Massachusetts is an excellent place for a summer vacation. Not only is the weather absolutely ideal during the summer months, there are also tons of awesome things to do in the state. From amazing historic sites to beautiful beaches, you definitely won’t be bored during your time in the Bay State. One of the best things to do during your time there? Visit one of the amazing Massachusetts amusement parks!
That’s right—this state, which is usually thought of as a place to experience history and enjoy the beach, also happens to be an amazing amusement park destination. We highly recommend adding one or two of the amusement parks in Massachusetts to your trip itinerary so you can see what we mean.
Amusement Parks in Massachusetts
Not sure which Massachusetts amusement parks to choose? We’ve made a list of our favorite amusement parks in Massachusetts below. Whether you’re looking for a water park or a more traditional amusement park, you’ll find what you’re looking for on our list, making it easy to start planning your adventure right away:
- Six Flags New England
- Cape Codder Water Park
- Water Park of New England
- Edaville Family Theme Park
- Water Wizz of Cape Cod
- Salem Willows
- Amesbury Sports Park
Six Flags New England & Hurricane Harbor
Six Flags amusement parks are well known for a reason. These parks are some of the very best in the country, and Six Flags New England in Agawam is no exception. This park has actually been around since 1870, and though it hasn’t always been owned by Six Flags, it has consistently been one of the top Massachusetts amusement parks ever since that grand opening.
Some of the most popular attractions at this New England park include the classic “Thunderbolt” wooden roller coaster, the much newer “Joker” coaster, and a number of other thrilling roller coasters. Younger children will appreciate the variety of kiddie rides in the park, and there are plenty of in-between rides for families to enjoy together.
Of course, we mustn’t forget the onsite water park, Hurricane Harbor. This area of the park didn’t open until 1997, but it is definitely one of the best spots to be in the summer. Here, you will find plenty of water slides, water play areas, wave pools, and a lazy river. If you’re a thrill seeker, be sure not to miss the Typhoon Water Coaster!
RV Camping Near Six Flags New England & Hurricane Harbor
An RV is the perfect way to experience Massachusetts. It allows you to move around freely—and without the need to repack suitcases every time—so you can make sure to see all the amazing sites the state has to offer.
The Quarry Campground — Of course, you will need to find places to park your RV. This is where The Quarry Campground can help out. This lovely camping spot features shaded sites with water and electric hookups, a dump station, lovely clean bathhouses, and a staff that is friendly and welcoming. To top it all off, the campground is just a short drive from Six Flags New England!
Rent an RV near Six Flags New England!
Planning Your Trip to Six Flags New England & Hurricane Harbor
Tickets to Six Flags New England and Hurricane Harbor water park start at just $34.99. That said, those who plan to visit for more than one day will actually save by purchasing an annual pass, which includes unlimited admission for the season as well as free parking (normally $30).
It should be noted that cash is not accepted in the parks, meaning you will want to have a card on you while exploring. You may also like to know that outside food is not allowed in the parks unless required due to a food allergy.
Cape Codder Water Park
Located in the Cape Codder Resort and Spa in Hyannis, Cape Codder Water Park is a fantastic place to have an amazing time no matter the weather. You see, this is an indoor/outdoor water park with a retractable roof, meaning it’s open rain or shine, and the variety of things to do in the Massachusetts amusement park is pretty incredible.
Thrill seekers will love the two high-speed, 160-foot-tall water slides. Meanwhile, other visitors might prefer the 50- and 80-foot slides that wind their way through a replica pirate ship. Everyone is sure to love the “stormy river” and wave pool, and little swimmers will appreciate the Pirate Bay kiddie area, which is complete with a dumping bucket, water cannons, and itty bitty slides.
For the adults in the group, there is an absolutely fantastic 24-person whirlpool. Adults are also sure to enjoy the fitness center, saunas, and onsite bar.
RV Camping Near Cape Codder Water Park
Planning to take an RV on your Cape Cod vacation? We think this is an excellent choice. It gives you freedom to roam as you see fit, but ensures you’re comfortable no matter where you end up.
Old Chatham Road RV Campground — Speaking of finding a place to end up, you will need somewhere to stay when visiting Cape Codder Water Park. For this, we recommend the nearby Old Chatham Road RV Resort. This park offers full-hookup sites, a pool, and a location that really cannot be beat if you’re planning to experience all that Cape Cod has to offer.
Rent an RV near Cape Codder Water Park!
Planning Your Trip to Cape Codder Water Park
Although Cape Codder Water Park is a part of the aforementioned resort, it is also open to day guests. Availability of day passes is limited, and those wanting to purchase them must call in advance for availability. The cost of these passes is $40 per person. Those under 48” only pay $30, and kids 3 and under are free. There is also a non-swimmer pass available for $20.
Outside food is not permitted in this park, but full-service restaurants (as well as vending machines) are available for guests to use. While rental towels are available for $5, day guests are encouraged to bring their own towels from home. Lockers are available for rent as well.
Water Park of New England
Another great water park option, Water Park of New England is touted as “New England’s Favorite Indoor Water Park.” It’s chock-full of fun, and because it is located in the Boston area in the town of Danvers, you’re sure to have plenty to explore in addition to the water park.
The attractions in this park include tons of awesome water slides such as the four different raft slides that are perfect for adventurous types. The dip-in theater is great fun for the family to enjoy together, as is the lazy river. Have younger kids in tow? The Parrot’s Perch Play Area features climbing structures, kiddie slides, and dump buckets, making it the perfect place for little ones to splash and play in.
Of course, we mustn’t forget the adults. These visitors will enjoy the indoor/outdoor spa area with its giant hot tubs and swim-through passage.
RV Camping Near Water Park of New England
Wondering where to stay during your time in the Water Park of New England? You could, of course, stay in the attached hotel. However, we find that RV camping gives you more privacy and is more comfortable than a hotel stay.
Winter Island Park Campground — If you do choose to go the RV camping route, we highly recommend Winter Island Park Campground. This lovely campground features electric and water hookups, as well as a dump station. There is a small beach onsite, and some waterfront sites are available. Water Park of New England is only a few miles away, making this an even better option!
Rent an RV near Water Park of New England!
Planning Your Trip to Water Park of New England
Day passes to the Water Park of New England start at $40, but those under the age of two are admitted free of charge. Buying online saves a bit of money, and twilight tickets are available for those who prefer to enjoy the park in the evening.
Changing areas are available at the park, and locker rentals are an option.
Edaville Family Theme Park
Looking for a quaint family Massachusetts amusement park that is sure to make the whole family happy? Edaville Family Theme Park in Carver is just that. This adorable park opened in 1947 and has been a local favorite ever since. It is one of the oldest heritage railroad operations in the US.
Attractions in this park include lots of kiddie rides, some family rides (such as the scrambler and a carousel), and on certain days, a steam train. There is also an arcade onsite, offering fun for older kids and teens.
All of those things are great of course, but the main attractions at Edaville are the Thomas Land and Dino Land areas. Thomas Land features Thomas the Tank Engine-themed trains and rides, and it is absolutely adorable. Meanwhile, Dino Land is totally dinosaur-themed, making it the perfect place for dino-loving kiddos.
Last but not least, we have to mention Edaville’s Christmas Festival of Lights. This event is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with family!
RV Camping Near Edaville Family Theme Park
Obviously, you will need a place to stay while checking out Edaville. This is where an RV comes into play. Staying in an RV ensures you’re comfortable no matter where you land. You’ll have your own bathroom and bed and can cook the foods you like most in your own kitchen.
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort Cranberry Acres — When it comes to places to park your RV, we highly recommend Jellystone Park locations, and Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort Cranberry Acres is a great pick. This park was recently acquired by Jellystone, and they have done an awesome job making it into a family resort. The sites are well-kept, and the organized events, bouncy pads, and other kid-friendly activities make this an ideal place to stay with young campers.
Planning Your Trip to Edaville Family Theme Park
Ticket prices for the 2022 season have yet to be announced. That said, the prices for this attraction tend to be very affordable, especially for what you get. Parking is free at this location.
Water Wizz of Cape Cod
Those hoping to find even more theme park fun in Cape Cod will appreciate the Water Wizz of Cape Cod water park in East Wareham. Unlike the other Cape Cod location mentioned, this is an outdoor park, meaning you have to visit during the warm summer months. That said, the park is definitely well worth the wait.
Things to do at Water Wizz include a giant wave pool and a lovely lazy river. Kids love the “Little Neck Beach” and “Captain Kid’s Island” play areas. Meanwhile, those looking for thrills will appreciate the many different water slides. These include enclosed slides, serpentine slides, and speed slides.
Other fun things in this park include a temporary tattoo booth, a family pool, a souvenir shop, and of course, a place to grab some grub.
RV Camping Near Water Wizz of Cape Cod
Not sure where to stay when visiting Water Wizz of Cape Cod? You already know what we’ll tell you: An RV is the perfect solution. Traveling in an RV is a great way to make amazing family memories, maintain your privacy, and ensure everyone is comfortable for the entire trip.
Maple Park Campground & RV Park — Maple Park Campground & RV Park is the ideal place to park your RV during a visit to East Wareham. This campground has electric hookups and water hookups available for campers. There is an ice cream shack onsite, and the arcade and aqua park ensure that nobody is ever bored. Of course, the location near Water Wizz is pretty fantastic as well!
Rent an RV near Water Wizz of Cape Cod!
Planning Your Trip to Water Wizz of Cape Cod
Toddlers aged 2 and under enter the park for free. Those under 48” tall (and seniors) will pay $35. All others should expect to pay $45 for admission to this amusement park. Tickets cannot be transferred or sold, and you will need an ID to enter. Those looking for a short visit can show up two hours before closing for a discounted rate.
Outside food is allowed in this park, but there is also a snack stand for those who prefer to buy onsite. Those who can’t swim well are allowed to bring their own life vests into the park as long as they aren’t inflatable. No other floaties are allowed, but goggles are. Locker and tube rentals are available.
Salem Willows
Established in 1858, Salem Willows in Salem, Massachusetts has been a summer vacation destination for quite some time now. This oceanfront park offers a wide variety of things to do and see, meaning you’re sure to find something to please everyone in your party during your time here.
Rides in Salem Willows include kiddie rides such as boats, cars, and a 1905 carousel. Beaches offer opportunities for swimming, and performances happen often throughout the summer. Basketball and tennis courts are available, and an arcade offers indoor fun.
The many walkways in the park lead to a number of different places to enjoy some food. Whether you’re looking for ice cream, pizza, seafood, or a simple picnic area, you will find a place to enjoy a good meal or snack while people-watching and enjoying the ambiance in the park.
RV Camping Near Salem Willows
Once again, we highly recommend taking your RV on your Massachusetts adventure. This has a number of benefits, including making it easier to move from one area to another so you can see and do it all.
The aforementioned Winter Island Park Campground would work well for those looking to stay near Salem Willows. That said, there are other parks around.
Harold Parker State Forest — Harold Parker State Forest campground is one such park. This park offers water and electricity on big, wooded sites. A modern playground is available, as is a pond for canoeing and a swimming area. Best of all, Salem is a mere 40 minutes away by car!
Rent an RV near Salem Willows!
Planning Your Trip to Salem Willows
There is no admission fee to Salem Willows and most parking near the park is free. There is a charge for arcade games and rides, and costs vary based on attraction.
Outside food is allowed in this park, as are leashed dogs. That said, dogs are not allowed to enter the arcade or amusement ride area.
Amesbury Sports Park
Last on our list is Amesbury Sports Park in Amesbury. This amusement center is the perfect place for those who want to fully enjoy every season the state has to offer. While this isn’t a traditional amusement park, it definitely does offer amusements, and we think it deserves a place on our list.
In the wintertime, Amesbury Sports Park is the place to go for snow tubing. The tubing hill here is the best in the state and includes a conveyor belt that will take you to the top. The admission price to go tubing is totally affordable, and the onsite lodge and restaurant will warm you up with a hot drink or meal once you’re done.
Planning a summer visit? This is the time for summer tubing. It’s also the time to experience a ride down America’s longest ZORB run. The ZORB is an enormous inflatable ball that guests can ride in. It is an absolute blast that is sure to leave you laughing and having a great time.
RV Camping Near Amesbury Sports Park
RV camping is the way to go when visiting Amesbury Sports Park. After a long day of tubing, you’re going to want a comfortable place to return home to so you can spread out and relax. An RV is just that.
Beach Rose RV Park — Need a place to park your RV while you play at Amesbury Sports Park? Beach Rose RV Park is a good pick. This lovely campground offers easy access to the beach as well as a number of surrounding attractions. Full-hookup sites are available, the staff is friendly and helpful, and everything is clean and well-kept.
Rent an RV near Amesbury Sports Park!
Planning Your Trip to Amesbury Sports Park
The cost to visit Amesbury Sports Park depends a lot on when you visit and what you plan to do while there. As an example, a three-hour snow tubing pass is $24. Meanwhile, a two-hour summer tubing pass is $16 and a ZORB ride is $20.
As you can see, there are plenty of amazing amusement parks in Massachusetts to keep you and your family happily entertained. Hoping to find even more theme park fun? You might try searching for “amusement parks near me” once you get settled into your campground.
Another great option for finding wonderful things to do in the state? Check out the Massachusetts articles below. Each one lists a collection of fantastic things to do in Massachusetts that are worth adding to your must-see list:
