Theme parks in the United States offer a unique and exciting experience for visitors, with some offering new technology and creative innovation, while others have been around for generations and have a nostalgic appeal. Fred Dixon, President & CEO of Brand USA, believes that theme parks produce pure joy, no matter their age. The biggest news in theme parks is the debut of Universal Epic Universe in Orlando, which opens on May 22. The park will feature wondrous rides such as Dark Universe, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Ministry of Magic™, How to Train Your Dragon–Isle of Berk, and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™.

At Walt Disney World, guests can enjoy the new after-dark parade, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, and two new shows at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. In Orlando, guests can soar above the Arctic in a new flying theatre attraction and see actual beluga whales, walruses, and other animals at Expedition Odyssey at SeaWorld Orlando. Additionally, the new SEA LIFE Florida aquarium opens at LEGOLAND® Florida on May 23.

Disneyland Resort turns 70, marking the 70th anniversary of its creation in Anaheim, California. The park will present a 70th anniversary extravaganza starting May 16, featuring the Tapestry of Happiness show, Paint the Night Parade and Wondrous Journeys show, and the latest version of the nighttime spectacular, World of Color Happiness! at Disney California Adventure. On July 17, Walt Disney–A Magical Life will debut at Disneyland’s Main Street Opera House, featuring an animatronic version of the company founder who pioneered robotic technology.

Dollywood, a Pigeon Forge, Tennessee park, is celebrating its 40th anniversary season with a series of festivals, live music, and Dolly-centric attractions. The region is filled with attractions such as the Great Smoky Mountains, Anakeesta mountaintop adventure park, and The Island in Pigeon Forge. Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri, offers rides and demonstrations from the 1880s, while Ozark Mountain city offers live shows and attractions like the Titanic Museum.

Historical rides like Wildcat at Lake Compounce in Connecticut, Jack Rabbit wooden coaster at Kennywood in Pennsylvania, Knoebels in Utah, and modern-day attractions like Primoridal at Lagoon. New York's Coney Island, New Jersey's Morey's Piers, and Playland's Castaway Cove are also amusement parks with water views. Chicago's Navy Pier features the Centennial Wheel, while Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier in Texas offers rides. Pacific Park on Santa Monica Pier in Southern California has made cameo appearances in movies and TV shows. San Diego's Belmont Park celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2025 and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in Santa Cruz. Cedar Point, the historic Cedar Point amusement park, is also a popular destination for thrill-seekers.