If you’re hunting for your next unforgettable family adventure, Kings Island in Mason, Ohio, deserves the top spot on your list. This classic Midwest amusement park is the largest in the Midwest and delivers a full day of heart-racing roller coasters and water activities, all wrapped in a vibrant atmosphere. Kings Island isn’t just a summer destination; it is a tradition for many families. With seasonal events like WinterFest and the Grand Carnivale bloc party, there is always something fun to look forward to.
The 364-acre park is located just 25 miles north of central Cincinnati and about 40 miles northeast of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). Since opening its doors to the public in 1972, the Six Flags-managed amusement park has been home to record-breaking roller coasters such as The Beast (still the world’s longest wooden coaster) and Diamondback. It has also evolved over the years with new rides, shows, and attractions designed to entertain the whole family.
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Fun for the whole family at Kings Island
The Beast rollercoaster, Kings Island – Vejas/Shutterstock
From kiddie rides to exhilarating experiences, Kings Island has something for everyone. One of the biggest highlights is Planet Snoopy, an award-winning kids’ area that has been voted “Best Kids’ Area in the World” several times at the Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards. It is home to kid-friendly coasters, play zones, and themed adventures with Snoopy and the “Peanuts” gang. While the little ones play in Planet Snoopy, teens can get their adrenaline fix with coasters like Orion, one of the giga coasters, or the Diamondback hyper coaster. If you love getting wet, check out Soak City, a full-size water park perfect for cooling off during a sunny Midwest summer. You can float a wave pool, cool down in the lazy river, or shoot down the water slides.
Beyond the rides, Kings Island has seasonal festivals and interactive attractions. For instance, during Grand Carnivale, visitors can enjoy a wide array of global street food, vibrant parades, and international music. When winter rolls in, the park transforms into a wonderland during WinterFest with activities like ice skating, holiday shows, and festive treats, making it one of the best amusement parks that the whole family will love. A new addition to the events lineup, Tricks and Treats is a family-friendly event that includes fall fun and various Halloween traditions with entertainment and unique food to try.
Where to eat and other activities to enjoy near Kings Island
A family eats pizza in a cafe – Shayli/Shutterstock
While it’s possible to get around Kings Island’s “no outside food” rule, Ohio is a culinary paradise and it’s worth leaving to grab a bite at the local eateries just a few minutes from the park with delicious comfort food. For New York- and Chicago-style pizza, stop by Two Cities Pizza in Mason. The classic urban-themed establishment is one of the best for families. Items on the menu include Chicago-style pies, funnel cake donuts, and large chicken nuggets. Wildflower Cafe is another spot that won’t disappoint. Located in a historic yet charming setting, the cafe’s menu is awash with locally sourced, hearty meals. The offerings include tender and delicious meat dishes as well as flavorful vegetarian options.
Couples looking for a romantic evening should head to Valley Vineyards in Morrow. The charming local winery is known for its grill-your-own dinners and cozy wine tastings by the fireplace. It also features a relaxed countryside setting, candlelit tables, and locally crafted wines. If you are an animal lover, look no further than one of the oldest zoos in the U.S. — the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, considered one of the best budget-friendly things to do in Cincinnati. Located about 30 minutes from Kings Island, the zoo houses hundreds of animal species, including snow leopards, Eurasian eagle owls, and Western Lowland gorillas. If you’re still chasing more thrills, you can check out the nearby Great Wolf Lodge waterpark. It is located just north of Kings Island and offers a warm, 84-degree indoor water park all year long.
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Read the original article on Explore.