Thrill seekers know that New York City and the tri-state area is jam-packed with unique and exciting amusement parks that cater to all ages. From boardwalk-style games to looping roller coasters, family fun is only a short distance away. In fact, there are so many great places to visit that we broke our list of top amusements parks in NYC into two sections: the five boroughs of New York plus Long Island, and the tri-state area consisting of New York State, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
The Boroughs and Long Island
Coney Island
Probably the most well-known location on this list is Coney Island, but many may not realize that the name itself is actually a neighborhood that encompasses a number of separate amusement parks and attractions. Luna Park and Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park are the two main areas for rides, plus the beach, arcades, museum, Minor League Baseball stadium, and endless shops and restaurants make Coney Island a full service family vacation destination.
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Opening Hours
Hours and costs vary by park and attraction
Public transportation
Via Subway lines D,F,N or Q to Coney Island-Stillwell Ave. station, plus several bus lines
Adventurer’s Amusement Park
Not far from Coney Island is another thrilling destination, Adventurer’s Amusement Park. This Lower-keyed NYC amusement Park is more kid friendly and features a number of rides and games, plus go-karts and miniature golf.
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Opening Hours
M-F 12:00pm – 9:00pm
Sa-Su 11:00am – 10:00pm
Costs
All day tickets $36 or $40, or purchase individual tickets at varying prices
Public transportation
Via Subway line D to 25th Avenue, or bus line B6 to the front gate
Address
1824 Shore Parkway, Brooklyn
Adventureland
Adventureland is decidedly family-friendly, with a number of rides that are perfect for younger children. Additional thrill rides, plus an arcade, boardwalk-style games, shops, and plenty of food options ensures your family will have a fun and exciting day.
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Opening Hours
M-Th 11:00am – 10:00pm
F 11:00am – 10:30pm
Sa 11:30am – 10:30pm
Su 11:30am – 10:00pm
Costs
$33.99, or purchase individual ride tickets at $1.50 each
Public transportation
Via bus, S1 line to Farmingdale State College
Victorian Gardens
The sheer size of Central Park is highlighted by the fact that there is an amusement park located in the southeast section of the park. The child-friendly rides and attractions are a must-visit during your tour of the iconic park. More info
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Opening Hours
M-Th 11:00am – 7:00pm
F 11:00am – 8:00pm
Sa 10:00am – 9:00pm
Su 10:00am – 8:00pm
Costs
Ranging from $18 – $28.50
Public transportation
Via subway lines A, B, C, D, 1 to 59th St. & Columbus Circle and N, R, W to 59th St. & 5th Avenue
Fantasy Forest Amusement Park
An amusement park in the heart of Queens that caters to children, Fantasy Forest is the place to be for thrilling rides, exciting games, and even free shows. Their biggest claim to fame is the Flushing Meadows Carousel straight from the 1964-1965 World’s Fair.
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Opening Hours
M-F 11:00am – 7:00pm
Sa-Su 11:00am – 8:00pm
Costs
$25, or individual tickets at varying prices
Public transportation
Via subway line 7 to 111th Street, or bus line Q58 to Corona Ave. and 108th Street
Address
5351 111th St., Queens
The Tri-State Area
Following is a list of five incredible amusement parks near NYC, in the tri-state area consisting of New York State, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
Six Flags Great Adventure and Safari
The Six Flags family of parks is well-known for its huge parks and thrilling rides, and New Jersey’s version does not disappoint! In addition to being home to some of the best-known roller coasters in the area, Great Adventure has a thrilling off-road safari adventure that you have to see to believe, plus the exciting Hurricane Harbor waterpark.
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Opening Hours
M-Th 10:30am – 9:30pm
F-Su 10:30am – 10:00pm
Costs
$25, or individual tickets at varying prices
Public transportation
Via NJ Transit 308 Express Bus
Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom
How many places can you name that include two amusement parks for the price of one admission? That’s exactly what you get at Dorney, where you may need more than one day to experience the thrilling amusement park rides plus the heart-stopping water slides and attractions.
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Playland Park
Families of all ages need to head north to Playland Park. Rides cater to all ages and include several thrill-seeking attractions, plus plenty of live concerts and entertainment throughout the day and into the evening hours.
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Opening Hours
Park hours vary by day
Costs
$10 – $30
Public transportation
Via Metro North train New Haven line to Rye, then No. 75 bus to Playland
Address
1 Playland Parkway, Rye, NY
Casino Pier and Breakwater Beach Waterpark
The Jersey Shore is well-known for its expansive beaches and boardwalks, and Seaside Heights is one of the most family-friendly amusement parks in the area. Rides are suitable for a variety of ages, so bring the kids, or visit with friends for a day of fun in the sun. More info
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Opening Hours
Pier: Su-Sa 12:00pm–12:00am
Waterpark: Su-Sa 9:90am – 6:00pm
Costs
Pier: varies by attraction
Waterpark: $19.95 – $34.95
Sesame Place
Both children and kids-at-heart will marvel at seeing their beloved Sesame Street characters live and in-person at Sesame Place. Many of the rides are just as enjoyable for adults as small children, and the live shows and parades round out a day of fun and nostalgia.
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Have you ever visited one or more of these amusement parks in NYC? Have we missed your favorite park? Let us know in the comments below!
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