Palm trees, sunny skies, and Hollywood—these are what most think of when Los Angeles comes to mind. It’s no shocker why there are so many theme parks in Los Angeles to choose from! With great weather almost all year round, any day can be an amusement park day in LA. The only challenge is figuring out where to go when you have so many options. 🤔
In this guide, we’re breaking down the best theme parks in Los Angeles to visit (as well as places you can stay) to help solve your dilemma. So buckle up and get ready to explore your way through your next theme park adventure in the City of Angels! 🎢🎡
1. Disneyland California
Disney California Adventure before sunset | Photo by Clyde He on Unsplash
Disneyland California’s iconic castle | Photo by Jordan on Unsplash
If you’re planning to explore multiple theme parks in Los Angeles, Disneyland California is always the top pick. Although it’s actually not inside LA, Anaheim is just nearby. For any Disney fan, it’s pretty much mandatory to visit. But fan or not, the rides, food, and shows are always worth it. You can’t expect anything less from “The Happiest Place on Earth!” 🤸🏻♂️
Do take note that Disneyland California has two separate theme parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Wonder what makes it different? Disneyland Park offers the classic Disney experience with beloved characters and attractions found in other Disney parks around the world, while Disney California Adventure Park brings more thrilling rides and uniquely themed areas you could only see here.
Both parks are great for families, but we recommend Disneyland Park for those with younger kids and Adventure Park for older kids.
If you’d like to know more about their differences in depth, check out our guide comparing Disneyland Park and Disneyland California Adventure Park.
That said, you’ll need to purchase two separate tickets. BUT we recommend purchasing a Park Hopper ticket to experience the best of both worlds by having access to both parks!
A single ticket for one park starts at 100.89 USD, while a 1-day park hopper ticket starts at 170.55 USD. 🎟️
Where to stay near Disneyland Anaheim
Most of the time, one day isn’t enough to make your way through Disneyland (especially if you plan on going to both parks). Complete your Disney experience by staying near the area:
- Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Anaheim
A standard room with 2 Queen beds, perfect for families
If you’re after a comfortable and convenient stay near Disneyland, Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Anaheim is a reliable choice. It’s a few minutes’ drive to the parks and offers free amenities like parking and breakfast. With cozy rooms, a pool area, and kid-friendly perks, it’s a solid home base for park-hoppers looking for ease and comfort.
- Disneyland Hotel
A Deluxe Room with designs of the iconic Disney castle
If you want a complete Disney experience, we highly recommend staying in a Disney-themed hotel. At Disneyland Hotel, the magic lasts even after you leave the parks! It’s also a few steps away from Downtown Disney and close to both parks. There are waterslides and themed pools, various dining options, and a spa. With cozy, modern rooms and amenities, it’s the perfect place to recharge and wake up ready for another unforgettable day at the Happiest Place on Earth.
2. Universal Studios Hollywood
The iconic Universal Studios Hollywood entrance | Photo by Shad Islam on Unsplash
Lights, camera, action! 🎬
Experience some of your favorite movies come to life at Universal Studios Hollywood, one of the most famous LA theme parks! What sets it apart from other Universal parks around the world is that it’s the only one that’s also a real working movie and television studio. Its famous Studio Tour takes you behind the scenes to actual sets and soundstages still in use today. And of course, the rides are just as fun, especially for families with older kids and groups of friends.
Tickets start at 127.95 USD per person. 🎟️
Where to stay near Universal Studios Hollywood
We recommend booking a hotel for instant rest after a fun day at Universal Studios Hollywood.
- Sheraton Universal Hotel
The Traditional Room with a king sized bed
Sheraton Universal Hotel is an easy 8-minute walk from Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk. Its recently renovated rooms offer modern comfort with floor-to-ceiling views of the Hollywood Hills. With a complimentary shuttle, great dining options, and an outdoor pool for the kids, it’s a convenient pick for families and fans who want to stay close to the fun.
3. Knott's Berry Farm
Meet Snoopy characters at Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm is a classic stop when exploring amusement parks in Los Angeles area. It’s California’s oldest theme park! What started as a 1920s berry farm is now a full day of rides, shows, and California-inspired themed lands. Ghost Town is a popular themed area, bringing the Wild West to life with cowboys, saloons, and that old-school theme park feel. There’s also a dedicated area for Snoopy fans! It’s also a more budget-friendly option compared to the bigger LA parks, making it an easy pick for families who want fun without the splurge.
The park features rides for all ages, so anyone can enjoy! 🍓🫐
Ticket prices start at 82 USD per person. 🎟️
Where to stay near Knott’s Berry Farm
Lots of accommodations offer you close proximity to Knott’s Berry Farm AND Disneyland.
- Motel 6, Buena Park
The Deluxe Room with two double beds
If you need a place to crash after a full day at Knott’s Berry Farm, Motel 6 Buena Park is a practical and budget-friendly option. It’s also close to Disneyland, so you can easily do both parks without spending much on accommodations.
4. LEGOLAND California
At Legoland California, young ones rule the city!
LEGOLAND California is the perfect pick if you have younger kids thanks to its friendly rides. The rides are gentle enough for first-timers but still exciting enough to make their day memorable. Beyond the attractions, the entire park is built to spark creativity. Whether you’re a LEGO fan or not, it’s pretty cool to see entire cities and landmarks built from millions of tiny lego pieces. And while Legoland California is not exactly within LA (an hour’s drive down south), the creativity on display alone is worth the trip. 👌🏼
Ticket prices start at 59.20 USD per person. 🎟️
Where to stay near LEGOLAND California
Since LEGOLAND is about an hour away from most theme parks in Los Angeles, we recommend staying at a nearby hotel to lessen your worries about the drive back.
- Legoland California Hotel
The Adventure Room in itself is just as exciting as the park!
Legoland California Hotel is designed to be playful and fun. Rooms come in themes like pirates, adventure, and ninjas, while amenities include lots of entertainment areas for the kiddos like a disco elevator. Since it’s located just steps from LEGOLAND California, it’s super convenient for early park entry and an easy walk back when everyone needs a break.
Whether you’re hitting a single park or hopping around different amusement parks Los Angeles has on the map, there’s always an adventure waiting for you and your companions. 🤗
FAQs
Which LA theme park is the best?
The best LA theme park all depends on what you’re looking for in a theme park in Los Angeles. Disneyland California is the ultimate choice for Disney lovers and families, while Universal Studios Hollywood is perfect if you want exciting rides mixed with movie magic. Knott’s Berry Farm is great if you want fun without overspending, and LEGOLAND California is ideal for little ones who love creative play.
What is the most popular park in Los Angeles?
Disneyland California is the most popular among the theme parks near Los Angeles, it’s “The Happiest Place on Earth,” after all. Universal Studios Hollywood is also a major crowd favorite thanks to its behind-the-scenes studio experience.
How many theme parks are there in LA?
There are four major theme parks in Los Angeles area: Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Knott’s Berry Farm.
Which theme park in LA is best for families?
All theme parks in LA are great for families. Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm is great for all ages, Universal Studios Hollywood is great for those with older kids, while Legoland California is for the young ones.
What is Klook?
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
✨ Follow us for more deals and inspiration for your upcoming travels
