The undisputed granddaddy of theme parks, Disneyland has been leading the way since 1955, inviting visitors to spend the day in the ultimate realm of make-believe. Consisting of the original Disneyland Park and the adjacent Disney California Adventure Park, the sprawling property is divided up into themed “lands” with related rides, shows, and attractions. Long-time favorites like the Mad Tea Party and the Matterhorn Bobsleds maintain their appeal while one of the most recent additions, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, transport visitors to a galaxy far, far away.

Universal Studios Hollywood

If Hollywood is the land of make-believe, then Universal Studios Hollywood is your chance to step into that fantasy world. On a sprawling complex in the Hollywood Hills, this movie-studio-meets-theme-park blends a studio tour with thrilling action rides and walk-through attractions. Step inside the park’s front gates and you can choose from the "Secret Life of Pets" off the leash ride, the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, or the popular WaterWorld live show. And don’t miss The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, complete with a recreation of Hogwarts Castle and Hogsmeade Village.

Seaworld San Diego

From swooping rides to interactive animal experiences and world-class attractions, SeaWorld San Diego always makes a big splash. Located just off Mission Bay, the park offers a variety of ways to learn about and celebrate marine life. Dive into a deep-sea adventure in the Ocean Explorer area, the family-friendly realm that opened in 2017. Or take one of the park’s exclusive tours and you get up-close with resident dolphins, sea lions, penguins, or beluga whales. There are also thrilling rides, like the Manta, a high-tech, double-launch coaster that has you twisting and diving like a ray.

Legoland California

It’s hard to say who enjoys LEGOLAND California more: the little ones running around in a magical world created by 60 million LEGO plastic bricks, or their parents. This theme park in Carlsbad, in northern San Diego County, features two onsite hotels, a water park, and an aquarium—qualifying it as the kind of place a family could spend several jam-packed days. Walk through Miniland USA to experience expansive miniaturized LEGO recreations of New York City, San Francisco, and more, and leave time to enjoy more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions—including three roller coasters.

Six Flags

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is the Thrill Capital of Northern California featuring a unique combination of animal attractions, thrilling rides, exciting shows and wildlife presentations. Six Flags has something for everyone. The thrill seekers will be delighted at our award-winning roller coasters and heart-pounding rides. For those who enjoy a slower pace, Six Flags offers quality family-style shows and easy-going attractions that bring out the kid in all of us. You'll experience a full day of fun and discovery as your adventure includes enjoyment of over 40 rides and attractions, plus wildlife encounters, with opportunities to feed a giraffe, sea lion or even touch a stingray.

Raging Waters San Jose

Raging Waters San Jose was founded in 1985 and is Northern California’s Largest Waterpark, offering scenic panoramic views of Lake Cunningham and the San Jose Foothills, over a million gallons of San Jose water slides, rides, and attractions, and 23-acres of family-friendly fun! Top-rated family attractions include the 350,000-gallon Wave Pool, Endless River, and Family Raft Ride.