The world’s top theme parks have been revealed – and an unexpected contender on the UK coast has beat 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.
And Blackpool Pleasure Beach, a much-loved seaside attraction that dates back to 1896, has managed to claimed 10th place.
This British icon outranked every Universal park worldwide, and every Disney park – except for those in Paris and Singapore.
Notably, five UK destinations made the list, underlining the nation’s growing appeal as a hub for thrillseekers 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.’
From thrill-seeking parks with high-speed roller coasters to fairytale worlds that take you on immersive journeys through time, read on to discover 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
Situated in Chasseneuil-du-Poitou, France, Futuroscope offers a world of edgy 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.
Meanwhile, 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 that is a well worth the extended stay at the end of a long day.
2. Beto Carrero World, Santa Catarina, Brazil
Beto Carrero World in Santa Catarina, Brazil delivers everything from high-speed rollercoasters and motocross shows
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, Indonesia is Waterbom Bali, a tropical paradise with over 20 slides
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 – 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 is France’s answer to its American counterparts
Located just 20 miles outside of Paris, Disneyland may be smaller than its American counterparts, but it’s 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, golf course, and seven themed hotels centred around Mickey Mouse, Bambi, and Disney’s Pixar Cars, it’s a prime theme park destination full of magic to suit all ages.
5. Beach Park, Ceara, Brazil
Overlooking the coastline in Brazil’s Aquiraz, Ceara, Beach Park boasts wave pools, rapids and scenic coastal walks nearby
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’s easy to mix excitement with downtime at Beach Park.
6. Garden City Water Park, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Garden City Water Park, based in Phnom Penh, offers everything from high-speed thrills to slides
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
Expect 20 spectacular live shows and immersive historical settings at Puy du Fou, in Pays de la Loire, France
Puy du Fou, based in the Pays de la Loire region of western France, isn’t 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 – and with 250 acres of nature, four period villages and over 2000 animals, there’s more than enough to keep visitors entertained.
8. Siam Park, Tenerife, Spain
Located in Tenerife, Spain, Siam Park is Europe’s largest water park
Located in Tenerife, Siam Park is Europe’s largest water park that delivers Thai-inspired design and standout rides like Tower of Power – one of the world’s fastest waterslides with a 28-metre drop goes as fast as 80 kilometres per hour.
With wave pools, lazy rivers, a slide with a laser show, and unique attractions like a shark tunnel, it’s a must for thrill-seekers and holidaymakers.
9. Ramayana Water Park, Pattaya, Thailand
South of Pattaya in Thailand is Ramayana Water Park, which centres around Thai mythology
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 with comfort.
10. Blackpool Pleasure Beach, UK
Blackpool Pleasure Beach has emerged as the leading UK theme park in the top 23
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 235ft.
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, which offers six themed lands and Europe’s tallest rollercoaster: Red Force
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, that stands at 367ft.
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
In Brazil’s Canela is Parque Terra Mágica Florybal, a park that combines dinosaurs with giants and nature
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’s particularly suited to families – offering varied attractions, scenic surroundings and excellent value.
13. Xcaret, Riviera Maya, Mexico
Xcaret in Cancun, Mexico is an eco-friendly family park with wildlife at its core
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
Paultos Park in Hampshire, UK, is home to the popular Peppa Pig World
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
Liseberg in Gothenburg, Sweden, offers rides like Hanghai and seasonal events
One of Scandinavia’s top attractions, Liseberg, set in Gothernburg, 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, United Kingdom
Camel Creek Family Adventure Park in 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
The Milky Way Adventure Park in Bideford, UK, is a leading choice for toddlers through to teens
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, stands out for its nostalgic charm and for being USA’s largest free-to-enter amusement park
Knoebels Amusement Resort, in Pennsylvania, has been in operation since 1926, and stands out for its nostalgic charm.
The family-owned park is 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 in the Czech capital has been voted ‘best rated horror house in Prague’
Thrill Park Prague, the Czech capital’s horror-themed experience, blends scares with humour, thanks a combination of immersive sets and energetic performers.
Whether in groups or solo, it’s 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
Twinlakes Park in Leicester, UK, offers outdoor rides, water play and themed events
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
Dollyland in Tennessee, USA, spans 260 acres and is the brainchild of singer Dolly Parton
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.
Add in 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
Universal Studios Singapore features seven themed zones and a strong lineup of rides and shows
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
Djurs Sommerland in Djursland, Denmark is spacious and family-friendly, with plenty of thrilling rides
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.
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