Amusement parks are popular all over the world, but nowhere more so than in North America. From small independent parks to the giants like Disney and Universal, this form of entertainment provides thrills, chills, and a good dose of cotton candy!
Here are five of the top independent parks in North America…
Hersheypark (Hershey, Pennsylvania)
Hersheypark is a family theme park that first opened its doors in 1923. Part of the world-famous Hershey chocolate brand, the park now offers over 70 rides and spans more than 110 acres, making it the biggest one of its kind in Pennsylvania.
Canada’s Wonderland (Vaughan, Canada)
Open from May to December, Canada’s Wonderland is the largest amusement park in Canada and has plenty to offer everyone in the family. First opened in 1981, the park is located in beautiful Ontario and is one of the most visited parks in North America.
Cedar Point (Sandusky, Ohio)
Cedar Point is famous for its large selection of roller coasters and is a definite must-visit for thrill-seekers of all ages. First opened in 1870, it is the second-oldest park in the U.S. and regularly sees nearly 4 million visitors each year.
Knott’s Berry Farm (Buena Park, California)
Located in sunny California, Knott’s Berry Farm offers visitors 4 uniquely themed sections full of fun. Ghost Town, Fiesta Village, the Boardwalk, and Camp Snoopy have more than 40 rides between them, and the whole park is an homage to its Californian frontier history.
Playland (Vancouver, Canada)
Playland is one of the most popular amusement parks in Canada. Established in 1958, it is home to more than 50 exhilarating rides, a haunted house, an arcade, and midway games. The most famous ride in Playland is the wooden roller coaster, and it was featured in the Wimpy Kid’s Diaries and the film Final Destination 3.
World’s Top Three Rollercoasters
Rollercoasters have lived in our imaginations for a very long time. For many, the highlight of a trip to an amusement park includes taking on its twisters. But what are the world’s most teeth clenching, stomach dropping, scream inducing marvels? Glad you asked – here they are:
Formula Rossa — Ferrari World, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Developed to resemble a Ferrari sportscar, this roller coaster is the fastest in the world. It launches riders from zero to 150 miles per hour in five seconds. The track sits on a Ferrari racing course and swerves around 1.5 miles of track.
Kingda Ka — Six Flags Great Adventure, New Jersey
This is the fastest roller coaster in America and the tallest roller coaster in the world. The track reaches heights of 456 feet (over 45 stories) before sending riders hurtling down at 128 miles per hour — a speed reached in just 3.5 seconds.
Steel Dragon 2000 — Nagashima Resort, Japan
Honors for the world’s longest roller coaster go to the Steel Dragon 2000 in Japan. It cost more than $52 million to construct its 8,000 feet of track that reaches 318 feet at its peak. The Steel Dragon 2000 shoots passengers 95 miles per hour on a 306-foot descent.
