Best Amusement parks in Ontario

Ontario is home to some of the best amusement and theme parks in Canada. From the world-renowned Canada's Wonderland to the smaller family-owned operations, there is something for thrill seekers of all ages in Ontario. When planning your next amusement park adventure, be sure to consider these top parks across the province.

Canada's Wonderland – Vaughan

Without a doubt, Canada's Wonderland is one of the most popular amusement parks in Ontario. Located just north of Toronto in Vaughan, Wonderland spans over 300 acres and is home to 69 rides including 16 rollercoasters, 8 kids rides, Splash Works water park and an array of live entertainment.

Thrill seekers flock to Wonderland for the exhilarating Leviathan – one of the tallest and fastest rollercoasters in the world with an astounding 306-foot-tall drop at a speed of 148 km/hr. Yukon Striker dives riders underground into an excavated tunnel in the world's longest, fastest and tallest dive coaster. The park is also home to the iconic Behemoth rollercoaster which still reigns as the tallest and fastest coaster in Canada soaring 125 feet reaching speeds of 124 km/hr.

For those looking for less of an adrenaline rush, Wonderland still offers family-friendly rides like the classic Timberwolf Falls log flume ride and the interactive Ghost Blasters dark ride. In addition, younger kids love the Kidzville rides tailored to pint-sized park goers. To take a break from the rides, Wonderland has a variety of live entertainment options including an ice skating show, acrobatics show, and live musical acts. You should buy tickets to Canada’s Wonderland online to avoid queues at the counter.

When planning your Wonderland visit, look out for season passes and online ticket discounts to help save money. Arrive early in the day to take advantage of the shortest lines on popular rides too. With world-class thrills, family entertainment and seasonal events like Halloween Haunt, Winterfest and more, Canada's Wonderland deserves its reputation as Ontario’s premier amusement park.

Marineland – Niagara Falls

Among Ontario amusement parks, Marineland holds a prominent place. Nestled on the main tourist strip just minutes from the breathtaking Niagara Falls, this amusement park offers a unique roster of marine animal shows and rides alongside its namesake aquarium. In operation since 1961, generations of visitors have enjoyed close-up encounters with beluga whales, dolphins, sea lions and even walruses at the largest themed animal park in the world.

In addition to the marine life shows, Marineland also features a lineup of amusement rides like Dragon Mountain rollercoaster, the Sky Screamer swing ride soaring nearly 300 feet high, and the Tree Top Adventures high ropes course. Younger kids love meeting their favourite aquatic friends like Franklin the Turtle and Paw Patrol’s Chase at the park’s Friendship Cove. From rides to animal encounters, Marineland packages it all into one classic Niagara Falls destination.

Marineland offers promotions and combo packages with local hotels that bundle discounted park admission with your overnight accommodations. The park is also available for private events and wedding receptions with some of the most unique backdrops around.

Safari Niagara – Stevensville

For animal encounters of the exotic kind, head to Safari Niagara located in Stevensville just outside Niagara Falls. This 150-acre wildlife park is home to more than 750 animals spanning over 150 different species from around the world. Guests can get up close on guided walking tours and educational wildlife shows at the park’s outpost stations.

Drive your own vehicle along the park’s 4-km safari road to see majestic creatures like lions, tigers, bears, bison, elk and more in expansive naturalized habitats. Safari Niagara also offers more personalized VIP tours and private group opportunities for an exclusive wildlife experience. After exploring the park, enjoy the scenic picnic grounds and natural play areas perfect for families.

Safari Niagara is open seasonally from May through October only. Discounted tickets can be found online when purchased in advance. Combo deals are also available when paired with other major area attractions.

Calypso Theme Waterpark – Ottawa/Limoges

When the hot Ontario sun is blazing, cool off at Calypso Theme Waterpark. Calypso operates two massive waterparks east of Ottawa in Limoges and southeast in the city itself. The Limoges park is the largest in Canada spanning over 100 acres with 35 rides and slides to enjoy.

Race down North America’s tallest free fall waterslide Vortex, or test your courage on the Ottawa location’s insane SkydiveMAX slide – Canada’s highest, steepest near-vertical drop waterslide. Little ones can splash safely on toddler-friendly attractions like the tiny tot Wave Pool, Splashpad play area and winding Icario Aquatic Adventure River.

Calypso also features other entertainment like Pedal Boats, Mini Putt golfing, the Euro Bungy trampoline and more. VIP cabanas are available to rent for private parties looking to relax in comfort with couch seating and food service. When ready to refuel, the parks house several dining outlets with meal deals for families plus picnic areas for home-packed lunches. Escape the heat at Calypso Theme Waterparks all summer long.

Fallsview Indoor Waterpark – Niagara Falls

You don’t have to wait for summer swims when you visit the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark in Niagara Falls. Connected directly to the Fallsview Hotel and adjacent Fallsview Casino, this massive 200,000 square foot waterpark complex is open year-round for aquatic fun. With 16 slides and rides, the park can accommodate up to 3,000 guests at once.

Kids and adults alike enjoy favourites like the massive Canadian Plunge Bowl ride, the daredevil six-story Twister Waterslide trio and the multi-lane CannonBowl slides. The park’s wave pool, hot tubs and FlowRider surf simulator ensure endless entertainment. Tiny tots love the Tot Loch play area just for small swimmers under 48” tall.

Nab tickets as part of a Fallsview Hotel package for the best value. The on-site Windows Restaurant also offers great meal combos to enjoy during your visit. With proximity to top Niagara Falls attractions, the Fallsview Waterpark lets visitors make a splash any time of year.

Wild Water & Wheels – Peterborough

Nestled on 55 scenic acres just east of Peterborough, Wild Water & Wheels amusement park is the perfect destination for thrill seekers and nature lovers alike. The park packs an assortment of rides across its sprawling property surrounded by the natural beauty of Jackson Creek.

The centerpieces of Wild Water & Wheels are undoubtedly the Ripshaw Racer hydrocoaster flume ride and Atomik SpinZone human gyroscope sending brave riders spinning head over heels. The park also houses go karts, mini golf, bumper boats, and arcade games alongside splash pad water play areas. Wild Water & Wheels offers private group camping excursions too with cabin rentals in a peaceful wooded setting.

Discounted combo deals are available that package waterpark admission with add-ons like go karts, mini golf, axe throwing and more for one low price. Wild Water and Wheels has options for all ages to enjoy heart-stopping excitement alongside natural splendor.

Final Words

Thrill seekers have no shortage of options when choosing Ontario’s best amusement and theme parks. With iconic regional parks like Canada’s Wonderland alongside more intimate family-run operations, the province is filled with destinations promising adrenaline-pumping entertainment. Take advantage of combo deals and packaged offerings to maximize value on your next amusement park getaway. Just don’t forget to scream – the exhilarating rides at these Ontario amusement park favorites are sure to get your heart racing!