Amusement parks can be a very fun place to visit during the warmer months. With toddlers and younger children however it can be more of a challenge. Although most amusement parks dedicate a section to little kids, problems such as toting a toddler around the park can be a problem. Additionally, many tykes become overwhelmed and over stimulated by all of the rides and the number of people in the park.
Several parks throughout the Northeast USA cater especially to the littlest of patrons.
Toddler Friendly Amusement/Theme Parks on the East Coast
Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA – Perhaps the most popular of toddler friendly amusement parks, Sesame Place is located in Bucks County, about 30 minutes from Philadelphia. Named for it's theme (that is the PBS show Sesame Street), Sesame Place is home to all of the residents of Sesame Street including Big Bird, Grover, Elmo and Cookie Monster. While at the park one can enjoy various amusement rides (including a roller coaster, train and carousel), musical shows, games and water attractions. The park provides a few different dining options. One can go for a quick meal such as a hamburger or hot dog with chips. There are also dishes created with mom/dad in mind such as a chicken Caesar salad or a grilled chicken sandwich. Unlike some of the other toddler friendly parks (that offer only enough entertainment for half a day), Sesame Place is perfect for a 2 or 3 day vacation get away. Admission fees for this park are a little higher than that of most toddler friendly parks; i.e., a two-day pass for a family of four would run over $200.
Santa's Village in New Hampshire – At this theme park, it is Christmas all year round. Activities at this park include various rides such as a Christmas carousel, bumper cars, ferris wheel, water rides and more. Additionally there are interactive games and craft activities, a theater and fun shops to visit. Families can enjoy a wide array of both snacks and meals including burgers/fries, chicken, pizza, gingerbread, fudge and cotton candy. The park is open from mid-May through December (check with the park in advance as days and hours of operation vary throughout the year). Admission to the park is $24 for patrons over 4 years of age, and free for tikes under 4.
Toddler Friendly Amusement/Theme Parks in the Midwest
Memphis Kiddie Park in Brooklyn, OH – This small amusement park on the outskirts of Cleveland is great for a Saturday get away. The park offers a variety of activities for young children including a carousel, train, tiny roller coaster and ferris wheel. One can purchase snacks inside the park such as peanuts, hot dogs, popcorn, etc. Similar to that of theme parks of the past, guests to the park purchase tickets to ride or participate in activities.
Deer Forest in Coloma, MI – Located about 15 minutes outside of Benton Harbor, Deer Forest is both a comfortable and fun destination for toddlers. The park offers a petting zoo, toddler friendly rides such as the tree top ferris wheel, pony rides, miniature golf and a train ride. As with most toddler friendly theme parks, parking at Deer Forest is free and in close proximity to the park's entrance. Light meals/snacks such as hot dogs, peanuts, etc. are available inside the park. Admission along with a pass for all amusement rides costs $14 for the day. This park is very small, low budget and simple.
Although these parks are wonderful for toddlers and younger children, they are not suitable for the older kids. Older children and teens may become bored quickly as there are very few activities at these parks that are appropriate for children over the age of 7 or 8.
Dee Dee Smith - Dee Dee is a web content writer with over a decade of experience. She has held contracts with golf, sports and business publications.
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