11 Best Roller Coaster Parks in the U.S.

Updated On November 17, 2023
Best Roller Coaster Parks in the U.S.

There’s nothing better than going to a roller coaster park during the warmest months of the year.

It doesn’t matter if you’re really a kid or just a kid at heart; roller coaster parks provide fun for everyone.

Roller coaster parks are packed with thrill rides, water rides, great food, and plenty of fun for everyone.

This guide will provide you with some useful information to help you find the best roller coaster parks in the United States so that you can have an enjoyable experience.

Best Roller Coaster Parks in the U.S.

Here is a list of some of the best roller coaster parks in the U.S.

Universal Studios (Orlando, Florida)

1. Universal Studios (Orlando, Florida)

Universal Studios has a couple of locations, one in Florida and the other in California.

This has been one of the most remarkable attractions of the past 20 years.

Some noteworthy properties located at Universal Studios include Minions, Harry Potter, and The Simpsons.

Besides that, you’ll be able to find some of the most well-known characters of today.

Universal Studios provides several different parks to check out, such as Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios, and Volcano Bay.

There are also plenty of rides for everyone to enjoy.

Busch Gardens (Williamsburg, Virginia)

2. Busch Gardens (Williamsburg, Virginia)

Busch Gardens has a couple of locations, both in Florida and Virginia.

It’s another roller coaster park in the U.S. that’s worth mentioning.

It’s famous for its outstanding zoos and various theme parks.

You’ll find plenty of roller coasters sticking out between swamps and forests.

Instead of associating these roller coasters with actual themes, they are named after Roman gods, such as Pantheon.

There is also plenty of stuff for younger kids to do at Busch Gardens, including a carousel, bumper cars, and much more.

Cedar Point (Sandusky, Ohio)

3. Cedar Point (Sandusky, Ohio)

Cedar Point is known as the most popular roller coaster park in the entire country.

It’s located in Ohio and is believed to constantly make the news for its extraordinary roller coasters.

Cedar Point offers something for kids of all ages to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a roller coaster to give you the thrill of your lifetime, check out Magnum XL-200, Maverick, and Millennium Force.

Several other fierce rides at Cedar Point include the spinning monster ride, slingshot rides, and various water slides.

Disneyland (Anaheim, California)

4. Disneyland (Anaheim, California)

One of the most exemplary roller coaster parks in the U.S. is Disneyland.

It is recognized as being the happiest place in the world. Disneyland continues to expand.

Recently, they added a Star Wars attraction and several rides, including the Incredicoaster and Space Mountain.

Disneyland offers a wistful experience that you can’t find anywhere else.

Some notable rides at Disneyland include the Matterhorn coaster and the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

Since it’s considered a busy place, no matter what time of year you attend, it’s highly recommended that you plan your visit in advance.

Six Flags Magic Mountain (Valencia, California)

5. Six Flags Magic Mountain (Valencia, California)

Six Flags Magic Mountain holds the title of the biggest roller coaster park in the country.

There are more than 20 roller coasters, each providing a thrill of its own.

Some of the roller coasters located within Six Flags include Batman, Riddler’s Revenge, and the Full Throttle, the largest twisting roller coaster in the entire world.

If you are looking for passes to Six Flags, you’ll be happy to know that they are overall affordable.

6. Kings Island (Mason, Ohio)

Kings Island in Ohio also made the list of the best roller coaster parks in the U.S.

It’s nearly 350 acres and has something for everyone to enjoy.

It was designed with European inspiration in mind.

King Island offers plenty of roller coasters, including the Diamondback, Invertigo, and Banshee.

If you’re really looking for an unforgettable experience, don’t forget about the Drop Tower and the Fight of Fear.

Besides roller coasters, several age-appropriate rides include various carousels, Mystic Timbers, and Adventure Express.

That is, of course, if you are looking for less thrill and more laughter.

Knoebels (Elysburg, Pennsylvania)

7. Knoebels (Elysburg, Pennsylvania)

Pennsylvania also made the list for having one of the best roller coaster parks in the country.

Best of all, the park offers free admission.

But if you plan on riding any of the rides, you will need to purchase a one-day pass or pay for individual rides.

There are six roller coasters at Knoebels.

The most popular are the Twister and Phoenix, both of which are wooden coasters.

This roller coaster park also offers a separate water park and other attractions within.

Dollywood (Pigeon Forge, Tennessee)

8. Dollywood (Pigeon Forge, Tennessee)

Dollywood was created in honor of the celebrity Dolly Parton.

Not only does Dollywood offer many roller coaster rides, but there are also various shows and a water park.

If you choose to check Dollywood out, you’ll find plenty of Dolly Parton’s Tennessee heritage embedded within the park.

There are approximately nine roller coasters here, including Mystery Mine and Lightning Rod.

This park is family-friendly, so it offers something for everyone of all ages to enjoy.

Silver Dollar (Branson, Missouri)

9. Silver Dollar (Branson, Missouri)

If you’re looking for a roller coaster park that is similar to the excitement that Las Vegas offers, you should check out Silver Dollar in Branson, MI.

The park offers several roller coasters, including Time Traveler, Outlaw Run, and Powder Keg.

Younger children will enjoy rides such as the Magnificent Wave carousel and the Royal Tea Party’s spinning cups.

Don’t forget to check out the riverboat cruise and various water rides offered at Silver Dollar if you’re looking for some quick relief from the sun.

Knott’s Berry Farm (Buena Park, California)

10. Knott’s Berry Farm (Buena Park, California)

Knott’s Berry is referred to as California’s original theme park.

You’ll find plenty of obsolete thrill rides here. It’s located just six miles from Disneyland in Anaheim, CA.

Some of the most popular roller coaster rides at Knott’s Berry include Montezooma’s Revenge, Ghost Rider, and La Revolucion.

Besides the thrill rides offered here at Knott’s Berry, you’ll find plenty of great food, from boysenberry pies to famous fried chicken.

Season passes are available here. But you can also purchase daily passes that are otherwise affordable.

Hersheypark (Hershey, Pennsylvania)

11. Hersheypark (Hershey, Pennsylvania)

If you enjoy Hershey’s chocolate, you will enjoy Hersheypark, a candy-themed roller coaster park.

It was named after the Hershey chocolate bar and offers a unique experience for all guests who attend.

There are 15 roller coasters, such as the Candymonium and the Cocoa Cruiser.

Candymonium is the longest roller coaster at Hersheypark.

You’ll find something to do here, no matter what time of year you attend.

For example, if you want to go during the holidays, you’ll find plenty of seasonal entertainment.

United States Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: United States Safety Review

Safety Index:
68
  • OVERALL RISK: LOW
  • TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
  • PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
  • NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
  • MUGGING RISK: LOW
  • TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
  • SCAMS RISK: LOW
  • WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Frequently Asked Questions

Out of all the roller coaster parks, which one has the most roller coasters in the United States?

Six Flags Magic Mountain, located in Valencia, CA, has the most roller coasters, not just in the country but in the entire world.

What states have the best roller coasters?

The following states are well-known for having the best roller coasters:

  • Indiana
  • North Carolina
  • Maryland
  • Colorado
  • Massachusetts
  • Utah
  • Tennessee
  • Illinois

What is considered the scariest roller coaster of all time in the U.S.?

Since roller coasters are intended to be scary, there’s not one in particular that is considered the scariest.

However, here is a list of the scariest roller coasters in America:

  • The Voyage
  • Fury 325
  • Griffon
  • Banshee
  • Goliath
  • Cannibal
  • El Toro
  • Skyrush
  • Outlaw Run

2 Comments on 11 Best Roller Coaster Parks in the U.S.

  1. As someone who has visited several of the roller coaster parks mentioned in this list, I can say that each one offers a unique and thrilling experience.

    Be prepared for long lines and crowds during peak seasons!

  2. Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida is a must-visit with its diverse parks like Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay offering thrilling rides based on popular franchises such as Harry Potter and The Simpsons.

Leave a Comment

Share
Facebook Pinterest Comment Comment
2