2 Florida Theme Parks Are Some Of The Best In The U.S.
There are many amusement and theme parks and attractions here in the U.S. with some having millions of visitors a year. According to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), they expect to see a 2 percent boost in North American theme park attendance, representing more than 300 million visits in 2024. Consumer spending is expected to match the pace, with more than $32 billion projected to be spent.
Looking to plan the perfect theme park vacation and trying to pick which park to visit can potentially be overwhelming. To help narrow down the options, USA TODAY, 10 Best asked a panel of experts to nominate their top 20 parks across the country. Then, their readers voted for their favorites.
2 Florida Theme Parks Are Some of the Best in the U.S.
You may have guessed it, and yes, an Orlando theme park is on their list. SeaWorld Orlando scored spot number 3. The park was highlighted for its high-octane thrill rides, specifically Manta, which they said is one of the only coasters of its kind in the world. They also pointed out Mako, a hypercoaster with “deep dives, high speeds, and thrills aplenty.” Some upcoming events coming to the park include its 60th Anniversary Celebration, Seven Seas Food Festival 5k, a Mother’s Day Brunch, and other events.
Lower on the list at number 9 is Tampa’s Busch Gardens. “While Busch Gardens is most famously known as an amusement park filled with thrill rides, the Tampa location is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and offers abundant animal encounters as well,” they said. Right now, the park continues its featured event, the Food and Wine Festival, until May 19. There are also live performances planned for this month, which you can check out here.
The Number One Theme Park in the U.S.
The number one best theme park on their list is Branson, Missouri’s Silver Dollar City. This city has an 1880s mining town theme and, according to the ranking, attracts 2 million visitors annually. They were highlighted for their combination of entertainment, festivals, 100 resident craftsmen, and more than 40 rides and attractions. The park is also home to Time Traveler, the “world’s fastest, steepest, and tallest spinning coaster.” This year, the theme park has a Bluegrass & BBQ event planned, a Summer Celebration, a Harvest Festival, a Christmas event, and other events, according to its website.
Take a look at the complete list of best theme parks in the U.S. here.
