Indiana Amusement Park Ranks Among America’s Top 10 Best-Rated
Looking for the perfect theme park for your next family getaway?
A new study by Chicks Gold analyzed visitor reviews to uncover the top-rated amusement parks in America—and Indiana’s own Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari made the top 10!
Using data from Google and Tripadvisor, parks with 10,000+ reviews were ranked based on the percentage of 5-star ratings.
Here’s the Top-Rated Amusement Parks in the U.S.:
1. Discovery Cove – Orlando, Florida
⭐️ 85.29% of visitors gave it 5 stars
Discovery Cove is a one-of-a-kind tropical oasis. Visitors love the all-inclusive experience, where you can swim with dolphins, snorkel with eagle rays, and float through a freshwater oasis. It’s quiet, luxurious, and offers a unique escape from the usual park chaos. It’s also part of the SeaWorld family.
A family-owned classic, Knoebels is America’s largest free-admission amusement park. Known for its nostalgic charm and affordability, it features 60+ rides, including three wooden coasters, a century-old carousel, and free picnic areas.
This mountain coaster winds through the scenic Smoky Mountains. Riders control their speed, making it fun for thrill-seekers and first-timers. It’s also one of the longest downhill tracks in the U.S., with rides lasting up to 8 minutes.
4. Universal Islands of Adventure – Orlando, Florida
⭐️ 80.13%
This park is a themed thrill ride paradise, with immersive zones like Marvel Super Hero Island, Jurassic Park, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. High-speed roller coasters and 3D attractions draw fans of all ages.
5. Disney California Adventure – Anaheim, California
⭐️ 78.99%
Located next to Disneyland, this park features lands inspired by California and Disney favorites. Popular areas include Pixar Pier, Avengers Campus, and Cars Land, making it a hit with families and Marvel fans alike.
6. Magic Kingdom – Bay Lake, Florida
⭐️ 77.72%
Walt Disney World’s iconic park is home to Cinderella Castle, classic rides like Space Mountain and Haunted Mansion, and endless character meet-and-greets. It’s the most visited theme park in the world for a reason.
7. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex – Merritt Island, Florida
⭐️ 77.58%
This isn’t your average park—space lovers will enjoy rocket exhibits, astronaut meetups, and immersive simulators. Visitors can even witness live launches depending on timing. It’s a mix of education and excitement.
8. Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Bay Lake, Florida
⭐️76.82%
Where else can you go on a safari, ride a banshee in Pandora, and see live animal exhibits all in one park? Animal Kingdom blends wildlife with storytelling in true Disney fashion.
9. Universal Studios Florida – Orlando, Florida
⭐️ 76.51%
A working movie studio and theme park, Universal Studios offers blockbuster attractions like the Transformers ride, The Simpsons land, and Diagon Alley from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It’s fast-paced and full of movie magic.
10. Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari – Santa Claus, Indiana
⭐️76.33%
This family-owned Indiana gem offers free soft drinks, free sunscreen, and free parking—a rarity in the amusement park world. It’s divided into holiday-themed lands and features award-winning wooden coasters and one of the best water parks in the country, including record-breaking water coasters.
