Epic summer trips to theme parks are a quintessential part of the American childhood. The feeling of pure joy riding a coaster that seemed to defy gravity, the sugar rush from funnel cakes, and the awe-inspiring shows that made our jaws drop. Even as grown-ups, many of us have fond memories of some of these legendary parks. Get ready for a blast from the past as we revisit 14 theme parks that were childhood favorites back in the 1970s! Even though some may not be around anymore, the rides, shows, and experiences live on in our memory (and maybe a few grainy vacation photos)
Walt Disney World (Florida, 1971)
It all began in 1971 when the “Happiest Place on Earth” opened its gates in Florida. Walt Disney World revolutionized the theme park industry, offering immersive experiences for guests of all ages. Visitors could explore iconic locations like Adventureland, Frontierland, and Tomorrowland, each brimming with rides, shows, and attractions that transported them to different worlds. Fantasyland brought classic Disney characters to life, while Liberty Square celebrated American history.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg (Virginia, 1975)
Busch Gardens Williamsburg transported guests to a bygone era, offering a taste of 18th-century Europe. Officially opened in 1975, the park quickly gained popularity for its immersive themed areas, showcasing the architecture, culture, and cuisine of countries like France, England, and Germany. Visitors could explore charming villages, ride thrilling coasters like the Loch Ness Monster, and enjoy captivating live shows that brought history to life. Offering a unique blend of education and entertainment, it was a popular destination for families seeking a cultural and thrilling theme park experience.
Marineland of Florida (Florida, 1964)
Marineland of Florida held a special place in the hearts of many children in the 1970s. One of the first oceanariums in the United States, Marineland offered a window into the underwater world, allowing visitors to marvel at the beauty and grace of dolphins, whales, and other marine animals. Some of the park’s main attractions were educational shows featuring trained dolphins and thrilling performances by killer whales. Sadly, Marineland closed its doors in 2009, but it will remain a cherished memory of childhood wonder and fascination with the ocean’s inhabitants for a generation of visitors.
Six Flags Magic Mountain (California, 1971)
Opened in 1971, Six Flags Magic Mountain quickly became a haven for thrill-seekers. The park boasted a collection of heart-pounding roller coasters that pushed the boundaries of design and engineering at the time. Colossus, with its double corkscrew inversions, and Goliath, a sprawling wooden coaster, were among the rides that sent shivers down the spines of daring teenagers. The Racer, a wooden racing coaster with two tracks, offered a friendly competition between riders. Six Flags Magic Mountain became a pilgrimage site for coaster enthusiasts and a symbol of the growing popularity of adrenaline-pumping theme park experiences.
Kings Island (Ohio, 1972)
Located near Cincinnati, Kings Island became a major family entertainment destination in the 1970s. The park offered a diverse range of rides and attractions suitable for all ages. The centerpiece of Kings Island was a replica of the Eiffel Tower, which provided breathtaking panoramic views of the park’s sprawling grounds. Thrill-seekers could test their courage on The Racer, a high-speed wooden coaster, while younger children enjoyed gentler rides and whimsical shows. Kings Island became a popular getaway for families in the Midwest, offering a day filled with laughter, excitement, and lasting memories.
Disneyland (California, 1955)
The original “Happiest Place on Earth” in Anaheim, California, had already established itself as a pop culture phenomenon by the 1970s. Even decades after its opening, Disneyland continued to enchant guests with beloved attractions like Peter Pan’s Flight, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, and “It’s a Small World.” New additions in the 1970s, like the Pirates of the Caribbean (opened in 1967), further solidified the park’s reputation for imaginative storytelling and immersive experiences.
Knott’s Berry Farm (California, 1940)
What began as a boysenberry farm in the 1920s blossomed into a beloved theme park by the 1940s. By the 1970s, Knott’s Berry Farm offered a unique blend of attractions that catered to families. Guests could explore a meticulously recreated Ghost Town complete with saloons and gunfights, take a scenic ride on the Calico Railroad, or experience the thrills of the ever-popular Peril of the Pit, a gravity-defying mine car ride.
Cedar Point (Ohio, 1870)
One of the oldest amusement parks in the United States, Cedar Point has been a source of summertime fun since the 1870s. By the 1970s, the park had established a reputation for its collection of classic wooden roller coasters, renowned for their white-knuckle drops and thrilling turns. The Blue Streak, a racing coaster with a long and storied history, and the Magnum XL-200, a massive wooden coaster that broke height and speed records with its 1989 debut, were among the park’s crown jewels. Cedar Point’s beautiful lakeside setting and nostalgic charm made it a beloved tradition for generations of families.
Dorney Park & Wild Water Kingdom (Pennsylvania, 1884)
Another historic park steeped in tradition, Dorney Park & Wild Water Kingdom offered a delightful mix of rides, shows, and attractions in the 1970s. The park began as a resort in 1884 with a trout hatchery and quickly evolved into a popular entertainment destination. In the 1970s, families flocked to Dorney Park for classic rides, refreshing water features like Thunder Canyon, and captivating live entertainment. The addition of Wild Water Kingdom in 1979 further solidified Dorney Park’s position as a premier summertime getaway, offering a combination of dry land thrills and splashy water adventures for all ages.
Hersheypark (Pennsylvania, 1906)
Chocolate lovers everywhere rejoiced at Hersheypark, the “sweetest place on Earth.” The park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, offered a delightful escape into a world of chocolate-themed fun in the 1970s. Rides like the iconic Kissing Comet, a swinging pendulum ride, and the thrilling Wild Mouse, a dark indoor coaster, provided excitement for all ages. Guests could indulge in sweet treats like Hershey’s Kisses and chocolate bars throughout the park, making Hersheypark a genuinely unique and delectable theme park experience.
Astroworld (Texas, 1968)
Originally a creation of TMC Broadcasting, Astroworld offered a blend of excitement and entertainment for families in Texas throughout the 1970s. The park boasted diverse rides, from thrilling roller coasters like the Texas Cyclone to gentler attractions suitable for young children. Live shows entertained guests throughout the day, featuring everything from acrobatic feats to musical performances. Astroworld also offered educational exhibits showcasing different cultures and historical periods. The park closed in 2005 but left an enduring mark on many who experienced its unique blend of rides, shows, and attractions.
Legoland Billund (Denmark, 1968)
For LEGO enthusiasts, a trip to Legoland Billund in Denmark was a dream come true. The park opened in 1968 and offered a world built entirely of LEGO bricks, sparking children’s imaginations and creativity. Visitors could explore miniature versions of famous landmarks, marvel at intricate LEGO sculptures, and even take a thrilling ride on a dragon made entirely of LEGO bricks. Legoland Billund remains a popular destination today, constantly evolving with new attractions and experiences. Moreover, the core concept of a world built with iconic building blocks continues to capture children’s hearts worldwide.
Everland (South Korea, 1976)
South Korea’s premier theme park, Everland, opened in 1976 and quickly became a beloved destination for families. The park offered a variety of themed zones, each showcasing different cultures and adventures. From the thrilling Safari World, where visitors could journey through a simulated African savanna, to the whimsical European Garden, filled with enchanting flowers and landscapes, Everland provided something for everyone—educational shows featuring animals and live performances added to the park’s entertainment value. Everland remains a significant tourist attraction in South Korea, consistently expanding its offerings and maintaining its status as a leader in the Asian theme park industry.
Henequen Park (Mexico, 1976)
Located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, Henequen Park offered a unique cultural experience for visitors in the 1970s. The park was built on a former henequen plantation, a crop once vital to the region’s economy. The park showcased the history and traditions of the Yucatan, with displays highlighting the Mayan civilization and the henequen industry. Visitors could also enjoy traditional Mexican cuisine, witness folkloric dances, and participate in interactive exhibits that allowed them to experience Mayan culture firsthand. Henequen Park closed in the 1990s, but it left a lasting impression on those who experienced its blend of cultural immersion and entertainment.