The best theme parks in Canada

For adrenaline enthusiasts or families seeking a fun day out, theme parks are ideal places to visit. For your next trip to Canada, be sure to add some exhilarating rides and waterslides to the itinerary – as we’ve found the best theme parks in the country.

Canada’s Wonderland, Vaughan

Canada’s Wonderland is the first and the largest theme park in Canada, with 134 hectares dedicated to exhilarating fun. And it’s home to 17 seriously intense roller coasters. Scream until your voice goes hoarse riding Leviathan, also Canada’s tallest and fastest roller coaster. You will ascend 93.27 metres to the highest point in the park, before facing a spine-chilling 80 degree-drop, descending at up to 148 kilometres per hour.

If you prefer a calmer pace, keep cool at the park’s Splash Zone, with waterslides, wave pools and water playgrounds for the little ones. After an adrenaline-fuelled day, head back to SpringHill Suites by Marriott Toronto Vaughan to unwind and energise in the spacious rooms and jacuzzi.

Playland, Vancouver

Since it opened in 1910, Playland has become, arguably, British Columbia’s most famous amusement park. With 35 rides, including four terrifying roller coasters, mini-golf, a climbing wall and a spine-tingling haunted mansion, it proudly offers thrills for the whole family, but it’s ideal for those who love heart-stopping rides.

Take on the Drop Zone, a 30-metre free fall that you won’t forget. Or – if you feel like screaming with terror – ride The Beast. This pendulum ride is the first of its kind in North America and it reaches nearly 12 storeys-high, flying up to 90 kilometres per hour. Once you’re all screamed out, rest up at Delta Hotels by Marriott Vancouver Downtown Suites.

Magic Mountain Splash Zone, Moncton

Magic Mountain Splash Zone has something for everyone, including classic amusement rides. There are over 3,600,000 litres of water gushing around the three giant looping slides, the Wave Pool and the Lazy River. If you’re keen for an adrenaline hit, take on The Kamikaze, which reaches impressive speeds of more than 60 kilometers per hour. For the younger kids, there’s a ‘Splashpad’ and a pool with three mini slides to play on. Come home and dry off at Quality Inn Moncton.

Galaxyland, Edmonton

Located inside West Edmonton Mall, Galaxyland is Canada’s largest indoor amusement park and entertains visitors nearly every day of the year (only closing for Christmas Day). Upon entrance, the clash of bright colours, galactic-themed rides and spaceship props mean fun for all ages. There are 27 rides, including the world’s tallest and longest triple-loop indoor roller coaster, The Mindbender. Once locked in, you will clock up speeds of up to 97 kilometres per hour.

Stay at Fantasyland Hotel, which connects to the West Edmonton Mall and you’ll be able to enjoy the rides right up until closing time.

Calaway Park, Calgary

Calaway Park is a local favourite that families flock to every year. It is also Western Canada’s largest outdoor amusement park, catering to families with young or teenage kids. The Roller Coasters will take you to new heights, stopping at the peak of the park and giving the most amazing view of the Canadian landscapes – if you’re brave enough to open your eyes. Or you can enjoy a quiet ride on the Rocky Mountain Railroad, which gently travels through a verdant nearby valley.

With so much on offer, it’s worth considering exploring the park over two days. There are camping sites available but if you’re looking for something more comfortable for the whole family, stay at the Grey Eagle Resort.

World Waterpark, Edmonton

Come rain, hail, shine or snow, World Waterpark makes for a great day out. This waterpark is the largest indoor waterpark on the entire North American continent, boasting 17 waterslides that loop and tangle through the building and three enormous pools, including one with a wave machine.

For those with an adventurous spirit, you can test your limits on the speed slides. Or for some relaxed fun, visit the kids splash area, with tipping buckets and small scaled slides. In the evening, head home to The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald to enjoy the riverside views.

Upper Clements Parks, Upper Clements

Open seasonally, Upper Clements Parks is a place where you can simultaneously enjoy nature and face your fears. Take a ride on the Tree Topper Rollercoaster, which is the only wooden rollercoaster east of Montréal, brave Fundy Spray Waterslide, whirling down 70 metres of fast-paced fun or climb the trees in the woods with the rope challenge courses, zip lines and rush zip liners on offer. When you run out of energy, head back for some rest at The Garrison House Inn.