The world's top theme parks have been revealed, and an unexpected contender on the UK coast has outperformed Disney World and Universal. The TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards, which assess both the quality and volume of reviews from February 2025 to January 2026, have highlighted 23 amusement parks that continue to impress visitors.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach, a much-loved seaside attraction dating back to 1896, has managed to claim 10th place. This British icon outranked every Universal park worldwide and every Disney park except those in Paris and Singapore. Notably, five UK destinations made the list, underlining the nation's growing appeal as a hub for thrill-seekers and family-friendly adventure.
Laurel Greatrix, chief communications officer at TripAdvisor Group, said: 'There's a clear theme in this year's winners: they bring out what makes a destination unique.'
Top Theme Parks Worldwide
From thrill-seeking parks with high-speed roller coasters to fairytale worlds that take you on immersive journeys through time, here are the top 23 best theme parks in the world.
1. Futuroscope, Chasseneuil-du-Poitou, France
Situated in Chasseneuil-du-Poitou, France, Futuroscope offers a world of futuristic rides that feel ahead of their time, along with creative workshops and water-based activities designed for all ages. Expect immersive, sensory-centred attractions and interactive shows, alongside shaded and air-conditioned areas for a breather in between. Popular rides include Mission Bermudes, which accelerates through rapids and waterfalls, the space-themed Destination Mars rollercoaster, and Tornado Chasers, which rotates on a platform featuring the world's largest indoor LED surround screen. The landscaped gardens are pristine, and food options exceed the generally mundane options served up at theme parks. As a bonus, the park regularly puts on a stellar light show well worth the extended stay at the end of a long day.
2. Beto Carrero World, Santa Catarina, Brazil
Set along the coast of Santa Catarina, Brazil, this vast park is the largest in Latin America, spanning over five square miles. Beto Carrero World delivers everything from high-speed rollercoasters and motocross shows to train rides, live entertainment, and a zoo filled with exotic animals like jaguars, camels, and tigers.
3. Waterbom Bali, Indonesia
In the heart of Kuta is Waterbom Bali, a tropical water park offering over 20 slides, a winding lazy river through lush gardens, and surf experiences on the FlowRider. With swim-up bars, private cabanas, and a serene spa area, it balances adrenaline with relaxation, making it a perfect way to spend the day in a hotspot known for its spiritual allure.
4. Disneyland Paris, France
Located just 20 miles outside of Paris, Disneyland may be smaller than its American counterparts, but it has been named the top Disney resort in the world. Its charm and iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle continue to draw millions of tourists each year. With two parks, the all-new World of Frozen, a lively entertainment district, a golf course, and seven themed hotels centred around Mickey Mouse, Bambi, and Disney's Pixar Cars, it is a prime theme park destination full of magic suitable for all ages.
5. Beach Park, Ceara, Brazil
Overlooking the coastline in Brazil's Aquiraz, Ceara, this expansive water park features attractions for every thrill level, including the 14-storey Insano, which held the record for being the world's tallest water slide in the late '90s. With wave pools, rapids, and scenic coastal walks nearby, it is easy to mix excitement with downtime at Beach Park.
6. Garden City Water Park, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Spacious and well-kept, Garden City Water Park, based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, offers everything from high-speed thrills and slides to a colossal Olympic-sized pool. Standout rides include the water-based Rocket Freefall, Superbowl, and snake-shaped Ellie Constrictor. Clean facilities, friendly staff, and affordable food make it easy to spend a full day enjoying both action and relaxation.
7. Puy du Fou, Pays de la Loire, France
Puy du Fou, based in the Pays de la Loire region of western France, is not your typical theme park. Instead of rides, expect 20 spectacular live shows and immersive historical settings, from Roman arenas to medieval villages. The storytelling is impressive, and six themed hotels add to the experience. With 250 acres of nature, four period villages, and over 2000 animals, there is more than enough to keep visitors entertained.
8. Siam Park, Tenerife, Spain
Located in Tenerife, Siam Park is Europe's largest water park, delivering Thai-inspired design and standout rides like Tower of Power, one of the world's fastest waterslides with a 28-metre drop reaching speeds of 80 kilometres per hour. With wave pools, lazy rivers, a slide with a laser show, and unique attractions like a shark tunnel, it is a must for thrill-seekers and holidaymakers.
9. Ramayana Water Park, Pattaya, Thailand
Set against a mountainous backdrop south of Pattaya, this tropical theme park cleverly centres around Thai mythology, offering the most water slides in the country, with 26 attractions ranging from gentle to extreme. On five of the park's most popular water slides, visitors can collect free photos and videos from their time on the ride. With scenic views, relaxed lounging areas, and efficient facilities, Ramayana Water Park is a favourite for Thailand visitors seeking a blend of excitement and comfort.
10. Blackpool Pleasure Beach, UK
A nostalgic seaside favourite, Blackpool Pleasure Beach has emerged as the leading UK theme park in the roundup. The compact park, which dates back to 1896, packs in everything from historic wooden coasters to modern thrill rides like the Big One, a world-famous hyper-coaster with a towering height of 235 feet. Donkey rides, five dark rides, five water rides, 12 themed Nickelodeon rides, solid food options, and lively event nights make it a standout.
11. PortAventura World, Salou, Spain
Tucked away in Spain's sun-drenched Salou is PortAventura World. It offers six themed lands, water rides, a range of culinary options from around the world, and plenty of roller coasters, including Red Force, Europe's tallest coaster at 367 feet. With bespoke characters, live shows, six on-site themed hotels, and areas like Ferrari Land and Sesame Street Land, the park has been hailed by visitors as being just as good as Disney at half the price.
12. Parque Terra Mágica Florybal, Canela, Brazil
Nestled in the mountains of Canela is Parque Terra Mágica Florybal, an imaginative park that brings together dinosaurs, giants, fantasy figures, and lush gardens. It is particularly suited to families, offering varied attractions, scenic surroundings, and excellent value.
13. Xcaret, Riviera Maya, Mexico
Blending nature, culture, and adventure, eco-friendly park Xcaret, located in the Riviera Maya, features underground rivers, wildlife encounters, and engaging cultural performances. The focus on sustainability and authentic experiences sets it apart from other traditional theme parks.
14. Paultons Park, Hampshire, UK
Paultons Park, in Hampshire, UK, combines themed areas, gentle rides, and beautifully maintained gardens, making it ideal for families with younger children. Peppa Pig World is a notable hit with visitors, while other favourites include Cyclonator, Ghostly Manor, and Buffalo Falls. Easy navigation, helpful staff, and quieter spaces create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
15. Liseberg, Gothenburg, Sweden
One of Scandinavia's top attractions, Liseberg, set in Gothenburg, Sweden, mixes classic rides with modern thrills that include Aerospin, AtmosFear, and Hanghai. Seasonal events, clean landscaped grounds, and a lively atmosphere keep visitors coming back year after year.
16. Camel Creek Family Adventure Park, Cornwall, UK
Designed with younger visitors in mind, Camel Creek Family Adventure Park, in Cornwall, offers a blend of gentle rides and indoor play zones, including Thunder Falls, Kiddies Carousel, and Pirates of the 7 Seas. Clean facilities, short queues, and friendly staff make it a stress-free day out at this Cornish park.
17. The Milky Way Adventure Park, Bideford, UK
An all-weather attraction with a wide mix of activities, from falconry displays to interactive rides, The Milky Way Adventure Park is a top choice for toddlers through to teens. The park, based in North Devon, is packed with live shows, indoor play, and hands-on fun, with standout rides including Ziggy's Blast Quest interactive ride and the Cosmic Typhoon rollercoaster.
18. Knoebels Amusement Resort, Pennsylvania, USA
Knoebels Amusement Resort, in Pennsylvania, has been in operation since 1926 and stands out for its nostalgic charm. The family-owned park is the USA's largest free-to-enter amusement park. Alongside rides, visitors can enjoy camping, swimming, a Bald Eagle Habitat, Carousel Museum, and even a golf course, all in a welcoming setting.
19. Thrill Park Prague, Czech Republic
Thrill Park Prague, the Czech capital's horror-themed experience, blends scares with humour, thanks to a combination of immersive sets and energetic performers. Whether in groups or solo, it is a memorable, adrenaline-filled outing that offers scares like no other, earning it a reputation for being the best rated horror house in Prague.
20. Twinlakes Park, Melton Mowbray, UK
From splash zones to seasonal events, Leicester-based Twinlakes Park caters well to families, offering everything from outdoor rides to themed experiences, including K-Pop live performances and Paddington meet-and-greets. Indoor areas, picnic spots, and good facilities ensure a comfortable visit whatever the weather.
21. Dollywood, Tennessee, USA
Created by Dolly Parton, Dollywood, in Tennessee, USA, spans 260 acres across the Smoky Mountains, where the singer grew up. The park combines high-energy rides with a distinctly local feel, as well as live music, craft demonstrations, and themed resorts. With 50 world-class rides, including the all-new NightFlight Expedition, shopping, shows, and endless dining options, Dollywood is an all-round hit.
22. Universal Studios Singapore
Packed with film-inspired attractions, Universal Studios Singapore, set on Sentosa island, features seven themed zones and a strong lineup of rides and shows, such as Battlestar Galactica, the world's tallest intertwined double coaster. Signature experiences and seasonal events keep the energy high year-round, including the popular Halloween Horror Nights.
23. Djurs Sommerland, Djursland, Denmark
Spacious and family-friendly, Djurs Sommerland, in Djursland, Denmark, offers a wide variety of rides alongside a well-equipped water park. Short queues, picnic areas, and a relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for a full day out.
