16th October will mark the 100-year anniversary of the Walt Disney Company, commemorating 100 years of storytelling, family fun and magical experiences across the Disney resorts and films. With Disneyland Resort one of the best-loved family attractions around the world, in celebration of this anniversary, read on to discover seven of the best resorts and theme parks for magical experiences, perfect for the whole family.
Endless fun at Disneyland Resort, California, USA
Head to where it all started at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, and in celebration of the 100-year anniversary explore the ‘100 Years of Wonder’ exhibition. Located in the Disney Gallery, the exhibit showcases Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park attractions based on Disney films and shares rich stories about the beloved characters. Hop aboard Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, a brand-new ride transporting visitors to the wacky and wonderful cartoon world. Marvel at the rich storytelling legacy begun by Walt Disney at World of Color as the beautiful lights bring together iconic moments from your Disney favourites. www.visitcalifornia.com
Celebrate 125 years of Kennywood, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Home to two of the fastest and tallest coasters in Pennsylvania, Kennywood is America’s finest traditional amusement park and an amazing destination for families. This year, the park celebrates its 125th birthday with a jam-packed events calendar and returning for Halloween, Phantom Fall Fest is the park’s signature spooky-season event with four haunted houses and four scare zones. www.visitpittsburgh.com
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, Colorado, USA
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is located above Glenwood Springs in Colorado and is known as America’s only mountain-top theme park. With adrenaline-induced experiences and breathtaking views, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park recently unveiled its newest attraction, Defiance. The one-of-a-kind rollercoaster has thrills at its core and is a 56-second rocky mountain adventure like no other. Defiance defies odds with a 110-foot record breaking drop. www.colorado.com
Explore Fairytale Town, Sacramento, California, USA
The perfect day out for young children, at Fairytale Town kids can climb a treehouse, capture a castle, sail the seven seas on a pirate ship, and slide down a shoe in Storybook Park. Visitors can interact with Mary’s little lambs, Peter rabbit, the three little pigs plus many more animals in the park’s farm. There’s also gardens to explore and learn in as well as live theatre performances that are perfect for children. www.visitsacramento.com
Immerse in the magic of the Tokyo Disney Resort, Japan
Dive into all things Disney at the Tokyo Disney Resort which comprises Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. The two theme parks, which are located just east of Tokyo in Urayasu, Chiba prefecture, are complete with different sets of rides and experiences, making for the perfect magical adventure. Tokyo Disney Resort is also celebrating its 40th anniversary this year and guests can purchase the 40th anniversary priority pass online to enjoy shorter wait times on selected rides. www.japan.travel/en/uk
Thrills for the whole family at Knotts Berry Farm, California, USA
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a gentle ride on the Butterfield Stagecoach, which features six authentic 1800s stagecoaches, or want to get the adrenaline pumping on the GhostRider, the longest, tallest and fastest wooden roller coaster on the West Coast, Knotts Berry Farm has it all! Originally a small family farm, the park has now grown into a 160-acre world-renowned destination for family fun. Be sure to visit the legendary Knott’s Scary Farm which celebrates 50 years of haunted mazes and attractions for the Halloween season, running until 31st October.
Mattel Adventure Park opening in 2024, Glendale, Arizona, USA
See the much loved Mattel toys and board games come to life at Mattel Adventure Park, the first-ever Mattel branded theme park opening in Glendale. The uniquely designed nine-acre park combines inspiration from Mattel, Epic Resort Destinations and other industry-leading partners in amusements and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as a Barbie Beach House, Hot Wheels Go-kart track, Thomas Adventure Train: Treasure Hunt™ and more. Enjoy a beloved game of Uno like no other, climbing and jumping on oversized Uno cards that create a larger-than-life climbing structure. www.visitarizona.com
