Journey to a Theme Park

A JOURNEY to a theme park can be an exciting adventure! Whether it's Epcot, Disneyland, Six Flags, Sea World, Busch Gardens, or any one of a number of others, theme parks offer great fun for most everyone - but especially for children and families.

Theme parks are scattered across the United States. Besides those named above, other top parks include the Magic Kingdom at Disney World, Universal Studios, Knott's Berry Farm, Cedar Point, and King's Island. In addition to these larger, well-known major attractions, smaller theme parks can be found in nearly every state. For example, Silver Dollar City, located in Missouri, draws thousands of visitors every year. Theme parks are also located in other countries. Disney, for example, has built parks in Paris, Tokyo, and Hong Kong. Denmark's Tivoli is a major attraction in Copenhagen.

The features which comprise theme parks can be somewhat similar, or strikingly different. Some of these features include attractions of various kinds; shows with a wide variety of entertainment; festivals and special events - perhaps highlighting heritage, culture, or crafts; tours; shops of all kinds; and places to purchase and enjoy food and refreshments. The biggest and most common feature of most theme parks, however, is rides: thrill rides, water rides, or rides specifically designed for small children!

Some theme parks are designated for special purposes. These would include water parks, animal parks, and family parks. The main purpose of any park is reflected in their promotion materials and advertising.

Generally speaking, the admission price for a theme park includes all rides, entertainment, and shows: basically everything except food, refreshments, and items for sale in shops. While the price for admission may seem costly, with all things considered, it might actually be a bargain! Some parks offer season passes. Visitors who anticipate returning to the same park - even once - within the following few months can save big bucks by buying these special tickets.

When considering places to go during weekends, holidays, or vacation periods; when thinking about the possibilities for free-time activities; when pondering the expenditure of dollars for leisure; the conclusion may be a journey to a theme park. If so, it's a great choice!

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-- The photo above captures "Wildfire" at Silver Dollar City in Branson, Mo.