Amusement parks have long been a preferred venue for families in search of exciting entertainment. From favorite roller coasters, to high-speed thrillers, traditional family and children’s rides, live entertainment, shops and dining, these alphabetically listed parks have something for everyone in the family.

BUSCH GARDENS  WILLIAMSBURG – Williamsburg, Virginia

Verbolten is one of the many exciting rides at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

One of the most visited parks in the United States, Busch Gardens Williamsburg in Williamsburg, Virginia has an exciting array of European-themed rides, shows, tours, and animal exhibits committed to conservation including gray wolves, lorikeets, red foxes and bald eagles. The park itself is very beautiful and divided into 10 hamlets inspired by Europe. Guests can take behind-the-scenes tours, watch entertaining shows, indulge in mellow to thrill-seeking rides, and shop and dine in the many venues themed after European countries including Italy, France, Germany and Ireland. There are also plenty of attractions for kids, making it perfect for the whole family. For more information visit http://seaworldparks.com/en/buschgardens-williamsburg

CEDAR POINT – Sandusky, Ohio 

This animatronic T-Rex is a roaring sight in Cedar Point’s Dinosaurs Alive! attraction

Dating back to 1870, Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio is the second oldest amusement park in North America. This highly acclaimed theme park has drawn people to its pleasure grounds on the beautiful shores of Lake Erie time and again. Known as the roller coaster capital of the world, Cedar Point is a sprawling 364 acres with 15 roller coasters and everything from brain-scrambling thrill rides, to family rides, areas for children like Planet Snoopy and Camp Snoopy with their own exciting rides and attractions, to live entertainment, shops and great dining. It also features the prehistoric-themed attraction Dinosaurs Alive! (nominal fee required) with 50 life-size animatronic dinosaurs. For more information visit www.cedarpoint.com

DISNEY - Florida & California    

Cinderella’s Castle rising in the midst of Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom Park

Disney has enchanted children for decades, and both Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park in Orlando, Florida, and Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, are wonderful places to spark their imaginations with their rides, attractions and entertainment. The parks are divided into themed lands (varies by park) including Main Street U.S.A., Adventureland, Frontierland, and Tomorrowland, with favorite attractions like “it’s a small world,” the Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the beautiful fairytale castles. Activities for all ages abound, from shopping, dining, games, rides galore, dazzling entertainment, a host of favorite Disney characters, and so much more. For more information on Walt Disney World Resort’s Magic Kingdom Park in Orlando, Florida visit Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Visit our Disney World and our Disneyland Articles for a more in-depth look into the theme parks complete with reviews and family tips.

DOLLYWOOD – Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

The Dollywood Express affords gorgeous views of the Great Smokey Mountain foothills

With the Great Smokey Mountains rising majestically in the background, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee blends an invigorating country flavor into its gorgeous natural setting. This award-winning theme park has spectacular rides, attractions, live entertainment and craft shops that combine the southern tradition and history of Tennessee into an authentic and unforgettable experience. There are rides for all ages from white-knuckle thrillers like its newest wing coaster Wild Eagle, to kiddie rides, playgrounds for children, rides that make the most of the spectacular views and scenery of the mountain foothills like the Dollywood Express steam engine, plenty of shops, delicious dining, and more. For more information visit www.dollywood.com

HERSHEYPARK – Hershey, Pennsylvania

Hersheypark is like three parks in one with its dry rides, water park rides in The Boardwalk, and its 11-acre zoo called ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park

Hersheypark has been entertaining people since its original founding in 1907 by Milton S. Hershey as a place of enjoyment for his employees. With over 65 rides and attractions including 12 coasters and a whole slew of rides for children, exciting live entertainment, games, shops and food, this outstanding 110-acre theme park in Hershey, Pennsylvania has built a highly respected reputation in its industry. One admission price also includes access to the water park style rides and attractions of The Boardwalk, as well as to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park – an 11-acre zoo with over 200 animals from more than 60 species representative of North America, making it a world of delight for all ages. For more information visit www.hersheypark.com

HOLIDAY WORLD & SPLASHIN’ SAFARI – Santa Claus, Indiana

The flying carousel ride HallowSwings at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari offers panoramic views (Courtesy of Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari)

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari thrills guests with its dynamic duo of an amusement park and water park. With free parking, free unlimited soft drinks, free sunscreen, free Wi-Fi, rides for all levels, exciting attractions, shows, shops and dining, this theme park makes for an outstanding time for the whole family. This Santa Claus, Indiana park is themed after traditional holidays like Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and 4th of July. It is also home to the world’s longest water coaster Mammoth, and has a wonderful play area for kids that includes the interactive climbing structure Holidog’s Treehouse, and Magic Waters with its geysers for splashing fun. Holiday World was previously featured in our 20 Best Small Amusement Parks for Families in the USA article, while Splashin’ Safari was included in our Top 10 Best Waterparks in the United States article. For more information visit www.holidayworld.com

KINGS ISLAND – Mason, Ohio

Kids can ride on The Great Pumpkin Coaster at Kings Island Planet Snoopy

The largest amusement park in the Midwest also features the water park Soak City with more than 50 splashing attractions, so guests can have twice the fun for one admission price. Over 80 rides, attractions and shows at Kings Island in Mason, Ohio await to entertain families with kids of all ages. There are family rides like bumper cars, coasters, and flying swings, to thrill rides like the coasters Diamondback and The Beast, to special kids’ attractions like Planet Snoopy with its own rides, shows and favorite Peanuts characters, to live entertainment, plenty of dining options and more. Visitors can also meander through the fascinating Dinosaurs Alive! attraction with 60 life-size dinosaurs in a lush Jurassic setting (requires an additional nominal fee). For more information visit www.visitkingsisland.com

LEGOLAND– Carlsbad, California

Legoland’s Pirate Reef ride is great for sailors and landlubbers alike!

Where else can you see famous sites like the Las Vegas Strip, New York’s Central Park, San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, New Orleans’ French Quarter, Washington D.C.’s monuments, and more reproduced on a miniature scale of 1:20 entirely from Lego bricks?  Legoland of course! This fabulous park is an absolute delight for families with children and features rides, shows, hand-on free play areas for young children to explore, attractions, shops, dining, and an exciting water park and aquarium (requires upgrade fee). The park is divided into themed areas including Dino Island, Pirate Shores and Castle Hill that captivate visitor’s imaginations and are strewn with life-sized models of characters made from Lego bricks. For more information visit Legoland, Carlsbad California or visit their official website at: http://california.legoland.com/en. Carlsbad’s Legoland was also featured in our 20 Best Small Amusement Parks for Families in the USA.

SEAWORLD – California, Texas & Florida

See exciting dolphin shows and more at SeaWorld (Courtesy of SeaWorld San Diego)

SeaWorld combines the thrills of an amusement park, with the wonder of the animal world. With three exciting locations to choose from (San Diego, CA, San Antonio, TX, and Orlando, FL), guests can learn all about the intriguing animals at these parks while having a roaring good time on the rides, attractions, shows, shops and dining. There are exciting rides for all levels of thrill seekers, like the flume coaster Journey to Atlantis, Sky Tower with its spectacular views, splashing raft rides, and gentler rides for younger children. The exhibits feature fascinating animals like penguins, playful otters, tropical fish aquariums, sleek sharks, and lots more.  All three parks have fantastic shows including dolphins, killer whales, sea lions and acrobatic stunts. There are lots of touch/feed pools, behind-the-scenes tours, and animal encounters for viewers to learn more about the amazing animals up close. For more information about their Southern California location please visit Sea World San Diego California Family Review, or you can also visit their official site at  http://seaworldparks.com

SESAME PLACE – Langhorne, Pennsylvania 

See Elmo and other lovable furry characters at Sesame Place (Photo contributed by Sesame Place)

This fantastic amusement park is the only one of its kind in the country, and perfect for families with younger children. See the Sesame Street Neighborhood come to life complete with its beloved furry characters like Elmo, Big Bird, the Cookie Monster, as well as the Furry Arms Hotel, Oscar’s trash can, Mr. Hooper’s store, Bert and Ernie’s house, and more. This Langhorne, Pennsylvania park offers games and plenty of wet and dry attractions for kids to ride, play, climb and explore including Big Bird’s Court, the Cookie Mountain, an interactive water play castle, slides, wave pool and more. Exciting shows and the popular Neighborhood Street Party Parade with all the favorite furry friends makes a visit to this outstanding theme park a memorable experience. For more information visit www.sesameplace.com

SIX FLAGS GREAT AMERICA – Gurnee, Illinois

The dazzling Columbia Carousel stands 10 stories with two decks for a nostalgic ride (Courtesy of Six Flags Great America)

Located in Gurnee, Illinois, Six Flags Great America is also home to Six Flags Hurricane Harbor where guests can get their fill of dry and wet thrills, and best of all, the water park is free with park admission. There are countless rides including the thrilling coasters Raging Bull and Viper, Jester’s Wild Ride rocking tugboat ride, Big Easy Balloons, Little Dipper family coaster, the resplendent Columbia Carousel, lots of shops, dining options, and shows with live entertainment including the Glow in the Park Parade. Three areas dedicated just for kids ensure that even the youngest guests are thoroughly entertained and include Skull Island, Kidzopolis, and Camp Cartoon with rides, attractions and play areas. The water park boasts slides, raft rides, a wave pool, a relaxing lazy river, and more. For more information visit www.sixflags.com/greatAmerica/index.aspx

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS – Orlando, Florida 

The iconic globe of Universal Studios Orlando

The world of film and television has a marvelous element of fantasy that is lots of fun to explore at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida.  From behind-the-scenes shows, to real working movie sets, and exciting rides and attractions, a visit to this park is unforgettable. There are 3-D and 4-D interactive experiences like Shrek 4-D and Terminator 2 3-D, play areas for kids like Curious George Goes to Town and Fievel’s Playground, shows like A Day in the Park with Barney, Fear Factor Live with lots of audience participation, the Horror Make-up Show, a variety of shops, and a delicious array of dining including cafes and restaurants. For more information visit Universal Orlando: Not Just for Thrill-Seeking Teens.

What’s better than taking your family to a hotel resort or spending a day at a waterpark? Both! Resorts with waterparks included let families have their cake and eat it too. And those with indoor waterparks offer year-round weather-proof fun. Listed alphabetically, the following 10 indoor waterpark resorts offer recreation that is built into the hotel, practically guaranteeing a great time. The convenience is unparalleled. It’s a one-stop shop. No need to plan each day’s activities nor drag the family all over town. And when the children have a great time, you will too.

Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark – Boyne Falls, Michigan

Avalanche Bay boasts 88,000 square feet of water recreation

Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark at Boyne Mountain Resort in Boyne Falls Michigan boasts 88,000 square feet of indoor water recreation including slides, rides, kids pools, climbing walls, lazy river, and surf simulator, all included in the overnight packages. Attached to Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, the Mountain Grand Lodge and Spa features a Swiss/Austrian inspired alpine décor with prime accommodations that include amenities such as fireplaces, kitchenettes, and flat screen televisions. Boyne Mountain also offers skiing, golf, a luxurious spa, arcade, an array of dining and shopping, and plenty more. The Splash Camp keeps children ages 6-12 safely entertained with waterpark activities and games. There is also a wonderful daycare service for children ages 8 months to 4 years. For more information visit www.avalanchebay.com

Great Wolf Lodge

Great Wolf Lodge has 10 fantastic locations in the USA and one in Canada

Families will love the rustic charm of the cabin themed Great Wolf Lodge indoor waterpark resorts. With 10 fabulous locations in the USA – Concord NC, Cincinnati OH, Grand Mound/Centralia WA, Grapevine TX, Kansas City KS, Pocono Mountains PA, Sandusky OH, Traverse City MI, Williamsburg VA and Wisconsin Dells WI – this weather-proof sanctuary offers 84-degree indoor waterparks to thrill guests of all ages with rides, slides, pools and interactive water play structures (all included in resort rates). The resorts also feature inviting accommodations, dining, shopping, spa and fitness center (some locations), exciting arcade, and plenty of activities for all ages. The Cub Club for younger children boasts hands-on programs with fun activities, crafts and games to entertain younger children. The Great Wolf Lodge in Great Mound, Washington was featured on Tots and Travel as one of the Top 10 Family Resorts on the West Coast. For more information visit www.greatwolf.com  

Hope Lake Lodge & Indoor Waterpark – Cortland, New York

Hope Lake Lodge at Greek Peak Resort offers year-round recreation

Located in the scenic Finger Lakes Region in Cortland New York, Hope Lake Lodge at the Greek Peak Mountain Resort welcomes families with its north-woods appeal and fantastic array of recreational activities. Resort guests receive free waterpark passes to the Cascades Indoor Waterpark which is a comfortable 84 degrees and boasts multiple slides, tube ride, activity pool, wave pool, wading pool, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, year-round heated outdoor pool, and multi-level activity structure with 500 gallon deluge bucket. Everything at this fantastic resort is about comfort and convenience from the luxurious accommodations and spa, to the exciting Adventure Center, dining options, babysitting services, Cub Club Playland for children 6 and under, and much more. For more information visit www.greekpeak.net

Kalahari Resort

Kalahari Resort has fun African-themed attractions

This African-themed resort has two terrific locations in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin and Sandusky, Ohio. Both resorts feature free admission for resort guests to the indoor and outdoor waterparks for year-round fun with water coasters, interactive water play areas, and slides galore. There are also arcades, fitness centers, spas, shopping, plenty of dining, and a host of activities to keep kids happily occupied. The Wisconsin Dells venue also has an indoor theme park with rides and attractions for all ages, while the Sandusky venue has an outdoor adventure park that includes animal exhibits and rides. The comfortably appointed accommodations feature free high-speed internet access, coffee makers, refrigerators, microwaves, televisions, in-room safe, pay per view movies, and much more. For more information visit www.kalahariresorts.com

KeyLime Cove Indoor Waterpark Resort – Gurnee, Illinois

KeyLime Cove is a tropical paradise in Illinois

Inspired by the beautiful Florida Keys, Keylime Cove Indoor Waterpark Resort in Gurnee, Illinois is a tropical paradise for the whole family. Admission to the 65,000 square-foot waterpark is included in the resort rates and features a comfortable 82 degree year-round temperature with slides, rides, lazy river, wave pool, interactive play structure with games and gadgets, and kiddie pool with mini slides. The cheerful accommodations include guest rooms and suites with high-speed internet access, refrigerators, bath amenities and more. A variety of kid-friendly restaurants, shops, spa, live entertainment, arcade, and exciting array of activities and attractions make a memorable stay at Keylime Cove complete. For more information visit www.keylimecove.com

Massanutten Resort – McGaheysville, Virginia

This water play structure is just one of the exciting attractions of Massanutten Resort's indoor waterpark

Located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley with its scenic views and year-round attractions, the Massanutten Resort in McGaheysville, Virginia offers families exciting recreation for all seasons. There is skiing, golfing, swimming, hiking, and an indoor/outdoor waterpark to thrill kids of all ages. Open year-round, the 42,000 square-foot indoor waterpark is always a balmy 84 degrees and features slides, a flow rider for surfing, pools, indoor/outdoor hot tub, river with waterfalls and spray features, and kiddie pond with slide, swings and water-play elements. The resort accommodations offer a variety of lodging options for families and include coffee makers, refrigerators, balconies, high-speed internet access and more. There are shops, dining, an arcade, and a diverse selection of on-site and nearby area attractions as well. For more information visit www.massresort.com

Six Flags Great Escape Lodge – Queensbury, New York

There is surfing at Six Flags Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark's Boogie Bear Surf ride

Six Flags Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark is across the street from the Great Escape & Splashwater Kingdom theme park in the picturesque region of Lake George, New York – a family favorite destination for many. This Adirondack-themed lodge has several dining options, a sports lounge with over 22 flat-screen TVs, an arcade, spa, fitness center, two stores, and elegantly furnished accommodations with high-speed internet access, refrigerators, microwaves and more. The 38,000 square-foot indoor waterpark features a lazy river, raft ride, tube slides, pint-size water playground for younger children, flow rider surf simulator, lagoon with waterfalls, multi-story tree house with over 160 interactive water elements, and adult whirlpool. For more information visit www.sixflagsgreatescapelodge.com

Splash Lagoon – Erie, Pennsylvania

Splash Lagoon's five story fortress is a big hit with kids

Splash Lagoon in Erie, Pennsylvania offers families an exciting escape from the daily routine with an indoor waterpark that boasts a variety of thrills for all ages. There are rides, slides, a five story fortress with lots of activities to explore, lazy river with waterfall, pool, whirlpools, and a water playground for younger children with kiddie pool, slides, swings and interactive water play elements. A 6,000 square-foot arcade, family activity center, lazer tag, and ropes course are also featured. Three connected hotels offer comfortably appointed accommodations with free high-speed internet access and resort packages that include passes to Splash Lagoon. They also feature a fitness center, complimentary breakfast, and a host of other convenient amenities. For more information visit www.splashlagoon.com

Wilderness at the Smokies – Sevierville, Tennessee

Wilderness at the Smokies features indoor and outdoor waterparks

Wilderness at the Smokies Waterpark Resort in Sevierville, Tennessee is a luxurious vacation destination with exciting recreational options for the entire family. The accommodations offer a variety of suite styles to meet diverse family needs and feature comfortable furnishings in warm muted tones with a range of amenities. There is a fitness center, nearby championship golf, mini-golf, retail shops, two arcades, indoor and two outdoor waterparks, and several fantastic dining choices where kids under 12 eat free with purchase of each adult breakfast or dinner buffet. The 66,000 square-foot indoor waterpark has rides, slides, wave pool, hot tub, and multi-leveled water play structure with all sorts of interactive soaking and splashing elements to thrill guests. For more information visit www.wildernessatthesmokies.com

Wilderness Territory – Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

America's largest indoor wave pool attraction is found at Wilderness Territory in Wisconsin Dells

With 600 acres in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, Wilderness Territory is America’s largest waterpark resort.  This sprawling oasis includes waterpark passes for resort guests and features 500,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor waterparks with 52 slides, 4 lazy rivers, 2 lazy lakes, 1 wave pool, 5 kiddy pools with play structures, 5 toddler pools, 3 lily pad walks, 9 hot tubs, and 8 activity pools. The resort also boasts a variety of lodging options, a delicious array of dining venues, the Wild Rock Golf Club, spa, fitness center, and shops. More attractions include arcades, bumper boats, mini golf, go karts, children’s parks, and a wide variety of scheduled activities, crafts and scavenger hunts for parents and kids to do together. For more information visit www.wildernessresort.com/

Kitsch was everywhere in Gatlinburg, and Pigeon Forge, where this Wonderworks attraction was located.

In order to reach this old fashioned, traffic filled, tourist town abutting the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, you have to drive off Route 40 and down through a more modern tourist enclave called Pigeon Forge, home of Dollywood, and Dollywood’s Splash Country – Dolly Parton’s down home answer to Disneyland. Here we discovered an enormous eye catching upside down building called Wonderwork, the facade to a giant games arcade with massive amounts of screaming happy children.

So am I recommending these activities to families? Well, if crowds, kitsch, and mid-range motels, buffet dinners and definitely not ready for Broadway dinner theater appeals – Pigeon Forge is the capital!

We came for the national park, and chose Gatlinburg as a closer stay. Years ago, family relatives had settled in on rocking chairs at boarding houses in Gatlinburg, and oddly enough, you’ll see some old fashioned hotels, with rockers on the porches, still located in town. We stayed at the modern Hilton Garden Inn just off the main drag. The rooms are not large, but all the amenities are in place, and the small hotel dining room offered the best food choices for us. If you like foot long hot dogs and corn on the cob on sticks, there are plenty of other choices in town.

We dined first, having arrived late in the day out of Nashville, and then set off to explore the town on foot. We found that although Gatlinburg may be a small town and have somewhat small town attractions, they’re not inexpensive. I spent as much on the Mystery Theater and Ripley’s Believe it Or Not Museum here as I would’ve on an off Broadway play and dinner in New York. But I’m not really complaining. It was an experience we enjoyed and… probably won’t repeat.

The Mystery Theater – not much of a mystery. They tell you a ghost story, unrealistic mannequins and a stage set fall into darkness while a ghost story is told via recording. The kitsch made it amusing, but you can scratch that one off your list. Not so Ripleys. Although a chain, Ripley’s has always been fun, and offers unique, bizarre exhibits everywhere. I’ve let my kids persuade me to pay for exploring one of these attractions – Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Key West, Florida, home in LA, and in Gatlinburg. We especially enjoyed climbing into the giant chair that made us look like Thumbelina’s relatives. After seeing headless men and chambers of horrors (avoid the latter with smaller children), we were ready for some cotton candy, slightly oily fudge, famous sticky taffy, and a good look at the enormous collection of tee shirt stores that fill Gatlinburg’s main drag.

We loved splashing through puddles in this rainy National Park.

In the morning we headed into the park. Great Smoky Mountain National Park is misty with fog, has spectacular views and is green and wet. Over eight hundred miles long, the park has over fifty five inches of rainfall a year, even at lower elevations, thirty inches more at the top. Bring your rain poncho, regardless of the season. U.S. Highway 441 cuts through the park, providing access to many look out points and trail heads. Newfound Gap is in the center of the park, and it was here in 1940 that President Roosevelt dedicated the national park. Another historic part of the park is Cades Cove, a lovely valley that contains historic town buildings established before the community was absorbed into the park. The valley contains a number of log structures that our kids enjoyed exploring.  The John Oliver Cabin, both the Baptist and Methodist church and their adjacent cemeteries are well worth exploring. Our favorite was the Myers Barn.

At the other end of the park, we enjoyed look out points around and access to part of the Appalachian trail. Kids of all ages will enjoy the excitement of vast, forest filled views coming in and out of focus through mist and cloud. The park has a magical, lush green feeling that our kids really enjoyed – and be warned, our kids also greatly enjoyed splashing through puddles. If you’re driving a rental car instead of a family car on a cross country drive, you won’t mind the puddles as much.

Puddles splashed through, we also took a short hike at Clingman Dome, the highest elevation in the park. We walked out to the observation deck and after a passing rain shower, were rewarded with a grand view of tree, forest, hills and a rainbow. The park is almost entirely forested with old growth trees that were here long before European settlers arrived in America, and long before Gatlinburg began selling fudge to tourists.

Oceans, rivers and lakes have captivated people since the beginning of time with living mysteries of every size, shape and color that dwell in their depths. Aquariums offer an up close and personal venue to explore these mysteries while educating visitors about the various ecosystems upon which we rely. The following 10 aquariums (listed alphabetically) stand among the very best in the USA. Come discover our planet’s water world and watch the faces around you light up in wonder.

Aquarium of the Pacific

Aquarium of the Pacific - exterior view (photo courtesy of the Aquarium of the Pacific)

Home to more than 11,000 animals, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California represents nearly 500 species of fascinating creatures in the Pacific Ocean. Three main regions of the world’s largest ocean are represented here: the warm Tropical Pacific, the moderate waters of Southern California and Baja, and the cold Northern Pacific off the coasts of Alaska and Russia. In addition to the ongoing exhibits there is a wonderful range of programs for children and adults meant “to instill a sense of wonder, respect, and stewardship for the Pacific Ocean, its inhabitants, and ecosystems,” as the aquarium’s mission states.

Aquarium of the Pacific - Tropical Reef Habitat (photo courtesy of the Aquarium of the Pacific)

Galleries and Exhibits

Some of the more popular exhibits are the interactive Shark Lagoon, Lorikeet Forest aviary, and the new Arctic & Antarctic: Our Polar Regions in Peril gallery. Get face-to-face with sharks in the Shark Lagoon with its sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks, reef sharks, and more. Visitors can even touch the more gentle varieties like zebra, epaulette, and bamboo sharks. The displays and daily shark feeding presentations are educational and lots of fun for all ages.

Say hello to the lorikeets in the 5,200 square foot Lorikeet Forest aviary. These colorful birds are native to the Southern Pacific in Australia, south-eastern Asia, Polynesia, and Papua New Guinea. Visitors can purchase a small cup of nectar to feed these friendly little parrots, and watch them closely as they hop on your shoulder, arm and hand to sip at the nectar.

The new Arctic & Antarctic: Our Polar Regions in Peril gallery gives people the opportunity to see polar animals like the arctic fox and king crab up close while learning about what can be done to protect their habitats. Two adorable arctic fox pups have recently joined the Aquarium’s family as well. This exhibit includes a fascinating moon jelly touch tank that is safe for children.

Some of the additional popular exhibits include the BP Sea Otter Habitat, Tropical Pacific Gallery with over 1,000 colorful fish and coral, the Northern Pacific Gallery, Southern California/Baja Gallery with the Seal and Sea Lion Habitat and the Ray Touch Pool, and much more.

Presentations, Encounters and Education

The Aquarium offers daily presentations with its seals and sea lions, sea otters, and sharks as well as underwater presentations with divers, who are equipped with microphones. The Marine Life Theater features daily interactive family education programs, and the Honda Theater offers educational films that relate to our ocean planet, including a 4D film. There are also a variety of education programs that include courses, lectures, kayaking adventures, summer day camps, family sleepovers, parent and child classes and family workshops. Programs feature various marine topics and may include animal interaction.

Location

Aquarium of the Pacific is located at 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802 (562) 590-3100. For more information visit www.aquariumofpacific.org. Other related articles include: Aquarium of the Pacific Long Beach, CA

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas‎

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas - exterior view (photo courtesy of Audubon Aquarium of the Americas)

Located along the banks of the Mississippi River in the historic French Quarter, the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas explores the waters from the Caribbean, to the Amazon Rainforest to the Mississippi River and Gulf of Mexico. 10,000 animals spanning 400 species are featured, representing both the North and South American Continents.

Galleries and Exhibits

There are many wonderful ongoing exhibits showcasing amazing creatures that captivate and engage visitors of all ages. Walk through the Caribbean Reef exhibit’s clear, 30-foot-long tunnel where aquatic creatures of all shapes and sizes can be seen swimming through 132,000 gallons of water. The Gulf of Mexico exhibit replicates an offshore oilrig where various shark species, sea turtles, stingrays and the largest tarpon in captivity swim through the 400,000-gallon tank. The Changing Exhibits Gallery features new and interactive exhibits with a play zone and touch pool.

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas sea turtle (photo courtesy of Audubon Aquarium of the Americas)

Some of the additional popular exhibits include the Sea Otter Gallery, Penguins, Frogs exhibit with a colorful assortment of amphibians, Seahorse Gallery that includes two species of rare seadragons, Jellies exhibit with graceful jellyfish from around the world, many from the temperate waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and the Mississippi River gallery with its catfish, paddlefish, and alligators.

Presentations, Encounters and Education

The animal presentations, feedings and educational shows help visitors understand the creatures of the deep, while the touch pools allow for greater appreciation of these fascinating animals through interactive encounters. The Holiday Camps are a great opportunity for children to have outdoor animal experiences during breaks, and typically include: hikes, classroom lessons, daily animal encounters, arts and crafts projects, animal shows and feedings, presentations and videos. All vary by age and weekly themes. The Audubon Zoo and Audubon Insectarium are conveniently located here as well. There is an Entergy IMAX® Theatre that features terrific films in big bold colors to educate and entertain viewers of all ages.

Location

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas‎ New Orleans is located at 423 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 410-2847. For more information visit www.auduboninstitute.org

Georgia Aquarium

10 million gallons of water may sound like a lot. Perhaps that is because it belongs to the world’s largest aquarium: Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia. With the largest collection of aquatic animals, a fascinating array of exhibits and programs that engage, entertain and educate visitors, this aquarium offers guests an exciting and unforgettable experience for all ages.

This Bluering Angelfish is just one of the colorful animals that call the Tropical Diver Gallery home. (photo courtesy of Georgia Aquarium)

Galleries and Exhibits

There are six galleries within Georgia Aquarium, each representing distinct aquatic habitats, ranging from arctic to tropical waters, featuring the largest collection of aquatic animals.

Ocean Voyager, the world’s largest aquatic habitat, features species from the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans, and includes a 100-foot long tunnel which surrounds guests with water and animals on three sides. Here guests can view whale sharks, manta rays, and a variety of sharks as they glide through the waters around them.

Tropical Diver is a 164,000 gallon reef habitat with more than 90 species of fish and live coral beautifully displayed as a living art gallery for viewers to admire.

Georgia Aquarium houses four beluga whales in the Georgia-Pacific Cold Water Quest gallery. (photo courtesy of Georgia Aquarium)

Georgia-Pacific Cold Water Quest features animals from the icy waters of the polar regions to the temperate seas of California, South Africa and southern Australia. Beluga whales, harbor seals, sea otters, and a penguin habitat call this exhibit home.

River Scout is a freshwater gallery boasting species from lakes and rivers from around the world. Waterfalls, logjams and an overhead river entice guests with colorful displays of African cichlids, a variety of electric fish, a striking emerald tree boa, ghost-white albino American alligators, and highly sociable small-clawed otters, amusing guests with their antics. A pop-up window allows kids to get an up-close look at the razor-sharp teeth of the piranha.

Georgia Explorer is a highly interactive gallery which includes a large children’s play area, a simulated shrimp boat and touch pools featuring bonnethead sharks, cownose rays, horseshoe crabs, sea stars and shrimp. This habitat features marine life indigenous to Georgia, from offshore environments all the way to the coast and into the freshwater river systems. Exhibits feature poisonous lionfish, loggerhead sea turtles and fishes of Gray’s Reef, an underwater area off the Georgia coast designated a National Marine Sanctuary.

AT&T Dolphin Tales gallery includes a spectacular theater with live entertainment that takes guests on an exciting interactive journey across the oceans, while educating the public about marine mammals.

Presentations, Encounters and Education

Throughout the galleries guests are entertained and educated by the important animals that live in the various habitats and regions. The 4D Theater allows viewers to experience the underwater world from the perspective of the creatures who live there. It is a wonderful experience that engages visitors through multi-sensory media, drawing them into the deep’s mysterious wonderland. Georgia Aquarium events and programs include the children’s Camp H2O (for children ages 5-11) for interactive animal encounters and explorations. There are also toddler activities for 2-5 year olds, behind-the-scenes tours, lectures, and so much more to discover here.

Location

Georgia Aquarium is located at 225 Baker Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 (404) 581-4000. For more information visit www.georgiaaquarium.org

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Situated on the beautiful California Coast amid salty ocean breezes and the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, the Monterey Bay Aquarium features more than 35,000 animals and plants representing over 550 species of fishes, invertebrates, mammals, reptiles, birds and plants found in Monterey Bay and other marine habitats worldwide.

Galleries and Exhibits

There are approximately 200 galleries and exhibits devoted to the diverse habitats of Monterey Bay. A few highlights include the Kelp Forest (335,000 gallons) where sardines, leopard sharks, wolf-eels and a host of other fishes glide through an enchanted emerald forest of swaying kelp fronds.

Playful sea otters at the Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Sea Otters exhibit (55,000 gallons) showcases two views of these playful creatures: one from the second floor where they can be seen swimming on the surface, and another from the first floor as they dive and swim beneath the water.

Ethereal jellies at the Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Open Sea exhibit is the Aquarium’s largest exhibit with dazzling schools of sardines, tuna, shark and sea turtles swimming across the 90-foot window, while graceful jellies dance through the water.

The Splash Zone has over 45 bilingual interactive exhibits with many new animals, including sea dragons and pot-bellied seahorses. Here children will be delighted by the many features including touch pools, games, and water play areas.

Other exciting exhibits include the Giant Pacific Octopus, Hot Pink Flamingos, Life on the Bay, Mission to the Deep, Monterey Bay Habitats, Sandy Shore & Aviary, Secret Lives of Seahorses, Penguins, and more. This wonderful aquarium houses one of the world’s largest jellyfish galleries as well.

Presentations, Encounters and Education

The various shows and presentations help to entertain while educating viewers about the many fascinating animals and habitats showcased at the aquarium. Feedings present learning opportunities about the important roles they play. Wildlife such as dolphins, sea lions, sea otters, harbor seals, whales, numerous seabirds and much more can be viewed from the ocean view decks. Through fun musical performances, live theater presentations and programs, classes, underwater video cameras, films and more, visitors of all ages will come away with a greater appreciation for the plants and animals they meet, and the conservation efforts to help them prosper in an ever changing planet.

Location

Monterey Bay Aquarium is located at 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, California (831) 648-4800. For more information visit www.montereybayaquarium.org

National Aquarium

National Aquarium combines two venues in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington D.C. which together house over 16,500 animals from more than 660 species of fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles and marine mammals living in award-winning, naturalistic habitats.

Galleries and Exhibits

The Washington D.C. site features more than 1,500 specimens and 250 species of amazing creatures. Its American Freshwater Ecosystems Gallery has animals from freshwater habitats in every region of the United States such as the hellbender salamander and the black-banded sunfish. The Amphibians Gallery highlights salamanders, newts, frogs, and toads, along with endangered or threatened amphibians such as the elusive eastern tiger salamander that is rarely seen in the wild. The Amazon River Basin Gallery features animals like the piranha, freshwater stingrays, tropical tetras, angelfish and an electric eel.

A shark glides through the water at the National Aquarium in Baltimore

The Baltimore site features three pavilions of exciting attractions with hundreds of exhibits. Here visitors can explore the connection between life and water by journeying from the top of the rain forest to the depths of the ocean. Displays of Maryland’s diverse aquatic life and one of the largest sting ray collections in the country are included. A kelp sea forest and vibrant coral reef with more than 500 exotic fish from species such as triggerfish, porcupine fish and hogfish surround visitors as they walk through the exhibit. Guests can also come face-to-face with free-roaming animals in Animal Planet Australia: Wild Extremes and the Amazon Rain Forest exhibits. These extraordinarily recreated habitats feature many animals such as basking lizards and iguanas, colorful birds, turtles, sloths and more. The Jellies Invasion: Oceans Out of Balance exhibit features about nine different species of these stunning creatures.

Presentations, Encounters and Education

Dolphins delight guests with their antics in the Dolphin Show at the National Aquarium in Baltimore

The National Aquarium has lots of educational and interactive elements including games, puzzles, touch tanks and more. The Baltimore venue features an exciting 4-D Immersion Theater where 3-D film and sensory effects such as mist and wind merge to fully engage viewers. There are live dolphin shows at the Lyn P. Meyerhoff Amphitheater, sleepovers for children and their parents at the Baltimore site, daily feedings, special tours, and more wonderful experiences that “inspire people to enjoy, respect and protect the aquatic world,” as their mission states.

Location

The Baltimore venue is located at 501 E. Pratt St. Pier 3 Baltimore, MD 21205 (410) 576-3800. For more information visit www.aqua.org

The Washington D.C. venue is located at 14th and Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20230 (202) 482-2825. For more information visit www.nationalaquarium.com

New England Aquarium

A favorite destination for children and adults since its opening in 1969, the New England Aquarium in Boston, Massachusetts sits along Boston’s historic waterfront. It seeks to “protect the blue planet through hands-on programs, live animal and interactive exhibits, public lectures and forums, and research and conservation projects.”

Galleries and Exhibits

There are over 30,000 animals and 70 exhibits representing the diverse habitats of our world at the aquarium. Some of the highlights include the Atlantic Harbor Seals exhibit which is located outside the aquarium’s entrance. Visitors can watch the seals swim and play in the deep cool waters, then snooze on the rocky outcrops of their habitat. Once inside the aquarium, the Penguin exhibit delights guests with more than 80 birds representing several species of penguins. Interactive elements allow guests to learn more about these enchanting creatures.

Closeup of a sand tiger shark at the New England Aquarium (photo courtesy of S. Cheng)

The Giant Ocean Tank beckons viewers with its four-story Caribbean coral reef exhibit in the middle of the Aquarium’s main exhibit galleries, where more than 600 animals including sea turtles, sand tiger sharks, barracuda, stingrays, moray eels and hundreds of colorful reef fish glide through 200,000 gallons of salt water. Six exhibits in the Amazon Rainforest gallery captivate visitors where piranhas, anacondas, electric eels, stingrays, colorful poison dart frogs and a host of other fascinating animals await. The Seadragons exhibit showcases these intricate marvels of nature that use camouflage to hide from predators.

Trust Family Foundation Shark and Ray Touch Tank at the New England Aquarium (photo courtesy of S. Cheng)

Hands-on exhibits for children and adults include the Trust Family Foundation Shark and Ray Touch Tank with their graceful  cownose and Atlantic rays, gentle bonnethead sharks and epaulette sharks; the Edge of the Sea touch tank with sea stars, horseshoe and hermit crabs, lobsters, sea urchins and more; and the Curious George Discovery Corner where small children can explore different shapes, colors and textures of the water world.

Presentations, Encounters and Education

The aquarium offers many lectures, classes and programs including summer camps, field trips and whale watching excursions. A variety of resources including online games and activities also foster appreciation, respect and education about the marine world. The Simons IMAX Theatre presents films about wildlife and fascinating creatures of the deep. The touch pool exhibits and guided behind-the-scenes tours also offer close encounters with a variety of animals that are sure to create lasting memories.

Location

New England Aquarium is located at Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110-3399 (617) 973-5200.  For more information visit www.neaq.org

Oregon Coast Aquarium

Situated on about 40 acres on the edge of Yaquina Bay near the Pacific Ocean in Newport, Oregon, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is home to approximately 15,000 specimens representing 250 species of seabirds, marine mammals, fishes, invertebrates and plants native to the Oregon coast. In addition to its grand exhibit galleries and outdoor habitats, there are beautiful grounds and gardens for exploring including lush meandering estuary trails with lookout points and informative displays.

Galleries and Exhibits

A colorful touch tank at the Oregon Coast Aquarium

The Oregon Coast Aquarium includes both indoor and outdoor exhibits that beautifully replicate the habitats of the animals they showcase. Passages of the Deep connects three indoor galleries with a 200-foot underwater acrylic tunnel. Visitors get the feeling of being immersed in the sea as they view the 3,500 creatures from the wolf eels and rockfish in the shadowy valleys of Orford Reef, to the sturgeon, skate, halibut and flounder swimming along a shipwreck in Halibut Flats, to the Open Sea teeming with huge bat rays, sharks, and schools of fish gliding through the filtered light.

Reptiles at the Oregon Coast Aquarium's Swampland exhibit

Outdoor exhibits include Sea Otters with the largest population of sea otters in the state of Oregon, Seals and Sea Lions, Sea Bird Aviary, the fascinating Giant Pacific Octopus, Swampland – the aquarium’s newest changing exhibit with reptiles, amphibians and fish, Temporary Exhibits and more.

Presentations, Encounters and Education

Animal encounters at the Oregon Coast Aquarium are held twice a month during which participants get behind-the-scenes experience in feeding and caring for the animals. There is the Octopus Encounter – with one of the ocean’s most intelligent creatures, Sea Lion Encounter, Sharks and Finned Friends Encounter and Sea Otter Encounter. Interactive elements engage children’s senses to make learning fun. There are also sleepovers, summer camps, behind-the-scenes tours, and curriculum-based education programs with on-site classes, lab and theater programs.

Location

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is located at 2820 SE Ferry Slip Rd, Newport, OR (541) 867-3474. For more information visit www.aquarium.org

SeaWorld

With three fantastic locations to choose from (San Diego, California; San Antonio, Texas; Orlando, Florida), Seaworld offers visitors the best of an aquarium and amusement park all packaged into one exciting and educational experience for the whole family. There are rides for all ages, stunning exhibits, lively shows, tours and close encounters that “provide an enthusiastic, imaginative, and intellectually stimulating atmosphere to help guests develop a lifelong appreciation, understanding, and stewardship for our environment.”

Rides and Exhibits

Journey to Atlantis thrills guests at Seaworld Orlando. This ride is featured at all three Seaworld parks.

There are plenty of thrill and kids’ rides and exhibits at the three parks. Among their many attractions there is the exciting flume ride/coaster Journey to Atlantis in all three parks, the raft ride Shipwreck Rapids in San Diego, SkyTower with its spectacular views in San Diego and Orlando, the Shamu Express kiddie coaster in San Antonio and Orlando, Rio Loco raft ride in San Antonio, and Paddle Boats in Orlando.

All three Seaworld parks feature penguins

Some of the popular exhibits in San Diego include Wild Arctic with its extraordinary beluga whales, polar bears and colossal walruses, Rocky Point Preserve with its touchable bottlenose dolphins and playful sea otters, and World of the Sea Aquarium with its colorful warm water tropical fish. Among the many San Antonio exhibits there is Dolphin Cove in a spacious lagoon, alligator Alley, and the Sharks/Coral Reef in a stunning 450,000-gallon habitat. Seaworld Orlando has a Stingray lagoon, Manta Aquarium, Dolphin Cove, Shark Encounter, and much more.

Shows, Programs and Encounters

All three parks feature a fun array of shows, programs and encounters designed to inform, educate and entertain viewers about the many animals and habitats showcased at the parks. There are lots of touch/feed pools such as those for bottlenose dolphins and stingrays, behind-the-scenes tours, different animal encounters such as the penguin encounter, and animal experts touring the park with various creatures.

There are numerous thrilling shows with acrobatic performers, killer whales, dolphins, sea lions and more. Educational programs include day camps filled with intriguing age-appropriate activities that offer hands-on exploration, up-close animal encounters, games and crafts. The parks also offer sleepovers for families, school groups and scouts.

Locations

Seaworld San Diego is located at 500 Sea World Dr., San Diego, CA 92109 (800) 257-4268.

Seaworld San Antonia is located at 10500 SeaWorld Drive, San Antonio, TX 78251 (800) 700-7786.

Seaworld Orlando is located at 7007 SeaWorld Drive, Orlando, FL 32821 (888) 800-5447.

For more information visit www.seaworldparks.com

Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium overlooks Chicago's Lake Michigan

A national historic landmark, the John G. Shedd Aquarium has been captivating and educating visitors for over 80 years. It is found on the tranquil shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, Illinois and features about 32,500 animals representing approximately 1,500 species of fish, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, birds and mammals from waters around the world.

Galleries and Exhibits

An eel peeks out from the watery darkness at the Shedd Aquarium

The galleries and exhibits at the Shedd Aquarium recreate numerous habitats in amazing detail. There is the Wild Reef exhibit – representative of the Philippine coral reef – that immerses viewers in an ocean replete with lush coral gardens, a variety of sharks, rays, reef fish and eels. In Waters of the World 80 habitats flourish with hundreds of animals including a giant octopus, moon jellies, sea stars, amphibians, reptiles, turtles and fish from rivers, lakes and the vast sea.

Amazon Rising follows the world’s largest freshwater system in a region that spans many South American countries, bringing guests face-to-face with hundreds of species of animals including piranhas, birds, sloths, insects, snakes, catfish, crocodiles, stingrays and caiman lizards.

The Caribbean Reef’s 90,000-gallon circular habitat gives visitors a 360-degree tour of the animals living here including graceful stingrays, bonnethead sharks, puffer fish, lobsters, moray eels, parrotfish and more. Divers hand-feed the animals and give informative talks five times daily.

Abbott Oceanarium replicates the coastal environment of the Pacific Northwest where Beluga whales, dolphins, penguins, sea otters and harbor seals frolic. Nature trails take guests through a lush wilderness in this region with streams and tide pools that feature sea stars, fishes and anemones.

For a limited time the temporary Jellies exhibit features these amazing creatures that appear to be exquisite artistic creations. Mysterious and mesmerizing, they pulsate and billow in luminous colors. 10 species of jellies are featured here.

Presentations, Encounters and Education

Shedd Aquarium offers programs for children, adults, families and school groups on aquatic and conservation-related subjects that include college-accredited courses, excursions and local field trips, animal encounters, hands-on workshops, sleepovers and more. The Polar Play Zone gives children a place to stretch their imaginations as they explore touch pools, interactive elements and games in an area just for them. The Abbott Oceanarium’s amphitheater features fantastic marine and mammal presentations – such as the exciting dolphin show – with a strong conservation message against a stunning backdrop of Lake Michigan. The 4-D Experience in Phelps Auditorium dazzles viewers with 3-D projection, high-tech audio and a mélange of sensory effects like wind, intriguing scents, sounds and more.

Location

The John G. Shedd Aquarium is located at 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605 (312) 939-2438. For more information visit www.sheddaquarium.org

Tennessee Aquarium

About 10,000 animals swim, fly and crawl in the exquisitely reproduced natural habitats of the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, Tennessee. From freshwater mountain streams and lakes, to the Appalachian Cove Forest and steamy Delta swamp, to the rivers of the world and the deep open ocean, guests can discover the wonderful diversity of the fresh and saltwater creatures and habitats that share our amazing planet.

Delightful penguins at the Tennessee Aquarium (photo courtesy of Todd Stailey)

Galleries and Exhibits

The Tennessee Aquarium showcases a vast assortment of living fresh and saltwater specimens in its two aquarium buildings – the River Journey and the Ocean Journey – each housing hundreds of thousands of gallons of water in galleries and interactive exhibits that lead guests on a wonderful adventure of discovery.

The River Journey takes visitors on an exciting voyage where playful river otters, snakes, giant catfish, primitive-looking paddlefish and sturgeon, numerous turtles, alligators, birds, amphibians and a host of other species captivate onlookers in the various exhibits. The galleries and exhibits recreate the natural habitats in remarkable sensory detail, beginning with the ancient woods of the Appalachian Cove Forest, down through the Tennessee River, various lakes, the Mississippi Delta, on through the Gulf of Mexico, and Rivers of the World.

A cuttlefish on exhibit in the Tennessee Aquarium's Boneless Beauties Gallery at Ocean Journey (photo courtesy of Todd Stailey)

The Ocean Journey features sharks, graceful stingrays, penguins, colorful reef fish, squid, cuttlefish, octopus, crabs, seahorses, jellyfish and much more in the many fantastic exhibits. The galleries and exhibits depict intricate reef systems, tropical rainforests, rocky shorelines, the aquarium’s largest touch station – Shark Island – with harmless sharks and stingrays, and other habitats with vibrant exhibits. Hundreds of butterflies dance in the popular tropical Butterfly Garden, where their gossamer wings shimmer like gems.

Presentations, Encounters and Education

Many of the exhibits offer hands-on interactive opportunities to engage visitors with innovative graphic displays and video presentations. The hourly animal encounter programs and touch pools delight viewers of every age. The new popular Ranger Rick’s Backyard Safari in River Journey unites kids and nature in a fun and educational close encounter with a Eurasian eagle owl, ground hog, talking parrots, and lots more. The Aquarium also has an IMAX 3D® Theater, Environmental Learning Lab, summer camps for children, behind-the-scenes tours, fully equipped classroom, bird shows and dive shows to “inspire wonder and appreciation for the natural world.”

Location

The Tennessee Aquarium is located at One Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN, 37402 (800) 262-0695. For more information visit www.tnaqua.org

Small amusement parks are big on fun for families. They can have many advantages over the larger commercialized theme parks: being smaller, they are easier to navigate; they are often less expensive with lower admission fees and food prices; they are less crowded with shorter waits and lines; they are clean and very family-friendly (often gearing towards younger children, 12 and under), and more. Listed alphabetically, the following are among the best small amusement parks in the USA, and make wonderful outings for families.

Adventure City – Anaheim, California

Adventure City Drop Zone

A lovely little park for families with younger children, Adventure City in Anaheim, California is clean, very well designed, easy to maneuver with short lines, and has a friendly staff. All the rides and attractions are perfect for children, from the park’s centerpiece vintage carousel, many kiddie rides, two roller coasters, to the arcade, petting farm, and children’s theater. It offers free parking and $14.95 admission fee (as of 2011), with food and beverages that are reasonably priced. Be sure to try the mouth-watering pizza that is freshly made-to-order. You can also host parties in the park’s Party Station or Party Tree House which are big hits for birthdays. For more information visit http://www.adventurecity.com

Beech Bend Park – Bowling Green, Kentucky

Bench Bend Park - Wild Mouse Ride

Named the 5th Friendliest Park by Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards, Beech Bend Park is affordable family fun with free parking, free soft drinks, and $29.99/$25.99 (adult/child under 54”) admission fees as of 2011 that include the Splash Lagoon Water Park (in season). It has dozens of rides and water slides, miniature golf, go-carts, games, a petting farm and live shows and entertainment to thrill the whole family. The park is clean, well maintained and easy to navigate with several restaurants and concession stands offering good food and treats. Birthday party packages are available for those who wish to host events here as well. This little park is a welcome treat the whole family will enjoy. For more information visit http://www.beechbend.com

Canobie Lake Park – Salem, New Hampshire

Canobie Lake Park - Xtreme Frisbee

A traditional family amusement park with history, Canobie Lake Park in Salem, New Hampshire has been around for over 100 years. It features over 85 rides, games, live entertainment, and attractions with thrill rides, family rides, kids rides, and water rides that the whole family will relish. As of 2011, admission tickets are $32/$23 (adult/child under 48”), free for children ages 3 and under, and free parking. There are numerous gift shops, a variety of restaurants, and a staff that is friendly and helpful. The waits are short and there are plenty of shaded areas, which is very nice during the summer months. This park has a loyal following and has charmed both children and parents alike with its traditional appeal for decades. For more information visit http://www.canobie.com

DelGrosso’s Amusement Park – Tipton, Pennsylvania

Delgrosso's Amusement Park - Sea Dragon

With a nice variety of entertainment options in a clean, friendly environment, DelGrosso’s Amusement Park in Tipton, Pennsylvania is perfect for the entire family. It has over 30 rides that include an adjoining water park, speedway go-karts, miniature golf course and lots of family-friendly rides. The 1920s vintage carousel has a nostalgic charm with its 36 hand-carved horses. There is also an arcade, lots of games, clean restrooms, and a delicious assortment of freshly made food that is very reasonably priced. There is free parking and free admission (for those who prefer not to go on rides), and all day ride passes that can be purchased for $15.95 (as of 2011). Individual ride tickets can also be purchased. Free concerts during the summer are a delightful bonus. For more information visit http://www.delgrossos.com/dap.html

Dutch Wonderland Family Fun Park – Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Dutch Wonderland - Water Fun

Located in the timeless beauty of Lancaster, Pennsylvania’s Amish country, Dutch Wonderland Family Fun Park has been voted “One of the Top 5 Best Kids’ Parks in the World” by Amusement Today magazine many times with good reason. This kingdom for kids is a 48 acre playground with over 30 kid-friendly rides, including coasters, a water-play area, live entertainment with special shows and attractions, games, numerous eateries and food stands, and related properties including Old Mill Stream Campground, Wonderland Mini-Golf, and The Gift House at Kitchen Kettle Village. The park is home to Princess Brooke, Duke the Dragon and several Knights. As of 2011, it offers free parking and admission tickets for $33.99 that include unlimited rides, entertainment, and a round of mini-golf at Wonderland Mini-Golf. For more information visit http://www.dutchwonderland.com

Family Kingdom Amusement Park – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Family Kingdom Amusement Park - Water Ride

The seaside allure of Family Kingdom Amusement Park in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is a wonderful escape for families. This family owned park features more than 30 rides and attractions including a Ferris wheel which boasts stunning ocean and beach views, the renowned Swamp Fox wooden roller coaster, a log-flume ride, mini bumper cars, go karts and more. It also offers midway games, 6500 square feet of arcade games, live entertainment with magicians, jugglers, clowns, performing dogs, stilt walkers, face painters and balloon sculptors, and delicious park treats such as corndogs, burgers, cotton candy, funnel cakes and more. Family Kingdom Water Park is conveniently located across the street. As of 2011 admission is free. All day unlimited ride wristbands for adults and children can be purchased for $24.50 (plus tax). Individual ride tickets are also available. There is also best value amusement park and water park combo pass available for $35.00 (plus tax). For more information visit http://www.familykingdomfun.com

Funtown USA – Saco, Maine

Funtown USA - Galaxi Coaster

Funtown USA is the leader in Northern New England’s family amusement since 1967. Located in Saco, Maine, this family-owned and operated amusement park attracts families with its wonderful assortment of kiddie rides, thrill rides and family rides, classic midway games, state-of-the-art video arcades, gift shops, and variety of classic amusement park food including burgers, fries, pizza, cotton candy, fried dough, candied apples, ice cream and more. The Splashtown USA waterpark adjoins Funtown and offers more family fun. As of 2011, parking is free with Funtown USA passes available for $28/$20 (48” and taller/under 48”) which allow unlimited use of all rides and two rides on the Grand Prix Racers. Combination passes (rides and water park) are also available, and allow unlimited use of all rides, slides and pools, with two rides on the Grand Prix Racers fo$35/$26 (48” and taller/under 48”). This 82-acre park with its attractively manicured grounds provides something for everyone. For more information visit http://www.funtownusa.com/

Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park – Gilroy, California

Gilroy Gardens - Gardens Railroad

With its amazing Circus Trees and majestic gardens, Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park in Gilroy, California is a beautiful oasis for families to enjoy. This horticulturally based theme park’s main attractions are the Circus Trees – an unusual collection of spliced and grafted tree curiosities that are over 50 years old. The park features over forty family-friendly rides, attractions, water play areas, educational exhibits, live entertainment, theme gardens, food concessions, shops and more, and has a tranquility imbued by its lush landscaping. As of 2011, parking is $10 and front gate admission (for a Lotsa Card) is $44.99/$34.99 (adult/child 3-10 and senior 62+) which also qualifies as a season pass. Single day admission tickets can be purchased online for a special reduced rate (not available at front gate) through their website for $29.99 (all ages) and does not include the season (Lotsa Card) pass. For more information visit http://www.gilroygardens.org/

Holiday World – Santa Claus, Indiana

Holiday World - Hollow Swings

Adjoining Splashin’ Safari – one of the top water parks in America, Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana is a family owned and operated theme park that offers plenty of fun for the whole family. The attractions are themed to various holidays including Fourth of July, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. With over 30 family and kiddie rides, four roller coasters, live entertainment (including gospel and pop to country music and high-dive thrills, children’s shows and more), free unlimited soft drinks (carbonated beverages, pink lemonade, fruit punch, orange Gatorade, sweetened iced tea, coffee and ice water), plenty of good food and shops, this small amusement park is a big hit with its friendly staff, short waits, and cheerful atmosphere. As of 2011, there is free parking and admission tickets are available for $38.95/$30.95 (over and under 54″) which includes both parks (Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari) for one price. Lauded for its clean, affordable fun, this gem of a park is a long-time favorite of many. For more information visit http://www.holidayworld.com/

Kennywood Park – West Mifflin, Pennsylvania

Kennywood Park - Racer Roller Coaster

Voted by members of the National Amusement Park Historical Association (NAPHA) as one of the favorite traditional amusement parks, Kennywood in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania has a history and charm that has appealed to families since it first opened in 1898. This fabulous park has 32 rides including 6 coasters. Kiddieland has an additional 14 rides and games dedicated to families with young children, including one kiddie coaster, a merry-go-round, a kiddie ferris wheel and plenty more. The live entertainment includes fantastic shows by Cirque Rocks featuring acrobats performing thrilling acts. Admission tickets as of 2011 are $36.99/$23.99 (regular admission over/under 46”). There is plentiful parking and lots of great food, especially the Potato Patch fries. Families are welcome to bring picnic baskets with their own food if they prefer. For more information visit http://www.kennywood.com

Knoebels – Elysburg, Pennsylvania

Knoebels Park - Ferris Wheel

Knoebels in Elysburg, Pennsylvania is a charming park with a laid-back feel that has been entertaining families for 85 years. With its many thrill, kiddie and family rides, classic wooden rollercoasters, good food, short waits and more, this park has a well-deserved loyal following. It offers free parking, free admission, free entertainment, individual ride rates, as well as pay-one-price rates for those who wish to have unlimited passes for all the rides. The Haunted Mansion is reputed to be among the best anywhere, and the food has earned “Best Park Food” from Amusement Today magazine for 13 straight years (as of 2011). There is also a water park with fountains, slides, pool and more, all making for great affordable family fun. For more information visit http://www.knoebels.com

Lake Compounce – Bristol, Connecticut

Lake Compounce - Boulder Dash

Set among the picturesque trees and waters of the lake, Lake Compounce in Bristol, Connecticut is the oldest amusement park in the USA, dating back to 1846. This 427-acre family theme park includes a 20-acre lake and more than 50 rides and attractions. It is home to Boulder Dash – the world’s #1 wooden roller coaster; an antique 1911 carousel; the Giant Ferris Wheel; the popular Flying Scooters; Splash Harbor – the adjoining water park with water slides, tube rides, wave pool and lazy river; lots of classic rides, thrill rides and kiddie rides (Circus World Kiddieland enchants children), and more. This lovely park has beautiful, clean grounds, shows and live entertainment (Friday evening summer concerts by the lake gazebo are lots of fun), plenty of dining and snack areas, and offers unlimited free soda all day. As of 2011 there is paid parking, and regular admission is $35.99/$25.99 plus tax (52” and over/under 52”). Children age 3 and under are free. For more information visit http://www.lakecompounce.com

Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park – Chattanooga, Tennessee

Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park - Roller Coaster

Infused with the charm of days gone by, Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park in Chattanooga, Tennessee is an exciting playground for the whole family. From its antique carousel with ornately hand-carved horses and chariots, to the Boat Chute log flume ride, Cannon Ball Roller Coaster, grand Wave Swinger, the Bumble Bees, Kiddie Boats and so much more, the wide variety of its many rides and attractions are sure to entertain family members of all ages. There is a 2,500 square foot gift shop with fun souvenir items, good food, live entertainment, midway and arcade games, an 18-hole mini-golf course set back in the shade of Lake Winnepesaukah’s trees, and the Stay & Play Hideaway – an interactive play area for guests of all ages that includes misters, water elements and more. This clean and affordably priced park features free parking (as of 2011) with a gate admission fee of $5.00. Unlimited ride passes are available for $21.00. For more information visit http://www.lakewinnie.com/

Legoland – Carlsbad, California

Legoland - Pirate Shores

Legoland in Carlsbad, California is a beautifully landscaped park that offers interactive attractions, family rides, shows, restaurants, shopping and features specifically geared for families with children ages 2 to 12. Although admission tickets are $69/59 (adult/child) as of 2011, the wonderful experience here is well worth the price. This park has an open relaxed feel that is enchanting for visitors. It is clean, colorful, has short lines/waits, is well-maintained and lots of fun. There is plenty of paid parking right by the entrance. The Miniland USA is an exclusive area in the heart of the park showcasing stunning reproductions of American landmarks built with remarkable detail from seven different geographical areas of the country. Children and parents alike will be enthralled with all the wonderful rides and attractions. Be sure to try the Granny’s Apple Fries which are a signature dessert item served with cinnamon, sugar and sweet vanilla cream sauce. For more information visit http://california.legoland.com

Little Amerricka Amusement Park – Marshall, Wisconsin

Little Amerricka Amusement Park - View from Monorail

Tucked away in Marshall, Wisconsin, Little Amerricka Amusement Park enchants families with its friendly service, affordability, good food, cleanliness, and overall charm. There are 26 rides and attractions including a two-mile long Whiskey River Railway that takes you through a countryside filled with crossing gates, tunnels, pine trees, and animals including llamas, donkeys and zebras. More features include an 18-Hole Miniature Golf course, Haunted House, Bumper Cars, a Monorail (with great views of the park), Go Karts, Parachute Tower, Little Dipper roller coaster, lots of classic kids’ rides and more. As of 2011, there is free parking, free admission, and unlimited ride wristbands that can be purchased according to the rider’s height, and range in price from $10.95 to $21.95. For more information visit http://www.littleamerricka.com/

Michigan’s Adventure Amusement Park – Muskegon, Michigan

Michigan's Adventure Amusement Park - ThunderHawk

Michigan’s Adventure Amusement Park in Muskegon, Michigan is a regular stomping ground for loyal visitors. With its short waits, very clean grounds and facilities, midway games and gift shops, this park is wonderful for families with children of all ages. As of 2011, it offers plenty of paid parking and a $26.00 admission fee that includes unlimited rides to both Michigan’s Adventure and the adjoining WildWater Adventure water park. Hungry thrill seekers can feast on the very affordable Backyard BBQ – an all you can eat picnic buffet – at a great price. There is also plenty of reasonably priced food, treats and beverages at restaurants and concession stands throughout the park. The park has a great balance between child/family rides and thrill rides, making it popular across a variety of age groups. It is well-run, easy to maneuver, and certain to make instant fans of first-time visitors. For more information visit http://www.miadventure.com/

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk – Santa Cruz, California

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Sitting on the sandy shores of the beautiful Pacific Ocean, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in Santa Cruz, California tempts families with its exciting attractions. This admission-free amusement park is a State Historic Landmark, and home to two National Historic Landmarks – the 1911 Looff Carousel and 1924 Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster. It features plenty of modern and classic rides for children of all ages, restaurants, gift shops, miniature golf, laser tag arena, video game arcades, family bowling, free live entertainment such as the Cirque Magnifique acrobats, free Friday night concerts on the Beach Bandstand during the summer months, and lots of beach to enjoy. There is a variety of delicious choices for indoor or outdoor dining with restaurants, concession stands and food carts to satisfy many cravings. As of 2011, parking is $12, and all-day unlimited rides wristbands are available for $29.95 plus tax. Tickets can also be purchased for use on individual rides. With its seamless blend of vintage and modern rides and attractions in a lively family atmosphere, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a cherished venue families will relish. For more information visit http://www.beachboardwalk.com/

Seabreeze Amusement Park – Rochester, New York

Seabreeze Amusement Park - Revolution Ride

Seabreeze in Rochester, New York is the fourth oldest amusement park in the country, having opened in 1879. This wonderful park is clean, safe and manageable for the whole family. Admission fees as of 2011 are $22.99/19.99 (over/under 48”) with free parking. There is a great assortment of family and kiddie rides, including the carousel with its hand carved, beautifully painted horses, train, crazy cups, flying scooters, jets, boats, kiddie swings, and lots more. Other attractions include live entertainment shows, games at the Midway of Fun, souvenir shops, plenty of food (the sugar waffles are a sweet treat), the carousel museum, and an arcade. The adjoining Raging Rivers Waterpark offers more fun and is conveniently next door. For more information visit http://www.seabreeze.com

Storybook Land – Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey

Storybook Amusement Park - Christmas Time

Storybook Land in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey has been capturing children’s imaginations with the timeless classics of favorite stories and nursery rhymes for over 50 years. This family owned and operated park offers a positive experience for families with younger children in a clean, idyllic and picturesque setting. There is free parking and a $21.95 admission fee (as of 2011) that includes all storybook attractions and unlimited rides. From Bubbles the Coaster, the Rockin’ Tug, the Carousel, the Balloons, Rock Spin Roll, to the Happy Dragon and more, children will be enchanted. There is also a nice gift shop, plenty of miniature themed displays for children to explore, lots of shade, a water play area – Storybook Seaport – open in the summer, and good food. Outside food and beverages are permitted as well (no alcohol or grills). For more information visit https://storybookland.com

Valleyfair Amusement Park – Shakopee, Minnesota

Valleyfair Amusement Park - Rip Tide Ride

Located in Shakopee, Minnesota, Valleyfair Amusement Park boasts over 75 thrilling rides and attractions, midway games, live entertainment, Imax movie theater, gift shops, and wide selection of food throughout the park. Children will be delighted with Planet Snoopy which features over 20 rides and attractions, including Snoopy’s Rocket Express, Cosmic Coaster and the Linus Launcher. There are many traditional family rides throughout the park as well, including the Carousel, Ferris Wheel and much more. The adjoining Soak City Waterpark is included in the admission price and offers 7 acres of refreshing water fun for all ages with slides, tube rides, rapids, wave pool, and the Splash Station and Giggle Run which is designed for children with its interactive water elements. Single day admission rates as of 2011 are $41.99/$9.00 (ages 3-61 and over 48”/under 48” or over 61 years). For more information visit http://www.valleyfair.com/

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Top 10 Best Water Parks in the United States

Nothing brings out waterpark enthusiasts like a hot summer day.  Selecting a waterpark adventure can be a dizzying experience with so many choices throughout the world.   The list below comprises 10 of the best waterparks in the United States (listed alphabetically).  Each is highly rated and uniquely designed, featuring a wide variety of family-friendly attractions, conveniences, amenities and overall fun for adults and children of all ages. These fantastic waterparks offer an exciting and refreshing escape for everyone, and are guaranteed to create wonderful memories for years to come.

Dollywood’s Splash Country

Dollywood Spash Country Lazy River

Dollywood’s Splash Country in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee features more than 23 water slides and thrilling rides – from white water rafting on Big Bear Plunge, through the winding corkscrew tunnels of Mountain Scream, to the plunging drops of The Butterfly. Add in a 25,000 square-foot wave pool, a lazy river with cascading waterfall, and lots more, and you have a fantastic waterpark with family fun for everyone.

Younger children can enjoy hours of good times in the children’s pool at Little Creek Falls with fun slides and an activity center. There is also The Cascades™, a lagoon-style pool with more than 25 exciting interactive water elements for children to explore. It features a giant rock grotto centerpiece with cascading waterfall, active geyser shooting water 20 feet into the air, multiple slides, bubblers, secret coves and more.

Dollywood Tennessee Waterslides

Shaded retreats and canopies are available for rent. The Riverside Retreats (for up to 12 people) offer 200 square feet of shade and 100 square feet of sun deck. A 27-inch satellite television ceiling fan, dining table with six dining chairs, two chaise lounge chairs, secure storage, and delivery of entrees and bottled drinks purchased using the phone inside each Retreat are included. Canopies (for up to 2 people) offer 65 square feet of shade, two chaise lounge chairs, and a storage locker. There is complimentary seating and chaise lounge chairs available throughout the park on a first-come, first-served basis as well.

Dollywood’s Splash Country has many restaurants and concession stands with appetizing choices including burgers, sandwiches, pizza, ice cream, fresh fruit and salads, to kids meals and much more. Outside coolers, food and beverages are not allowed in the park.

The park is open late May through early September. Parking is paid, but free with season passes. Lockers, strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent, while life vests and inner tubes are complimentary.

Experience some Southern hospitality while creating memorable times with your family at Dollywood’s Splash Country, one of the top 10 best American waterparks.

Noah’s Ark

Noah's Ark Waterpark Waterslides

America’s largest waterpark, Noah’s Ark in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, has something to please the whole family’s craving for water excitement. There are 49 thrilling water rides, 4-D Dive-In Theater where fun action engages all your senses from every direction, 2 giant wave pools, 2 endless rivers, 4 children’s water play areas, and even 3 arcades for those who want to head indoors for some games.

Entertainment for younger children is superb with Noah’s variety of thrills, all designed with safety in mind. From the Tadpole Bay Kiddie Playzone, Endless River Kiddie Area, Big Kahuna Kiddie Area and more, there are kid-sized slides, swings, fountains and fun in shallow water. Beach chairs surround the areas with views of the play zones, making it easy for parents to watch their little ones having fun.

One of the longest water coasters - Black Anaconda

There is a variety of foods at the many restaurants and outdoor lounges. Some of the tempting treats include cotton candy, funnel cakes, caramel apples, berries & cream, frozen yogurt, shaved ice, homemade fudge, soft pretzels & cheese, and more.

The park is open each year from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, and parking is free. Inner tubes, mats and rafts are provided free of charge on all rides requiring them. Lifejackets and wetsuits are also free. Although free lounge chairs are plentiful throughout the park, private cabanas and lockers are available for rent.

Priding itself on safe, clean, thrilling fun, Noah’s Ark provides families with an unforgettable waterpark experience.

Raging Waters

Raging Waters San Dimas

With 3 locations in California (Sacramento, San Jose, and San Dimas), Raging Waters is a roaring good time for the whole family. The San Dimas location is our top pick with its 36 slides and attractions spread over 50 acres of manicured landscaping. This outdoor park features exhilarating water attractions that include high-speed slides, tunnel/tube rides, wave pools for surfing and body-boarding, rapids rafting, a sandy beach, and more.

There are plenty of activities perfect for younger children too such as the themed interactive water playground Kids’ Kingdom. Splash Island, Little Dipper, and Volcano Fantasea also offer countless activities, slides, waterfalls, fountains and more that will bring squeals of delight to children.

Raging Waters Water Slides San Dimas

There is plenty of paid parking in the lot. Free tubes are provided for all slides that require a tube. For safety purposes, licensed and trained lifeguards and E.M.T.’s are stationed throughout the park, and free lifejackets are available as well. Changing facilities and showers are conveniently provided, while lounge chairs and umbrellas are offered free on a first-come, first-served basis. Private cabanas and lockers can be rented as well. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own chairs.

Although outside food and beverages are not permitted, the park does sell a wide selection of food such as hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, pizza, salads, sandwiches, and more. Food is served throughout the park in food stands and outdoor seating areas.

One of the best waterparks in the United States, Raging Waters is open mid-May through mid-September and will enthrall your family with hours of refreshing summer fun.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark

Photo Courtesy Schlitterbahn Waterparks

Loosely translated as “slippery road,” the German name Schlitterbahn is perfect for this fantastic waterpark. With three locations in Texas (Galveston Island, South Padre Island, and New Braunfels) and one location in Kansas City, Kansas, this family-owned park is a joyous adventure for the entire family. Open mid-May through mid-September, the New Braunfels location is our top pick with over 65 acres of entertainment including 17 water slides, 3 miles of tubing fun, 3 uphill water coasters, 7 children’s water playgrounds, a lazy river, and more.

There are many activities designed for families with younger children, such as Kinderhaven, Squirt ‘n Sliden, Polywog, and the Lagoon Kiddie Park. Here children can splash around and explore the numerous delightful attractions. Many of the slides and contact surfaces are padded foam, and pool bottoms are coated with a special non-skid surface. There is also ample shaded seating surrounding the play areas.

Squirt 'n Sliden Kids Area - Courtesy of Schlitterbahn Waterparks

Parking is free, as are the tubes and lifejackets. There are plenty of lounge chairs, umbrellas and picnic tables available free on a first-come, first-served basis, as well as private cabanas for rent. Although outside food and beverages are permitted (no glass or alcohol), food can also be purchased throughout the park, offering a delicious fare of cheeseburgers, chicken strips, grilled chicken sandwiches, corn dogs, pizza, funnel cakes, ice cream and more.

With its endless chutes and slides, rivers, children’s water playgrounds and more, Schlitterbahn Waterpark is one of our top ten best waterparks in the continental USA.

Splashin Safari

Splashin Safari Wildebeest - longest water coaster

Located in Santa Claus, Indiana, Splashin Safari is home to the world’s longest water coaster Wildebeest, and ZOOMbabwe – the world’s largest enclosed waterslide. This family-friendly waterpark offers guests free parking, free unlimited soft drinks (including pink lemonade, fruit punch, orange Gatorade, sweetened iced tea, coffee and ice water), free use of inner tubes and life jackets, free sunscreen, and free Wi-Fi. With its lazy rivers, wild rafting rides, water slides, wave pools and numerous water-play attractions, Splashin Safari is one of the nation’s top waterparks.

Splashin Safari Kima Bay - Santa Clause, Indiana

Young children have plenty to keep them captivated. Kima Bay is a huge, monkey-themed water complex with over 100 water-play elements to keep children enthralled. Safari Sam’s SplashLand has kiddie-sized water slides, spray arches and countless interactive water activities with a maximum water depth of 18”. On Crocodile Isle, children can splash around or play on slides, a bubbling fountain or the spray jets.

Dining options are plentiful and include pizza, burgers, sandwiches, chicken, ice cream and lots more. No outside food, beverages, or coolers may be brought into the parks. For guest convenience, lockers, double strollers, wagons, wheelchairs and scooters are available for all-day rental on a first-come, first-served basis.

Open mid-May through early September, Splashin Safari is certain to enchant the entire family.

Splish Splash

Splish Splash Waterpark

Splish Splash in Long Island, New York, has 96 thrilling acres of fun for the whole family. With its wave pools, speed slides, lazy river, family raft rides, tube slides and more, this waterpark offers wet thrills to delight every age. There is even a bird show that features four comical parrots competing for the title “Pirate Weldon’s Parrot.”

Younger children can swing on the tentacles of a giant octopus in the Octopus Pool, slide down the back of an elephant at the Elephant Slide, explore interactive ships with water cannons, climbing ropes, and slides at the Monsoon Lagoon and Pirates Cove.

Splish Splash Waterpark Slides, NY

Cabanas are available for rent and include a table and chairs, chaise lounge chairs, ceiling fan, personal locker to store valuables, and a refrigerator. The Cabana rental fee also includes waiter/waitress service. Lockers, strollers and wheelchairs are also available to rent. There is plenty of paid parking in the lot. Life vests are provided with a valid ID or refundable deposit.

Outside food, beverages or glass of any kind may not be brought inside, but may be obtained at numerous food stand locations throughout the park.

Splish Splash is open late May through early September, and sure to entertain the whole family and easily makes our top 10 list of best waterparks in the United States.

Typhoon Lagoon

Typhoon Lagoon Waterpark Entrance

Home to the world’s largest outdoor wave pool, Typhoon Lagoon is located at Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, just outside Orlando Florida, and is the world’s most visited waterpark. Its theme is that of a storm-ravaged tropical bay, where the centerpiece of the park, “Miss Tilly,” is a shrimp boat impaled upon a mountain named “Mount Mayday” that erupts a 50-foot geyser of water every half hour.

With fast waterslides, a children’s area with kiddie rides, snorkeling in the Shark Reef (with real sharks, stingrays and tropical fish), and 6-foot waves in the Surf Pool, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park features a 56-acre tropical paradise full of attractions for the whole family.

The play area for young children- Ketchakiddee Creek – offers 10 different activity areas. The smaller slides, fountains, a small sandy beach, and lots of fun features make this play area a watery haven for little ones to explore.

Typhoon Lagoon Mount Mayday

Dining at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon includes quick-service restaurants, an outdoor pool bar and 2 picnic areas: Getaway Glen and Hideaway Bay. Outside food and beverages are permitted (no glass or alcohol).

Open May through November, the park offers complimentary parking, life vests and inner tubes. There are lifeguards on duty at all times. The dressing rooms, lockers (for rent) and showers are found near the entrance to the Park. Beachcomber Shacks are also available to rent for those who prefer a private retreat with wooden chairs and chaise. The shacks also include a cooler stocked with ice and bottled water, towel service for 6, and a personal locker. Premium beach chair space can also be rented, and includes 2 lounge chairs, an umbrella, a cocktail table and 4 towels.

With its many features and attractions, this waterpark is another fantastic choice for families everywhere.

Water Country USA

Water Country USA Water slides

Just minutes from the Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Water Country USA is Virginia’s largest waterpark with a 1950s/60s throwback theme. With more than 30 water rides and attractions, live entertainment, and fun that take you back to a carefree time of the early rock and roll era, this waterpark is a big hit for the whole family. Some of the many featured attractions include Big Daddy Falls (a whitewater rafting escapade), Malibu Pipeline (a 450-foot tubular wild ride), Wild Thang (a 500-foot open flume fast paced slide), Surfer’s Bay (a wave pool with 4-foot waves) and Aquabatics (a 20-minute live show with trapeze acts, high dives, and trampoline stunts). Swimming lessons and water exercise classes are available too.

Younger children have plenty to do at the Kritter Korral and Cow-A-Bunga, with pools, child-sized slides, fountains, spraying stations, and lots of water play elements. There is also H20 UFO – a large water playground filled with short slides, spray jets, a waterfall, and many interactive water features to delight young children for hours.

Water Country USA

Water Country USA provides free life vests in a variety of sizes, but guests are allowed to bring their own. Private cabanas are available for rent and include one round table with four chairs, two lounge chairs, two beach chairs, a complimentary locker, beach towels, suntan lotion, and two complimentary beverages per person. Loungers can also be rented in sets of two with one umbrella, and include one complimentary locker. Lockers, strollers, wheelchairs and mobility carts are also available for rent. Parking is paid.

Although outside food and beverages are not permitted in the park (with the exception of baby food), there are plenty of dining options that include juicy burgers, pizza, chicken tenders, sandwiches, salads, chilled fruit, funnel cakes and much more.

Open from late May through early September, Water Country USA is one of the best waterparks in the US sure to bring smiles to the whole family.

Water World

Water World Water Park Boogie Boarding

Water World in Federal Heights, Colorado has over 44 attractions spread across 67 acres. Open late May through early September, this exciting park offers free parking and complimentary Wi-Fi access in select areas as well. Visit prehistoric times at Voyage/Center of the Earth, plunge 6 stories down slides at The Lines, go rapid-riding at Tortuga Run, go water racing at Turbo Racer, float along the Lazy River, catch a wave and the wave pool Thunder Bay, and lots more.

There are plenty of family oriented attractions for younger children at this fabulous park. Visit Wally World – a miniature waterpark, Caribbean Family Adventure – an interactive play area, the Big Top – another fun area with kiddie slides and lots of water elements themed after the circus, and much more. Tots and parents alike will be delighted with the endless water play opportunities.

Water World features certified lifeguards on all attractions, as well as free U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets. Tubes are provided on all attractions requiring them, but can be rented as well. Lockers are also available for rent.

Water World Colorado Big Top

Cabanas are available to rent and include dining table and chairs, chaise lounge chairs, cooler with ice, complimentary Wi-Fi internet access, and meal service delivery from the exclusive cabana menu. The larger cabanas feature a ceiling fan and beverage refrigerator as well. Cabana upgrade packages are also offered and include additional amenities.

The park offers plenty of restaurants that serve up tasty hot dogs, burgers, chicken, pizza, ice cream, kids meals, and much more. Outside food and drinks are permitted with the exception of glass containers and alcoholic beverages. There are plenty of shaded areas throughout the park, and all are furnished with picnic tables (first-come, first-served), as well as grass picnic areas. Umbrellas, tents, personal shade structures, and BBQ grills are not permitted for safety reasons.

With so much to do and see and one of our picks for best waterpark in the United States, Water World is another wonderful waterpark certain to bring endless fun to the whole family.

Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Point

Wet n' Wild Emerald Pointe Waterslide

Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Point in Greensboro, North Carolina offers more than 36 rides and attractions for the whole family. Whether you aim to relax or seek out a thrilling adventure, this family-friendly park has over 3 million gallons of water fun to ensure a great time. From its exhilarating Dragon’s Den, Dr. Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror, Daredevil Drop and more, to its areas dedicated for younger children, thrill-seekers of all ages are sure to be pleased.

A play area for small children – Happy Harbor – has two pools and 6,400 square feet of water fun. With a maximum depth of 9 inches, tots can play with their parents’ peace of mind. Splash Island is another attraction perfect for the entire family with a child-sized wave pool, volcano with two slides, double tube slides, and interactive water play features.

Wet n' Wild Emerald Pointe Waterslide Kiddie Area

Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe offers plenty of lounge chairs and shaded areas for relaxing. Cabanas are available to rent and include a table, four chairs, four chaise lounge chairs, two lockers (located at the cabana area) as well as waitress service. Although outside food/beverages and coolers are not permitted (with the exception of unopened bottled water and baby items), there is a variety of food and snacks available throughout the park including tasty hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, pizza, ice cream, sweet treats and more.

Over 100 lifeguards and attendants are stationed throughout the park, and life jackets are available free of charge. Inner tubes on rides that require them are also provided free of charge. Lockers can be rented to store valuables. Paid parking is plentiful.

Open late May through early September, Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe is another magnificent choice of water parks for families earning it’s place as one of the top 10 best American waterparks.

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Our kids loved exploring the Rock n Soul museum and Sun Records in Memphis.

Do your kids love to dance? Sing? Just listen to music? Well, if you find yourself in Memphis and anywhere near the corner of Highway 61 – yes, the one immortalized by Bob Dylan – and equally famous Beale Street, have I got a museum for you.  The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is a music museum that depicts the tale of the music pioneers of Memphis. They weren’t just musical innovators, they had to overcome racial bias and economic hardship in order to shape the music that ended up shaping our musical and cultural world. It’s a riveting story presented in interactive displays here.

Now all of that might be too much for the smallest children to understand, but what they will get easily is an enjoyable listen and look at Memphis music, beginning with the songs created by share croppers and field hands in the depression years of the 1930′s, moving on to the Beale Street blues movement of the 1940′s, the rockabilly of Sun Records and Sam Phillips in the 1950′s, and soul music of the 60′s and 70′s made popular by another Memphis local recording company, Stax. The museum has an MP3 audio tour for those old enough to use it, but without the tour running, the museum is still fun and informative. There are three separate media programs running, and a multitude of famous instruments and costumes in the galleries.

The museum started as a Smithsonian Research project, and built up its exhibition space to include information and artifacts about the music. It’s free for kids under age five, and a half price bargain for kids up to age 12. We spent over two hours studying the exhibits and listening to the music – over a hundred songs are available on that audio tour – we held the headphones up to the ears of our littlest listeners to sample.

Right across the street is the Gibson Guitar Factory. Admission is limited here to those over the age of five, but if your little ones fit in that age range, they’ll love seeing luthiers – that’s guitar craftsmen – at work. This interesting forty-five minute tour of Gibson’s factory includes the opportunity to see guitars literally created, and the involved steps that include binding, neck-fitting, painting, buffing, and tuning. There’s also some painlessly imparted history about Gibson’s hundred year guitar making and future musical plans.

Also restricted to age five and up is Sun Studios; which offers a a great live tour of this historic sound studio. The studio isn’t walkable from Beale Street, but it’s an easy car ride or it can be reached via a free shuttle from the Rock n Soul Museum. Children under age eleven are free. The tour takes about an hour, and includes the chance to hold the microphone Elvis used when recording here. The studio lays claim to the title of “the birthplace of rock and roll,” having created a single called Rocket 88 there in 1951 – apparently the first rock and roll release.

There’s no age restrictions and free admission for kids under nine years at another illustrious musical hot spot: The Stax Museum of American Soul Music. With over two thousand exhibits and several large recreations, this museum is worth a full afternoon’s exploration. Stax began as a small record store inside a movie theater, and it grew up to be one of the largest and most significant recording studios, starting the careers of now famous musicians from Issac Hayes to Ike and Tina Turner.

Although not an "upbeat" destination, our children learned a great deal at the Civil Rights Museum in Memphis.

Your kids will love listening to the music and looking at the unique artifacts and film and media exhibits, many of them interactive. As the only soul museum in the world, the Stax museum features work from other recording companies and their artists as well, and begins the exploration of soul’s musical roots with an awesome gospel exhibit set inside an actual church. Our kids really enjoyed seeing Isaac Hayes’ niftily restored, Cadillac El Dorado with its own television, refrigerator, and fourteen karat gold trim. And they also enjoyed the enormous “Hall of Records,” displaying over eight hundred singles and three hundred plus albums.

A more serious take on Memphis history is on view at the National Civil Rights Museum, located at and built up around the Lorraine Motel, the site where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated. While this might seem a little heavy for toddler viewing, all ages in our family were interested and involved in the exhibits, and the older kids found the depiction of the American civil rights movement and it’s legacy to be inspirational and moving. Under age three admission is free. Dr. King’s assassination is only one aspect of the absorbing history of the civil rights movement depicted here.

The Children’s Museum of Memphis is a wonderful and large exhibition space which kids from babes in arms up to age ten will greatly enjoy. The Going Places exhibit was particularly wonderful, with its focus on flight. There was a flight simulator, a look inside an air traffic control tower, a hot air balloon, and even an airplane cockpit. Saving natural resources and conservation through everyday living is the focus as it engages visitors in the life cycle of a tree and the important role that a tree plays in the Tree House exhibit that explored Earth’s environment. Displays ranged from ecosystems, to tree-created products, all displayed in a forest- like setting. The littlest members of our party loved interacting with the interactive Grandma Willow.

Whatever museum you decide to explore, your family will discover great Memphis memories among the exhibits.

Strolling near the river in Memphis makes a pleasant afternoon.

We loved Memphis, and had only one regret: we had too short a trip. Yes, this is the bar b q center of the United States, but our vegetarian and vegan family members had no problem finding delicious food, too. Yes, this is a city built on blues, rock and roll and soul music, but don’t your tots love to dance? From Sun Recording to the Stax Studios, from Graceland to Beale Street, there’s plenty of opportunities to experience a musical Memphis that all ages will enjoy.

We stayed at the Westin Hotel in Memphis which has an amazing location just around the corner from Beale Street and all the music, shops, street musicians, and bar b q restaurants this busy thoroughfare offers. It’s also a very short walk to AutoZone Park, a great minor league baseball stadium not far from Beale. Although the hotel’s sleek modernity is geared more toward business travelers than families, the large rooms and the great views – along with super convenient location – make this a winning stay. We had a view of Beale Street that was glittery yet private – we didn’t have the music and crowd audio, but we had an excellent bird’s eye view.
Another prime Memphis hotel is the elegant, grand Peabody. The hotel is richly adorned with marble and velvet the lobby themes, friendly staff, and beautifully appointed room and suites decorated in a traditional style. While the Westin is right at the edge of the Beale Street and baseball action, the Peabody embodies a gentile, Southern style and isn’t far from Beale. We had a great deal at the Westin thanks to some careful trip planning, but you couldn’t go wrong at either hotel.

Regardless of where you stay, you must take your kids to the Peabody at 11 am or 5 pm any day of the week. Why these times? Well, those are the hours where you’ll find the Parade of the Ducks in the Peabody’s opulent lobby. The ducks actually live in the hotel – at a so called “penthouse suite.” In the morning, they’re marched by formally attired hotel staff from their suite, into an elevator, along a red carpet, and into an ornate fountain in the center of the hotel’s main lobby. In the evening, the process is repeated in reverse. Either way, there isn’t a toddler around – or a child or adult of any age – who isn’t going to smile watching this event.

Here comes the ducks - fountain ducks in Memphis - a real treat for kids of all ages.

Why do the ducks do this? Well there was a practical joke played in the early 1930′s involving Memphis recreational hunters and their live decoys. The decoys took to the fountain like, well – ducks to water – and hotel visitors enjoyed these feathered friends so much that the ducks were allowed to stay, housed, and – many duck generations later, they’re on display. You can view the ducks from a mezzanine level or line up right along the red carpet. The fountain is located in the lobby bar area, which allows you to purchase a Shirley Temple or two for the little ones or imbibe yourself. The bar is completely child and duck friendly!

Also in the hotel: a great gift shop with plenty of duck-designed memorabilia. We liked the net bag of miniature rubber ducks for the tub. If you haven’t had enough shopping, right next door is the large Peabody Place Mall, with a variety of department stores and speciality shops.

Now if those ducks weren’t fountain-raised, where could they swim? The Mississippi river of course. Take a pleasant walk around city park and watch the river barges and steamboats cruising on the broad stretch of water. Memphis is after all the United States’ second largest inland port, making for a busy waterway for boat watching.

For people watching and music in the afternoon and into the night, there’s Beale Street. When we were there, pre-teens were performing awesome break-dancing feats in the middle of the street for tips; blues, jazz, a Johnny Cash tribute band, and all ages Kareoke vied for our musical attention. In W.C. Handy Park, an outdoor stage featured great blues and jazz performances with plenty of room for the kids to run and play, while the adults paid a brief homage to Handy’s iconic statue located in the plaza here. All the venues allowed kids of any age accompanied by an adult well into the evening hours – past nine p.m. the street became child-free, but until then – wonderful sounds unrestricted by age.

O'Sullivan's on Beale Street Oyster Bar

Music feeds the soul, but it was the aroma of baking corn bread that drew us into the King’s Palace Cafe. Delicious shrimp gumbo is on the menu too. Away from the Beale Street corridor and closer to the Peabody you’ll find The Rendez-vous serving up excellent and inexpensive bar b q to local and savvy tourists alike. For real Southern style cooking, check out the Woman’s Exchange of Memphis on Racine Street. Offering an entree, two side dishes and desert at a bargain price, this lovely tea room style restaurant is a great lunch choice. Founded in 1885 on the principle of helping others help themselves, you can also buy unique, one of a kind children’s clothing on site as well as beautiful hand made toys and kitchen items.

Memphis is a delightfully laid back city with an urban edge. Where else can your family enjoy ducklings, a free outdoor blues concert, a river walk, and fresh baked cornbread?

Be sure to stop by Elvis' gravesite

Memphis is home to plenty of tourist attractions including Beale Street and the legendary Sun Studios. But arguably the most famous stop in Memphis, and perhaps all of Tennessee, is Graceland. The last home of Elvis Presley, Graceland is shrouded in myth and legend.

Graceland History

Elvis purchased a modest home in Memphis for his family shortly after his career began. Once he became a superstar, however, the neighbors began to complain about the constant barrage of fans and paparazzi. Elvis realized he needed to move the family into a more secluded location, so he gave his parents $100,000 to find a new home on plenty of land.

Graceland Farms was originally built by S.F. Toof, who owned a Memphis commercial printing company, and named after his daughter Grace. After Toof’s death, Grace gave the portion that is now Graceland to her niece. The niece and her husband built the mansion in 1939.

The mansion dates to 1939

Elvis made significant renovations and additions to the home, eventually expanding it from 10,266 square feet to 17,552 square feet. Among the Elvis-era additions are the racquetball court, swimming pool and Jungle Room, which features a working waterfall.

Graceland Today

The tour is self guided

Following Elvis’ sudden death in 1977, his ex-wife Priscilla became executor for the portion of the estate belonging to their daughter, Lisa Marie, who was then 11. When she discovered that Elvis’ vast wealth had dwindled considerably and Lisa Marie stood to inherit only $1 million, half of which would go to taxes, Priscilla decided to take a risk. She hired a CEO and, in 1982, opened Graceland as a tourist destination. Lisa Marie’s trust skyrocketed to more than 100 million dollars.

Planning Your Trip

The home is visually stunning

Although it is possible to just show up at Graceland and buy tickets, pre-planning can help keep you from feeling overwhelmed. There are three tour options: the Mansion Tour, the Platinum Tour and the Elvis Entourage VIP Tour. The Mansion Tour is best for those on a tight schedule or budget. It includes the home and grounds and takes approximately an hour to complete. The Platinum Tour adds several additional Elvis exhibits, including two private airplanes and an automobile museum. Expect to spend around three hours on the Platinum Tour. The Elvis Entourage VIP Tour is designed for hard-core fans. It is an all-day experience that includes everything on the Platinum Tour along with a keepsake Backstage Pass and front-of-line access to the mansion. It is the only option that lets you return repeatedly throughout the day. Children aged six and under are free on all tours. Students, seniors and children receive discounts on the Mansion Tour and Platinum Tour, but not the Elvis Entourage VIP Tour.

Although there is plenty of lodging throughout Memphis, hard-core fans may want to stay at the Heartbreak Hotel or the Graceland RV Park & Campground. The 128 guest rooms at the Heartbreak Hotel feature black and white photos of Elvis and some Elvis-inspired decorating touches, while the four suites are heavily Elvis themed. The campground offers RV sites with full hookups, a separate tent camping area, and even rustic camping cabins.

What to Expect

Personal photos are everywhere

Graceland has earned a place in our collective imaginations, and is one of the rare tourist attractions to actually live up to the hype. Graceland is larger than life in every way, from the sheer number of rooms to the over-the-top decorating choices. A guide will meet you in front of the mansion to give a bit of background, and then you are on your own with an audio tour and several thousand other tourists. Depending on your level of interest in Elvis, you may be overawed, overjoyed, or overly annoyed with other guests.

Tips for Parents

The vast collection of memorabilia is fascinating

Visit the official Graceland website before your trip to download materials designed to help your kids get the most out of your visit. Graceland can be overwhelming, but the Field Guide, Scavenger Hunt and other activities focus on those elements that are generally most appealing to kids. When you arrive at Graceland, stop by the Guest Services desk with your kids’ tickets. Each child 12 and under receives a free activity book.

The pool area is a great place to relax

Graceland is always crowded, but some seasons are more so than others. Elvis Week is an annual August event that draws thousands of Elvis fans from around the world. Elvis’ birthday is celebrated in grand style in early January each year. Christmas and other holidays also tend to be particularly popular.

The audio tour is self-guided, and you can take as long as you want. If you or your kids start feeling overwhelmed, get out of the crowd and take a break. There are multiple restaurants and gift shops on site, allowing you to sit down and relax before resuming your tour.

Graceland is a must-see piece of Americana

No matter how you feel about Elvis, Graceland is a bit of Americana that everyone should see at least once. Virtually the entire tour is wheelchair accessible, with the exception of two rooms in the basement and the interiors of the airplanes. Videos of both locations are shown in the alternate wheelchair areas, so that guests do not miss out. The audio tour is offered in eight different languages. In 2006, Graceland became the only non-presidential residence in America to host a joint visit between a sitting president and a foreign leader. The tremendous impact that Graceland has on visitors from around the world is truly amazing to witness.

Downtown Gatlinburg from the Gatlinburg Space Needle

I grew up outside Orlando, Florida, best known for its theme parks, amusement parks and family attractions. I never thought that I could find a town that was more of a tourist trap than Orlando. Over Christmas 2009, we decided to take an RV tour of the Southeast. One of our stops was Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a city that was decidedly more of a tourist trap than Orlando. But it was honestly the most fun tourist trap I could have imagined!

Getting Your Bearings

Gatlinburg is easily walkable

Getting your bearings in Gatlinburg is surprisingly easy. There’s one main road through town and all of the traffic lights are numbered. So instead of trying to watch for street signs and entrances, you just have to look for the number that matches the attraction you want to visit. The road does split into two at one end, which can be a little confusing the first few times, but it’s pretty easy to remember what’s located at each end. Street parking can be a bit tough to obtain, but reasonably priced public parking lots are found every few blocks. Gatlinburg is also highly walkable, so if you are staying in town, you may want to just leave the car at your hotel. We stayed in an RV park nearby, so we drove in each day and parked in a public garage near the middle of the main road.

Deciding What to Do

The Gatlinburg Space Needle is just one of dozens of attractions

The biggest challenge we found in Gatlinburg was deciding what to do with the two days that we had. There are literally dozens of attractions, shops and restaurants packed into several blocks. Every time we turned around, there was a highly themed mini-golf course, an arcade, a museum, a virtual reality experience or a wood carver shop drawing our attention.

Fortunately, I was a woman on a mission. I knew beyond the shadow of a doubt that the very first thing I wanted to do in Gatlinburg was the Skylift. My parents went to Gatlinburg a number of years ago. My mom had been raised in a very conservative household where she was not allowed to do anything that my grandmother considered “dangerous.” Grandma’s threshold for danger was pretty low, so Mom’s childhood lacked the street fairs and carnival rides that most of us experienced. When my parents went to Gatlinburg, Mom said the Skylift was something her mother would have absolutely forbidden. So of course, it was the first thing they did. I had seen the photo and heard the story so many times that I absolutely had to check it out for myself.

The Skylift goes straight up Crockett Mountain

The Skylift is pretty cool. It’s like a ski resort chair lift that travels 1,800 feet up the side of Crockett Mountain. Since there’s no snow, the chair lift will return you to the bottom when you are ready to leave. There’s a small gift shop and some great views at the top. Since I’m somewhat afraid of heights, though, I’m glad I didn’t know until we were most of the way back down that the “safety bar” doesn’t latch! For this reason, you might want to have smaller children sit with an adult rather than on their own.

Quilt Shopping

The next order of business was to buy a quilt. My parents had bought me a quilt in the Appalachians several years before, and it was one of my most treasured items. However, having gone through multiple moves, a brief stint when I lived in a tent, Hurricane Katrina and years of RV living, my quilt had gradually fallen apart. It was shortly before Christmas, so Dad offered to buy me a replacement. We had visited a lot of stores during that trip through the Southeast, but nothing had ever seemed right. I found my quilt in Gatlinburg, at the Maple Tree shop. The design was perfect, the price was right, and best of all, the quilt was machine washable. I have never once regretted my decision. The shop was pretty neat to look around, and the sales staff was both helpful and very patient. I actually found the design I wanted in one location, but they didn’t have the right size in stock. So we bought the quilt from that shop, and picked it up at the other. It was all wrapped up and ready for us when we arrived.

Hollywood Wax Museum

For a brief moment, I was Rose in Titanic

The Hollywood Wax Museum would be at the top of my list when visiting Gatlinburg with kids. As kids at heart, Dad and I had a wonderful time. Every other wax museum that I’ve been to has had the wax figures behind a railing. Visitors could walk along the railing, take photos and appreciate the artistry. This was the only wax museum I’ve seen that was truly interactive!

In each spot, the characters were arranged in a scene with one person missing. Guests were welcome to step up and become part of the scene, creating fantastic photo opportunities. Some of the spots even had props or small costume pieces to help flesh out the illusion.

Who hasn’t wanted to step onto the bridge of the Starship Enterprise, board the Black Pearl with Captain Jack Sparrow or join Leonardo DiCaprio on the bow of the Titanic? There were several points where we had to wait for a group in front of us to finish their photos, but there was never a long line.

What We Learned

One of several elaborately themed minigolf courses

We just scratched the surface of all that Gatlinburg has to offer. I plan to return when we have several days to spare. Beyond deciding what to do, the biggest challenge is staying within budget. Each attraction is separately priced and, while each is reasonable, they can add up quickly. Add in fun foods and arcade games, and Gatlinburg can be expensive. Make a plan and set a budget in advance, and give the kids a few dollars to spend as they see fit. Doing what we did, and just showing up without knowing what to expect, is probably the least cost-effective way of seeing Gatlinburg. But it sure was fun!