The Coolest Amusement Parks in the World

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I don’t quite identify as a Disney Adult, but I’m pretty close if I’m being honest. I love the Disney parks, and my goal is to someday visit all of them. It doesn’t hurt that they’re in pretty spectacular destinations as well. But, it’s not just Disneyland that I love. I love great themes, fun thrill rides and the feeling of excitement when you know you’ve just walked into one of the greatest amusement parks in the world.

There’s nothing quite like a great amusement park. You can spend an entire day screaming on roller coasters, wandering through elaborately themed lands, eating way too much park food, and somehow feeling like a kid again by the end of it.

And while North America has some incredible amusement parks (I’ve already rounded up my favorites here), some of the most impressive parks in the world are scattered across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

What makes these parks so special isn’t always the number of roller coasters they have. Some are famous for incredible theming, others for record-breaking rides, and a few are so immersive that walking through the park feels like stepping into another country—or another world entirely.

So if you’re a family that loves amusement parks and you’re willing to travel for the experience, these are some of the greatest and coolest amusement parks in the world to put on your travel bucket list. And for my water park enthusiasts, don’t think I’ve forgotten about you. I’ve also rounded up the best water parks in the United States here.

A Look at the Greatest Amusement Parks in the World

1. Tokyo DisneySea – Tokyo, Japan – Two of the greatest amusement parks in the world are in Japan!

Best for: Incredible theming and a completely unique Disney experience

I swear, I’m really not a Disney Adult (although I’m not judging, either). But if I had to pick one park that belongs at the top of a worldwide amusement park bucket list, Tokyo DisneySea would be a very strong contender.

And yes, it is a Disney park. But it doesn’t feel like the Disney parks you may be familiar with in the United States.

Tokyo DisneySea is built around the theme of the sea, with beautifully designed areas including Mediterranean Harbor, Arabian Coast, Lost River Delta, Mermaid Lagoon, and Mysterious Island. The attention to detail is on another level, and even the architecture and landscaping make wandering around the park part of the experience.

The newest major addition, Fantasy Springs, takes the immersive experience even further with areas inspired by Frozen, Tangled, and Peter Pan.

What sets Tokyo DisneySea apart is that it was designed specifically for Japan rather than simply being a copy of another Disney park. The result is a park that feels familiar and completely different at the same time.

Don’t miss: Journey to the Center of the Earth, Soaring: Fantastic Flight, and the attractions in Fantasy Springs.

Why it’s one of the coolest: The theming is spectacular, and there’s really nothing else quite like it.

2. Europa-Park – Rust, Germany

Best for: Families who want a little bit of everything

If you’ve never heard of Europa-Park, you’re not alone. But once you start researching European theme parks, you’ll quickly realize this German park deserves a spot on the world stage.

Located in Rust, Germany, Europa-Park is essentially like visiting multiple European countries without leaving the park. Its themed areas are inspired by different European countries, and the park currently has more than 100 attractions and shows, including 14 roller coasters and 18 European-themed areas.

And this isn’t a park that’s just about kiddie rides. Thrill seekers have plenty to keep them busy, including Voltron Nevera, blue fire Megacoaster, and other major coasters. There are also attractions designed specifically for younger kids, family rides, water rides, shows, restaurants, and even several resort hotels.

That combination is what makes Europa-Park so appealing to families. Everyone can find something they love.

The park has also won the Golden Ticket Award for Best Theme Park Worldwide multiple times, including 2024 and 2025.

Don’t miss: Voltron Nevera, blue fire Megacoaster, and the European-themed areas.

Why it’s one of the greatest amusement parks in the world: It manages to combine the feel of a European vacation with the excitement of a major theme park.

3. Universal Studios Japan – Osaka, Japan – One of the greatest amusement parks in the world for Nintendo lovers

Best for: The ultimate Nintendo experience and unique Japanese attractions

If you’re a Nintendo fan, Universal Studios Japan belongs on your bucket list—but not simply because it has SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. Universal Studios Hollywood has one too, so that alone isn’t enough to make the Japan park stand out. But the Japan SUPER NINTENDO WORLD has something you won’t find at the Hollywood park: Donkey Kong Country.

Opened in 2024, Donkey Kong Country expanded SUPER NINTENDO WORLD by about 70% and introduced the world’s first Donkey Kong-themed area. The highlight is Mine Cart Madness, a family coaster that uses a unique ride system to create the illusion that your mine cart is jumping over gaps in the track as you race through the jungle.

The area isn’t just a single ride, either. You’ll find the Golden Temple, interactive experiences, Donkey Kong character encounters, themed food and merchandise, and plenty of details inspired by the games. You’ll also find Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Yoshi’s Adventure, Mine Cart Madness, and interactive Power-Up Band experiences throughout the area.

In addition to all that, the park also has its own versions of popular Universal attractions and lands, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minion Park, Jurassic Park, and WaterWorld.

Don’t miss: Donkey Kong Country and Mine Cart Madness, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Why it’s one of the coolest: It’s currently the place to go if you want the most expansive SUPER NINTENDO WORLD experience, including the world’s first Donkey Kong Country.

Something to note: SUPER NINTENDO WORLD can be extremely popular, and Universal Studios Japan currently uses its official app for timed-entry and standby-entry tickets for the area. Plan ahead rather than assuming you’ll be able to walk in whenever you want.

4. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Best for: Speed lovers and thrill seekers

You don’t have to be a Ferrari fanatic to appreciate Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.

Located on Yas Island, this indoor theme park is dedicated to the world of Ferrari and combines racing-themed attractions with some seriously impressive rides.

The star of the show is Formula Rossa, which reaches 240 km/h (about 149 mph) in a single launch. Ferrari World describes it as the world’s fastest roller coaster, and riders experience speeds that go from 0 to 240 km/h in just a few seconds.

There’s also Mission Ferrari, Fiorano GT Challenge, and a variety of attractions that make the park more than just a place to ride one crazy roller coaster.

And because much of the park is indoors, it’s a particularly appealing option when the temperatures outside are soaring.

Don’t miss: Formula Rossa.

Why it’s one of the greatest amusement parks in the world: Where else can you ride one of the world’s fastest roller coasters and spend the rest of your day surrounded by Ferrari?

5. PortAventura World – Salou, Spain

Best for: A European theme park vacation

If you’re already planning a trip to Spain, PortAventura World is one of those places that’s easy to add to a family vacation.

Located near Tarragona on Spain’s Costa Daurada, the resort includes PortAventura Park, Ferrari Land, and Caribe Aquatic Park.

PortAventura Park is divided into six themed worlds, including Mexico, the Far West, China, Polynesia, and Mediterrània. There are more than 40 attractions, along with shows and plenty of dining options.

For families, I particularly like that this can become more than a one-day amusement park stop. You can stay at the resort, visit the theme parks, spend a day at the water park, and combine the trip with a visit to Barcelona or the Costa Daurada.

Don’t miss: Dragon Khan, Furius Baco, and Ferrari Land.

Why it’s one of the coolest: It’s a full vacation destination rather than simply an amusement park.

6. Efteling – Kaatsheuvel, Netherlands

Best for: Fairytale lovers

Efteling is one of those parks that feels like it was pulled straight out of a storybook.

Located in the Netherlands, Efteling combines fairy tales, folklore, fantasy, and thrilling rides in a way that feels distinctly different from the big Disney and Universal parks.

One of the park’s most memorable areas is the Fairytale Forest, where classic stories are brought to life through elaborate sets and characters.

But don’t assume Efteling is just for little kids. Thrill seekers can ride attractions such as Baron 1898, while families can choose from dark rides, water rides, family attractions, and shows.

The park’s biggest strength is its atmosphere. You aren’t simply moving from one ride queue to another. The entire park is designed to feel like an enchanted world.

Don’t miss: Fairytale Forest and Baron 1898.

Why it’s one of the coolest amusement parks in the world: It has its own distinct identity instead of trying to imitate Disney.

7. Tivoli Gardens – Copenhagen, Denmark – One of the greatest and oldest amusement parks in the world

Best for: History, atmosphere, and old-school amusement park charm

Tivoli Gardens is a little different from the other parks on this list. It’s historic, beautiful, and surprisingly charming.

Located in the heart of Copenhagen, Tivoli opened in 1843, making it one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. Instead of being a giant destination park, Tivoli feels like a beautiful garden that happens to have rides, restaurants, concerts, and entertainment tucked throughout it.

There are modern attractions alongside classic amusement park rides, so you can go from a thrilling roller coaster to a leisurely stroll through the gardens.

And don’t underestimate the atmosphere after dark. Tivoli is especially beautiful when the lights come on.

Don’t miss: Rutschebanen, one of the park’s classic wooden roller coasters, and an evening stroll through the gardens.

Why it’s one of the greatest amusement parks in the world: It’s as much about the atmosphere as it is about the rides.

8. Shanghai Disneyland – Shanghai, China – One of the greatest amusement parks in the world for Disney lovers

Best for: A modern Disney experience

Ok, ok, maybe I am a Disney Adult 😂. But Shanghai Disneyland is another park that shows how different Disney can feel around the world, and it absolutely deserves a spot on this list.

It has many familiar Disney characters and stories, but the park was designed specifically for Shanghai and incorporates Chinese cultural influences into its design, entertainment, food, and overall experience.

The park’s enormous Enchanted Storybook Castle is one of its most recognizable features, while attractions such as TRON Lightcycle Power Run give it a distinctly modern feel.

Shanghai Disneyland is also home to Zootopia, an immersive land based on the popular Disney film.

What makes the park particularly interesting is the way it blends Disney’s familiar storytelling with elements created specifically for its Chinese audience.

Don’t miss: TRON Lightcycle Power Run and Zootopia.

Why it’s one of the coolest: It’s a reminder that Disney parks don’t have to look or feel the same around the world.

9. Alton Towers – Staffordshire, England

Best for: Serious roller coaster fans

If roller coasters are the reason you go to amusement parks in the first place, put Alton Towers on your list.

Located in Staffordshire, England, Alton Towers is surrounded by beautiful countryside and historic gardens, which makes the park feel surprisingly different from a typical American amusement park.

But don’t let the pretty scenery fool you. This place is serious about thrills.

The park has a long history of pushing coaster design, and its lineup includes major attractions such as Nemesis Reborn, The Smiler, Wicker Man, and Oblivion.

One of the things I love about Alton Towers is the contrast between the peaceful surroundings and the absolutely wild rides.

Don’t miss: Nemesis Reborn and The Smiler.

Why it’s one of the best amusement parks in the world: You can spend the morning wandering through beautiful English gardens and the afternoon riding some seriously intense roller coasters.

10. Liseberg – Gothenburg, Sweden

Best for: Scandinavian charm and great coasters

Liseberg is another European amusement park that deserves much more attention from international travelers.

Located in Gothenburg, Sweden, Liseberg combines classic amusement park attractions with major thrill rides and seasonal events.

The park’s Helix coaster is a highlight for thrill seekers, while families can choose from gentler rides and attractions.

Liseberg also changes with the seasons, making it especially fun to visit around Christmas, when the park transforms into a festive winter destination.

Why it’s one of the coolest: It combines Scandinavian atmosphere with surprisingly serious amusement park thrills.

11. Phantasialand – Brühl, Germany

Best for: Immersive theming in a smaller park

Phantasialand is proof that bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better.

This German theme park isn’t enormous by the standards of some international amusement parks, but it packs an impressive amount of detail into its relatively compact footprint.

Themed areas such as Rookburgh, Klugheim, and Mexico are designed to feel like completely different worlds. The transitions between areas are so well done that you can forget you’re walking around a theme park at all.

For thrill seekers, Taron is one of the park’s signature attractions.

Why it’s one of the greatest amusement parks in the world: The park shows just how much immersive storytelling can be packed into a relatively small space.

12. Energylandia – Zator, Poland

Best for: Families who LOVE roller coasters

Energylandia has quickly become one of Europe’s major amusement park destinations.

Located in Zator, Poland, the park offers a huge variety of attractions ranging from rides for young children to major thrill rides and massive roller coasters.

Its coaster lineup is a major draw, particularly Zadra, a massive hybrid wooden-steel coaster.

What makes Energylandia particularly appealing for families is the range of rides. You can visit with children who aren’t tall enough for the biggest coasters and still have plenty to do, then spend the afternoon letting the bigger kids tackle the thrill rides.

Why it’s one of the coolest: It’s a relatively young park that has built an impressive reputation for its huge collection of rides and roller coasters.

A Few North American Parks That Still Belong on the List

Since I’ve already covered the best amusement parks in North America, I don’t want to turn this into another North American list. But a worldwide roundup wouldn’t feel complete without mentioning a couple of parks that can compete with anything overseas.

Universal Epic Universe – Orlando, Florida

If you’re looking for one of the newest and most ambitious theme park experiences in North America, Universal Epic Universe deserves a mention. Its immersive lands—including Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe—make it a major contender for theme park fans.

Cedar Point – Sandusky, Ohio

For pure roller coaster fans, it’s hard to leave Cedar Point off a worldwide conversation. It’s one of those parks where the rides are the reason to make the trip, with an impressive collection of major coasters packed into one park.

And if you’re interested in North America’s other standout parks, I have a whole separate list for those!

What Makes an Amusement Park One of the Greatest in the World?

After looking at parks around the world, I think there’s a pretty clear pattern: the greatest amusement parks in the world aren’t necessarily the ones with the most rides.

A truly great amusement park usually has at least one thing that makes it memorable.

Maybe it’s an attraction you can’t experience anywhere else, like Formula Rossa at Ferrari World.

Perhaps it’s the incredible theming of Tokyo DisneySea.

Maybe it’s the European atmosphere of Europa-Park.

Or perhaps it’s the history and charm of Tivoli Gardens.

The best amusement parks also give families options. A park with 15 huge roller coasters is great for thrill seekers. But it’s not necessarily going to be the best choice for a family with younger kids. The really great parks have a mix of thrill rides, family attractions, entertainment, food, immersive environments, and areas where you can simply slow down for a while.

That’s what makes choosing the “best” amusement park in the world so difficult, but it was also part of the fun. There are some parks that are truly so much better than others. And those are the parks that made this list.

Which of the Greatest Amusement Parks in the World Should You Visit?

If you’re planning a trip around a theme park, I’d choose the destination based on what your family enjoys most.

Disney fans: Tokyo DisneySea or Shanghai Disneyland

For incredible theming: Tokyo DisneySea or Phantasialand

Roller coaster fanatics: Alton Towers, Europa-Park, Energylandia, or Cedar Point

For families with kids of different ages: Europa-Park or PortAventura World

Video game fans: Universal Studios Japan

For speed lovers: Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Fairytale lovers: Efteling

For history and atmosphere: Tivoli Gardens

And if you’re anything like me, you may eventually decide that the only logical solution is to visit them all. After all, there’s no such thing as having too many amusement parks on your travel bucket list!

Looking for more fun family travel ideas? Check out these other popular posts:

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• Fun Summer Vacation Ideas for Families
• Top 20 Best Theme Hotels in the U.S.

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