Theme Parks

Amusement and theme parks refer to a collection of rides and other entertainment attractions assembled for the purpose of entertaining a large group of people. These terms are typically used when the park in question is more elaborate than a city park or playground. They typically have attractions appealing to all ages.

The terms theme park and amusement park are subjective, but are usually discriminated between by a more cohesive storyline. A theme park, as you might expect, tends to exhibit more of a theme than a simple amusement park. Non-theme amusement park rides will usually have little in terms of theming or additional design elements. Also this distinction refers specifically to the park as a whole and not just a ride. The sharing of theme elements among differing rides is a key differentiator. The original theme park, and architype of the designation is Disneyland in Anaheim, California.

Most of these parks have a fixed location, in contrast to traveling funfairs and carnivals.