Best Theme Parks in America

1. Walt Disney's Magic Kingdom, Florida

No list of the top theme parks in America would be complete without the granddaddy of them all, Disney’s Magic Kingdom near Orlando. Billed as the "happiest place on earth," you'll relive childhood fairytales, introduce your family to beloved Disney characters, and embark on an adventure while zipping around Splash Mountain. You can ward off Disney villains with Merlin's magical spells in Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom and get a dose of history in the Hall of Presidents. Be sure to snap a picture in front of Cinderella's Castle before you go—you're likely to leave the park humming "It's a Small World," just like you did as a kid. Ready for more Disney fun? Travel around the world at Epcot, go behind-the-scenes of movie magic at Hollywood Studios and become king of the jungle at the Animal Kingdom.

2. Universal Studios, California

If you haven't visited Universal Studios in Hollywood since the arrival of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, it's definitely time to take a bit of that floo powder and whisper, "Hollywood." This massive expansion brings the best elements of Harry's magical world from Universal’s sister park in Orlando. Visit Hogsmeade and sip some Butterbeer, tour Hogwart's Castle and let your pulse accelerate from 0 to 60 in seconds on the thrill rides in this magical realm. Then there's all the other fab fun, like the Studio Tour, the post-apocalyptic world of AMC's "The Walking Dead," and furry fun at Universal’s Animal Actors show.

3. Dollywood, Pigeon Forge

Love Dolly Parton? Then you'll love Dollywood, her theme park celebrating the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee—and it’s located in those very mountains! You'll have 40 rides to choose from, including the first wooden launch coaster on the planet, Lightning Rod. It also happens to be the fastest wooden coaster in any of the theme parks in America, capable of speeds up to 73 mph. Brace yourself for the ride’s 73-degree, 200-foot drop. Dollywood also focuses on live entertainment with 15 shows, and it hosts five big festivals. If you’re hungry, you can enjoy some Southern cookin' with plenty of deep-fried delicacies.

4. Kentucky Kingdom, Louisville

Ready for the stunning upside-down flips of the mighty Storm Chaser? This Kentucky Kingdom ride was converted from an old wooden coaster into a new and marvelous hybrid. Once you climb aboard, you'll experience a barrel-roll drop from a 10-story height. Looking for more weather-themed fun? This Louisville park offers several other exciting thrill rides like the classic roaring coaster, Thunder Run. When you’re ready to cool off, make your way to the huge water park, Hurricane Bay.

5. King's Island, Ohio

If you're in the Midwest and ready for a break, you'll find fun at your fingertips at KING'S ISLAND, in Mason. The park is renowned for delighting families with attractions like Planet Snoopy, featuring Peanuts-themed rides and attractions. Plus, Charlie Brown, Lucy and Snoopy himself stroll around and greet kids. For a prehistoric good time, don't miss Dinosaurs Alive!, the world’s largest animatronic dinosaur park—you’ll step back in time some 180 million years, with 65 life-sized dinosaurs and a dig site for the kids.

6. Hersheypark, Pennsylvania

Chocoholics, here's the theme park of your dreams. Hersheypark in Hershey, began its life as a fun leisure spot for employees of the Hershey chocolate factory. Now it's open to any chocolate fan, with oodles of chocolate items, a chocolate factory tour and roller coasters. Billed as the "sweetest place on earth," Hersheypark also offers live entertainment, plus nine water-play facilities, including a 30,000-square-foot splash area in its new indoor pool complex.

Ready to travel? Find hotels in Orlando, Hollywood, Sevierville, Louisville, Mason, Hershey.