These Are the 11 Top Family-Friendly Theme Parks That Offer More Than Just Rides

You have many choices for what to do with your family during a vacation or a day out, including heading to the local amusement park. There's nothing like going on a roller coaster and having the wind rush through your hair. However, if you have younger kids, you may be looking for a bit more. The best day adventures combine fun and education, and that's what we have for you today. These are 11 family-friendly theme parks that offer more than just rides.

From the various learning experiences at Epcot to the wonderful wildlife at Disney's Animal Kingdom, there's much to enjoy. We'll tell you about various parks around the United States and tips to save money and take the stress out of the theme park experience. 

When you're planning a trip to any one of the family-friendly theme parks on this list, there are some considerations you'll need to make, including choosing when to go. If you want to show your kids a good time without breaking the bank, then consider going during the off season when there will be fewer people. If you can, avoid summer and go when the other kids are in school. Or go during the colder months when fewer people will be there. The tickets may also be more affordable because the park is still looking to make a profit during the slow season.

If you're going to pay to bring your entire family into a theme park, you want to make sure that your kids are actually going to want to enjoy the rides and experiences. Look online and research the park before you go, and show your kids what is available there. Ask if they want to try what the park has to offer. While you're at it, you can also check to see if those family-friendly attractions cost additional money. Some of them will.

Saving money on tickets is essential, especially if you have a larger family. The costs can quickly add up, and that's before buying food and other items at the park. Look online for discount codes and family days where you can go to the park for less. There are different ways to save money at different parks. At some, you can get discounts through organizations like AAA. At other parks, you can save money by purchasing them at certain times of the year. Research the park you like to make your decision.

Another way to enjoy your visit to an amusement park is by taking advantage of the perks that will make your stay easier. For instance, many parks offer fast passes that allow you to jump to the front of a line. Many parks also offer timed-entry reservations, meaning that not everyone enters the park at the same time. You can enter in smaller groups so there's less hassle and shorter lines. See if your park of choice offers either perk.

One of the best family-friendly theme parks for kids in the country is Morgan's Wonderland. It's located in San Antonio, TX. The whole idea here is that the park is ultra-inclusive so that everyone can enjoy the attractions, especially kids with physical and mental disabilities. There are wheelchair swings, a carousel that anyone can ride, and more. Plus, they allow you to host birthday parties.

SeaWorld is a great place to bring your kids when you want fun rides, immersive educational experiences, and animal exhibits. There's a lot of fun to be had at SeaWorld, regardless of the location you visit in the United States. There are few other places in the world where you can ride a roller coaster and learn about the life of penguins in the same place!

One of the best family-friendly theme parks for parents and kids is Discovery Cove, which is a sister park of SeaWorld. This is a great place to learn about a variety of sea creatures, from dolphins to stingrays. You can even pay to allow your kids to swim with many of the creatures. The park is also synonymous with luxury, so it's fun for adults, too.

While many people equate Disney with rides and princesses, there's a lot that your kids can learn when you visit their different parks. At Disney's Animal Kingdom, your kids can go on a real-life safari and potentially come across 2,000 different animals. Along the way, you can learn about the different creatures and the other natural wonders in the area.

If you want to visit one of the lesser known theme parks, try Busch Gardens, where your kids can enjoy incredible rides and educational experiences. At any given time, there are exhibits centered around elephants, sharks, rhinos, and many other animals. There are great resources for kids to learn about primates, wolves, bears, and more. It's like visiting a zoo with roller coasters.

One of the original educational theme parks, Epcot continues to be the go-to destination for families looking for something more. While you tour the park, your kids can enjoy specialized attractions that focus on sea life, engineering and physics, astronomy and space exploration, sustainability and environmental conservation, all in one trip. There are also some rides, but this place is mostly about learning new things.

One of the best family-friendly theme parks for learning more about nature and adventure is Anakeesta. This is a theme park in Tennessee that offers a bit of a different experience. There are mountain roller coasters, zip lines, splash pads, and more. Plus, there's a ton to learn as your kids go gem mining and take tours of the natural landscapes around the area. It's a unique experience that everyone should try at least once.

Knott's Berry Farm continues to be one of the most beloved family-friendly theme parks. There are many great rides and attractions that will thrill you all day. Kott's also offers a unique experience called Adventures in Education. It's a two-hour tour where kids from grades 1st-12th can experience the park in a new way while learning about various topics. It's an extra $50, but it's a fun experience.

The newest theme park on this list is Dutch Wonderland, which is located in Lancaster, PA. The park owners promise a lot of fun and memorable experiences. There are various experiences that are catered specifically to kids, including a turnpike ride where kids control a car and learn about dinosaurs. There are rides for all age groups, so check it out!

Yet another theme park in Florida, ICON Park, is a vast entertainment complex located on 9 acres in the Sunshine State. There are numerous attractions that offer something great for kids, including several museums. There is the Sea Life Aquarium and the Museum of Illusions. Plus, there's a train they can ride that travels around the area, which is a ton of fun.

You can't go wrong with any amusement park with Sesame Place in the title, and this park in Philadelphia is no exception. Mostly catered to younger kids, there's a lot to enjoy, including a birthday storytime show and meet-and-greet sessions with the characters. There are also special events throughout the year, such as the Passover event, an event for autism acceptance, and more.