Last updated on June 2nd, 2026
Looking for a round-up of all the great theme parks in Southern California?
From the iconic Disneyland Resort to the adrenaline-pumping Six Flags Magic Mountain to the movie-making magic of Universal Studios Hollywood, there are more theme parks in Southern California than just about any other part of the country.
And as a mom who has lived near San Diego for more than 20 years, you can bet I’ve been to every single one of them multiple times!
Deciding on the best theme parks to visit when there are so many to choose from can be overwhelming. That’s why I’ve put together this quick guide to all the amusement parks in Southern California to help you plan a great vacation for the whole family.
To help you easily explore these Southern California theme parks, I’ve divided this guide into three sections by geographic area: San Diego, Los Angeles, and Orange County.
Theme Parks in San Diego County
1. SeaWorld San Diego
Best For: Families with kids who want a mix of rides and animal encounters.
From thrilling rides to fun and educational live shows, SeaWorld San Diego offers a unique experience with marine life. The park does a nice job creating a balance between learning and entertainment.
There has been a shift in the park’s focus since the bad press it received after the documentary Blackfish was released in 2013. While there are still shows, you won’t see any performers riding on the backs of dolphins or getting in the water with the orcas. Instead, the message is now about conservation and education. I think that is a good change!
Another shift you’ll see at SeaWorld San Diego is the addition of more rides. With its move away from relying on its resident marine mammals to entertain guests, lots of new rides and attractions have sprung up over the years. In addition to the long-standing SkyTower and Bayside Skyride, you’ll now find thrilling roller coasters such as Manta, Emperor, Electric Eel, Journey to Atlantis, and their newest ride, Arctic Rescue.
There is also an entire section of the park with rides and activities just for little kids, making SeaWorld San Diego a park the whole family can truly enjoy.
► Planning to spend the day at SeaWorld? Check out my review and details on how you can save money with the SeaWorld San Diego All Day Dining Pass.
Finally, it is worth a mention that SeaWorld hosts several great events throughout the year which make a visit even more worthwhile. If you are visiting San Diego in the spring, check out the Seven Seas Food Festival. Another one of our favorite events is the SeaWorld Christmas Celebration, which kicks off in mid-November.
- 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego
- seaworld.com/san-diego
► Click here to purchase discount tickets directly from SeaWorld!
2. LEGOLAND California Resort
Best For: Families with kids under 9 years old.
Located north of San Diego in Carlsbad, LEGOLAND California offers a wide range of attractions perfectly suited for little kids, including more than 60 interactive play areas, shows, and kid-friendly rides.
When my son was younger we visited often. The park’s emphasis on creativity and learning through play makes it an ideal destination for families with younger kids. They’ll love wandering through Miniland USA, which features more than 30 million LEGO bricks in its fascinating displays.
LEGOLAND California’s newest themed area – Galaxy Land – made its debut in March, bringing out-of-this-world fun to kids and adults alike. With a brand-new roller coaster, junior astronaut play zones, and interactive space-themed attractions, this expansion adds a major reason to visit.
LEGOLAND also has a water park. The main thing to know about the water park is that it is only accessible through LEGOLAND. Therefore, you cannot buy admission to just the water park; you must purchase a combined ticket to access both areas.
- One Legoland Drive, Carlsbad
- legoland.com/california
3. Belmont Park
Best For: Families looking for a casual beach day with a few rides and fun activities.
Belmont Park in Mission Beach is a beachfront amusement park featuring numerous rides and attractions, including the Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster, a National Historic Landmark that opened over 100 years ago in 1925.
The iconic presence of this coaster against the backdrop of ocean waves creates an atmosphere of excitement and nostalgia. Other attractions at Belmont Park include arcade games, bowling alley, mini golf, laser tag, sky ropes course, and more than a dozen rides. There are also plenty of spots to grab a bite, and of course the beach is just steps away.
If you are visiting San Diego in the Fall, be sure to check out Belmont Park’s Beachside Fall Festival. In addition to all the rides and attractions, there will be live music and lots of fall-themed activities and decor.
If you are looking for a unique beach town experience, Belmont Park is one the best amusement parks Southern California has to offer. It is the perfect place to visit on hot summer days, and so much fun to split your time between the beach and rides!
Best of all, Mission Beach is completely free to enter; you only need to buy tickets for any rides or activities. They also offer free parking. Just try to arrive early to ensure you find a spot.
- 3146 Mission Blvd., San Diego
- belmontpark.com
4. Sesame Place San Diego
Best For: Toddlers and younger kids.
If Belmont Park is one of California’s oldest theme parks, then Sesame Place San Diego is the newest. Opened in 2022 (it replaced Aquatica San Diego), Sesame Place offers a mix of theme park and water rides, shows, parades, games, and fun activities.
In September 2025, Sesame Place announced that it would transition to a seasonal theme park, so only plan on visiting if you are traveling to San Diego from late spring through early fall.
► Travel Insight
Sesame Place San Diego is a Certified Autism Center, offering sensory guides and quiet rooms.
Kids will love the 500,000 gallon wave pool on hot summer days. No roller coasters or thrill rides here, so if you have teenagers or older kids this is not the park for them!
- 2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista
- sesameplace.com/san-diego
Theme Parks in Los Angeles County
5. Universal Studios Hollywood
Best For: Teens, adults, and movie fans.
Universal Studios Hollywood offers a fun experience for thrill-seekers and families alike. It is a great park, especially for adults, older kids, and teenagers. You’ll find thrill rides and shows, and of course the world-famous Studio Tour where you can experience “movie-making magic” from the comfort of a tram.
In recent years, the theme park has expanded to include new rides and adventures. Some of the most popular attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Transformers, and the Jurassic World ride featuring a giant tyrannosaurus rex and waterfall drop.
► Be sure to also check out these top things to do near Universal Studios Hollywood in the L.A. area.
Universal Studios Hollywood is also home to the new Super Nintendo World, which opened in 2023. It has an exciting Mario ride, which was not my favorite but if you have gamers in your family, they will love it!
- 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City
- universalstudioshollywood.com
► Explore Universal Studios Hollywood Discount Ticket Offers
6. Six Flags Magic Mountain
Best For: Teens, adults, and thrill ride/roller coaster enthusiasts.
There’s a reason Six Flags Magic Mountain is called the Thrill Capital of the World.
Located about an hour north of downtown Los Angeles, Six Flags Magic Mountain boasts more than 20 heart-pounding roller coasters, including the iconic Twisted Colossus, Tatsu, X2, Batman, and Goliath that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
With an electrifying atmosphere and an assortment of thrilling attractions, Six Flags Magic Mountain promises an unforgettable escapade for thrill seekers. If you have a teen, Six Flags is guaranteed to be their favorite theme park.
Although they do offer lots of family-friendly rides including a Looney Tunes-themed area for small children, Six Flags Magic Mountain is best suited for teens, tweens, and adults who love a good thrill.
- 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia
- sixflags.com/magicmountain
7. Pacific Park
Best For: Visitors wanting a classic amusement park experience on the pier.
For a classic beachfront amusement park in Southern California, look no further than Pacific Park in Santa Monica.
The vibrant energy of the Santa Monica Pier combined with Pacific Ocean views creates an exciting atmosphere. Though the rides themselves are not what you’d call amazing – they have the West Coaster and Pacific Wheel, plus about ten other small carnival-type rides – it’s the beach vibe you are here to enjoy.
The cool thing that sets Pacific Park apart is that it is an admission-free amusement park. This means anyone can walk up the pier and enjoy the sights and sounds, play some games, or buy a snack. Rides and attractions are priced individually and range from $5 to $15. Unlimited Ride Wristbands are also available if you want to make a day of it.
The abundance of kid-friendly rides and attractions combined with the casual beach atmosphere makes Pacific Park the perfect destination for families seeking a day of fun by the sea.
Plan to arrive early if you are visiting on a sunny weekend, as parking in Santa Monica can be a challenge.
- 380 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica
- pacpark.com
Theme Parks in Orange County
8. Disneyland Park
Best For: All ages, especially families and Disney fans.
Of all the amusement parks in Southern California, are there any more famous than Disneyland? It is truly an iconic park.
The magic of Disneyland, with its beloved characters, classic rides, and family-friendly attractions, promises an unforgettable experience for the whole family. The park offers a perfect blend of nostalgia and thrilling adventures, making it ideal for all ages.
Though the Disneyland Resort has received much ire for its price hikes over the last several years, it remains one of the busiest theme parks in Southern California – proving that the quality of the park is worth the price. We have been going to Disneyland for so long, the cost of my first annual pass was less than what a one-day ticket is today!
The Happiest Place on Earth is open longer than most parks, too. Meaning – you can start your day earlier and stay until midnight most nights. I recommend getting there for rope drop first thing in the morning to truly squeeze the most into your day.
You’ll want to ride the classics like Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, and The Haunted Mansion. But be sure to check out new areas like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway in Toontown.
- 1313 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim
- disneyland.com
9. Disney California Adventure Park
Best For: Families, adults, teens, and Marvel fans.
Often lumped in with Disneyland but very much a theme park in its own right, Disney California Adventure is located adjacent to Disneyland Park in Anaheim.
When it opened in 2001, Disney California Adventure highlighted the state of California. You could ride a 1920s Red Car Trolley, visit a seaside amusement park, or ride the rapids through a gold mining wilderness.
Since then, it has added way more Disney magic to the mix. DCA has expanded to now include Cars Land, Pixar Pier, and Avenger’s Campus. They also host numerous special events throughout the year, like the Food & Wine Festival and Plaza de la Familia during Disneyland Halloween Time.
Although there are many fun rides for young kids to enjoy at Disney California Adventure, DCA tends to be more popular with teens and adults than younger children.
► Don’t miss our quick guide to Disney California Adventure Park.
If you are short on time and want to visit both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure theme parks, consider purchasing Park Hopper tickets so you can go back and forth between the two. However, I recommend at least two days at the Disneyland Resort so you have ample time to enjoy both parks.
- 1313 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim
- disneyland.com
10. Knott’s Berry Farm
Best For: Families who want a mix of thrill rides and classic theme park charm.
Located in Buena Park, Knott’s Berry Farm is Southern California’s oldest theme park. What began as a fun little ghost town in the 1940s to entertain guests while they waited for a table at Mrs. Knott’s chicken dinner restaurant, has transformed into a thrilling theme park. is an iconic destination in Southern California.
Many people ask if visiting Knott’s Berry Farm is worth it, since it is so close to Disneyland. The answer is always yes! Knott’s is a whole different experience; one theme park does not replace the other.
Knott’s Berry Farm has a unique blend of history, entertainment, and modern attractions. While Ghost Town still exists (as does the chicken restaurant, and you’ve got to try it) big roller coasters and other thrilling rides have been added.
Our favorite ride at Knott’s Berry Farm is still the classic Calico Mine Ride. The ride, opened in 1960, carries you aboard ore cars through the dimly lit tunnels of a working gold mine. The winding journey will take you past underground lakes, waterfalls, geysers, and caverns filled with thousands of formations.
If you are visiting in the summer, Knott’s Soak City is a water park right across from the park. It’s a fun place to go to cool off with a water ride or two and some amazing water slides.
Knott’s Berry Farm is also famous for its seasonal events, including Knott’s Scary Farm (one of the largest Halloween events in the country). They also have Knott’s Boysenberry Festival in the spring and the very festive Knott’s Merry Farm if you are planning to visit Orange County during the holiday season.
- 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park
- sixflags.com/knotts
Map of Southern California Amusement Parks
To help you visualize where these 11 theme parks are located throughout Southern California – here is an interactive map!
FAQs About Southern California Theme Parks
1. What is the best theme park in Southern California?
The answer to this question depends on what kind of experience you want.
The Disneyland Resort is the top choice thanks to its classic rides, characters, and immersive themed lands if you have little kids. Thrill seekers tend to prefer Six Flags Magic Mountain, which has one of the largest collections of roller coasters in the world!
If you’re interested in movies and behind-the-scenes studio experiences, Universal Studios Hollywood is a fantastic option.
2. Which Southern California theme park is best for toddlers?
If you’re visiting with a toddler, LEGOLAND California Resort is one of the best options because it has the most rides are designed for younger children plus lots of hands-on activities.
Sesame Place San Diego is another great choice, with Sesame Street characters, small rides, and interactive water play areas designed specifically for preschool-aged kids.
And of course, Disneyland is always a amazing for little kids! But while there are plenty of attractions for little ones, I find that it can be busier and more overwhelming than some of the smaller parks.
3. Which Southern California theme park is best for thrill rides?
If you are traveling with teens or older kids, Six Flags Magic Mountain is widely considered the best thrill park in Southern California. The park is known as the “Thrill Capital of the World” and features more than 20 roller coasters, including record-breaking rides like X2, Tatsu, and Twisted Colossus.
Knott’s Berry Farm is a close second when it comes to roller coasters, and Universal Studios Hollywood has some really thrilling simulation rides.
4. When is the best time to visit a Southern California theme park?
The best times to visit any theme park is typically during the spring and autumn months. The weather during these seasons is typically pleasant, with milder temperatures and lower chances of extreme heat. It’s an ideal time to enjoy all the outdoor attractions without the discomfort of sweltering heat.
Additionally, visiting during the weekdays when school is in session can help avoid crowds and give you a more relaxed experience.
Summer brings longer park hours and seasonal entertainment, but it’s also the busiest time of year. The holiday season is another popular time to visit parks like Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm, which feature special decorations, themed shows, and festive events. These seasonal offerings can add an extra layer of excitement for visitors, but they also attract big crowds.
Whenever you visit, arriving first thing in the morning (aka rope drop) is one of the best ways to experience more rides with shorter wait times.
Discount Theme Park Tickets
There are a variety of ways to save money on tickets to Southern California theme parks, including AAA discounts, military or student discounts, or bundling tickets through CityPass. I recommend purchasing park tickets from authorized seller and our trusted partner, Get Away Today. Get Away Today has discount theme park ticket prices and offers a variety of ticket types to suit any budget.
Get Away Today sells discount theme park tickets as well as vacation packages. They will even assist with all your vacation plans with their free concierge service! Get Away Today’s tickets are also flexible and refundable.
Final Thoughts: Amusement Parks Southern California
Southern California is the ultimate destination for amusement park enthusiasts. From sun-kissed beach boardwalks to the exhilarating rides thrill seekers crave, the most popular theme parks on the west coast (and possibly in the entire United States!) are located right here.
Southern California theme parks cater to different age groups and interests, offering a variety of live entertainment from stage shows and family-friendly rides to world-class roller coasters. With unique experiences such as the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood and thrilling new rides at SeaWorld San Diego, each park promises a unique experience and fun for the whole family.
Read these articles for more help planning your Southern California vacation:
Save These Southern California Amusement Parks for Later!
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