Theme Parks Aren’t Just for Kids: 10 Trips Adults Will Actually Love
Think theme parks are all sticky fingers, screaming toddlers, and character parades? Think again. From sipping wine around the world at EPCOT to riding roller coasters by day and enjoying live DJs by night in Vegas, theme parks are getting a grown-up glow-up. Whether you’re a solo traveler, planning a girls trip, or just looking for a playful weekend away, these adult-friendly theme park experiences prove that fun has no age limit.
1. EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival – Orlando, FL
Best Time to Go: Mid-July to mid-November
Why You’ll Love It: This isn’t your average food festival. Think international bites, curated wine pairings, mixology classes, and live music. You can literally eat your way around the world.
Solo Tip: Go midweek to beat the crowds and make dinner reservations early.
Where to Stay: Walt Disney World Swan or Dolphin – perfect location and adult-friendly amenities.
2. Universal Orlando Resort – Orlando, FL
Why It Works for Adults: This is the grown-up version of theme park magic: thrilling coasters, immersive movie sets, and a lively nightlife scene at CityWalk.
Don’t Miss: A frozen Butterbeer in Hogsmeade and a strong cocktail at Mythos Restaurant.
Where to Stay: Loews Royal Pacific – includes free Express Passes so you skip the lines like a VIP.
3. Disneyland After Dark Events – Anaheim, CA
Best Time to Go: Varies by event (Star Wars Nite, Villains Nite, 90s Nite)
Why Adults Love It: These special ticketed nighttime events are adult Disney done right. Low crowds, themed eats, dance parties, and nostalgia galore.
Where to Stay: The Westin Anaheim – chic, walkable, and grown-up.
4. Dollywood Harvest Festival – Pigeon Forge, TN
Best Time to Go: Late September to early November
Why It’s Great for Grown-Ups: Cozy cabins, southern hospitality, handmade arts, and Appalachian music. It’s fall magic wrapped in theme park charm.
Where to Stay: DreamMore Resort – relax in a rocking chair and soak in the mountain views.
5. EPCOT Festival of the Arts – Orlando, FL
Best Time to Go: Mid-January to late February
Why You’ll Love It: Interactive art installations, food booths with a creative twist, and live Broadway performances. It’s refined, colorful fun for the culture-loving traveler.
Where to Stay: Disney’s BoardWalk Inn – walkable and full of old-school charm.
6. Cedar Point Brew & BBQ – Sandusky, OH
Best Time to Go: Select weekends in May
Why It’s Worth the Trip: World-famous coasters, BBQ tastings, and craft beer on Lake Erie. Think adrenaline with a side of smoked brisket.
Where to Stay: Hotel Breakers – steps from the park and right on the water.
7. Knott’s Scary Farm – Buena Park, CA
Best Time to Go: Late September through Halloween
Why Adults Flock Here: It’s spooky season turned up a notch — haunted mazes, fog-filled scare zones, and after-dark thrills.
Where to Stay: The Viv Anaheim – a stylish spot to unwind after the fright fest.
8. AREA15 – Las Vegas, NV
Why It’s Not Your Average Park: AREA15 is part immersive art gallery, part thrill zone, part nightlife experience. Explore Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, VR rides, and quirky bars all under one neon-lit roof.
Solo Vibe: It’s weird in the best way — perfect for adventurous spirits.
Where to Stay: The ENGLiSH Hotel – adults-only and just enough edge.
9. Hersheypark in the Dark – Hershey, PA
Best Time to Go: October weekends
Why You’ll Love It: Chocolate, fall colors, and just the right dose of Halloween fun. Enjoy seasonal treats, night rides, and local brews.
Where to Stay: The Hotel Hershey – historic, elegant, and spa-approved.
10. Six Flags Fright Fest or VIP Days – Nationwide
Why It’s Adult-Approved: Big coasters, big thrills, and exclusive VIP passes that let you skip lines and access private lounges.
Pro Tip: Pair your park day with a foodie city nearby for a full grown-up weekend.
