7 best summer vacation spots near theme parks (2026)
Planning a summer vacation that keeps the whole family entertained can be a challenge, but theme park destinations make it easier. Across the United States, several destinations stand out for offering not just a theme park, but a full summer vacation experience.
Here are seven of the best summer vacation destinations for theme park fans in 2026.
7 must-visit summer destinations with theme parks in the U.S.
- Orlando, Florida
- Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee
- Frisco and Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas
- Anaheim (Southern California), California
- Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
- Gurnee (Chicago area), Illinois
- Hershey, Pennsylvania
Orlando, Fla
Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando
Best for: Families who want maximum variety and flexibility in one destination
Downside: crowds and weather
What makes it a great summer trip
Orlando remains the most complete theme park destination in the world. With four Disney parks, three Universal parks, and a growing lineup of seasonal offerings like Cool Kids’ Summer, there is no shortage of things to do.
Recent updates like the refreshed Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin and ongoing momentum at Universal keep the destination feeling new, even for repeat visitors.
Nearby family-friendly extras
Water parks like Volcano Bay, Aquatica, and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon are fun ways to cool off and each one has evening events during the summer. Character dining at select Disney hotels, and places like ICON Park and Disney Springs extend the fun beyond the parks.
Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tenn
Best for: Theme park destination with outdoor adventures and smaller attractions
Downside: touristy and congested
What makes it a great summer trip
Dollywood blends high-quality coasters and family rides with seasonal festivals, live entertainment, and a strong value compared to larger resort destinations. The park’s setting in the Smoky Mountains adds a scenic element that few other theme parks can match.
Nearby family-friendly extras
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, mountain coasters, dinner shows, and interactive attractions along the Pigeon Forge Parkway create a full itinerary.
Frisco and Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas
Best for: Families with younger kids
Downside: newer destination with more leisure-focused infrastructure needed
Theme parks to visit
Universal Kids Resort (opening soon), Peppa Pig Theme Park Dallas-Fort Worth
What makes it a great summer trip
Frisco is quickly emerging as one of the most interesting new family travel destinations in the U.S. The upcoming Universal Kids Resort is designed specifically for younger audiences, while Peppa Pig Theme Park offers a full day of preschool-focused attractions.
This destination stands out because it is being built with families in mind from the ground up.
Photo courtesy of Peppa Pig Theme-Park
Nearby family-friendly extras
Experiences like Dig World, where kids can operate real construction equipment, along with indoor attractions like Activate and large-scale resorts like the Gaylord Texan, make this an easy multi-day trip.
Anaheim (Southern California), Calif.
Best for: Some of America’s first theme parks
Downside: High prices, congestion
Theme parks to visit
Disneyland Resort, Knott’s Berry Farm, Universal Studios Hollywood
What makes it a great summer trip
Southern California offers one of the most concentrated collections of major theme parks in the country. Home to the original Disney theme park: Disneyland, with classic Disney attractions. Then there’s Knott’s Berry Farm with its mix of coasters and history, and Hollywood magic at Universal Studios Hollywood, all within a short distance.
Nearby family-friendly extras
Beaches, shopping districts, and studio tours add variety, allowing families to balance park days with more relaxed coastal experiences.
Photo by Samantha Davis-Friedman
Wisconsin Dells, Wis.
Best for: Water park enthusiasts
Downside: Summer crowds, some lodging is outdated
Theme parks to visit
Noah’s Ark Waterpark, Mt. Olympus, Kalahari Resorts
What makes it a great summer trip
Known as the water park capital of the world, Wisconsin Dells delivers an unmatched concentration of water attractions, from massive outdoor parks to expansive indoor resorts. Noah’s Ark Waterpark has evening events in the summer, and a Medieval hotel with 60-foot dragon is about to open!
This makes it one of the most reliable summer destinations, especially during peak heat.
Nearby family-friendly extras
Boat tours through the Dells, mini golf, arcades, and resort-based entertainment provide plenty of variety between water park visits.
Gurnee (Chicago area), Ill.
Best for: Thrill-seeking families looking to explore the Midwest
Downside: Not much is nearby
Theme parks to visit
Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor water park
What makes it a great summer trip
Six Flags Great America is celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer, which is perfect timing with the ongoing America 250 commemoration around the country. The park offers a strong mix of thrill rides and family attractions within an hour of Chicago.
Nearby family-friendly extras
Downtown Chicago provides additional experiences, from Navy Pier and lakefront beaches to museums and architecture tours.
Courtesy of Six Flags
Hershey, Pa
Best for: Families looking for a balanced mix of thrills and classic attractions
Downside: Not much is nearby
Theme parks to visit
Hersheypark and ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park
What makes it a great summer trip
Hersheypark combines a strong coaster lineup with family-friendly attractions and a recognizable brand that extends throughout the destination.
The addition of The Boardwalk water park area gives visitors a way to cool off without leaving the park.
Special event! Hersheypark is celebrating America’s 250th this summer with patriotic fireworks, special treats, decorations, and more.
Photo courtesy of Hersheypark
Nearby family-friendly extras
Chocolate World, local resorts, and nearby Pennsylvania countryside attractions round out the experience with a slower pace compared to larger destinations.
Each of these destinations offers a different type of experience, from large-scale resort ecosystems to emerging family-focused hubs. Choosing the right one depends on your travel style, your kids’ ages, and how much variety you want in a single trip.
For those who want the most options in one place, summer in Orlando continues to set the standard. No matter where you go, summer 2026 is shaping up to be a strong season for theme park travel across the country.
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Really surprised not to see Williamsburg. With the rich historic sites like Jamestown, Yorktown, and Colonial Williamsburg itself, plus good proximity to Virginia Beach, there’s tons to do. And of course, add in the world’s most beautiful theme park, Busch Gardens Williamsburg and it’s sister water park Water Country USA, and it’s truly a weeklong destination.
I love Hershey, but Williamsburg is such a well rounded area to visit.
Thanks for reading and taking the time to comment. You make a great point! For now, I wanted to highlight some of the destinations with unique events and experiences happening this summer. Will definitely keep an eye out for any announcements that may be worth updating this list.