Do you like theme parks? We do and if we ever visit somewhere that has one (or one within 100 miles) – we’re there. However, there is that preconception that theme parks are for kids and kids alone – wrong! There are theme parks that adults will enjoy out there too. In fact, most theme parks have rides, shows and attractions for all ages making a visit fun for all the family. But what if you’re not travelling with the family? What if you are travelling on your own, as a couple or group of friends? Is a day out at a theme park an odd choice of activity? Will there be enough to keep you entertained? Will all the kids do my head in? (only you can answer that one!).
Having visited a number of theme parks across the world (with a number still on our wish list waiting to be ticked off) we decided to look at theme parks in the US that adults will enjoy too, seeing as though it is home to the most in the world. Here are 5 that certainly fulfil the brief.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Ok, this one is not actually open yet, but it will be very soon. In fact, the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge theme park will open this year in both Disneyland Park at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California and in Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Mr ESLT cannot wait. Being a lad growing up in the late 70s and 80s he loved (and still does love) Star Wars. He had loads of Star Wars toys, figures and accessories.
Therefore he cannot wait to visit either California or Florida again and see what the new theme park(s) have to offer. Since Disney bought the Star Wars rights there’s been a massive resurgence in Star Wars – including films, spin-offs and associated merchandise. The theme park is going to be the cherry on the cake and perfect not only for the kids that are new fans but also for the adults who have followed the franchise from the very beginning. May The Force be with it!
Epcot, Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
Epcot is a theme park at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando and I was lucky enough to visit twice when I was a teenager. However, I haven’t had a chance as yet to experience it as an adult. As a teenager I loved Epcot and looking back now, it obvious why it was my parent’s favourite Disney park. You won’t find thrill rides here as you will in other Disney and Orlando theme parks. It is split into two main areas – Future World and the World Showcase.
Future World is home to a variety of pavilions and exhibitions which allow you to learn all about technology and science. The World Showcase contains 11 pavilions which surround the World Showcase Lagoon, with each representing a different country. Most of, not all pavilions serve alcohol allowing you to try boozy drinks from around the world (Mexican Margarita anyone?). It also hosts the annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – an event which is extremely adult friendly.
Universal Studios, California/ Islands of Adventure, Florida
Yes, they are two theme parks but for the purpose of this post, I have lumped them both together (in order to free up a spot for another theme park to make the top 5). Having visited both Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure in Orlando and Universal Studios in Los Angeles I can categorically confirm that they are great theme parks for adults too. From live shows to 4D attractions and not forgetting set tours and roller coasters – a visit is a must even without kids in tow.
One of the scariest things I’ve ever witnessed is the Walking Dead attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood. Definitely one for adults only. That is unless you want your kids to have nightmares for the rest of their life. Both sites also have the fabulous CityWalk. It’s a great place for all the family, especially adults. It’s jam-packed full of shops, bars, restaurants and entertainment venues and the perfect place to head following a day in the theme park, especially if you need a beer to calm your nerves after the aforementioned Walking Dead attraction.
Dollywood, Tennessee
Coasterman1234 at en.wikipedia [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
If you are a fan of the icon Dolly Parton then a trip to Dollywood is a must. Part owned by Ms Parton herself, this theme park even though fun for all the family has that extra something that only adults will appreciate. I’ll be honest I myself had never been a massive fan of the 9-5 star, however after watching the Netflix film ‘Dumplin” I am now a firm fan which has boosted Dollyville the top of my must visit theme park list. With Dolly’s Home-on-Wheels, her tour her tour bus which took her all across the US is a particular draw for me.
Dollywood also has a water park and numerous dining options together with DreamMore Resort and Spa™ which is made up of a number of cabins with porches made for chilling out on, maybe with a glass (or two) of wine while admiring the backdrop – views of the Smokey Mountains. They are of course perfect for family breaks, but also a fantastic place to head for a romantic couples getaway too. Especially because of the on-site spa which offers numerous treatments and the opportunity to relax and unwind. A great facility that is definitely one for the adults.
Cedar Point, Ohio
Last but certainly not least on the list is the award winning Cedar Point theme park in Ohio. It opened in 1870, making it now the second oldest theme park in the US. It is a great theme park to visit if you are a thrill seeker as it is home to 18 exhilarating roller coasters. Which is the main reason it attracts over 3.5 million visitors every year. With special events, shows and numerous dining options, it’s a great park to visit both with the family, with your partner or group of friends or even on your own. However, it’s important to note that Cedar Park is a seasonal theme park and only open from early May until early September and then around Halloween. Therefore, if you are planning to visit, ensure it is within that time frame.
If you are looking for the ultimate thrill then Cedar Point offers it in the form of the 120-mph Top Thrill Dragster roller coaster and Steel Vengeance which is the tallest, fastest and longest hybrid roller coaster in the world. It was opened at the park in 2018 and quickly became a firm favourite and ideal for adrenaline junkies. It’s important to note that Cedar Park is a seasonal theme park and only open from early May until early September and then around Halloween. Therefore, if you are planning to visit, ensure it is within that time frame.
Have you been to any of the theme parks on our list? If so, did you love it? Or do you have another favourite you have visited? Please let us know!
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