Top California Theme Parks




 
 

Sonoma TrainTown Railroad: Sonoma

The founder of Sonoma TrainTown Railroad once described this one-of-a-kind attraction as a «10-acre elaborate table top railroad, which is outdoors and rideable,» summing up what has been drawing railway enthusiasts and families to this park for more than half a century. In addition to 20-minute trips on a quarter-scale train to visit a tiny town and petting zoo, this dynamic theme park in Sonoma boasts railroad-themed rides such as the Iron Horse Carousel and High Iron Ferris wheel.

Upscale accommodation options only half a mile away include MacArthur Place and The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa. Staying in this Northern California city will give you time to check out its world-class wineries after you finish traveling the tracks of TrainTown.

 

Legoland California: Carlsbad

If you’re hoping to find a Lego-themed park with endless opportunities for fun and state-of-the-art amenities, Legoland California is worth checking out. This park in Carlsbad, about 30 miles north of San Diego, immerses kids in the Lego universe with roller coasters, factory tours, themed rides and building experiences galore. Children can climb aboard a pirate ship, dig for dinosaur fossils, practice for their Legoland driver’s license or construct their own Coast Guard boat out of Legos before racing against other watercraft.

Guests who want the full experience of this amusement park can book a stay at the adjacent Legoland California Resort, which has themed rooms and interactive Lego features throughout, as well as nightly entertainment for kids.