While many families flock to Universal Studios to experience Epic Universe for the first time, or take advantage of Walt Disney World deals like 50% off kids’ tickets this year, Orlando isn’t the only theme park destination. Families can find sunny weather, welcoming parks and tremendous value for their money all across the U.S.
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As you plan your summer getaway, consider the following five theme parks with affordable prices and world-class roller coasters. Whether you’re the road-trip type or prefer to fly, these popular destinations are near major airports and hotels packed with amenities to make your vacation easy to plan. Make sure to check out restaurants and attractions in the surrounding area; each region has a unique vibe to appreciate.
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Hersheypark: Hershey, PA
Hersheypark now boasts the title of theme park with “the most coasters in the Northeast.” With 15 roller coasters plus other thrill rides including the new Twizzlers Twisted Gravity (listed as the world’s tallest “Screamin’ Swing”) plus a zoo and waterpark, Hersheypark offers fun for the whole family.
Purchasing a one- or two-day pass gives you access to free extra hours the night before your first full day visit — just visit the park with your ticket two hours before closing. Grab dinner at the park, make a game plan for the following day, or hop on a few of your favorite rides.
Hershey offers deals when you purchase tickets online, including a discounted family four-pack that includes a voucher for general parking and two-day deals for $45 per day (parking is not included). Fast Track passes to skip the lines use surge pricing and range from $45 up to $300, so it’s best to plan ahead and visit at off-peak times if you’re on a budget.
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Busch Gardens: Williamsburg, VA
Williamsburg, VA, offers so much value as a family vacation destination, it’s no wonder Westgate Resorts recommended staying in the area seven days to immerse yourself in the history and thrills. “I expected a bunch of old buildings and some people dressed up in old-fashioned costumes… I got [an] immersive mix of living history, thrill rides, amazing food and super chill vibes,” wrote the Westgate blogger.
If you have only two days in the area, spend them at Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens. While U.S. history permeates the region of Williamsburg, Busch Gardens offers European flair. Now through July 31, the theme park presents the Summer of Wonders, showcasing art and décor throughout the park’s villages — plus concerts and exclusive food selections.
Members, Pass Holders, and Military Pass holders get free beer, while other guests ages 21+ can enjoy up to two 7 oz. pours for 50 cents each. The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge is an all-new, family-friendly inverted coaster you won’t want to miss.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas: San Antonio, Texas
Have you ever imagined riding a roller coaster over an old rock quarry wall? If so, soar out to Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio for the Superman: Krypton Coaster. Along with the breathtaking scenery and better-than-average food, this park has one of the best lineups of roller coasters for thrill enthusiasts, plus excellent theming throughout.
The storyline and animatronics on Dr. Diabolical’s Cliffhanger rival what you’d see at Disney or Universal, and Pirates of the Deep Sea, an interactive, dark shooting gallery ride, gives Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom a run for its money.
Get to the park at opening to beat the lines. Keep an eye out for characters in DC Universe, and ride the monorail for a superhero’s view of the park. Fiesta offers such an all-around great experience, it earned the No. 2 spot behind Cedar Point in the Six Flags Entertainment family, according to LimitlessPark.com, an enthusiast site that ranked all 26 Six Flags / Cedar Fair parks for 2025.
Be sure to leave time to explore the city of San Antonio, including the River Walk and Pearl, the city’s historic district, where reclaimed materials from the city’s brewery add unique character to the streets, hotels and restaurants.
Cedar Point: Sandusky, Ohio
Not surprisingly, LimitlessPark.com ranked Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio the No. 1 park in the Six Flags Entertainment family. While Orlando may be known for top-tier theme parks, Sandusky is often called the “roller coaster capital of the world,” mostly for the line-up of rides at Cedar Point.
In addition to the top-ranked Cedar Point, Sandusky is also home to Kalahari Resorts and Great Wolf Lodge, indoor waterparks offering fun for the whole family. Cedar Point has five resorts of its own, too, including the affordable Castaway Bay.
Park admission to Cedar Point also includes access to a mile-long beach on the Lake Erie shore, with family games, watersports and live entertainment at night.
When you purchase a Gold or Prestige season pass to Cedar Point (or any Cedar Fair or Six Flags park), you can also buy an All Park Passport add-on, giving you access to all 26 parks Cedar Fair and Six Flags locations, making this one of the best values in theme parks today.
Dollywood: Pigeon Forge, TN
Dollywood blends the magic of the Smoky Mountains with world-class roller coasters and rich country music culture. Coaster enthusiasts will love the Lightning Rod, a steel and wood hybrid, and Wild Eagle, a wing coaster set amid mountain scenery.
The theming at Dollywood is unlike any other park, creating an immersive experience that Dolly Parton fans will especially appreciate. The food has a Southern flair, with selections like fresh-baked cinnamon bread with apple butter, and a menu of classics like pot roast, catfish or Southern fried chicken at Aunt Granny’s.
Stay on-site in the HeartSong Lodge & Resort, the DreamMore Resort & Spa, or in the nearby Bear Cove Cabins. Dollywood also offers discount packages to stay in other Pigeon Forge hotels, with Dollywood passes and a hotel stay starting at $219 per night.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Theme Parks That Offer Middle Class Families the Most for Their Money
