Top Amusement Parks Near New York City

Published on Jan 22, 2025

Top Amusement Parks Near New York City

1. Six Flags Great Adventure
2. Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park
3. Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
4. Luna Park at Coney Island
5. Action Park

1. Six Flags Great Adventure

Located just 50 miles outside of New York City, Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey is one of the largest and most thrilling amusement parks near NYC. Known for its world-class roller coasters and adrenaline-pumping rides, Six Flags offers something for everyone, from young families to thrill-seekers. The park features the famous Kingda Ka, the world’s tallest roller coaster, which stands at a towering 456 feet.

Visitors rave about the park’s combination of thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions, such as the Safari Off Road Adventure, which allows guests to get up close with exotic animals. For those seeking a day packed with excitement and memorable moments, Six Flags Great Adventure is a top destination.

2. Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park

Located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park is perfect for families with young children. Situated inside the American Dream Mall, this indoor amusement park offers over 35 rides, all based on popular Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob SquarePants and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Whether you're spinning on the Rugrats Reptarmobile or taking a ride on the SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge, there’s plenty of fun to be had.

Visitors enjoy the convenience of having an amusement park experience indoors, making it a great option for year-round entertainment. If you're visiting New York City with young kids, Nickelodeon Universe is a must-see stop that combines indoor fun with all the charm of classic Nickelodeon characters.

3. Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom

About 90 minutes from New York City in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom combines thrilling amusement rides with an exciting water park experience. Dorney Park is home to the iconic Steel Force, one of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the Northeast, and the Wildwater Kingdom offers a wide range of water attractions, from lazy rivers to wave pools.

What makes Dorney Park particularly appealing is the variety it offers for both roller coaster enthusiasts and water park lovers. Visitors often share stories of spending a full day riding coasters, followed by a relaxing time at the water park. If you're looking for a well-rounded amusement park experience, Dorney Park is a great choice.

4. Luna Park at Coney Island

Located in the heart of Brooklyn, Luna Park at Coney Island is a historic amusement park that has been entertaining New Yorkers and visitors for over a century. The park is home to the legendary Cyclone roller coaster, a classic wooden coaster that has been thrilling riders since 1927. Luna Park offers a mix of nostalgic rides and new attractions, making it a unique destination for both seasoned theme park fans and families.

Many visitors share fond memories of a day at Coney Island, complete with rides, boardwalk games, and of course, a visit to the beach. Whether you’re here for the rides or the iconic boardwalk atmosphere, Luna Park at Coney Island is a must-visit spot for any New York City traveler.

5. Action Park

Located in Vernon, New Jersey, Action Park is a legendary and often wild amusement park known for its extreme rides and unpredictable thrills. It has been dubbed "the world’s most dangerous amusement park," and its history of daring attractions has earned it a reputation for adventure. The park features an array of rides, water slides, and go-kart tracks, and it continues to draw adrenaline junkies looking for a more extreme amusement experience.

Visitors recount their experiences of tackling some of the more intense rides, such as the notorious Alpine Slide, while others enjoy the classic water slides. Though Action Park is no longer the same as it was in its heyday, it remains a great destination for thrill-seekers. If you’re looking for an exciting, offbeat amusement park experience, Action Park is worth the visit.