Your Guide to the Best Theme Parks in California
Best Educational Parks
1. Gilroy Gardens
An entire theme park devoted to the appreciation of horticulture — particularly the importance of trees — Gilroy Gardens merges education and fun seamlessly. Most rides are made for kids under 4 feet tall, which makes this Northern California theme park a must for families with small children.
Aside from the rides, the park is also home to “The Circus Trees,” which were grafted into interesting shapes by a Swedish farmer during the 1940s. They also have a number of beautifully landscaped gardens and educational programs to teach kids about nature and the Earth sciences.
2. San Diego Zoo
Over 3,700 animals inhabit the grounds of the 100-acre San Diego Zoo, making it one of the largest zoos or safari parks in the world. You can ride across the park in style in the Skyfari Aerial Tram or on one of the many open-air bus tours.
There are special zookeeper talks throughout the day and a couple of exciting animal shows your whole family will love. Aside from viewing all the animals in their habitats, the San Diego Zoo also has a few unique animal encounter experiences, where you can get up close and personal with certain animals for an additional price.
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3. Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
Originally called Marine World, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom has evolved into a full-fledged theme park with thrill rides in addition to their classic animal attractions. Large tanks allow viewing of African penguins, stingrays and different kinds of sharks.
For an additional fee, teens or adults can experience the park’s trainer for a day program and feed, touch and train dolphins and sea lions. Discovery Kingdom even has an exclusive overnight experience that allows you to sleep under the sharks’ aquarium and observe their nocturnal behaviors.
The park’s facilities have also expanded to include other animals besides marine life including birds, giraffes, lions, tigers and cougars.
