Think all the best theme parks are giant, packed, and cost a small fortune to visit?
Not even close.
Pennsylvania is full of awesome spots that fly way under the radar but trust me, they’re packed with roller coasters, water slides, and super cool surprises.
Some are family-run, some are straight out of your childhood dreams, and all of them bring the fun without the crazy crowds or big price tags.
Ready to find your next favorite park?
Let’s check out some of Pennsylvania’s most amazing hidden gems.
1. Waldameer & Water World, Erie
Waldameer & Water World in Erie, a family-run park since the 1890s, still rocks the old-school charm with some seriously cool rides.
It’s home to the Ravine Flyer II, a must-try wooden roller coaster, plus a massive water park with twisty slides, a lazy river, and a splash zone that kids love.
There’s no admission fee to get in (just pay per ride or grab a wristband), and the park sits by Lake Erie, so you can ride coasters with a view—how cool is that?
(Waldameer & Water World normally closes after Labor Day and usually reopens in May.)
2. DelGrosso’s Amusement Park and Laguna Splash Water Park, Tipton
Down in Tipton, DelGrosso’s Amusement Park and Laguna Splash Water Park is where thrill rides meet delicious Italian food.
The park is run by the DelGrosso family (yes, the same folks behind the pasta sauce), and it runs from May to September.
Here, you’ll find a giant wave pool, Italian-themed water slides, and even a replica leaning tower like in Pisa.
Between the spinning teacups and the pizza made from family recipes, this spot delivers all the fun of a big park without the crazy prices.
3. Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark at Camelback Resort, Tannersville
If you’re heading to the Poconos, Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark at Camelback Resort in Tannersville is your go-to for mountainside fun.
This place has over 35 water rides including the super-fast Triple Venom body slides and a surf simulator that lets you wipe out in front of your friends.
It’s all part of a ski resort that turns into a waterpark every summer, so you’re flying down slides on the same hills folks ski in winter.
(Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark at Camelback Resort normally closes around Labor Day and usually reopens in June.)
4. Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park, Lancaster
Next up is Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster, a fairytale-style park made just for kids but honestly, grown-ups love it too.
There’s a castle at the entrance, over 35 kid-friendly rides, live shows with princesses and dinosaurs, and even a mini water play area called Duke’s Lagoon.
Since it’s right in the heart of Amish Country, you can hit the rides and enjoy homemade treats just a few minutes down the road.
5. Kennywood, West Mifflin
Then there’s Kennywood in West Mifflin, a classic park with a retro look that has been offering big-time thrills since 1898.
It’s got three wooden coasters that are ACE Roller Coaster Landmarks (yep, that’s a thing).
There are also modern rides, like the Steel Curtain, the tallest coaster in Pennsylvania, and themed after the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The park is famous for its potato patch fries (people legit wait in line just for those) and you can still ride the same carousel your grandparents probably did.
6. Splash Lagoon, Erie
Another spot in Erie, Splash Lagoon is an indoor waterpark that offers a tropical atmosphere, even when it’s snowing outside.
It’s got nine giant water slides, a lazy river, a giant tipping bucket, and a huge arcade, all wrapped in warm, 84-degree air year-round (hello, winter escape).
There’s even a ropes course and a FlowRider surf machine, so you can test your balance or just wipe out in the most hilarious way possible.
7. Idlewild & SoakZone, Ligonier
Idlewild & SoakZone in Ligonier is like stepping into a storybook—literally, there’s a whole walk-through section called Story Book Forest.
It’s perfect for younger kids, with gentle rides, a chill water park, and even a trolley ride straight through Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood (from the PBS show).
Even though it’s one of the oldest parks in the U.S., this 1878 classic still knows how to bring the fun and keep it unique.
(Idlewild & SoakZone normally runs from May through September, with bonus Halloween events popping up in October.)
8. Sesame Place Philadelphia, Langhorne
And for the tiniest thrill-seekers, Sesame Place Philadelphia in Langhorne is where Elmo, Big Bird, and the gang bring the fun to life.
It’s got mini roller coasters, splash zones, a lazy river, and tons of parades and shows where you can dance with your favorite Sesame Street characters.
Everything is pint-sized and super friendly, so it’s ideal for first-timers and yes, the treats at Cookie Monster’s Funnel Cakes and More are totally worth it.
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