Are you looking for the best amusement park in the world? Whether you wish to capture the wonders of fairy-tale dreamland or want to get amazed with the craziest rides, there are numerous places that would surely give you an adrenaline boost. While Disneyland is the first name that everyone recalls on hearing theme parks, check out these best amusement parks in the world that offer experiences worth treasuring forever:
1. Magic Kingdom (Orlando, Florida, USA)
Located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Magic Kingdom holds the crown as the most-visited theme park in the world — drawing around 17.7 million visitors in 2023-24.
Its appeal: The iconic Cinderella Castle, immersive “lands” (Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, etc.), classic rides (Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean) and the enduring Disney brand magic.
Why you should visit
If you’re looking for the ultimate “storybook” theme park experience — with families, thrill rides, entertainment, parades, fireworks — this is the benchmark.
Highlights / Tips
- Arrive early by rope-drop to avoid long queues.
- Depending on the current system, use the Lightning Lane or FastPass options for the best rides.
- Stay at a nearby resort to get early entry.
- Big crowds midday; consider breaks around midday heat.
2. Disneyland Park (Anaheim, California, USA)
Anaheim’s Disneyland Park is a historic landmark that welcomes approximately 17.3 million visitors per year (2023-24 figures). The original Disney park opened its doors in 1955.
Why you should visit
It offers a more compact, historic version of Disney magic. It might be easier to get to than Orlando if you’re coming from Asia or are on the west coast of the United States.
Highlights/Tips
- Classic rides with deep nostalgia (e.g., Matterhorn Bobsleds, Indiana Jones).
- Great for multi-day stay: Two parks (Disneyland + California Adventure) share the resort.
- You might be able to see more in a shorter amount of time because it is smaller than Disney World in Orlando.
3. Universal Studios Japan (Osaka, Japan)
Universal Studios Japan draws around 16 million visitors in 2023-24, making it the highest ranked non-Disney park in attendance.
Why you should visit
For fans of big IPs (Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, Minions, Jurassic Park) and thrilling rides, USJ offers a modern and immersive experience.
Highlights/Tips
- Super Nintendo World is a standout immersive zone — great for families and gamers.
- Osaka is a major Japanese city that is easy to get to, has great transportation, good food, and has both culture and food.
- If you’re coming to Japan from India, think about going to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and USJ.
4. Tokyo Disneyland (Tokyo, Japan)
Position and appeal Tokyo Disneyland welcomed about 15.1 million visitors (2023-24) and holds the fourth spot globally.
Why you should visit
It combines Japanese hospitality, attention to detail, and style with Disney magic. Plus, Tokyo is a major international destination with excellent infrastructure.
Highlights/Tips
- For convenience, stay in Urayasu or Chiba close to Tokyo Disney Resort.
- Japanese theme parks often have high standards of cleanliness, entertainment and guest service.
- Combine with other Tokyo attractions (Shibuya, Asakusa, Akihabara, etc) for a full trip
5. Shanghai Disneyland (Shanghai, China)
Pulling in roughly 14 million visitors, Shanghai Disneyland ranks fifth globally.
Why you should visit
A newer Disney park with contemporary rides, large scale, and China’s growing tourism market. Unique features (such as the largest castle among Disney parks) make it compelling.
Highlights/Tips
- If you’re coming from India, you’ll need to think about China’s visa requirements and travel plans.
- Plan ahead, check ride wait times in advance, and download local apps.
- Combine with Shanghai city trip (Bund, Pudong skyline, French Concession) to maximize value.
6. Chimelong Ocean Kingdom (Zhuhai, China)
Why it’s in the list
This sixth-ranked global park in China received approximately 12.5 million visitors between 2023 and 24. Why should you go? It is large, modern, and less well-known internationally than Disney/Universal, making it possibly a less crowded option for thrill-seekers in Asia looking for big-park thrills.
Highlights/Tips
- Zhuhai can be reached from Hong Kong and the Macau region, making it a possible multi-destination itinerary.
- Consider translation and language support (English may have fewer options).
- Check the holidays in your area because Chinese national holidays can make parks very crowded.
7. Tokyo DisneySea (Tokyo, Japan)
Why it appears
Tokyo DisneySea is seventh in the world with approximately 12.4 million visitors. Why you should visit
Often lauded as one of the most beautifully themed parks in the world — the nautical, exploration-based concept is unique among major parks.
Highlights/Tips
- Ideal for fans of sophisticated ride design and immersive theming.
- Because it’s located near Tokyo Disneyland, you could visit both if you have extra days.
- As with Tokyo Disneyland, combine with broader Japan trip for greater value.
8. EPCOT (Orlando, Florida, USA)
EPCOT, part of Walt Disney World, brought in around 12 million visitors globally (position ~8th).
Why should you go
EPCOT combines futuristic rides, cultural pavilions (World Showcase), festivals (like Food & Wine, Flower & Garden), and attractions for all ages.
Highlights/Tips
- Due to its size, spend at least one full day here if your schedule permits.
- Great for families that want a mix of thrill rides + cultural/educational exhibits.
- Consider staying inside the Disney World area to avoid commuting.
9. Disneyland Paris (Marne-la-Vallée, France)
Holding around 10.4 million visitors (2023-24) and ranking ninth globally.
Why you should visit
Europe’s premier Disney park.The mix of Disney magic + European culture + ease of access from many parts of the world makes it superb.
Highlights/Tips
- Located close to Paris (train from Paris city center), so you can combine it with a Paris / Europe trip.
- For more variety, think about going to the nearby Disney Studios theme park.
- Many visitors from Asia/India may find this one practical if combined with Europe vacation.
10. Disney’s Hollywood Studios (Orlando, Florida, USA)
With roughly 10.3 million visitors, it’s tenth in the global ranking.
Why you should visit
Focuses on film/TV/entertainment IPs — Star Wars, Toy Story, Indiana Jones — making it a strong choice for pop-culture fans.
Highlights/Tips
- If you’re already in Orlando (for Magic Kingdom/EPCOT), this is a great additional day.
- Because of the popularity of Galaxy’s Edge and other marquee attractions.
- Consider early arrival and strategic ride planning.
- Stay aware of peak crowd times (holiday seasons, local events).
