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8 Best Amusement Parks in Maryland

If you ask any Marylander, they’ll probably tell you that their home state is in a perfect location. Beaches, mountains, all four seasons, sites of historical significance, flourishing urban areas, and quiet country retreats – Maryland really does seem to have it all, which makes it a fantastic destination for any vacation.

And no family vacation would be complete without a trip to the amusement park! Around Maryland you’ll find plenty, and there’s sure to be a park that suits every vacation or day-trip style.

Here are the 8 best amusement parks in Maryland.

Six Flags America

13710 Central Ave, Bowie, MD 20721

The largest amusement park in the Maryland area, Six Flags America, has something for everyone.  From thrill rides such as the Batwing Coaster, the Mind Eraser, and Superman: Ride of Steel, to classic family-friendly rides like Pepe Le Pew’s Tea Party, Six Flags has you covered.

Don’t forget your swimsuit because the water park, Hurricane Harbor, is packed with fun, as well. Rent a tube and float along the lazy river, or get a rush as you’re swept down one of the many waterslides throughout the park. Finish your day off with a meal at one of 23 eateries before heading back to your hotel for the evening.

Keep an eye on their website for the best deals on tickets as well as upcoming events.

Roller Coaster

Adventure Park USA

11113 W. Baldwin Road, Monrovia, MD 21770

Part amusement park, part carnival, part grown-up playground – you can’t go wrong with a trip to Adventure Park USA. The thing that sets this one apart from other amusement parks around Maryland is that you pay per attraction as opposed to paying an entry fee – only$7 per mini golf game, $5 per carousel ride, $5 for the rock wall.

You can build your own adventure based on whatever strikes your fancy in the moment. Additional attractions include an arcade, bumper cars, go-karts, a ropes course, bumper boats, sky coaster, carnival games, and so much more.

Baja Amusements

12639 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, MD 21842

Many of the most well-known amusement parks in Maryland are located on the state’s eastern shore. Baja Amusements is one such park and has been a fun-filled destination for residents and visitors since 1981. Located on Maryland Route 50 in West Ocean City, you’ll find 8 go-kart tracks that range in difficulty from a rookie track suitable for those as young as 5, to a Road Racer track with twin engine go-karts.

Additionally, the park boasts a 19-hole miniature golf course, two climbing walls, and three kids’ rides. Baja Amusements is certainly a great addition to any Ocean City tradition.

driving Go-kart

Jolly Roger Amusement Park

30th Street and Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842

Another Ocean City favorite, Jolly Roger Amusement Park offers rides of all varieties, from kiddie-sized fun to thrill-seeking adventures. Bumper cars, a carousel, classic tea cups, a roller coaster, and two mini-golf courses can also be found within the park.

Twice daily, the circus comes to town, which can be timed with a ride on the Iron Horse Express, Jolly Roger’s 1952 antique train. Don’t forget to check out the Riptide roller coaster before grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many concession stands throughout the park.

Jolly Roger at the Pier

401 South Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842

Jolly Roger at the Pier is located at the very southern tip of Ocean City, MD. The amusement park offers games, rides, fishing, and entertainment. There’s no cost to enter – you simply purchase ride tokens/tickets as you wish.

Also included in the Jolly Roger at the Pier building are a few other Ocean City favorites. Thrasher’s French Fries, Ripley’s Believe it or Not, and Kohr Brothers frozen treats. This Jolly Roger location is perfect for an evening out with the family as you make lasting vacation memories.

Carnival Clown Head Ball Toss Game

Trimper’s Rides

700 South Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842

Of all the amusement parks around Maryland, Trimper’s Rides has been open the longest. Established in 1890, it’s actually the oldest family owned and operated amusement park in the world! Trimper’s double loop roller coaster, the Tidal Wave, has got to be one of the most well-known and beloved coasters at any amusement park close to Maryland.

In addition to the Tidal Wave, you’ll find roughly 35 more attractions, many of which have been a part of Trimper’s since they added outdoor rides in the 1950’s. Carnival games abound, and it’s not uncommon to see families lugging around bags of prizes, mainly in the form of stuffed animals as well as the occasional goldfish.

Thrill cards (AKA park passes) and all-night armbands are available for purchase in-person and online.

Amusement park rides at a boardwalk

Chesapeake Beach Water Park

4079 Gordon Stinnett Avenue, Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732

Chesapeake Beach Water Park is an outdoor oasis the entire family can enjoy. Pools, water slides, waterfalls, lagoons, and fountains cover the water park, which was voted one of Maryland’s best.

As a bonus, the Chesapeake Beach Railway Trail is located just behind the park. Over the years the trail has become a well-loved destination for walking, hiking, and cycling while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Chesapeake Beach Resort.

Frontier Town

8428 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, MD 21811

Frontier Town is probably the most unique of all the amusement parks close to Maryland. It’s more than an amusement park, in fact it’s a camping experience with built-in fun and entertainment.

The campground offers both primitive and upgraded campsites as well as vacation rentals. Within Frontier Town you’ll find a water park and lazy river, 18 holes of mini golf, a ropes course, an arcade, and Western Theme Park featuring Wild West shows and a Native American village.

For those who are looking for a more leisurely experience, there is a 200-foot fishing pier as well as a full service restaurant and bar. In short, Frontier Town has something for everyone, and would be a great stopover or final destination for your next family vacation.

Book at The Hotel at the University of Maryland

The Hotel at University of Maryland is located within driving distance of several theme and amusement parks in Maryland. In fact, Six Flags America is just fifteen miles from our front door.

Whether you’re hoping for a tour of local amusement parks or planning a few days in D.C, our convenient location and luxurious accommodations make The Hotel at University of Maryland the perfect home base for any family vacation. Contact us today to learn about our special offers and book your stay.

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