With fuel prices dropping and road trips gaining popularity, travel experts are advising families to bypass expensive theme park giants like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios in favor of regional amusement parks this summer.
According to a recent report from AAA, gas prices have fallen by 36 cents compared to the same time last year. This dip is attributed to lower crude oil prices, providing welcome relief for families planning summer vacations. With many households opting to drive rather than fly, regional parks are emerging as a cost-effective and accessible alternative.
Instead of traveling to high-cost destinations in Central Florida or Southern California, travel specialists are encouraging families to explore nearby theme parks. Regional parks often boast lower admission fees, more affordable lodging, and seasonal festivals that offer unique experiences without the crowds or inflated prices of larger resorts.
“Families can save significantly by skipping Orlando and opting for Dollywood instead,” said Megan duBois, Senior Theme Park Editor at FamilyVacationist. “Hotel and park ticket prices are generally much lower, and guests often enjoy a more relaxed experience.”
DuBois added that so-called “B-list” theme parks provide equally memorable vacations with shorter lines and a more manageable pace. Parks like Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri, are among her top picks this summer.
Silver Dollar City is celebrating its 65th anniversary with a lineup of special summer programming, including the Summer Celebration festival running from June 7 through August 3. Highlights include extended park hours, a new drone and fireworks show titled Night Sky, and enhanced entertainment offerings. The park’s underground Marvel Cave provides a cool respite from the heat and is available for guided walking tours.
Alexandra Caspero, travel writer and founder of Delish Knowledge, echoed the benefits of sticking closer to home. “Branson offers a fun, family-friendly weekend that’s incredibly affordable,” she said. Based in St. Louis, Cassero’s family visits their local Six Flags regularly with season passes. “We go almost weekly during the summer. Six Flags has a great mix of thrill rides and a dedicated kids’ area,” she noted.
For those seeking even more variety, parks across the country are debuting new attractions. Six Flags New England in Agawam, Massachusetts, is launching a new family-friendly launch coaster called Quantum Accelerator. Meanwhile, Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, will unveil Siren’s Curse, a high-thrill addition to its coaster lineup. In Williamsburg, Virginia, Busch Gardens is offering a fresh take on a beloved ride with The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge.
Seasonal events also add value to regional park visits. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration, taking place from June 14 through August 3, features exclusive food items, live entertainment, and the Sweet Summer Nights dance party and drone show.
With rising travel costs and increasing demand for affordable family fun, regional theme parks are positioning themselves as attractive, budget-friendly alternatives for a memorable summer getaway.
