When it comes to family fun, adrenaline-pumping rides, and unforgettable experiences, the United States is home to some of the world’s best theme parks. From coast to coast, millions of visitors flock to these magical destinations every year. But which ones are topping the charts in 2025? Get ready to explore the latest list of the top ten most popular theme parks in the United States — updated and ranked based on visitor numbers, fan reviews, new attractions, and overall experience.
Let’s dive into the thrilling world of roller coasters, fairytale castles, and immersive lands!
Table of Contents
Theme Parks in the United States
1. Magic Kingdom – Walt Disney World, Florida
Location: Orlando, Florida
Estimated Annual Visitors (2025): Over 20 million
Still reigning as the most-visited theme park in the United States, Magic Kingdom continues to capture the imagination of visitors young and old. Home to Cinderella Castle, this park offers classic attractions like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the ever-enchanting Haunted Mansion.
In 2025, Disney unveiled a new immersive Encanto-themed area, drawing in even more crowds. With parades, fireworks, character experiences, and a sprinkle of pixie dust, it’s no wonder Magic Kingdom remains the crown jewel.
2. Disneyland Park – Anaheim, California
Location: Anaheim, California
Estimated Annual Visitors (2025): Approximately 18 million
As the original Disney park that opened in 1955, Disneyland Park continues to shine brightly. Featuring fan-favourite lands like Tomorrowland, Adventureland, and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Disneyland keeps evolving while preserving Walt Disney’s original vision.
2025 brought updates to Fantasyland, including a revamped Peter Pan’s Flight, which now includes augmented reality features. Nostalgia meets innovation here — and it’s a recipe for continued success.
3. Universal Studios Florida – Orlando, Florida
Location: Orlando, Florida
Estimated Annual Visitors (2025): Over 14 million
If you’re a fan of movies, Universal Studios Florida is your playground. This park continues to thrive, thanks to its immersive lands based on blockbuster hits like Harry Potter, Minions, and Fast & Furious.
In 2025, the park introduced a Jurassic World VelociCoaster Night Ride with dazzling effects and an expanded Illumination Land, boosting its popularity even further. Thrills, cinematic charm, and cutting-edge tech make this a must-visit destination.
4. Universal’s Islands of Adventure – Orlando, Florida
Location: Orlando, Florida
Estimated Annual Visitors (2025): Around 12.5 million
Often hailed as the best park for thrill-seekers, Islands of Adventure is where adrenaline meets imagination. From the Hulk Coaster to Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, every ride is an adventure.
This year, a new Marvel-themed coaster based on the X-Men franchise has caused a stir, attracting both comic lovers and ride enthusiasts. The attention to detail and high-energy attractions ensure Islands of Adventure earns its place in the top five.
5. EPCOT – Walt Disney World, Florida
Location: Orlando, Florida
Estimated Annual Visitors (2025): Approximately 11 million
EPCOT, known for its celebration of technology, culture, and innovation, has undergone a massive transformation over the past few years. In 2025, the park’s World Celebration neighbourhood was fully unveiled, offering new experiences like Dreamers’ Garden and an updated Spaceship Earth ride.
The park now balances educational elements with thrilling attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, making EPCOT a favourite for both adults and children.
6. Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Walt Disney World, Florida
Location: Orlando, Florida
Estimated Annual Visitors (2025): Around 10 million
Hollywood Studios has risen in popularity thanks to its incredible Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the thrilling Rise of the Resistance ride. In 2025, the park doubled down on movie magic with a new Pixar Studios Showcase, bringing beloved characters to life in fresh, interactive ways.
Visitors also enjoy live stunt shows, Broadway-style performances, and immersive dining that mimics iconic film sets. It’s a paradise for any cinephile or aspiring Jedi.
7. Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Walt Disney World, Florida
Location: Orlando, Florida
Estimated Annual Visitors (2025): Nearly 9.5 million
More than just a theme park, Animal Kingdom blends nature, conservation, and storytelling. The park’s centrepiece — the Tree of Life — still wows visitors with its intricate carvings and nighttime light shows.
2025 saw the introduction of a Zootopia-themed land, complete with animatronic animals and a new family coaster. Add this to the Avatar: Flight of Passage and Expedition Everest, and you’ve got a wildly entertaining experience.
8. Universal Studios Hollywood – California
Location: Los Angeles, California
Estimated Annual Visitors (2025): 9 million
Smaller in scale but big on impact, Universal Studios Hollywood offers an authentic peek behind the scenes of the entertainment industry. The World-Famous Studio Tour is still a hit, as is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
In 2025, a Nintendo-themed land expanded, adding the Donkey Kong Jungle Adventure ride and interactive games. This, along with stunning views of the Hollywood Hills, keeps the park buzzing with visitors.
9. SeaWorld Orlando – Florida
Location: Orlando, Florida
Estimated Annual Visitors (2025): 6 million
SeaWorld has reinvented itself in recent years, focusing more on thrill rides and marine education than traditional animal performances. The park is now home to some of the most innovative coasters in the country.
The 2025 launch of the Abyss Dive Coaster — the tallest and steepest in the park’s history — has sparked a new wave of interest. Educational exhibits on ocean conservation also appeal to families and school groups alike.
10. Hersheypark – Pennsylvania
Location: Hershey, Pennsylvania
Estimated Annual Visitors (2025): 4.5 million
Rounding out the top ten is the sweetest park in the nation — Hersheypark. Nestled in the chocolate capital of the world, this park has a rich blend of thrilling coasters, family attractions, and sweet treats.
In 2025, Hersheypark launched ChocoFalls, a vertical drop ride that mimics a chocolate waterfall. Combined with its adjacent Hershey’s Chocolate World, this destination delivers both fun and flavour.
Honorable Mentions
While these parks didn’t crack the top ten, they’re definitely worth a visit:
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay – Excellent for animal lovers and thrill-seekers.
- Knott’s Berry Farm (California) – A charming park with rich history.
- Dollywood (Tennessee) – Known for its Southern hospitality and scenic views.
Why Are These Theme Parks So Popular in 2025?
Several key trends are driving the popularity of theme parks in 2025:
- Technological integration: AR, VR, and interactive experiences are more common than ever.
- IP-based attractions: Popular films and franchises draw crowds and keep the parks fresh.
- Family-oriented planning: Parks offer something for all ages, from toddlers to thrill-seeking teens.
- Food and merchandise: Unique, themed food and exclusive souvenirs enhance the overall visit.
Tips for Visiting America’s Top Theme Parks
Planning to visit one (or more) of these incredible parks this year? Here are some quick tips to make the most of your trip:
- Book in advance – Especially during peak seasons.
- Use mobile apps – For maps, queue times, and reservations.
- Arrive early – Get to the popular rides before the crowds.
- Stay hydrated – Particularly in summer months.
- Plan rest days – Especially if doing multiple parks.
Conclusion
The United States continues to lead the world in theme park innovation, storytelling, and sheer entertainment. Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan, a thrill-chaser, or a film buff, there’s a park for you on this list. The top ten most popular theme parks in the U.S. in 2025 show just how diverse and imaginative these destinations have become.
From the magic of Cinderella’s Castle to the roar of VelociCoasters, these parks are more than just places to ride — they’re places to create lifelong memories. So, if you haven’t planned your next adventure yet, now’s the perfect time to dive into the magic, the thrills, and the wonder that only America’s best theme parks can offer.