Photo by Brian McGowan on Unsplash
1. Walt Disney World Resort – Orlando, FL
Why it stands out in 2025:
The world’s most iconic family destination continues to innovate with new attractions in Magic Kingdom and an expanded Encanto-themed area opening this year.
Top Highlights:
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EPCOT’s “Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana” interactive experience
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The new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure replacing Splash Mountain
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Incredible family dining and character meet-and-greets
More info: Walt Disney World Resort
Photo by John Ruddock on Unsplash
2. Universal Studios Hollywood – Los Angeles, CA
Why it’s hot right now:
The Hollywood park remains a family favorite thanks to the Super Nintendo World expansion, plus classic thrills like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter™.
Top Highlights:
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New Donkey Kong Country-themed ride in 2025
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Behind-the-scenes studio tour fun for parents
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Family-friendly interactive zones and play spaces
More info: Universal Studios Hollywood
Photo by Milly Montoya on Unsplash
3. Dollywood – Pigeon Forge, TN
Why families love it:
Dolly Parton’s mountain-themed park blends old-fashioned charm with modern thrills — and 2025’s Wildwood Grove expansion adds new coasters and family rides.
Top Highlights:
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Imagination-fueled kid zones
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Country shows & Appalachian food
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Scenic Smoky Mountain setting
More info: Dollywood
Photo by Aiva Apsite on Unsplash
4. LEGOLAND Florida Resort – Winter Haven, FL
Best for: Ages 2–12
LEGO lovers rejoice! LEGOLAND is adding a brand new DreamZzz 4D attraction and continues to lead in toddler-friendly rides.
Top Highlights:
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Splash-safe water park
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DUPLO Valley for toddlers
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Imagination Zone with interactive builds
More info: LEGOLAND Florida
5. Hersheypark – Hershey, PA
Why it’s sweet:
It’s where chocolate meets coasters! In 2025, Hersheypark unveils the Hyperdeck VR Experience — plus plenty of rides for all ages.
Top Highlights:
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Free chocolate factory tour
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70+ attractions, many suitable for little ones
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New family coaster: “Twizzler Twist”
More info: Hersheypark
❓ FAQs About Theme Parks for Families in 2025
Planning a theme park trip with kids can be exciting — and a little overwhelming. From choosing the right park for your child’s age to figuring out what to pack, families often have a lot of questions before they go. That’s why we’ve pulled together answers to the most common concerns parents have when visiting theme parks in 2025, so you can feel confident, prepared, and ready for fun.
Walt Disney World still holds the crown in 2025 for its mix of toddler-safe attractions, immersive lands, and park-wide family services.
LEGOLAND Florida and Dollywood both offer exceptional toddler and early childhood areas with low-height requirements and themed play zones.
Look out for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disney, Super Nintendo World’s new zones, and fresh roller coasters at Cedar Point and Hersheypark.
Yes — parks like Dollywood, Knott’s, and SeaWorld are known for affordable and high-quality dining that suits all ages and dietary needs.
Book early online, look for family bundles, or use attractions with combo passes !
Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash
6. SeaWorld San Diego – San Diego, CA
Why it’s trending:
With an emphasis on animal conservation and thrilling new rides like Arctic Rescue, SeaWorld mixes education with splashy entertainment.
Top Highlights:
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Touch pools and penguin exhibits
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Orca Encounter live shows
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Coasters for teens and dolphin rides for younger kids
More info: SeaWorld San Diego
7. Busch Gardens Williamsburg – Williamsburg, VA
Why visit in 2025:
This European-themed park wins for scenery and has launched the Darkoaster Night Ride, great for older kids. Younger children will love Sesame Street Forest of Fun.
Top Highlights:
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Roller coasters with stunning views
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Live animal encounters
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Food and cultural themes across “countries”
More info: Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Photo by Fynephoqus on Unsplash
8. Cedar Point – Sandusky, OH
For thrill-seeking families
With more than 70 rides and Top Thrill 2 debuting this year, Cedar Point is a coaster lover’s dream. But there’s plenty for younger kids too.
Top Highlights:
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Planet Snoopy for younger visitors
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New family water play zone
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Incredible lakefront views
More info: Cedar Point
9. Knott’s Berry Farm – Buena Park, CA
Classic Americana with a twist
Knott’s blends old-school charm with updated family fun in 2025 — including a reimagined Ghost Town and expanded Camp Snoopy.
Top Highlights:
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Western-themed rides
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Seasonal food festivals
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Kid-friendly shows and crafts
More info: Knott’s Berry Farm
Photo by Zachariah Aussi on Unsplash
10. Six Flags Great Adventure – Jackson, NJ
Why it’s a must-visit:
Home to North America’s largest safari and massive roller coasters, this park is now adding more family rides and shaded rest areas for 2025.
Top Highlights:
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Zootastic Safari Drive-Thru
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New family water rides
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Looney Tunes fun for all ages
More info: Six Flags Great Adventure
🧭 Final Tips for Visiting Theme Parks in 2025
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Book early: Summer and holiday weekends fill up fast. Look for early-bird ticket savings.
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Use apps: Most parks now offer mobile apps with wait times, maps, and mobile food ordering.
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Pack smart: Bring sunscreen, reusable water bottles, power banks, and lightweight ponchos.
Ashley Pugh ;
Ashley Pugh is one of the Co-Founders of Familydaysout.com and has been committed to writing family related content since 2008. There isn't much about family attractions that Ashley doesn't know, after visiting hundreds of them worldwide over the last 20 years.
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