Top Ten California Amusement Parks

California theme parks are famous the world over. These parks are our top picks for California fun. We have included both northern and southern California attractions. Most of the major parks are in the south but the north has a couple of excellent choices for your entertainment. California amusement parks offer fun filled days for the entire family. To save money on entrance fees look for special offers and discounts. Several of the parks offer reduced rates for California residents.

10. Magic Mountain - If you like roller coasters this is the park for you. with 14 wild coasters, including the world's tallest, fastest and longest flying coaster yo are going to have a full day of fun. Magic mountain is also adding lots of kid friendly rides so don't forget to bring the little ones. Six Flags Magic Mountain
26101 Magic Mountain Parkway Valencia, CA 91355

9. Discovery Kingdom - Formerly called Six Flags Marine World. Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is a combination wildlife park, theme park, and oceanarium. The 136-acre park has something for everyone. Attractions include coaster's, a killer whale show and feeding and petting dolphins and stingrays. Located 30 miles northeast of San Francisco in Vallejo.

8. Monterey Bay Aquarium - While not an amusement park the Monterey Bay Aquarium is defiantly a fascinating place to visit. The centerpiece of the aquarium is a 33-foot high tank with California coastal marine life. Another favorite is the million-gallon shark tank. The aquarium is located on Cannery Row in Monterey, California.

7. Knott's Berry Farm - Not quite the sleepy ghost town it used to be. Cedar Fair Entertainment Company has transformed the farm into a major ride park. Each year Cedar Fair adds at least one new thrill ride. Camp Snoopy is a favorite for the kids at this Buena Park, California amusement park.

6. San Diego Wild Animal Park - The 1800 acres in Northern San Diego County allow 3500 animals to live in conditions that reproduce their natural habitats. For anyone visiting the San Diego area, the Wild Animal Park is an attraction not to be missed.

5. Legoland - A very family oriented park geared toward younger children. The rides are a little tamer but still offer some good thrills. Located in Carlsbad California midway between San Diego and Los Angeles.

4. San Diego Zoo - One of the worlds best zoos with hundreds of different animals to view. The San Diego Zoo is centrally located, adjacent to downtown San Diego, in Balboa Park. The Zoo is a must see for any visitor to Southern California.

3. Sea World - Numerous attractions, exhibits and shows, including the famous Shamu killer whale show. Sea world has added several new rides in the last couple of years. Located in San Diego's Mission Bay park plan on having a full day of fun.

2. Universal Studios - Thrill rides, shows, and the studio tour. Universal studios Hollywood is a experience you'll remember forever. The back stage studio tour is worth the price of admission, but there is so much more to see you could spend several days at this fantastic amusement park. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, California.

1. Disney Resort - Coming in at number one the Disney Resort with it's two theme parks, California Adventure and the original Disneyland. The Disney Resort is the most visited amusement park in California. Most people head to the original Disneyland park first then hop over to California Adventure. Visit one or both for an adventure you will want to repeat again and again.