9 Theme Parks in PA Every Great Parent Visits

Updated On October 8, 2023
Pittsburg, Pennsylvania

Is it worth mentioning that the amusement parks in PA are out of date?

Nevertheless, those in LA will never bring you that feeling of childhood and warm memories.

You are going to read about the nine most scenic family parks in Pennsylvania that every good parent knows.

They are full of old roller coasters, Ferry wheels, and other truly nostalgic attractions.

Check them all and make your own must-see list based on the information here.

1. Idlewild & Soakzone 

Kids love it.

Parents love it too.

The park has so many old-fashioned things and romantic places to visit.

This amusement location is the oldest in PA.

Actually, it dates back to the 19th century.

Pennsylvania calls it the best water and theme park in the state where you can get fun on special occasions, holidays, and family weekends.

Idlewild & Soakzone is located near Pittsburg and is open 12:00 – 6:00 PM through October 27 for shopping, dining, character events and the best entertainment for kids.

Old horses carrousel
Old horses carrousel

2. DelGrosso’s Amusement Park

Tipton offers amusement and water park attractions at affordable prices. 

This draws the attention of extended families as well as new parents.

There are lots of ways to save money – from buying passes online to coupon codes.

Some of the names for the attractions you can find in the park are Leaning Tower of Pisa, Wave Pool, and Bambini Cove.

The park has lots of events all year round and presents a monthly program so you can know in advance what is waiting for your kids in the park, and plan accordingly.

Leaning Tower of Pisa
Leaning Tower of Pisa

3. Waldameer

Waldameer in Eire, PA is the place for the movie-like attractions which has been thrilling grown-ups and children for more than 120 years now.

Greenery in the park, water rides in the Water World, retro trains, food courts, gift shops, and much more.

A special Wally Card allows you to regulate the number of rides you are going to take. 

You take them all or just a few, it’s up to you!

Retro train toy
Retro train toy

4. Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom

A water park or an amusement park?

Do you have a choice?

In Dorney Park and the Wildwater Kingdom, you do not have to hesitate.

There are the most thrilling and most relaxed places to ride for all family members.

You can rent a cozy room in the nearest hotel between Emmaus and Allentown. 

Then you can choose a pass for a group of people or for a single person.

They offer different seasonal discounts and events so there’s never enough fun.

What is more, this amusement and water park is very friendly to people of all ages from kids to grannies.

You can rent a single or a double stroller, a wheelchair and lockers for your personal belongings.

Water slides
Water slides

5. Kennywood in Pittsburg

Have you ever been to a trolley park?

In Pittsburg, there is one place that will leave no one indifferent.

Since its foundation in the 19th century, Kennywood has operated as a trolley park.

You can still notice some of those rides in the park, all modernized and safe, of course.

The amusement park offers about fifty attractions, lots of entertaining shows, character events, seasonal festivals, and numerous gift shops. 

Roller coaster
Roller coaster

6. Hershey Park

Hersheypark is not only about amusement and rides. 

You can choose a lodge, a hotel or camping site for your family.

The location which was initially founded as a relaxing zone for the employees of the famous chocolate factory is now welcoming guests from all over the world.

You will have lots of fun having a spooky Halloween ride or visiting Santa’s reindeers on Christmas.

Hershey is so sweet in every sense.

Trolley rides
Trolley rides

7. Sesame Place

Sesame Park in Philadelphia is dedicated to the old popular TV show, Sesame Street.

This is also the first park in the world that operates as a Certified Autism Center.

Therefore, the little guests with autism and other special needs are more than welcome in this center.

You can enjoy coasters, water slides, and character shows.

After you have worked up an appetite, you can go to one of the dining sites to have delicious food and drinks.

Sesame street character
Sesame street character

8. Dutch Wonderland

Another amusement park that is friendly to adults and kids is Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster.

Has it been a long time since you’ve ridden a Ferry wheel?

Maybe you would like to recover in memory the monorail rides?

Your kids will enjoy the ride and you will notice beautiful views of the park.

On the Exploration Island, be aware of the dinosaurs around.

Take a trip around the island aboard the Gondola cruise and you’ll remember this vacation for long.

Ferry wheel
Ferry wheel

9. Conneaut Lake Park

A wooden roller coaster that was built in 1937 is the main attraction of the Conneaut Lake Park. 

This one of the 17 oldest wooden roller coasters in the US is still operating.

You can have an unforgettable ride if you choose this park for your next family vacation in Pennsylvania.

The park has prepared an event calendar for every season.

You can celebrate your birthday or any other special event in the park.

A cool thing about this park is an opportunity to stay at a campsite within a walking distance.

What is more, you can go swimming, fishing, or waterskiing on a public beach nearby.

Group sitting at bonfire
Group sitting at bonfire

Pennsylvania Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: Pennsylvania Safety Review

Safety Index:
59
Pennsylvania
  • OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
  • TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
  • PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
  • NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
  • MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
  • TERRORISM RISK: LOW
  • SCAMS RISK: LOW
  • WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

3 Comments on 9 Theme Parks in PA Every Great Parent Visits

  1. Pennsylvania’s amusement parks may be outdated, but the nostalgic and charming atmosphere they offer is worth experiencing, especially for families with young children.

  2. The nostalgic charm of Pennsylvania’s amusement parks, from the old-fashioned romance at Idlewild & Soakzone to the thrilling wooden roller coaster at Conneaut Lake Park, offers a unique and memorable experience for families.

  3. The theme parks in PA are a must-visit for any parent looking to create lasting memories with their children.

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