5. Sesame Place: Langhorne
This is the only amusement park in the country completely dedicated to the Sesame Street television show and its loveable characters, and visitors claim this is one of the best waterparks in Pennsylvania for young children. The water park opens around Memorial Day weekend and features character-themed aquatic delights like Big Bird’s Rambling River, a 1,000 foot long float trip; the multi-level Count’s Splash Castle, with interactive elements like a tipping bucket, jet soakers and water wheels; and Elmo’s Silly Splashy Slides, a set of winding flume slides. Many visitors also highly recommend the daily character parade which gets kids dancing along with the costumed performers. Others bemoaned the long lines for rides, food and drinks. This park is the first in the world to become a Certified Autism Center, with specialized staff training, quiet rooms and noise-cancelling headphones available.
6. Idlewild Park & Soak Zone: Ligonier
This is the longest operating amusement park in the state of Pennsylvania, and one of the oldest in the country. Originally founded as a railroad stop picnic area, it now wins industry awards as a top attraction for children and their families for its wide variety of both aquatic features and dry land activities. Travelers say that the Soak Zone outdoor waterpark was the highlight of their visit, with 12 water slides, an interactive splash pad and a lazy river for all ages. The 280,600-gallon Wowabunga Family Wave Pool produces swells at regular intervals for ducking, diving and body-surfing, just like the ocean. Another noteworthy attraction is the vintage wooden carousel, which was constructed in the 1920s and is one of few remaining of its kind. Dining options inside the park include fair favorites like burgers, funnel cakes and ice cream, but visitors warn that items are pricey. Numerous gift shops and convenience stores are scattered throughout the park stocked with everything from souvenirs to sunglasses and anything else you might need during the day. Idlewild and Soak Zone are both open in the warmer months.