If you are a globetrotter who craves thrills, going to local theme parks can be the highlight of your trip. From roller coasters that defy gravity to immersive worlds inspired by movies and folklore, theme parks are more than just amusement—they’re experiences that bring joy to all ages. This travel guide dives into the major theme park brands and standout independent parks across the globe.
THE BIG BRANDS
Disney Theme Parks
The Walt Disney Company is synonymous with enchantment. Disney theme parks transport visitors to magical realms populated by beloved characters, spectacular parades, and innovative rides.
Locations:
- Disneyland Resort (California, USA)
- Walt Disney World Resort (Florida, USA)
- Disneyland Paris (France)
- Tokyo Disney Resort (Japan)
- Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (Hong Kong)
- Shanghai Disney Resort (China)
Each park features iconic castles, themed lands (like Adventureland, Tomorrowland), and ever-evolving attractions based on the Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars franchises.
Universal Studios Theme Parks
Universal parks blend blockbuster films with pulse-pounding thrill rides. They’re known for immersive experiences, including 3D/4D simulators and elaborately themed lands.
Locations:
- Universal Studios Hollywood (California, USA)
- Universal Orlando Resort (Florida, USA)
- Universal Studios Japan (Osaka)
- Universal Studios Singapore (Singapore)
- Universal Beijing Resort (China)
Must-see attractions include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World rides, and Minions-themed areas.
Six Flags Theme Parks
If roller coasters are your love language, Six Flags delivers. Known for its adrenaline-pumping rides, Six Flags caters to thrill-seekers and families alike.
Locations:
- Six Flags Magic Mountain – Valencia, California
- Six Flags Discovery Kingdom – Vallejo, California
- Six Flags America – Bowie, Maryland
- Six Flags Over Georgia – Austell, Georgia
- Six Flags Great Adventure – Jackson, New Jersey
- Six Flags Great America – Gurnee, Illinois
- Six Flags Over Texas – Arlington, Texas
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas – San Antonio, Texas
- Six Flags St. Louis – Eureka, Missouri
- Six Flags Darien Lake – Darien Center, New York
- Frontier City – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Six Flags New England – Agawam, Massachusetts
- Six Flags México – Mexico City, Mexico
- Canada’s Wonderland – Vaughan, Ontario
- La Ronde – Montreal, Quebec
Each theme park varies in size and scope, but they all feature intense rides as well as kiddy areas. Many locations also have an adjacent Hurricane Harbor water park. Six Flags has also become known for seasonal events such as Fright Fest.
Warner Bros. Theme Parks
Warner Bros. offers high-quality themed attractions centered around superheroes from its vast media universe.
Locations:
- Warner Bros. Movie World (Gold Coast, Australia)
- Parque Warner Madrid (Madrid, Spain)
- Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates)
Expect DC Comics superheroes, Looney Tunes, and Hanna-Barbera characters to come to life through state-of-the-art technology and stunning design.
LEGOLAND Theme Parks
Perfect for families and younger children, LEGOLAND parks are interactive, colorful, and creative, with impressive sculptures made of LEGO.
Locations:
- LEGOLAND® Billund (Denmark)
- LEGOLAND® Windsor (United Kingdom)
- LEGOLAND® California (California, USA)
- LEGOLAND® Florida (Florida, USA)
- LEGOLAND® Deutschland (Germany)
- LEGOLAND® Malaysia (Malaysia)
- LEGOLAND® Japan (Japan)
- LEGOLAND® Dubai (United Arab Emirates)
- LEGOLAND® Korea (South Korea)
Some parks include LEGO-themed hotels and water parks for more family fun.
INDEPENDENT THEME PARKS
Ferrari World (UAE) and Ferrari Land (Spain)
If you read our article Thrilling Stops For Adrenaline Junkies, you may recall that Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi houses the world’s fastest coaster. Formula Rossa can reach a speed of 240 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. Ferrari Land is home to Europe’s highest and fastest coaster, Red Force. It is over 112 meters tall and accelerates from 0 to 180 km/h in a mere 5 seconds. Ferrari is synonymous with speed, and their Formula-1 themed parks are perfect for adrenaline Junkies
Tivoli Gardens (Denmark)
Located in Copenhagen, Tivoli is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. It has been operating since 1843. Tivoli combines vintage charm with modern entertainment. You can ride an antique coaster, listen to live music, or simply stroll through the beautiful gardens.
Parc Astérix (France)
Located just outside Paris, Parc Astérix is a theme park based on a famous French comic series. It is a humorous take on historical themes (Gaul, Romans, Vikings, Ancient Greece, etc.). The park features exciting roller coasters, live stage shows, and family-friendly rides.
Efteling (Netherlands)
Efteling is a fantasy-themed park rooted in Dutch folklore and fairy tales. Children and adults can enjoy haunted attractions, magical rides, and Aquanura — Europe’s largest water show.
Europa-Park (Germany)
This is Europe’s second-most popular theme park after Disneyland Paris. Europa-Park is divided into country-themed zones, each of which has unique cultural attractions and high-octane rides.
Alton Towers (UK)
One of the UK’s top attractions, Alton Towers is known for record-breaking roller coasters like The Smiler and Nemesis. The park also includes a water park and a themed hotel.
Beto Carrero World (Brazil)
Latin America’s largest theme park has over 100 incredible attractions. You will find traditional amusement park rides, themed areas (pirates, wild west, etc.), live performances, and even a zoo. Located in Penha, Brazil, the park is a popular destination for children and adults.
Parque Xcaret (Mexico)
This eco-archaeological park in the Riviera Maya blends nature, culture, and history. Guests can explore underground rivers and cenotes, interact with local wildlife, and watch traditional Mexican dances. Xcaret group has other theme parks nearby: Xel-Há, Xplor, Xenses, Xoximilco, and Xavage.
Dollywood (USA)
Owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, Dollywood in Tennessee offers Southern hospitality, live bluegrass music, crafts, and thrill rides with Smoky Mountain views.
Energylandia (Poland)
Located in Zator, Energylandia is Europe’s rising star when it comes to extreme coasters. Hyperion is the tallest and fastest roller coaster in Poland. It stands at 77 meters and reaches speeds of up to 142 km/h. Energylandia’s second most popular ride is its wooden coaster, Zadra.
Whether you’re chasing loops and speed or magical lands and stories, the world’s theme parks offer endless adventures. For digital nomads and frequent travelers, planning a trip around a major theme park visit can add a refreshing dose of excitement to your itinerary. Don’t forget to check for seasonal events, fast passes, and off-peak times for a smoother amusement park experience.
So, where will your next roller coaster take you?