These Are the Most Exciting International Amusement Parks You Should Visit in Your Lifetime

There's no denying that the United States has some great amusement parks—we have the largest Disney park, two Universal Studios and a host of Six Flags across the country—but there are even more spectacular theme parks around the world.

Below, we've laid out seven international amusement parks that piqued our interest. No matter where you are in the world, you should visit these theme parks at least once in your lifetime.

Universal Studios Japan — Osaka, Japan

We couldn't have been the only ones jealous that Universal Studios Japan had the first peek at Super Nintendo World.

They have all the popular rides available at the American branch, but they also have fun, cute attractions that feature Hello Kitty, the characters from Sing and the Despicable Me minions. And they're one of the only Universal Studios that still have the iconic Shrek 4D ride.

 

Also read about: 7 Most Aesthetic, Delicious Foods on the Disney Park Menu

 

Europa-Park — Rust, Germany

Germany's Europa-Park is one of the largest on the continent, only falling second to Disneyland Paris.

Europa-Park has over 100 attractions with 16 thematic sections. Each area is dedicated to a region of Europe, so if you're a fan of European culture, you must take a visit to Europa-Park! There are a wide range of rides, so no need to worry if you prefer something on the tamer side.

 

DisneySea Tokyo — Tokyo, Japan

Honestly, between Universal Studios Japan and DisneySea Tokyo, Japan has some of the best amusement parks in the world, and DisneySea Tokyo is at the top of the (Disney) parks we want to visit.

Arguably, DisneySea Tokyo is even more immersive than the Disney parks in the United States—there is a literal Venetian gondola to transport you through areas of the park. Many people find that DisneySea Tokyo's attractions and live shows are more grand than the American ones, and the food is amazing at a cheaper price point. Plus, who isn't craving a ride on Journey to the Center of the Earth?

 

Also read about: This Is the Theme Park You Should Visit Based on Your Zodiac Sign

 

Thorpe Park — Surrey, England

Thorpe Park is a paradise for adrenaline junkies.

This amusement park is home to the fastest rollercoaster in the United Kingdom and has thrilling attractions for The Walking Dead and Saw. Their speciality is their intensity, so if you're a fan of rides like Six Flags' Kingda Ka, you'll have to make a stop at this English amusement park at some point.

 

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi — Yongin, South Korea

If you think Thorpe Park will be fast, Ferrari World is even faster.

Ferrari World opened in 2010 with Formula Rossa, which is known for reaching up to 149 mph at its top speed, and its other coaster, Flying Aces, is said to have the world's tallest non-inverting loop. This year, they opened the "most immersive" 5D mega-coaster, taking riders on an exhilarating chase to deliver a secret Ferrari to Italy.

 

Feeling like a thrillseeker? Check out our definitive ranking of the most popular amusement parks in the United States HERE.