California is among the world’s top tourist destinations, with around 250 million people visiting the Golden State annually.
While the beautiful beaches, diverse big cities and natural wonders are always popular, many also come for the thrills of California’s world-famous amusement parks, especially those in the southern part of the state.
Choosing a favorite park can be tricky, even for locals. Some are geared toward young children and families, while others cater to hardcore roller coaster enthusiasts. KTLA 5 News recently asked our audience to vote for California’s best theme park. More than 700 people participated in the unscientific survey, and the results were — safe to say — conclusive.
No. 1: Disneyland
With 46% of the votes, the original Disneyland in Anaheim claimed the top spot — not exactly a shocker since it is California’s most-visited theme park and a beloved international destination dating back to 1955.
More than 16 million people pass through Disneyland’s turnstiles each year to experience its world-famous dark rides like Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion and Indiana Jones Adventure, along with the timeless thrills of Space Mountain, Matterhorn Bobsleds and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
No. 2: Knott’s Berry Farm
No. 2 on the list is located just a few miles from Disneyland in Buena Park, California: Knott’s Berry Farm, which received 17% of the votes.
While its name might not sound intense, don’t let that fool you. Knott’s features some of the most dizzying coasters in the world, including GhostRider, billed as “the longest, tallest, and fastest wooden roller coaster on the West Coast.” HangTime, Xcelerator and Silver Bullet are also among the park’s biggest thrills.
No. 3: Six Flags Magic Mountain
Speaking of dizziness, Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, which holds the record for most roller coasters in the world, landed at No. 3 with 15% of votes. While Magic Mountain does have a respectable number of kiddie rides and a great water park, its colossal thrill rides are the main appeal. Tatsu, Full Throttle, Goliath and Twisted Colossus will test your limits.
No. 4: Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood also received double-digit votes in KTLA’s poll, with 11%.
Although the park may be known for groundbreaking rides today, it began solely as a backlot tour of a working Hollywood studio. Later, the park added immersive elements to its famous tram ride, including a “Battlestar Galactica” shootout with live actors and an encounter with “Jaws.” Dark rides and coasters would come years later, but the park remains a celebration of movie magic unlike any other.
Full Poll Results:
- Disneyland: 46%
- Knott’s Berry Farm: 17%
- Six Flags Magic Mountain: 15%
- Universal Studios Hollywood: 11%
- Disney California Adventure: 7%
- SeaWorld San Diego: 2%
- LEGOLand California: 1%
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: 1%