Best Theme Park Winners - 10Besties Readers' Choice Travel Awards

Silver Dollar City

Branson has a well-established reputation as one of the premier family-friendly destinations in the Midwest, and in large part this is thanks to Silver Dollar City, one of the country's most unique (and fun!) theme parks. The park achieves a one-of-a-kind synthesis of history and excitement. Between the presence of Marvel Cave (a National Natural Landmark) and spectacular rides like the PowderKeg, all bases are covered.  Read more »

Cedar Point

Even after 140 years since first opening its gates, Cedar Point remains a Mecca for thrill seekers, boasting 17 roller coasters on its premises. The park truly has something for everyone, as its record 76 rides include everything from its famous steel coasters, to carrousels for the kids.  Read more »

Walt Disney World

Magic Kingdom/Epcot/MGM Studios/Animal Kingdom . . . all a part of Walt Disney World Resort. A global destination, a highlight of Florida vacations - perhaps a highlight of an American vacation. And at its core, the Magic Kingdom experience. An ideal destination for any kid, or for the kid in any adult.  Read more »

King's Island

King's Island is the second most visited seasonal amusement park in the US, and with good reason. The park is especially renowned as a kid-friendly attraction, having won Amusement Today's golden ticket award for "Best Kids Area" eleven years running. With over 80 rides and attractions (including live shows from notable entertainers), King's Island is inarguably one of Ohio's top attractions.  Read more »

Dollywood

The down-home, good-old-fashioned fun for which Country Legend Dolly Parton is known sets the tone for her popular Pigeon Forge, Tennessee theme park. Dollywood jams in enough family fun to make any Great Smoky Mountain vacation even better. A full-size steam train? Check. Back Porch Theater? Check. Rollercoasters and rides? Check. The chance to see Dolly? Anything is possible!  Read more »

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

With an average of 2.8 million visitors per year and the "crown jewel" ride, Apollo's Chariot (voted number five best coaster in 2010), Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a must-visit destination in the Southeast. Evoking a distinctly Old Word theme across all levels, this is an ideal theme park for families with children who want to explore a little history and have a blast all at the same time  Read more »

Disneyland & California Adventure

As the second most visited park in the world in 2010 and the only theme park whose construction was directly overseen by Walt Disney himself, there are no words or accolades that can truly do Disneyland justice. It is arguably (officially, according to Disney folks) the happiest place on Earth. The eight distinctly themed "lands" keep the experience vibrant and rich, but this also means, of course, that you'll need at least a few days to get the full Disneyland experience.  Read more »

Universal Studios Hollywood

At Universal Studios, visitors can relive some of their favorite movies...as rides and shows! Come face-to-face with a T-Rex on Jurassic Park, or ride with The Simpsons through Krustyland. Looking for a break from the rides? Take the Studio Tour and see up-close how movies and TV shows are made.  Read more »

Carowinds

Whether you're a native of the Southeast embarking on a day trip or a first time visitor, Carowinds is a more-than-worthy destination. Inspired by the design of Disneyland itself, the park encompasses water activities, live entertainment, special effects shows, and (of course) roller coasters. The Afterburn coaster is a stand-out ride, as it holistically simulates the experience of flying a fighter jet.  Read more »

Busch Gardens Tampa

This Africa-themed family adventure park is truly overwhelming--in the best possible way. In 2010, Busch Gardens hosted over 4.2 million visitors, making it one of the top 25 most visited theme parks in the world. There are countless exhibits and the rides are some of the zaniest and thrilling in the world. As if that weren't enough, Busch Gardens also doubles as one of the bigger zoos in Florida.  Read more »