Have you ever dreamed of living out moments from your favorite movies or TV shows? Few travel destinations around the globe bring those fantasies to life as well as theme parks do. The ultimate immersive experiences, theme parks offer visitors a chance to step into other worlds through elaborately designed attractions, themed dining options, and live performances with your favorite movie and TV characters.
No matter where you are in the world, you probably aren’t far from a great theme park. In fact, epic theme parks have grown beyond the traditional hubs in the United States. No longer are theme parks single-day add-ons; they have become the main attraction that families build their entire trips around — many aiming to visit all the same theme parks around the world. When planning your grand adventure, it’s important to choose the right hotel near the park where you can relax at the end of a long day of rides, slides, and family fun.
The following global destinations offer multiple theme park options to check off your bucket list in one fell swoop. As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
Orlando, Florida, U.S.
Ever since Walt Disney built his Magic Kingdom in 1971, Orlando, Florida, has been synonymous with some of the top theme parks on the planet. Industry-leading juggernauts like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort provide more than enough rides and entertainment to keep a family occupied for multiple days.
Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort offer tickets that allow visitation to more than one park in a day, giving more flexibility to families who want to experience as much as possible while on vacation.
The greater Orlando area is home to more than 100 hotels and resorts that participate in Marriott Bonvoy, giving families a wide array of options that suit every budget, preferred location, and vacation style.
Other theme parks in the immediate Orlando area that tap into young children’s film and television programming include LEGOLAND Florida and Peppa Pig Theme Park, both located in Winter Haven, Florida.
Best For: Families who want to experience multiple industry-leading theme park destinations in one metropolitan area; also great for families interested in repeat visits over a lifetime with new offerings annually.
Parks to Visit
Walt Disney World
The original Walt Disney World park is home to the iconic Cinderella Castle, a full-scale fairy-tale castle modeled on the magnificent Neuschwanstein in Bavaria, Germany. Classic Disney films like “Peter Pan” and “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” are represented, as well as attractions that inspired more modern films like “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “Haunted Mansion.”
EPCOT
Great to add to vacation itineraries for families traveling with older kids, adults, and grandparents, EPCOT feels like traveling around the globe over the course of an afternoon. Part of the fun is dining at themed restaurants representing all sorts of different cuisines. Kids will also love attractions that bring popular films like “Frozen,” “Ratatouille,” and “Guardians of the Galaxy” to life.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Designed to pay homage to Hollywood, this park originated as a working film and television studio lot. Nowadays, film and television franchises like “Indiana Jones,” “Star Wars,” and “Toy Story” are abundant in this park.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
The perfect park to visit for families with animal enthusiasts that has safari rides and walking trails that bring you up close to animals from around the world. Movie franchises including “Zootopia,” “The Lion King,” and “Avatar” are well represented.
Universal Studios Florida
The ultimate movie buff’s theme park is filled with attractions that pay homage to films like “E.T.,” “The Mummy,” and “Transformers.” The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can browse the shops on Diagon Alley or pay a visit to the village of Hogsmeade, is especially popular.
Universal Islands of Adventure
Best for multigenerational families traveling with little ones, here you’ll find themed “lands” like Seuss Landing and Toon Lagoon, which bring to life the worlds of Dr. Seuss and cartoon characters like Popeye. Marvel Super Hero Island and Jurassic Park offer more thrill rides for big kids and adults.
Universal Epic Universe
Thrill-seekers of all ages will enjoy fun-filled lands from franchises including “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Super Mario Brothers,” Harry Potter, and classic Universal monsters.
Where to Stay:
Many Marriott Bonvoy participating hotels closest to the action offer complimentary shuttles to and from the parks:
Orlando World Center Marriott (1.5 miles from Walt Disney World)
Residence Inn by Marriott Near Universal Orlando (1.2 miles from Universal Orlando; 30-minute walk to City Walk/Universal)
The following are located on Disney World property, minutes from the parks and offering many of the same on-property perks afforded to guests staying at resorts owned and operated by Walt Disney World:
Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
Convenient to both parks with its own on-site water park:
JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes (10 miles from both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando)
Southern California (Anaheim and Los Angeles), U.S.
When Disneyland opened in 1955, it signaled the arrival of what was at the time something rare: a theme park. Today, Southern California serves as a great vacation destination for excitement-seekers who also appreciate the history and charm of Disneyland.
Southern California blends its legacy parks with entertainment-industry access, offering both nostalgic and cutting-edge experiences. Universal Studios Hollywood is located on a working studio lot not far from the rest of Los Angeles, Hollywood, and the entertainment industry.
Best for: Travelers who want to embrace classic theme park history and studio-based attractions, some of which are located on actual Hollywood studio lots.
Parks to Visit:
Disneyland Park
The first Disney theme park is filled with classic attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean, It’s a Small World, Jungle Cruise, and Haunted Mansion. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge brings characters from the original and sequel film trilogies to life.
Disney California Adventure Park
Located steps from Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park is the home to several popular franchises. Avengers Campus, Cars Land, and Pixar Pier make this park a great choice for families looking to be immersed in their favorite films.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Located on the Universal Studios lot, this park has a Studio Tour tram ride that brings guests onto a real working movie studio, as well as famous film and TV sets. Other TV- and film-inspired experiences here include Super Nintendo World, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World, and more.
Where to Stay:
There are numerous Marriott Bonvoy participating hotels in the Anaheim area and in greater Orange County.
Anaheim Marriott (1 mile from Disneyland; paid shuttle service to theme parks available)
Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Theme Park Entrance (next to Disneyland — about a 10-minute walk to the park’s entrance)
Los Angeles has a wide variety of options available when it comes to hotels that are part of Marriott Bonvoy. It can take some extra time getting across town, so if you want to be as close as possible to Universal Studios Hollywood, consider the following options:
Sheraton Universal Hollywood (less than a mile from the resort’s entrance; complimentary shuttle that takes less than 10 minutes to arrive at Universal Studios Hollywood)
Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles Burbank Airport (approximately 6 miles from Universal Studios Hollywood)
Tokyo, Japan
Located in Urayasu, just outside of the Japanese capital, Tokyo Disney Resort is one of the most highly rated theme park destinations globally. The resort, composed of two parks, is known for its attention to detail, service, and innovation.
Tokyo Disney Resort has a very strong and loyal fan following with repeat visitation. This is no accident, as the resort is a beautiful blend of Disney’s global intellectual property and culturally inspired storytelling. The destination is heavily lauded by fans as being highly detailed and engaging.
Best For: Travelers who value storytelling and design-forward parks; families seeking destinations that will inspire repeat visits.
Parks to Visit:
Tokyo Disney Resort
Designed to be a replica of Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, Tokyo Disneyland Resort is where you’ll find attractions based on classic movies such as “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Dumbo,” “Peter Pan,” “Cinderella,” and more.
Tokyo DisneySea
A park truly unique to Japan, Tokyo DisneySea brings to life one-of-a-kind rides like Journey to the Center of the Earth. Its Fantasy Springs land offers rides inspired by popular films like “Frozen,” “Tangled,” and “Peter Pan.”
Where to Stay:
Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel (rooms offer views of either Tokyo Disney Resort or Tokyo Bay. Free shuttle service is available, as well as multiple other transportation options that get you to the park in minutes)
Osaka, Japan
Tokyo Disneyland isn’t the only blockbuster theme park in Japan. For the movie-themed action of Universal Studios, head to the dynamic city of Osaka. Not only will you find one-of-a-kind attractions like Super Nintendo World here, but you’ll also have an excuse to explore this culturally rich city with some of the best restaurants in the country.
Best For: Travelers seeking popular movie-based attractions and high-energy park experiences without missing out on cultural tourism in the same visit
Parks to Visit:
Universal Studios Japan
Many of the classic and modern Universal Studios films are well-represented at Universal Studios Japan, including “Jaws,” “Jurassic Park,” “Despicable Me,” and the Harry Potter series. You’ll also find Super Nintendo World, home to video game characters beloved all over the world.
Where to Stay:
There are multiple options under 10 miles from Universal Studios Japan, close to the city center and major Osaka neighborhoods:
Fairfield by Marriott Osaka Namba
Four Points Flex by Sheraton Osaka Umeda
City Express by Marriott Osaka Shin-Imamiya
Shanghai, China
Shanghai represents one of China’s newer theme park markets, with Shanghai Disney Resort quickly rising in prominence as one of the most visited Chinese theme parks in the Asia-Pacific region. Shanghai Disney Resort, described by former Disney Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger as “authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese,” blends the country’s cultural identity with the strong storytelling that Disney is known for. The popularity of Shanghai Disney Resort helped usher in a new era of theme park tourism in this fast-paced metropolis.
Best For: Families seeking cutting-edge attractions and next-generation park design
Parks to Visit:
Shanghai Disney Resort
The resort brings quintessential Disney storytelling to life in innovative ways with modern Disney film franchises like “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Zootopia,” and “TRON.”
Where to Stay:
Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai International Tourism and Resorts Zone (Conveniently located on Disney Avenue just 985 yards from the resort)
Shanghai Marriott Hotel Kangqiao (less than 5 miles from Shanghai Disney Resort; complimentary shuttle available)
Hong Kong, China
As a destination, Hong Kong really has it all. It’s possible to hike through the jungle, lounge on a serene island beach, visit some of the world’s top restaurants, and leap off of a junk boat into turquoise waters. There’s a contemporary art scene buoyed by the annual festivities of Art Basel, as well as top-notch galleries. And of course, there’s Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, home to some of the top rides and attractions in Asia. For a kid- and adult-friendly trip that combines theme park thrills with cultural attractions, Hong Kong is hard to beat.
Best For: Travelers looking to add multiple theme park days to their Southern China vacation itinerary.
Parks to Visit:
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort Get your fill of modern movie attractions and classics at this park.
Chimelong Ocean Kingdom (Zhuhai, China)
Approximately 45 miles from Hong Kong on the mainland. While not inspired by film or TV shows, this top-ranked ocean-themed park boasts multiple rides, shows, and animal exhibits.
Where to Stay:
Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel (approximately 10 miles from Hong Kong Disneyland)
Fairfield by Marriott Zhuhai (approximately 20 miles from Chimelong Ocean Kingdom; free bus transportation is provided to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom.)
Zhuhai Marriott Hotel Jinwan (approximately 38 kilometers from Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, free bus transportation is provided on select days to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom.)
Paris, France
Paris really offers the best of both worlds: one of the most popular theme parks in Europe just a stone’s throw from the Louvre and other incredible museums. This makes for an easy pairing of theme park days with time spent exploring the history, culture, and very fine food in the City of Light. Because of Paris’ popularity, international accessibility is strong, and families will find it easy not only to visit, but also to enjoy an abundance of accommodation options.
A quick train ride from the French capital will bring you to Disneyland Paris, the most visited theme park in Europe. There are two parks inside Disneyland Paris, so you’ll need a couple of days to see it all. Add to that a trip to Parc Astérix, which is popular among locals, and you can easily fill a few days’ time enjoying the parks.
Best For: Families looking to combine theme parks with European cultural travel
Parks to Visit:
Disneyland Paris:
Disneyland Paris brings a distinctly European charm to classic Disney films such as “Alice in Wonderland” and “Sleeping Beauty.” Fan-favorite attractions seen in other Disney parks around the world can be found here, including Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and It’s a Small World. In Disney Adventure World, modern innovation brings to life film franchises such as “Frozen,” “Toy Story,” and more.
Parc Astérix (Plailly, France)
A popular park for the locals, Parc Astérix is located roughly 25 miles north of Paris. With attractions for the whole family, the park’s theme is based on the popular French comic book and film series “Astérix” by Albert Uderzo and René Goscinny.
Where to Stay:
If you aren’t staying in Paris, you will find multiple hotel options that keep you close to the theme parks:
Marriott Village d’ile-de-France (3 miles from Disneyland Paris; perfect for families looking for accommodations close to the parks)
Moxy Paris Val d’Europe (located within 4 miles of Disneyland Paris)
Courtyard by Marriott Paris Charles de Gaulle Central Airport (approximately a 15-minute drive from Parc Astérix)
Germany, Denmark, Spain, Netherlands
European countries like Germany, Denmark, Spain, and the Netherlands have strong regional tourism appeal, plus destination-worthy theme parks that emphasize storytelling, design, and a sense of whimsy. While not all of these parks are directly tied to film or television, their influence is seen around the world: Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen served as inspiration for Walt Disney when he was designing Disneyland. Do note that the parks in these countries are not always open year-round, so it’s important to check their schedules.
Best For: Families traveling across multiple regions in one vacation looking to experience culturally inspired theme parks that deliver on immersion.
Parks to Visit:
GERMANY
Europa-Park
Germany’s largest theme park, located in Rust, has lots of themed areas, 14 roller coasters, and more than 100 attractions.
Movie Park Germany
This park in Bottrop-Kirchhellen includes areas based on television shows like “PAW Patrol” and “Star Trek,” plus areas inspired by Hollywood and New York. Note: The park is closed beginning after the first week of January through most of March each year.
DENMARK
Tivoli Gardens
Since it first welcomed visitors in 1843, this wildly popular park has been enchanting people of all ages. As a bonus, it’s right in the heart of Copenhagen, making it easy to combine with other attractions in the city. It closes briefly between “seasons” (summer, Halloween, Christmas, and Easter) so be sure to check the schedule.
NETHERLANDS
Efteling
Fairy tales and fantasies come to life in this wonderful park open year-round in Kaatsheuvel.
SPAIN
Parque Warner Madrid
Rides themed after “The Flintstones,” “Looney Tunes,” DC superheroes, and more await at this park in San Martín de la Vega in Madrid. The park is not open every day in the winter; check the schedule before making plans.
Where to Stay:
Some of the theme parks discussed have hotels that participate in Marriott Bonvoy in close proximity while others are a short drive away.
GERMANY
Near Europa-Park in Rust: Moxy Rust (under 1.5 miles from the park)
Near Movie Park Germany in Bottrop-Kirchhellen: Residence Inn by Marriott Essen City (approximately 15 miles from the park)
DENMARK
Near Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen: Copenhagen Marriott Hotel (just a half mile from the park)
NETHERLANDS
Near Efteling in Kaatsheuvel: Hotel Nassau Breda, Autograph Collection (approximately 22 miles from the park)
SPAIN
Near Parque Warner Madrid in San Martín de la Vega: Madrid Marriott Auditorium Hotel & Conference Center (approximately 26 miles from the park)
Mexico and Brazil
Mexico and Brazil’s theme parks lure both local and international visitors alike. Even with so much history and culture to devour in these countries, it’s worth eking out time for the excellent theme parks on offer. Thrill-seekers will find roller-coaster-laden amusement park options, and littles will love experiential attractions at parks like Hasbro City in Mexico City and Hopi Hari in Vinhedo, Brazil.
Best For: Thrill-seekers and families who want to incorporate regional parks into a wider itinerary
Parks to Visit:
MEXICO
Six Flags Mexico in Mexico City
Great for adventure-seekers, this Six Flags property is home to rides with Supergirl and Wonder Woman themes and nine coasters, five of which are perfect for those seeking huge thrills.
Hasbro City in Mexico City
Franchises like Transformers, My Little Pony, and Monopoly are perfect for kids and kids at heart in this park that features a combination of rides, games, and interactive experiences.
BRAZIL
Hopi Hari in Vinhedo
One of the top five most visited theme parks in South America, this park features Hollywood-themed areas, Looney Tunes characters, and more than two dozen rides.
Beto Carrero World in Penha, Santa Catarina
The largest and most visited park in South America is jam-packed with family fun for kids of all ages, with rides and attractions based around Hot Wheels, “Madagascar,” “Kung Fu Panda,” and more.
Where to Stay:
You’ll find a number of hotels that are part of Marriott Bonvoy close to Mexico City’s center. Six Flags Mexico is approximately 13 miles south of the city, so if you’re prioritizing your time at the park, it may make sense to stay a bit outside of town.
City Express Plus by Marriott Ciudad de México Periférico Sur Tlalpan (approximately 6 miles from Six Flags Mexico)
City Express Plus by Marriott Ciudad de México Reforma El Ángel
JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City Santa Fe (approximately 12 miles from Habsro City and 13 miles from Six Flags Mexico)
Hopi Hari is approximately 45 miles northwest of São Paulo, which is where you’ll find your nearest Marriott properties:
Sao Paulo Airport Marriott Hotel
Abu Dhabi and Dubai, U.A.E.
The Middle East has become a theme park destination, driven by large-scale investments that have led to some truly breathtaking rides. To help visitors avoid spending whole days braving the region’s high temperatures, many of the most popular attractions are in climate-controlled spaces. With industry-leading brands looking to expand their footprint in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the region boasts the latest in theme park technology and engrossing storytelling.
Part of that innovation stems from necessity: Several parks are entirely or mostly indoors to adapt to the region’s climate.
Best For: Travelers looking to experience unique indoor theme parks, extreme thrill attractions, and cutting-edge experiences
Parks to Visit:
Warner Bros. World Yas Island Abu Dhabi
Features popular characters and franchises including Superman, Batman, Flintstones, Cartoon Network, Wile E. Coyote, and the Jetsons.
IMG Worlds of Adventure – Dubai
This park includes attractions that feature film and television franchises such as Marvel and Cartoon Network.
Where to Stay:
In Abu Dhabi, W Abu Dhabi is in close proximity to Yas Island, the city’s hub for theme parks and entertainment:
W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island (approximately 3 miles from Warner Bros. World Yas Island)
Dubai’s Business Bay, located along the water, is a short distance from IMG Worlds of Adventure and close to other city tourism destinations:
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai (approx. 16 miles from IMG Worlds of Adventure)
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