlsbad and features around 60 rides, a huge water park, and beautiful LEGO models of famous American sites. Visitors should check out LEGO Ninjago the Ride, an interactive 4D adventure, and Lost Kingdom Adventure, which explores ancient Egypt. The Dragon and Technic Coaster is perfect for young thrill-seekers. The food options are quite affordable compared to other parks. The price range for tickets is 89 to 119 dollars.

Attracting millions of visitors throughout the year, SeaWorld San Diego has a unique theme focusing on nonmarine mammal entertainment. Visitors can enjoy an observation tower, a motion simulator, gondola rides, fun roller coasters, and a log flume. As the famous marine show is the center of attraction here, the rides are equally emphasized, making it a top option for families of all ages.

Attention Harry Potter fans! Grab your capes and get ready to assemble! Harry Potter World Los Angeles is waiting for you to immerse yourself in its magical universe. Enjoy thrilling roller coaster rides and 4D shows that give you a glimpse into the world of Hogwarts. Be sure to capture your memories with plenty of photos! The shops in the park offer a variety of Harry Potter souvenirs, so don’t miss the chance to collect some goodies to take home. If you’re a true Hogwarts enthusiast, make sure to visit this park, and don’t forget to enjoy a cup of butterbeer!

Adventure City is a family-friendly, reasonably priced substitute for the larger amusement parks in Los Angeles. It has low-intensity coasters including Freeway Coaster, a forward-and-reversing shuttle coaster, and Rewind Racers, making it perfect for kids. There are no extreme rides for thrill-seekers, but there are entertainment shows and a zoo for older children. The general entry fee is $28.95, and parking is free of cost. For same-day re-entry, visitors must obtain a hand stamp and wear closed-toe shoes on the climbing wall. The park is located in Anaheim and is suitable for budget-conscious adventurers.

Super Silly Fun Land in California is the best choice for families, and if you are a minion fan, this is the place you’ve been looking for! This water park is designed with a huge play zone featuring around 80 water activities and fun rides. The park features more than 50 minions you can click pictures with. Combining water rides with animated movie themes, this park not only attracts kids but adults as well, so don’t forget to check it out!