As the hot weather approaches, theme parks become a hot spot for day trips.So if you’re a thrill-seeker you’ll soon be hitting the super-fast roller coasters.Here we outline some of the most popular theme parks around the world.
1) Disneyland, Paris
Disneyland Paris first opened in 1992, and has been dedicated to the world of fairy tales and Disney characters ever since. It is a fun filled park, suitable for the whole family, or anyone who is young at heart!
This is the perfect theme park for those of you who would like to experience the fascinating imagination of Walt Disney. It includes two theme parks, and a range of 59 attractions. In 2013, Disneyland® attracted 14.9 million visitors to the park. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Europe, 51% of which were visitors from France, 14% from the UK and the other 35% was tourists from other countries around the world.
2) Ocean Park, Hong Kong
This theme park first opened in 1977. The park offers a unique mix of education and conservational aspects to attract marine-life lovers. This is the perfect place for those of you who would like to combine the enjoyment of rides with the aquatic theme. There are a number of intriguing animal exhibits and thrill rides on site for you to enjoy!
In 2012, the park gained world recognition as being one of the most visited theme parks with around seven million visits. Ocean Park have also won the prestigious biannual Applause Award, impressive isn’t it?
3) Cedar Point, Ohio, USA
Cedar Point has been voted the best amusement park in the world by roller coaster enthusiasts for 10 years in a row, and seems to be many people’s favourite park. Cedar Point has the largest collection of roller coasters and rides in an amusement park. There are approximately 150 rides, attractions and shows. It is home to three carousels, giving you the choice to ride 164 animals.
4) Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Virginia, United States
Busch Gardens opened in 1975, and is one of America’s most popular parks. This park is split into nine themed lands, all of which have been designed and based on a different European country. There are a number of restaurants and shops for you to enjoy. All the rides are based around each countries heritage. Popular rides include Alpengeist and Apollo’s Chariot. Rather than focusing on the rides at the park, Busch Gardens concentrates more on the theme of the shops and restaurants.
5) Universal Studios – Los Angeles
This park is full of world-class rides including Transformers™ and The Simpsons™. It opened for visitors to go on tours of the studios including the sets and soundstages, and to experience the theme park. Apart from the amazing rides on offer, there is also a range of exhibits which are linked to current films. You also have the choice to eat at one of 24 restaurants, and buy souvenirs from one of the many gift shops on site. Not only this, you can take time out to watch mini clips of movies on one of the big screens around the park. This is one of the oldest Hollywood movie studios that is still in use. There are also a number of musical parades and live shows, so you are sure to find something you’ll enjoy.
So if you’re lucky enough to visit some of these theme parks, you’re sure to have an amazing time, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Nick Cooper
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