The first theme park was born in America: Disneyland Resort opened in Anaheim, California, in 1955. This entertainment icon marks its 70th anniversary this year with enhanced Disney attractions, parades, nighttime spectaculars, new rides, and the timeless ‘Walt Disney – A Magical Life’ show. Other U.S. parks also celebrate major milestones: Tennessee’s Dollywood commemorates 40 years with festivals, concerts, and the new ‘Dolly Parton Experience,’ while Missouri’s Silver Dollar City turns 65 with vintage attractions and tours through the Marvel Cave. Among America’s oldest parks are Connecticut’s Lake Compounce, Pennsylvania’s Kennywood and Knoebels, and Utah’s Lagoon—all blending classic rides with modern innovations.
Iconic destinations like New York’s Coney Island, Santa Monica Pier’s Pacific Park, and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk continue offering breathtaking views and historic carousels. Chicago’s Navy Pier Centennial Wheel pays homage to the original Ferris wheel from 1893, proving timeless appeal.
U.S. theme parks cater to diverse tastes, from record-breaking roller coasters to cutting-edge immersive experiences. Universal Orlando’s upcoming fourth park, *Universal Epic Universe*, will feature ‘Dark Universe’ (dedicated to classic monsters), ‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™,’ ‘How to Train Your Dragon’s’ Berk island, and ‘Super Nintendo World™.’ Nearby, Walt Disney World expands its offerings: Magic Kingdom debuts the ‘Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away’ nighttime parade, while Disney’s Hollywood Studios launches two new shows—’Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After’ and ‘The Little Mermaid—A Musical Adventure.’ Other 2024 highlights include SeaWorld Orlando’s Arctic-themed flight simulator and Legoland® Florida’s new Sea Life aquarium. Thrill-seekers can’t miss Ohio’s Cedar Point, home to the world’s tallest roller coaster (127 meters).
Year-round fun extends to indoor waterpark resorts like Oklahoma’s new Okana Resort & Indoor Waterpark and expanding Great Wolf Lodge locations in Texas, Florida, and soon Connecticut. Texas’ Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier combines ocean views with adrenaline, Alaska’s H2Oasis offers a tropical escape, and New Jersey’s DreamWorks Water Park boasts the world’s largest indoor wave pool.
Thematic dining abounds: savor Harry Potter’s butterbeer at Universal, Disney’s legendary Dole Whip, or star-rated cuisine at Walt Disney World’s Victoria & Albert’s. Historic treats include Silver Dollar City and Dollywood’s cinnamon bread, Nathan’s hot dogs at Coney Island, and Hersheypark’s chocolate-infused atmosphere. On-site resorts enhance visits, such as Universal’s new Helios Grand Hotel overlooking Epic Universe, Dollywood’s rustic HeartSong Lodge, and the upcoming Silver Dollar City Resort (opening 2026) with Ozarks vistas.
Looking ahead, Universal Studios Hollywood will debut ‘Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift’ in 2025, featuring cinematic high-speed chases.