November 15, 2024 07:27 AM

Best U.S. Theme Parks for Summer 2012

Theme parks make a fun, quick summer tourist getaway. There's nothing better than the adrenaline rush of riding a roller coaster or seeing the smile of a child who gets to meet their favorite Disney character in person for the first time. There are many theme parks across the country to choose from. Choice Hotels has created a list of the best theme parks for summer.

Choice Hotels International, Inc. which operates more than 6,100 in more than countries is helping travelers choose which theme park to visit this summer with their list of the America's top theme parks. The hotel bran has several hotels around the areas where these theme parks are located. They can be booked at ChoiceHotels.com.

Here are Choice Hotel's top theme parks to visit this summer:

Cedar Point Amusement Park

This park, located in Sandusky's Cedar Point, just off the shore of Lake Erie in Ohio, is known as the "roller coaster capital of the world." The park, which opened in 1870, is the second oldest amusement park in the United States. It has a world-record 74 rides to choose from, including 16 thrilling roller coasters and wild water adventure rides. The park also has live entertainment, a dinosaur attraction, and a Snoopy-themed kid's area.

Disneyland

Of course the magical "Happiest Place of Earth" makes the top theme park list. The large, famous park, located in Anaheim California has several different themed areas within the park. The latest addition is the newly opened Cars Land at the expanded Disney California Adventure Park.

Disney World

Those on the East Coast can head down to Orlando, Florida for this other huge Disney amusement park. Like Disneyland, Disney World also has several parks to choose from including the popular Magic Kingdom, Epcot Theme Park and the Animal Kingdom. Each park has entertaining shows, thrilling rides, and endless fun to make for a great family day.

Dollywood Splash Country

Head to Tennessee for this exciting water park as it's called "America's Must See Waterpark." This 30 acre land is full of thrilling water rides and relaxing areas in Pigeon Forge. It is adjacent to the Dollywood theme park and carries the Dolly Parton theme as she enjoyed sweimming in the rivers of the Great Smoky Mountains. The park's newest addition this summer is the River Rush, Tennessee's first water coaster.

SeaWorld

If you love aquariums and marine life, SeaWorld is the perfect place to bring your family. With locations in Orlando, San Diego, and San Antonio, people across the country can get a close look at the world under the ocean. Besides several animal exhibits, the park also has outstanding shows and even thrill rides.

Six Flags

Six Flags theme parks are known for their amazing roller coasters. There are dozens of locations around the country, so there are plenty of nearby options to choose from. Each park has more than 100 rides and attractions in addition to live entertainment and tons of summer fun.

For more information about Choice Hotels or to book a hotel for your fun-filled theme park vacation today, visit https://www.choicehotels.com/en/familyvacations.

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