24 Feb 2008 12:33:29 | Lee Asher
Amusement Business Magazine has revealed the top ten theme parks
in North America for 2004 based on attendance figures. As
expected, six of those ten are owned and operated by The Walt
Disney Company. Although no numbers were released for theme park
visitor count elsewhere, it's safe to assume that the brand also
dominates internationally, as its newest theme park HongKong
Disneyland just opened. Here is how the list looked with a short
overview of its attractions.
And don't forget to check out the Australian theme parks too.
There is a great range down under as well.
1. The Magic Kingdom at Disney World (FL)
Disney World's Magic Kingdom opened in 1971 and is located 30
minutes south of Orlando. Cinderella Castle, Pirates of the
Caribbean, and Space Mountain are just some of its popular
attractions. Kids will be thrilled getting autographs from
Disney characters at Mickey's Toontown Fair. 2. Disneyland (CA)
The world's most famous theme park recently celebrated its 50th
anniversary called the "Happiest Homecoming on Earth" which was
attended by, among others, California Governor Arnold
Schwarzenegger. Indiana Jones Adventure and Haunted Mansion have
been hailed by critics to be the parks best rides.
3. Epcot at Walt Disney World (FL)
Originally called EPCOT Center (Experimental Prototype Community
of Tomorrow) when it opened in October 1982, the park was
envisioned to be a futuristic city with controlled environs.
Now, it is known to be a "learning-oriented" attraction in where
science and international culture blend.
4. Disney-MGM Studios at Walt Disney World (FL)
The park functions both as a full-service production lot and
theme park. Five major sections make-up the park: Hollywood
Blvd., New York St., Mickey Ave., Animation Courtyard, and
Sunset Blvd. Of all the rides here, Tower of Terror has been
said to be the best of the modern-day attractions. The
freefalling thrill ride is based on the classic television show
The Twilight Zone.
5. Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World (FL)
This 500-acre theme park focuses on animals and dinosaurs. The
people behind it are quick to point out, though, that it is not
a zoo since there certainly is a lot more to see and do here
than animals on display. It's Tough To Be A Bug and Tree Of Life
are the top picks among the attractions.
6. Universal Studios at Universal Orlando (FL)
Universal's Revenge of the Mummy ride is widely proclaimed to be
among the best rides ever with coasters reaching top speeds and
gut-displacing drops. It also gets props for effectively
incorporating story into an action-filled ride with stunning
special effects. Another reason for its success is the
family-oriented approach Universal chose which means it's
relatively docile compared to its predecessors.
7. Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando (FL)
Undoubtedly, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man is the number
one reason visitors keep coming back to this theme park. Merging
3D graphics with the most advanced motion base simulation
technology, this ride takes visitors on a whole new level of fun
and excitement that even the most jaded ride enthusiast will
come out totally blown away.
8. Disney's California Adventures (CA)
Soarin' Over California is the perfect attraction for anyone who
has always dreamed of flying. This attraction simulates a hang
glider "soaring" over California's best known locations such as
the Golden Gate Bridge, San Diego, Lake Tahoe, Los Angeles, and
even Disneyland itself. It has become one of the most visited
attractions in the two Disney parks it is featured in. Scents
corresponding to the places shown on screen are incorporated
into the wind effects for added realism.
9. SeaWorld Florida (FL)
Aside from the usual marine shows, SeaWorld also boasts its own
roller coaster and making it floorless gives the ride an added
thrill factor. It's also the tallest of its kind in Central
Florida. There are motion simulator rides, a marine life
exhibit, and, at Discovery Cove, visitors can swim with
dolphins. Truly, a far cry from the whale-splashing attraction
it used to be.
10. Universal Studios Hollywood (CA)
The rides and attractions at Universal Studios are all tied with
Universal's movies. There is also the famous backlot tour on a
tram that visits famous film sets and complete special effects.
The most recent addition to line-up is Steven Spielberg's War of
the Worlds set. Guests can also be part of the studio audience
at television show tapings. About 35,000 visitors come to
Universal Studios daily, majority of them also from Southern
California. It is also the largest film studio-theme park in the
world.
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