Who doesn’t love a good amusement park? If that park is entirely free, that’s even better! Some amusement parks might have a lot to offer, but you can feel your wallet get lighter without even setting food inside. Thankfully, there’s a delightful alternative for fun-seekers and families.
A surprising number of U.S. amusement parks offer free entry, allowing visitors to soak up the festive atmosphere without the financial barrier at the gate.
1. Navy Pier – Chicago, Illinois
If you want the fun of an amusement park and the scenic view of the waterfront, this is one of the best places to be. Not to mention, there’s no entry fee! Spanning more than six city blocks along Lake Michigan, Navy Pier offers a lively mix of free activities, including scenic strolls with breathtaking skyline views, public art installations, and a year-round calendar of complimentary events and cultural performances.
While certain attractions like the Centennial Ferris Wheel and some rides require separate tickets, the pier’s open-access policy ensures everyone can enjoy its unique atmosphere and many free offerings.
2. Beach Boardwalk – Santa Cruz, California
This seaside amusement park is much loved for the fun it brings without having to break the bank. Established in 1907, it is California’s oldest seaside amusement park, but it certainly hasn’t lost its spark. While entry is free, guests can purchase tickets or wristbands for access to over 40 rides, including the iconic Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster. There are also carnival games, arcades, mini-golf, and laser tag.
The Boardwalk has many free summer events visitors can enjoy, including live music, movies on the beach, and special festivals to keep the magic of summer alive.
3. Knoebels Amusement Resort – Elysburg, Pennsylvania
This is America’s largest free-admission amusement park, and it has so much to offer. Nestled in the scenic Susquehanna River Valley, this family-owned park has welcomed guests since 1926, and it isn’t planning to stop anytime soon! Knoebels has more than 60 rides to enjoy, including classic wooden roller coasters, a historic 1913 carousel, and the tallest Ferris wheel in Pennsylvania.
Guests can enjoy affordable pay-per-ride options or purchase all-day wristbands, making it easy to tailor the experience to any budget. They reportedly have some of the best food, free picnic spots, and even on-site camping grounds, making this a fun weekend instead of just a day.
4. Pacific Park – Santa Monica, California
If you’re heading to Santa Monica Pier anytime soon, you might as well enjoy Los Angeles’ only admission-free amusement park. This park has millions of people enjoying the ocean view each year while getting their adrenaline pumping without having to break the bank. The park features 13 classic amusement rides, including the world’s first solar-powered Ferris wheel, the Pacific Wheel, the West Coaster roller coaster, 14 midway games, seaside food outlets, and souvenir shops.
Rides are individually priced, and the park’s open-access layout allows everyone to enjoy its vibrant energy. Whether you are there for the rush of the rides or just want to enjoy the view, this park is perfect for everyone.
5. Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks – Wildwood, New Jersey
What’s better than an amusement park on the pier? Three amusement parks on the pier! These parks are located in Wildwood, New Jersey, a classic seaside amusement destination that offers free entry to its lively boardwalk and three amusement piers. The park spans over six beach blocks and has over 100 rides and attractions to choose from.
Visitors can explore the piers, enjoy the ocean views, and soak up the festive energy without an admission fee. Rides and water park access require individual tickets or wristbands. To top it all off, the park also has two beachfront water parks, Ocean Oasis, and Raging Waters, which will turn this visit into a whole day of fun for the family.
6. Kennywood Amusement Park – West Mifflin, Pennsylvania
If you’re looking for a combination of fun and history, this is the park for you. It has entertained visitors since opening as a trolley park in 1898 and overlooks the Monongahela River. This 80-acre park is recognized as a National Historic Landmark, showing how lasting fun times can be. It has over 40 rides and attractions, including three historic wooden roller coasters, Jack Rabbit, Racer, and Thunderbolt, and newer steel coasters like Phantom’s Revenge, which has been ranked among the nation’s best.
7. Family Kingdom Amusement Park – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Since opening its doors in 1966, this 13-acre park has become a beloved destination for families, with over 35 rides and attractions for all ages. Some of their best rides include the iconic Swamp Fox wooden roller coaster. This historic ride has thrilled visitors for decades and is recognized as one of North America’s most underrated wooden coasters.
Guests can enter the park and enjoy its lively boardwalk atmosphere at no cost, paying only for individual rides or opting for an all-day wristband. When you decide to visit, do not miss the 100-foot-tall Ferris wheel, which will give you some of the best scenic views.
8. Luna Park – Brooklyn, New York
Everyone talks about their trip to Coney Island, including the mounds of fun they had at Luna Park. The first park opened in 1903 and quickly became the heart of Coney Island, but it closed down in 1944. The park was given a second chance to dazzle when it re-opened in 2010 on the historic grounds.
Today, Luna Park is the largest amusement park in New York City, and it offers visitors some of the best rides and attractions. Guests can pay per ride, purchase wristbands for unlimited access, or simply enjoy the park’s atmosphere.
9. Adventurer’s Amusement Park – Brooklyn, New York
This park is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a carnival experience. While some might describe the park as slightly worn down, it’s still a much-loved choice for locals and visitors. It has a pay-per-ride policy and tons of rides to choose from. It’s a fun place to be without the commitment of an admission fee.
Discover more DIY hacks and style inspo- Follow us to keep the glow-up coming to your feed!
Love content like this? Tap Follow at the top of the page to stay in the loop with the latest beauty trends, DIY tips, and style inspo. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments — we love hearing from you!