Top 12+ U.S. Amusement Parks You Can Visit for Free
What if you could enjoy the thrill of amusement parks without breaking the bank on pricey entry tickets? The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions shows that a U.S. amusement park gate fee stands between $50 and $100 per visitor. Add food, games, souvenirs, and a fun family outing can quickly become a significant expense.
The good news? Multiple amusement parks across the United States enable you to enter without charges, allowing people of every age to enjoy free entertainment. The no-cost general admission lets visitors sample programs and explore activities before paying extra for amusement park rides. Here are 12 incredible free-admission amusement parks where all you need to worry about is how much fun you want to have!
Knoebels Amusement Resort, Pennsylvania
Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, is the largest free-admission amusement park in the United States, offering fun for everyone. The park offers over 60 rides and attractions, including thrill rides, a massive water park, and kid-friendly options, all without requiring an entry fee.
Admission, parking, and picnic facilities are free, but you’ll need to purchase ride tickets, an all-day wristband, food, and souvenirs. For a touch of nostalgia, don’t miss the Grand Carousel, one of the oldest-running carousels in the country.
Navy Pier, Illinois
Located along the stunning shoreline of Lake Michigan in Chicago, Navy Pier is one of the Midwest’s top free attractions. In 2022, Navy Pier reported experiencing a remarkable rebound in attendance post-pandemic, with weekly visits soaring to 235,000 during peak times, up from 101,000 in 2019 for the same period. Guests can enjoy free entry to the Pier, taking in live performances, seasonal events, and summer fireworks without spending a dime.
Paid attractions include the Centennial Wheel and cruises departing from the dock. For a local favorite experience, relax on the outdoor benches and enjoy breathtaking city skyline views.
Waldameer Park, Pennsylvania
Waldameer Park in Erie, Pennsylvania, offers a charming blend of classic rides, family-friendly fun, and scenic views. There’s something for everyone, with over 100 attractions, from thrilling roller coasters to kid-friendly rides. Admission and parking are free, making it a great budget-friendly option, but ride tickets or an all-day pass will cost you, along with food from the park’s many dining options.
Don’t miss the Ravine Flyer II, a world-renowned wooden roller coaster that delivers adrenaline-pumping drops and offers stunning views of Lake Erie. The park also features a water park, Waldameer Water World, which is perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day.
Idlewild and SoakZone, Pennsylvania
Idlewild and SoakZone in Pennsylvania offer the perfect combination of a traditional amusement park and a sprawling water park. Families worldwide recognize this park for its classic roller coasters and water slides featuring unique fantasy locations where toddlers explore fairy tales in Story Book Forest. While park entry remains free for all guests, visitors must buy tickets to access rides and water park activities.
There’s something for everyone, from gentle rides for kids to more adventurous options for teens. Idlewild also hosts seasonal events, such as Halloween-themed activities and holiday light displays, adding an extra layer of fun throughout the year.
Pacific Park, California
Perched on the iconic Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park offers a mix of thrilling rides, arcade games, and stunning ocean views. Families worldwide recognize this park for its classic roller coasters and water slides featuring unique fantasy locations where toddlers explore fairy tales in Story Book Forest. While park entry remains free for all guests, visitors must buy tickets to access rides and water park activities.
The Pier is also home to various food vendors, offering everything from classic funnel cakes to fresh seafood. Visiting around sunset is highly recommended for capturing unforgettable photos and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Morey’s Piers, New Jersey
Stretching along Wildwood’s famous boardwalk, Morey’s Piers is a seaside amusement area offering three piers packed with rides, water parks, and arcade games. While entry to the piers and nearby beach access is free, individual attractions, such as roller coasters and water slides, come at a cost.
Morey’s Piers provide fun regardless of age because young adventurers can find thrilling rides while children enjoy milder attractions. People seeking additional value should explore their schedule to see free concerts, fireworks displays, and additional boardwalk celebrations. At Morey’s Piers, visitors will find activities that provide a thrilling day of adventure and peaceful evening walks.
