FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
Wherever awards

Non-Disney Theme Parks for Kids

by Erich Martin

Dec 19, 2018

© Randomshots | Dreamstime.com

Kids

When you plan a fun vacation for the family, you will likely be pretty tempted to book a trip to Disney Land, World or other property and forget it. But, there are many excellent theme parks for young children that don’t involve the mouse; here are just a few.

 

For families with much younger kids, Sesame Place should definitely be on the radar. Sesame Place is a full theme park administrated by the people behind Busch Gardens and SeaWorld.

 

Located in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, about 45 minutes outside of Philadelphia, Sesame Place is the premier destination for Sesame Street tourism. The park is half water park, half standard theme park. It contains two rollercoasters and several water slides, all appropriate for the entire family. There are many character meet-and-greets, dining options and shows. In a lot of ways, Sesame Place feels like Disney Land.

 

Sesame Place Parade © Zhi Qi | Dreamstime.com

Sesame Place Parade © Zhi Qi | Dreamstime.com

 

A bit to the north, but still in Pennsylvania, there is Hershey Park. Hershey Park is, surprise, dedicated to the town and man who built a chocolate empire. For families with sweet teeth, Hershey Park is a great getaway.

 

Hershey Park is a little more geared toward rides and, as a result, there are a few rides that might not be totally appropriate for kids. Character meet-and-greets, chocolate-making tours and more, however, are kid-friendly. The area is also home to a few Hershey Park-themed resorts, making travel to the park convenient and worthwhile.

 

Toward the middle of Pennsylvania, we come to Dutch Wonderland. Commonly touted as one of Pennsylvania’s best theme parks for kids, Dutch Wonderland hosts many family-friendly attractions, including rollercoasters, bumper cars, train rides and many more.  If you’re looking for a more traditional theme park that has attractions for kids, this is a great way to go.

 

On the West Coast, Legoland California Resort is a great getaway for families with kids. The biggest draw at Legoland, aside from the wondrous hotels, will be Legoland Water Park, where the standard family-friendly waterpark is replaced with thematically-friendly Legos.

 

Also in California, Knotts Berry Farm is a local favorite. The park has rides for the whole family, ranging from slower, kid-friendly rides to more intense rides for mom, dad and bigger siblings.

 

The holidays are the perfect time to visit many of these parks. At Sesame Place and Legoland, there are Christmas-themed events going on, complete with lights, color and visits from Santa Claus.

#WhereverFamily

Insta Feed
Hotels
Nov 8, 2024

Celebrate Festive Season in Florida at Grande Lakes Orlando

Grande Lakes Orlando invites family travelers to celebrate the holiday season in Florida. This multi-resort hotel complex is home to The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes; and JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes.

Discover the Magic of East Crete: A Perfect Family Getaway

East Crete is a blend of stunning landscapes, history and charming towns, making it an ideal family destination. Far from the crowds of the west, the region offers pristine beaches, ancient sites and authentic Cretan villages.

Destinations / North America
Nov 8, 2024

Celebrate Christmas with Snoopy and Peanuts Gang at Spruce Peak in Stowe, Vermont

Dec. 12–24, Spruce Peak in Stowe, Vermont, invites family travelers to experience it’s a Charlie Brown Christmas Live in Concert in partnership with Peanuts Worldwide. This nostalgic concert takes over the on-site Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center.

Travel Tips
Nov 7, 2024

No-Mess Car Games for Thanksgiving Day

Your ride to grandmother’s house for Thanksgiving dinner may not be “over the river and through the woods” as pictured in the old favorite song, but it’s an exciting trip for the kids in the back seat. Here are a few ways to keep younger family members busy as you travel.

Hotels
Nov 7, 2024

Velas Vallarta: The Perfect Family Stay in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Family travelers looking for the ultimate escape in Puerto Vallarta should consider booking a stay at Velas Vallarta. Located directly on the beaches of Banderas Bay, Velas Vallarta offers a luxury all-inclusive experience in one of Mexico’s most popular destinations.

Hotels
Nov 7, 2024

Family-Friendly Holiday Packages from Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa

Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa will transform into a festive wonderland for family travelers this holiday season. Non-stop fun for all ages includes cookie decorating, face painting, hot chocolate and smores, and so much more.