A Guide to the Best Theme Parks Around the World Worth Travelling For

Other than food, nature, and even historical landmarks, theme parks are an incredible addition to a country’s list of tourist attractions. They are a great place to spend time with your loved ones and even feed your inner child! Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-filled rides or fun shows and parades, here are the 28 best theme parks in the world to check out at least once in your lifetime. 

Oceania

1. Warner Bros Movie World – Australia

Warner Bros Movie World is one of the few famous theme parks in the Gold Coast, Queensland. If you love comics, film, and superheroes, then this is the place for you! The park rides are divided into two categories: Thrill Rides (mainly rollercoasters) and All-Family Fun (rides that are less intense). We recommend the Scoob! 4D Experience, DC Rivals Hypercoaster, and the Batwing Spaceshot to get your blood pumping. 

Also read: 22 Souvenirs to Buy from Australia for Your Loved Ones Back Home

2. Dreamworld – Australia

Alternatively, you can head to Dreamworld which is also located in the Gold Coast. The park is actually Australia’s biggest amusement park with over 40 rides and attractions. These rides are divided into three sections with varying intensities: Thrill Rides like the Steel Taipan, Family Rides like the Sky Voyager, and Kids Rides like the Big Red Boat. 

However, if you’d rather spend a day having fun in the water, fret not — WhiteWater World is a water park located inside Dreamworld. There’s a great water playground to splash around, as well as numerous water slides that are worth queueing up for.  

3. Luna Park – Australia

After a day or two in Queensland, it’s time to head south to Melbourne. The city is home to Luna Park, regarded as one of the top amusement parks in the world. Similar to Dreamworld’s ride system, the park’s attractions are also divided into three categories. Take on the Great Scenic Railway, the Supernova, and even the Pharoah’s Curse for a good time. If you ever find yourself in the heart of Luna Park, go on a carousel ride to end your day. 

Also read: 10 Airbnbs in Melbourne for the Perfect Aussie Vacation

Asia

4. Waterbom – Indonesia

Waterbom Bali is one of the best water parks in the world. This must-visit Bali spot has a number of rides and attractions with varying difficulties. They’re best known for their crazy water slides, like the Smashdown 2.0 and the Green Vipers. For those who love to surf, the park also features a FlowRider where you can go surfboarding. 

Also read: 10 Unique Airbnbs in Bali to Live the Luxe Life

5. Universal Studios Singapore – Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore on Sentosa Island is arguably one of the best theme parks in the world. This film-inspired park has six themed zones that are definitely worth exploring: Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, Ancient Egypt, The Lost World, and Far Far Away. Their live-action rides are always the best part, so do stop by Shrek 4-D Experience and TRANSFORMERS: The Ride. 

Also read: Top 34 Fun Things to Do in Singapore — Including Free Activities!

6. Sunway Lagoon – Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysia is no stranger to having some of the best theme parks in the world, including Sunway Lagoon in Selangor. The park has everything you could ever want — a water park, a wildlife park, and even an amusement park! In fact, Sunway Lagoon houses Vuvuzela, the world’s largest vortex slide. If that doesn’t interest you, you can go bungee jumping, zip lining, and even go-karting at Sunway Xpark, which is also inside Sunway Lagoon. 

Also read: 15 Outdoor Activities in Malaysia for Thrill-Seekers to Jump Into

7. Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park – Pahang, Malaysia

Genting Highlands is known for three things: retail, resorts, and rollercoasters. On your first trip, head to Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park in Resorts World Genting. The park zones are inspired by real-life animated movies like Rio, Ice Age, and Epic so you’re bound to have a lot of fun! 

Likewise, you can also consider checking out Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park, which is also in Genting. It’s located in the First World Plaza and nearby the SkyAvenue for serene cable car rides. 

Also read: Top 10 Things to Do in Genting — Including New Attractions!

8. LEGOLAND Malaysia – Johor, Malaysia

If you or someone in your travel group happens to be an avid LEGO collector, then head over to LEGOLAND Malaysia in Johor. As every zone is modelled after the infamous LEGO blocks, you may find yourself living out your imagination. Discover miniature versions of Asia’s most iconic attractions at Miniland, or jump right into a virtual reality rollercoaster at LEGO Technic! 

9. ESCAPE – Penang, Malaysia

If you ever find yourself in Penang on your Malaysia trip, you have to go to ESCAPE. Outdoor enthusiasts would absolutely love this theme park that offers a range of activities and attractions like ziplining, tree climbing, and a water playground. What’s moret, ESCAPE Penang has the world’s longest tube water slide that runs through the rainforest at a distance of 1,111 metres.  

However, if you don’t want to travel all the way to Penang, ESCAPE is also available in Paradigm Mall in Petaling Jaya.

Also read: 22 Fun Things to Do in Penang On Your First Trip

10. Everland – South Korea

In South Korea, you can find some of the best amusement parks in Asia. One of them would be Everland, which is a three-hour drive from Seoul. Within the park, there are five different zones with equally exciting attractions: Zoo-Topia, European Adventure, American Adventure, Global Fair, and Magic Land. There’s so much to see here, and you may even find yourself transported to the pages of your favourite fairytale book. Nothing can get more magical than this!

Also read: 15 South Korea Theme Parks & Amusement Parks Worth Visiting

11. Lotte World – South Korea

Similarly, you can head to Lotte World, which happens to be one of the best theme parks in the world. This recreation complex has both an indoor and an outdoor park and there are certainly many attractions to match! At Lotte World Adventure, you get to witness the world’s largest indoor theme park with five-floor levels of fun. On the other hand, the outdoor Magic Island is packed with heart-dropping rides that might just test the limits of your comfort zone.

Also read: 15 Best Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals in Seoul for Every Budget

12. Tokyo Disneyland – Japan

No matter the season, Tokyo Disneyland is a dream come true. Your inner child is bound to come out at any of the park’s unique zones. These include Adventureland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Westernland, Critter Country, and ToonTown. Go on a whimsical adventure at Splash Mountain and watch your favourite Disney characters parade through the park in their season-themed costumes. We guarantee you’ll never want to leave this place! 

Also read: 10 Essential Tips for Exploring Tokyo on a Budget

13. Tokyo DisneySea – Japan

On the other hand, Tokyo DisneySea is a notable mention in Japan’s portfolio of famous theme parks. Enjoy a taste of Under the Sea with its aquatic-themed rides and attractions, including Ariel’s Playground and Aquatopia. For something more laid-back, you can sit back and relax on a Venetian gondola as you soak in the views. At night, catch a short fireworks show that can be seen throughout the park. 

Also read: A Guide to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea for First-Timers

14. Shanghai Disneyland Park – China

For all the sci-fi nerds out there, you have to come to Shanghai Disneyland Park! They have attractions and rides inspired by iconic films, namely Tron: Legacy, Avatar, and Spider-Man. Better yet, if you’ve always wanted to be in Iron Man’s shoes, you can head to Marvel Universe at the Gardens of Imagination. 

15. Chimelong Ocean Kingdom – China

The Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in Zhuhai is just as magical. In addition to their themed zones and heart-dropping rides, they’re namely famous for their animal exhibits. In fact, you can visit the world’s largest aquarium right in this park! For those with a soft spot for various marine life, you’ll be pleased to know that the aquarium has beluga whales, penguins, polar bears, and even sharks. 

16. Hong Kong Disneyland – Hong Kong

Despite being the smallest Disneyland in the world, Hong Kong Disneyland deserves a mention for its timeless charm. At Fairy Tale Forest, you can revisit the most iconic Disney fairytales in a number of ways, including eye-catching storybooks, a vibrant meadow, and a magical castle in the distance. However, if you’re intrigued by the idea of an interactive museum within the park, head to Mystic Manor for its animated galleries. 

17. Ocean Park – Hong Kong

Ocean Park is another noteworthy fun-filled theme park in Hong Kong. For the first half of your visit, surround yourself with a number of thrilling rides like the Crazy Galleon and the Hair Raiser. Afterwards, head to animal exhibits like Giant Panda Adventure to learn more about habitat conservation and the animals that roam within. You’re surely going to gush over these adorable critters!

Also read: 10 Affordable Airbnb Apartments in Hong Kong for Budget Travellers

Europe

18. Disneyland Paris – France

France is home to some of the best theme parks in the world, including none other than Disneyland Paris. Within this entertainment resort, there is Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. While the former park generally follows the same concept as other Disneyland parks, the latter focuses on the beauty of film-making. Within the Worlds of Pixar area, get ready to be sucked into the animated universe of your favourite characters from Ratatouille, Cars, Toy Story, and more!

Also read: These 10 Airbnbs in Paris Will Take Your Breath Away

19. Parc Astérix – France

While Disneyland Paris is a resort made with dreams, Parc Astérix was made with the intention to send chills down your spine. This theme park is based on Asterix, a French comic series. As such, there are a number of rides and attractions like The Pegase Express, Aérodynamix, and La Trace du Hourra. 

In addition to their year-round rides, Parc Astérix hosts the annual Peur sur le Parc. From 1 Oct to 6 Nov 2022, you’ll be treated to a range of spooky attractions like haunted houses and bone-chilling experience rides. 

20. Efteling – The Netherlands

Efteling is a theme park in the village of Kaatsheuvel that pays homage to folklore and fables. They’re best known for their Fairytale Forest, where the bedtime stories of your childhood come to life. Fall in love with the castle at Six Swans, and pay a visit to the Gnome Village for a home inside a fly agaric mushroom. If you dare, sneak into the candy-constructed house at Hansel and Gretel — we hope you don’t wake the witch up!

Also read: 16 Fun Things to Do in the Netherlands

21. Europa-Park – Germany

For those who’ve always wanted to go on a full Euro tour, Europa-Park in Rust is the place to be! The theme park has 18 European-themed zones inspired by real-life travel destinations like England, Luxembourg, Switzerland, and Italy. On top of that, there are 13 roller coasters and countless live shows you cannot miss on your trip. 

Also read: 10 Dazzling German Castles That Are Straight Out Of A Storybook

22. PortAventura World Resort – Spain

PortAventura World Resort is a massive entertainment resort south of Barcelona. Within the leisure complex, there are three theme parks: PortAventura Park, Ferrari Land, and Caribe Aquatic Park. However, out of all the three, PortAventura Park is the most famous. Its SésamoAventura zone is a highlight for most young families visiting, and kids can grab an opportunity to meet their favourite Sesame Street characters. 

Also read: 8D7N Itinerary Around Spain: Barcelona, Valencia and Madrid

23. Gardaland Resort – Italy

Besides Spain, Italy’s Gardaland Resort is worth a visit while you’re in Europe. Kick off your first time at this famous Italian resort with jungle-themed rides and epic roller coasters at Gardaland Park. Afterwards, head on over to Gardaland SEA Life Aquarium to immerse yourself in an Ocean Tunnel surrounded by 5,000 sea creatures. 

Also read: 8 Hidden Beaches in Italy That Only Locals Know About

Middle East

24. Ferrari World – United Arab Emirates

Feeling a need for speed? Look no further than Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi. As one of the best theme parks in the world for Formula 1 fans, you’re bound to fall even more in love with the motorsport. At the F1 Zone, you can try the world’s fastest rollercoaster, the Formula Rossa. Afterwards, indulge in a unique Ferrari driving experience as you tour the roads of Yas Island. 

Also read: An F1 Guide: Where Are the Best Racing Tracks Around the World?

25. Yas WaterWorld – United Arab Emirates 

In addition to Ferrari World, Yas Island is also home to one of the best water parks in the world. At Yas WaterWorld, park-goers can freefall down the craziest water slides and splash around in a water playground. By the end of the day, go pearl diving in an underwater tank to take home real Emirati pearls! You can also opt to have them set into jewellery, which honestly makes for a jaw-dropping souvenir. 

North America

26. Six Flags Magic Mountain – California, USA

For some of the best rollercoaster rides in the world, you have to go to Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California. There are 16 of these in the park, so you can definitely take your pick! For those looking for an excuse to scream their way back to earth, we recommend the Apocalypse, Twisted Colossus, The Riddler, and West Coast Racers. However, if you’re not up for the challenge (yet), you can go for less extreme rides like Road Runner Express, Buccaneer, and Jet Stream. 

Also read: 18 Best Beach Houses to Book on Airbnb, From California to Hawaii

27. Universal Studios Hollywood – California, USA

When you think of Los Angeles, the first thing that comes to mind would likely be Hollywood. If you truly want to fall in love with the art of film, it’s time we take you to Universal Studios Hollywood. One of the best things you can do here would be to take the Studio Tour. After exploring the backlots, engage in a Fast & Furious high-speed chase.

Other notable zones include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic World. Last but not least, don’t forget to catch a WaterWorld show for incredible storytelling and stunts!

Also read: My California Coastal Road Trip: What It’s Like in the Summer!

28. Walt Disney World Resort – Florida, USA 

Walt Disney World Resort is truly a god-tier entertainment resort that’s also the biggest theme park in the world. Four of the most iconic Disney parks are here, namely: Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. On top of that, you’ll find two water parks that take water playgrounds to a higher level — Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. 

Also read: New Survey Reveals the Best Countries for Outdoor Adventures

As you can see, there are so many incredible theme parks around the world. No matter which one you end up choosing, you’ll be rewarded with a day’s worth of memories and fun. 

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Featured image credit: Disney Parks | Official Website