Step into a famous fantasy movie, cartoon or video game and become part of the action alongside your favourite characters. Today, some of the newest theme parks in the world are doing their best to transport visitors into environments that replicate fictional universes. While these types of parks have existed for decades, what’s more exciting nowadays are the immersive experiences that bring popular characters and places to life.
And if you are wondering which one to head to during holidays, we have rounded up a list of parks designed to cater to visitors of all ages, making them suitable for families and groups with varied interests. Whether it is heart-pounding rides at Katmandu Park in the Dominican Republic, refreshing water slides at Columbia Pictures Aquaverse in Thailand, or the nature-inspired subtle experiences at Ghibli Park in Japan, the choice is yours. So, fasten your seatbelts for a thrilling ride!
Related Stories
Here are seven of the best new theme parks in the world
Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Thailand
The perfect place to relive childhood memories while splashing your way through thrilling water slides and rides, Columbia Pictures Aquaverse in Thailand offers many animated movie-themed zones and rides. These include Ghostbusters, Jumanji, Hotel Transylvania, Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs and Surfs Up. Some of the fun water slides of Zombieland are The Beast and Double Trap, and they truly live up to their names. Also, do try rides such as the Jaguar Mountain, Jungle Stampede and Viper from the Jumanji zone when there with your adventurous gang.
Opened on: October 12, 2022
Address: Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, 888 หมู่ 8 Sukhumvit Road, Na Chom Thian, Sattahip District, Chon Buri 20250, Thailand
Ticket price: Starting from THB 1,390 (USD 38.25) — single package
Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm except Wednesdays
Best time to visit: November to April
How to reach: U-Tapao-Rayong-Pattaya International Airport is the nearest airport, about 22 km away
Find out more here
Book your stay at Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach on Booking.com
Book your stay at Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach on Agoda
Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park, Malaysia
From Central Park with a huge fountain and glitzy Studio Plaza to majestic Eagle Mountain, Andromeda Base, Liberty Lane, Robots Rivet Town and Ice Age, it houses various little theme-based worlds within its sprawling premises. Among these attractions, you will find Rio, named after the film on the popular macaw and Brazil’s one of the most popular cities. Promising endless fun, the amusement park’s website reads, “Marvel at the colourful facades, or take a hang glider across the rooftops. Join in on the lively atmosphere as the carnaval swings into action for a spectacularly wonderful party to remember!”
Opened on: February 8, 2022
Address: Genting SkyWorlds, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
Ticket price: Starting from MYR 128 (USD 27.29)
Timings: 11:00 am to 6:00 pm except Tuesdays
Best time to visit: February to September
How to reach: Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport is the nearest airport, about 42 km away
Find out more here
Book your stay at Resorts World Genting - Genting SkyWorlds Hotel on Booking.com
Book your stay at Resorts World Genting - Genting SkyWorlds Hotel on Agoda
Ghibli Park, Japan
Japan’s Ghibli Park is different from the usual theme parks. Constructed within the grounds of Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park (Moricoro Park), it offers an experience devoid of roller coasters and other thrill rides. Instead, visitors are encouraged to take a walk amid the natural surroundings of the forest and discover the captivating world of Studio Ghibli, the famous Japanese animation studio. The park is divided into multiple sections, each dedicated to Ghibli’s films. Stroll through Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse, Hill of Youth, Dondoko Forest, Mononoke Village and Valley of Witches and dive deep into the fantasy-filled world of the studio. An apt getaway for both children and adults, Ghibli Park has numerous theme-based cafes, gift shops and playrooms for kids, too.
Opened on: November 1, 2021
Address: Japan, Aichi, Nagakute, Ibaragabasama, 乙1533-1 内 Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park (Moricoro Park)
Ticket price: Starting from JPY 1500 (USD 10.07) for children (advance booking needed)
Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm except Tuesdays (Weekends and Holidays — 9:00 am to 5:00 pm)
Best time to visit: March to May and September to November
How to reach: Tokyo Haneda Airport is the nearest airport, about 29 km away
Find out more here
Book your stay at Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo on Booking.com
Book your stay at Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo on Agoda
Katmandu Park, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Katmandu Park in Punta Cana offers numerous unique rides and experiences, making it a must-visit destination. From exhilarating, immersive experiences to delectable dining options, the options are endless.
One of the standout attractions here is the world’s first suspended theatre, Voyage of the Fathom Wanderer. In this adventure, visitors can explore and protect Azurlan from a dangerous sea monster along with Kilgore GoodeTM and his robot Busby. For visitors seeking more engaging entertainment, the Challenge of the Mad Mage offers a 4-D theatre with interactive controllers for an action-packed chess game. If you are interested in a 4-D dark ride, then Legend of the Desirata is a must-try. It tells the story of Katmandu’s origin through projection screens, high-definition audio, scenic elements, impressive lighting and wind effects. And, for those craving an immersive gameplay experience, don’t miss EtherQuest, where you will feel that you have become a part of a story.
Lastly, don’t forget to check out the park’s Expedition Golf, an impressive 36-hole mini golf course spread over an artificial mountainous landscape.
Opened on: March 15, 2023
Address: Av. Alemania, Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic
Ticket price: Starting from USD 85 for children
Timings: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm except Monday and Tuesday (Friday and Saturday: 10:00 am to 1:00 pm)
Best time to visit: December to April
How to reach: Punta Cana International Airport is the nearest airport, about 16 km away
Find out more here
Book your stay at Falcon's Resort by Melia, All Suites - Punta Cana on Booking.com
Book your stay at Falcon's Resort by Melia, All Suites - Punta Cana on Agoda
LEGOLAND Korea Resort, South Korea
LEGOLAND Korea Resort in South Korea is a one-stop destination for theme park lovers. It offers a wide range of activities, including thrilling rides, dining and shopping opportunities, and seasonal events and festivals.
For little adventurers, there are rides like DJ’s Dizzy Disco Spin, DUPLO Express, Monkey Climb, Brick Party, Creative Jungle, Merlin’s Flying Machine and The Dragon. To nurture their creative side, consider taking them to the Robotic Play Centre and LEGO Creative Workshop. For those who want to cool off, the resort provides water-based activities such as Water Maze, DUPLO Splash, Coast Guard Academy and Wave Racers. Furthermore, you can have fun at Treasure Hunt, Rock Climbing and Splash Battle.
Also, there is an opportunity to explore Miniland, which features famous Korean tourist destinations like Yeouido, Seoul, and Gyeongbokgung Palace, all recreated using LEGO bricks.
Opened on: May 5, 2022
Address: LEGOLAND® Korea Resort, 128 Hajungdo-gil, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do 24240, Korea.
Ticket price: Starting from KRW 40,000 for children (USD 29.67) — one-day ticket
Timings: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Best time to visit: April to June and September to November
How to reach: Incheon International Airport is the nearest airport, about 120 km away
Find out more here
Book your stay at Legoland Hotel on Booking.com
Book your stay at Legoland Hotel on Agoda
Peppa Pig Theme Park, Florida
A cute theme park in Florida designed especially for kids who love Peppa Pig. This destination features some of the most adorable rides and activities, promising a fun day with your tiny tots. Starting with Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster and Grampy Rabbit’s Dinosaur Adventure to Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride and Mr. Bull’s High Striker, there’s a wide array of choices available for little guests. Alternatively, kids can explore and learn through Peppa Pig’s Greenhouse, Madame Gazelle’s Nature Trail, Peppa’s Pedal Bike Tour and George’s Tricycle Trail. You can also head to Peppa Pig’s Treehouse and Pirate Island Sand Play for some fun in the sun.
Opened on: February 24, 2022
Address: Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884, United States
Ticket price: Starting from USD 29
Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Best time to visit: April to May and October to November
How to reach: Southampton Airport is the nearest airport, about 17 km away
Find out more here
Book your stay at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort on Booking.com
Book your stay at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort on Agoda
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, California
This interactive park is located inside Universal Studios Hollywood in Los Angeles and is for all Mario fans out there. The major draw here is Mario Kart, where you can experience the game’s thrill by wearing special AR headsets and playing alongside Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach. Visit known locations of the Mushroom Kingdom other than Toadstool Café for sumptuous delicacies and 1-UP Factory to stock up on souvenirs. Die-heard fans can head to the Feature Presentation Store or Character Shop to buy some Mario-themed goodies, including clothes and collectables.
Opened on: February 17, 2023
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 90068, United States
Ticket price: Starting from USD 20
Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Best time to visit: April and September to October
How to reach: Burbank Airport is the nearest airport, about 7 km away from Universal Studios
Find out more here
Book your stay at Sheraton Universal on Booking.com
Book your stay at Sheraton Universal on Agoda
(Main and featured image credit: Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Thailand)
(All conversions made at the time of writing)
Related: Visit These Theme Parks In Dubai For A Thrilling Vacation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What types of themes do theme parks have?
Some theme parks are based on movies like Jumanji and Hotel Transylvania and video games such as Mario, while cartoon characters like Peppa Pig inspire others.
What are the most famous theme parks?
Some of the most famous theme parks are those by Universal Studios, such as SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, The Wizarding World of Hogwarts and Universal’s Volcano Bay.
What types of rides and attractions can I expect at a theme park?
You can expect high-octane rides for adults and smooth ones for kids at a theme park. Attractions can be either designated theme-based zones or immersive experiences.
How can I find out about the rides and attractions at a specific theme park?
You can find all the details related to the rides and attractions of a specific theme park on its official website.
Are theme park tickets expensive?
Yes, some of the theme parks have tickets that are priced high, but it also depends on the package you take.
Are there any age restrictions for rides?
Yes, there are restrictions for some thrill rides. People with health issues and children are not allowed to try those.
Is it better to visit theme parks during weekdays or weekends?
Weekends are generally more crowded, so it is best to visit on weekdays.
Can I bring food and drinks into a theme park?
Some theme parks allow food and drinks, while some don’t. You can read the rules and regulations of the theme park before visiting it.
How can I navigate a large theme park efficiently?
Every theme park has a map, and you can easily take the help of that to find your way.
Are theme parks accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, some theme parks are accessible to people with special needs.
Are there age-specific areas in theme parks?
Yes, most theme parks have age-specific areas, rides and experiences.
Can I buy theme park tickets online in advance?
Yes, you can, and ideally, you should make your bookings in advance.
How can I make the most of my theme park experience?
Read all the rules and regulations and carry all the necessary items before heading to a theme park for a hassle-free experience.
Written By
Pyusha Chatterjee
A journalist, Pyusha has previously worked with media organisations including The New Indian Express and Hindustan Times. A solo traveller by choice, she loves exploring life more than anything else, after food of course. When she isn't gardening, writing, reading, cooking or singing out loud, you can spot her watching films and series, debating with ..Read More
