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The best amusement parks, thrill rides, and family attractions in Southern California
Last Updated: August 21, 2026
Looking for the best theme parks near Los Angeles in 2026? Southern California is home to some of the most iconic amusement parks in the world, offering everything from movie-themed attractions and record-breaking roller coasters to family-friendly rides and beachfront boardwalks. Whether you're chasing adrenaline at Six Flags Magic Mountain, stepping into the magic of Disneyland Resort, exploring the real working studio lot at Universal Studios Hollywood, or cooling off with the kids at a local water park, this guide covers the top LA theme parks worth planning your trip around in 2026.
Universal Studios Hollywood combines a real working movie studio with world-class theme park attractions, making it one of the most unique amusement parks near LA. Ride the Studio Tour for a behind-the-scenes look at famous film sets, then step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ for an immersive journey through Hogwarts™ and Hogsmeade™. Come face-to-face with dinosaurs in Jurassic World, and brace for heart-pounding thrills on Revenge of the Mummy and TRANSFORMERS™: The Ride-3D. Round out the day with WaterWorld's live stunt show, seasonal Halloween Horror Nights, and shopping and dining at Universal CityWalk.
Known as The Happiest Place on Earth, Disneyland Resort is made up of two parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Disneyland Park blends classic attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean with the immersive Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, where you can pilot the Millennium Falcon or join the Resistance. Meet beloved Disney characters, catch nightly fireworks, and explore timeless lands built around Walt Disney's original vision. It remains one of the most visited theme parks in the world and a must for any LA theme park itinerary.
Six Flags Magic Mountain calls itself the Thrill Capital of the World, and with 20 world-class coasters across 260 acres, it's hard to argue. Take on the high-speed drops of Goliath, the twists of Twisted Colossus, and the freefall of Lex Luthor™: Drop of Doom, or try the record-breaking WONDER WOMAN™ Flight of Courage. Younger riders and families aren't left out, with plenty of gentler rides and multi-sensory experiences like JUSTICE LEAGUE™: Battle for Metropolis rounding out the park.
26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355
Pacific Park® sits right on the iconic Santa Monica Pier, making it one of the most scenic amusement parks near Los Angeles. Ride the West Coaster over the Pacific Ocean, take in the LA skyline from the solar-powered Pacific Wheel, and test your luck at midway games like Ring Toss and Whac-A-Mole. Grab classic boardwalk food, browse seaside shops, and enjoy an oceanfront setting you won't find at any other park on this list.
As one of the original American amusement parks, Knott's Berry Farm blends heart-pounding coasters with nostalgic charm. Ride mammoth coasters like HangTime and Xcelerator, wander the Old West Ghost Town, and let younger kids explore Camp Snoopy alongside the PEANUTS Gang. Fiesta Village adds classic thrills like Montezooma's Revenge, while The Boardwalk brings beach-town energy with attractions like Knott's Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair. It's a great pick for families who want variety without the crowds of the biggest parks.
LEGOLAND® California Resort is built for families with young children, with more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions aimed at kids ages 2 to 12. THE LEGO® MOVIE™ WORLD brings the film to life with rides like Emmet's Flying Adventure, and Unikitty's Disco Drop adds a colorful, low-intensity thrill. Beyond the rides, guests can cool off at the LEGOLAND Water Park, visit the SEA LIFE® aquarium, and stay overnight at the LEGOLAND Hotel or Castle Hotel, both just steps from the park entrance.
One Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Belmont Park is a beachfront boardwalk amusement park that's been open since 1925, making it one of the oldest theme parks in Southern California. Highlights include the historic Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster and the thrilling Flip Out swing ride, plus beachfront shops, dining, laser tag, the Sky Ropes challenge course, and a climbing wall. Entry is free, with a pay-as-you-play or unlimited Ride & Play pass option, making it an easy add-on for a San Diego day trip.
3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
For a break from traditional rides, Raging Waters Los Angeles in San Dimas is Southern California's largest water park, with more than 50 slides, pools, and attractions. Thrill-seekers can ride Aqua Rocket, California's only hydromagnetic water coaster, or high-speed slides like High Extreme and Bombs Away. Families with younger kids will find Kid's Kingdom and Splash Island Adventure, while the Wave Cove wave pool and Amazon Adventure lazy river offer a more relaxed way to cool off on a hot day.