10 Best Amusement Parks in Northern California for Families
Amusement Parks in Northern California A Guide for Families
With its mild climate and stunning scenery, Northern California is a natural home for amusement parks. From San Francisco to Sacramento, there are dozens of parks to choose from, each with its own unique attractions. Whether you’re looking for thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides, or water parks, you’re sure to find something to your liking in Northern California.
Here’s a brief guide to some of the best amusement parks in Northern California
So Amusement Park Northern California
California’s amusement parks offer something for everyone, from family-friendly rides to thrilling roller coasters. Here are a few of the best amusement parks in Northern California:
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom: Located in Vallejo, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is home to over 50 rides, including roller coasters, water rides, and family rides.
California’s Great America: Located in Santa Clara, California’s Great America has over 40 rides, including roller coasters, water rides, and family rides.
Knott’s Berry Farm: Located in Buena Park, Knott’s Berry Farm is home to over 40 rides, including roller coasters, water rides, and family rides.
Amusement Parks in Northern California
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is a 135-acre (55 ha) theme park located in Vallejo, California, United States. The park opened on May 24, 1999, as Six Flags Marine World. In 2006, the park changed its name to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom to reflect the addition of new rides and attractions. The park is home to 14 roller coasters, including the world’s tallest water coaster, The Joker’s Jinx. Six Flags Discovery Kingdom also offers a variety of other rides, shows, and attractions, including a water park, a zoo, and a marine life center.
California’s Great America
California’s Great America is a 1,600-acre (650 ha) amusement park located in Santa Clara, California, United States. The park opened on May 26, 1976, as Great America. In 1984, the park was purchased by Paramount Parks and renamed Paramount’s Great America. In 2006, the park was purchased by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company and renamed California’s Great America. The park is home to 19 roller coasters, including the world’s tallest wooden roller coaster, the Giant Dipper. California’s Great America also offers a variety of other rides, shows, and attractions, including a water park, a campground, and a hotel.
Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm is a 160-acre (65 ha) theme park located in Buena Park, California, United States. The park opened on August 31, 1926, as a berry farm. In 1940, the park opened its first amusement rides. Knott’s Berry Farm is home to 18 roller coasters, including the world’s oldest operating roller coaster, the Calico Mine Ride. Knott’s Berry Farm also offers a variety of other rides, shows, and attractions, including a water park, a hotel, and a camping resort.
Other Amusement Parks in Northern California
In addition to the three major amusement parks listed above, there are a number of other smaller amusement parks in Northern California. These include:
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park
Castle Park
Scandia Family Fun Center
Wild Adventures
Marine World Africa USA
These parks offer a variety of rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. They are a great way to spend a day with family or friends.
Also Read: Is Hayward California Safe
FAQs about Amusement Parks in Northern California
What are the best amusement parks in Northern California?
[Six Flags Discovery Kingdom](https://www.sixflags.com/discoverykingdom/)
[California’s Great America](https://www.cagreatamerica.com/)
[Knott’s Berry Farm](https://www.knotts.com/)
[Lonely Mountain Railroad](https://www.lonelymountainrailroad.com/)
[Marine World Adventure Park](https://www.marineworld.com/)
What are the most popular rides at amusement parks in Northern California?
The Giant Dipper at California’s Great America
The Grizzly at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
The GhostRider at Knott’s Berry Farm
The Flight Deck at Marine World Adventure Park
The Sky Tower at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
What are the best times to visit amusement parks in Northern California?
During the week, when crowds are smaller
During the off-season, when prices are lower
During special events, such as Halloween or Christmas
During the day, when the weather is cooler
What are some tips for visiting amusement parks in Northern California?
Buy your tickets online in advance
Arrive early to avoid long lines
Wear comfortable shoes
Bring a refillable water bottle
Pack a lunch or snacks
Use sunscreen and insect repellent
What are some other attractions in Northern California that families with children may enjoy?
The San Francisco Zoo
The Oakland Zoo
The Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Exploratorium in San Francisco
The California Academy of Sciences
