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Best Los Angeles Theme Parks That Aren't Disneyland

Disneyland wasn't the first theme park in Southern California (that honor goes to Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park) and some would say it's not the best. There are a variety of non-Disney theme parks in the Los Angeles area, each offering a unique atmosphere and experience. Here's the scoop on the best Los Angeles theme parks that aren't Disneyland.
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(credit: universalstudioshollywood.com)

Universal Studios Hollywood

1000 Universal Center Dr.
Universal City, CA 91608
1-800-UNIVERSAL
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This combination movie studio and theme park features rides, attractions and shows that are based on major Universal Studios movies, including "King Kong," "Shrek," "Jurassic Park" and the "Simpsons." A studio tour combines a behind-the-scenes look at how movies are made with special effects that put you right into the movie. Next door to Universal Studios Hollywood is Universal CityWalk, a leading entertainment venue that's home to some of the top restaurants, shops and nightclubs in Los Angeles. The sheer volume of excitement and entertainment available at Universal Studios Hollywood makes it one of the best Los Angeles theme parks that aren't Disneyland.

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(credit: sixflags.com)

Six Flags Magic Mountain

26101 Magic Mountain Parkway
Valencia, CA 91355
(661) 255-4100
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When it comes to gut-wrenching thrill rides, Six Flags Magic Mountain is the hands-down winner in the Los Angeles area. This park is not known for its shows or entertainment – it's all about extreme roller coasters. At Magic Mountain you'll find The Riddler's Revenge, the world's tallest, longest and fastest stand-up roller coaster, and Tatsu, the tallest, longest and fastest flying coaster. The park also has 14 other unique and exciting roller coasters. For those who crave adrenaline-pumping excitement, Six Flags Magic Mountain is the number one theme park in Los Angeles.

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(credit: knotts.com)

Knott's Berry Farm

8039 Beach Boulevard
Buena Park CA, 90620
(714) 220-5200
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Knott's Berry Farm has a rich history, beginning as a farm and fruit stand in the 1920s and expanding to become one of the most popular theme parks in Southern California. Part of its unique charm lies in the recreation of a small town from the Old West, complete with buildings transported from a desert ghost town. Knott's is home to roller coasters and thrill rides, as well as Camp Snoopy, a children's area designed around characters from the "Peanuts" comic strip. The park also features shows and attractions that pay tribute to the Spanish and Native American heritage of California. For many Los Angeles locals and visitors, the unique combination of history and fun at Knott's Berry Farm make it one of the best Los Angeles theme parks that aren't Disneyland.

- Catie Watson

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