9 Theme Parks and Amusement Parks to Visit in and Around Los Angeles, CA
Yes, there are theme parks and amusement parks in Los Angeles—and not just a few. From iconic spots like Universal Studios Hollywood to water parks and family-friendly rides, there’s a surprising number of options in LA and just outside city limits.
You’re probably familiar with big names like Disneyland and Universal Studios, but there’s more variety than you might expect. Some parks are built for thrill-seekers, while others are more about nostalgia, movie magic, or just a fun way to cool off during the summer. Our nephew stayed with us for three weeks, and we ended up hopping from park to park—which made us realize just how many there really are.
If you’re looking for theme parks and amusement parks in Los Angeles, CA, to visit with or without kids, here are the ones we recommend—based on experience, crowd level, and, yes, food.
Universal Studios Hollywood: Movie Magic and Rides
Universal Studios Hollywood is both a working film studio and a top theme park in Los Angeles. The rides, shows, and attractions are all based on popular Universal films, and while it’s smaller than Orlando, it’s still one of our favorite parks in the area. You can usually cover most of the park in a day. On crowded days, the front-of-the-line pass is worth it—just wait to see if they offer upgrade deals inside the park.
The Studio Tour is a must. It blends behind-the-scenes views with classic ride moments like Jaws and King Kong. You might even catch a real production in progress (though it’s rare).
Don’t miss The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It’s not as big as Orlando’s, but it still captures the magic. Grab a butterbeer and explore the themed shops. The new Super Nintendo World™, opened in 2023, is another favorite—enter through a Warp Pipe and ride Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge.
Outside the park, CityWalk is free to enter and a fun spot to grab a meal, browse shops, or people-watch.
Pro tip: Buy your tickets online to avoid entry lines. Look for deals—we recently scored a “buy one, get one day free” promo.
Disneyland Resort: Classic Rides and Iconic Snacks
Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, CA is home to two parks: Disneyland Park and California Adventure. Though just outside LA, it’s a go-to for locals and visitors alike looking for theme parks and amusement parks in Los Angeles.
At Disneyland Park, you’ll find iconic rides like Pirates of the Caribbean, It’s a Small World, Matterhorn Bobsleds, and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. It’s the original park opened by Walt Disney in 1955, and even if you don’t have kids (we don’t), it’s still worth going for the nostalgia and feel-good energy.
California Adventure, right next door, celebrates all things California. Highlights include Radiator Springs Racers, Guardians of the Galaxy, Incredicoaster, and Soarin’ Around the World. The park also has great shows like Frozen – Live at the Hyperion.
Both parks shine during fall and the holidays, with themed decor, fireworks, and seasonal snacks. And speaking of food—don’t miss Dole Whip, Mickey pretzels, or beignets in Disneyland, and head to Lamplight Lounge in California Adventure for the famous lobster nachos. Carthay Circle is one of the best sit-down dining spots across both parks.
Pro tip: Download the Disneyland App to check wait times, mobile order food, and use Genie+ to skip standby lines. Get the Park Hopper if you plan to visit both parks in one day—it’s worth it.
Pacific Park Santa Monica Pier: Ocean Views and a Solar-Powered Ferris Wheel
Pacific Park is a classic oceanfront amusement park in Los Angeles, located right on the historic Santa Monica Pier, which dates back to 1909. It’s home to the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel, the iconic Pacific Wheel.
You’ve probably seen this spot in movies and TV shows—it’s one of the most recognizable locations in LA and a top tourist destination in California. If a scene is set in Los Angeles, chances are the Santa Monica Pier makes an appearance.
The park is small but fun, with 12 rides, midway games, an arcade, and classic amusement park snacks. We love starting our visit around sunset, when the views are especially good and the pier lights start to glow.
Admission is free, so you can explore the pier without buying a ride ticket. Individual ride tickets and unlimited wristbands are available if you want to hop on the attractions.
Knott’s Berry Farm: Coasters, Boysenberries, and Snoopy
Knott’s Berry Farm is a long-running amusement and theme park in Buena Park, CA, with roots that go back to a humble berry stand and family farm. Over time, it grew into one of the most beloved parks in Los Angeles and Orange County history.
The park is known for its roller coasters, boysenberry treats, and Charlie Brown & Friends. (We’re suckers for Snoopy.) It spans 57 acres, with themed areas like Ghost Town, Fiesta Village, Camp Snoopy, and The Boardwalk.
Popular rides include GhostRider, Xcelerator, and Silver Bullet—our nephew still can’t stop talking about how thrilling that one was.
And if you love food, you’re in luck. The Knott’s Bakery is famous for its boysenberry pies and jams, and Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant serves up some of the best fried chicken we’ve had at a theme park. Don’t skip the biscuits with boysenberry jam—they’re our favorite.
Pro tip: Purchase your tickets online to avoid long lines at the ticket booth.
Knott’s Soak City: Slides, Splash Zones, and Seasonal Fun
Knott’s Soak City is a seasonal water park in Buena Park, CA, and part of the Knott’s Berry Farm family. It typically runs from early May through early September, making it a go-to spot for warm-weather fun.
The park features over a dozen slides and water attractions, including Shore Break, the Tidal Wave Pool, and The Big Kahuna. Families with young kids will love Gremmie Lagoon, a playful splash area for little ones.
It’s a solid add-on to any summer trip to Knott’s—or a fun day all on its own.
Six Flags Magic Mountain: High-Speed Coasters
Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, CA, is one of the top amusement parks near Los Angeles for thrill-seekers. Known for its record-breaking coasters, this massive 262-acre park has over 100 rides, including 19 roller coasters.
Some of the most popular include Apocalypse, Batman The Ride, Full Throttle, and Superman: Escape from Krypton. If you’re all about fast rides, loops, and adrenaline, this park is for you.
Pro tip: The park gets busy on weekends—arrive early and consider Flash Pass options if you’re planning to tackle a lot of coasters in one day.
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor: Water Slides and Summer Fun
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is a water park in Valencia, CA, next to Six Flags Magic Mountain. It’s a separate ticketed park unless you have a season pass or combo ticket that includes both parks.
Hurricane Harbor is a great spot to cool off during the summer. With over 25 slides and attractions, including Typhoon, Hurricane, and Splashwater Island, it’s ideal for families with kids of all ages looking to splash, slide, and relax.
If you’re up for more thrills, you can pair your visit with Six Flags Magic Mountain and hop between coasters and water rides—make sure your ticket includes both.
Raging Waters: Slides, Splash Zones, and Staying Cool
Raging Waters in San Dimas, CA, is one of the largest water parks in Los Angeles County. It covers 50 acres and features slides, wave pools, and family-friendly attractions. It’s a great way to beat the heat, especially for families with younger kids.
We visited during a heat wave, and that cool water felt incredible. Our nephew had a blast, and honestly, it was a nice change of pace from waiting in long lines at other theme parks.
There’s something for everyone, from the Extreme H2O Zone to the Kid’s Kingdom and the Wave Pool. Safety is well-covered, with lifeguards posted throughout the park.
Food options include mini pizzas, burgers, funnel cakes, and Dippin’ Dots, plus a location of LA’s famous Pink’s Hot Dogs. But the best cool-down treat? The Dole Pineapple soft serve is definitely worth it.
Pro tip: Premium parking is pricey, but it’s right by the main entrance, which can be worth it if you’re bringing your own lunch. Coolers aren’t allowed inside, but you can leave one in your trunk and step out for a break. It beats paying for theme park food like a hot dog with fries or a small pizza.
Read more: Top Raging Waters Tips for a Day at the Park
Legoland California: Brick-Built Fun for Young Families
Legoland California Resort in Carlsbad, CA, is a theme park, water park, and hotel designed for younger kids. We don’t have kids ourselves, our friends who do always rave about it.
If your kids love Legos, they’ll be in heaven with over 60 rides, shows, and attractions. The water park adds even more fun with 20+ slides and splash areas, and the on-site hotel features Lego-themed rooms and a pirate ship pool that’s a hit with families.
Popular rides include The Dragon, LEGO NINJAGO The Ride, and the interactive world of LEGO Movie World.
Pro tip: Make it an overnight or weekend trip. Stay at the Legoland Hotel or a nearby spot to avoid a long round-trip drive—especially with kids in tow.
BEFORE YOU TRAVEL TO SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, CHECK OUT THESE RELATED READS:
- Top Los Angeles Attractions To Experience As A Tourist
- Explore Things to Do in Downtown LA
- Discover Things to Do in Orange County, CA
- Best Things to Do in Pasadena, California – From a Local
- Fun and Best Things to Do in Solvang, CA
Kathy Ava
Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.