As summer approaches, many travelers pack up and head to some of North America's most famous amusement parks. While hordes of thrill seekers head to the household staples like Disney and Cedar Point, many of America's top theme parks provide hours of family fun with special touches you won't experiences at the mega-parks. Travelers looking to change up the Disney routine should check out the following amusement parks.



Indiana Beach, Monticello, Indiana

Indiana Beach has everything you could want from a theme park, including exciting rides and a water park, with special touches including lake-front cabins and cottages, a boardwalk, and a full golf course. The best part? Indiana beach is refreshingly affordable.

Knoebels, Elysburg, PA

Knoebels bills itself as traditional theme park, offering free admission and reasonably priced ride fees. This Pennsylvania theme park has rides that will keep the entire family happy, and the park is safe enough to let older kids run wild freely.

Storyland, New Hampshire

Nestled in New Hampshire's White Mountains, Storyland is the quintessential family amusement park. There are more than enough attractions for small children, and almost all rides allow adults and children to ride, so families can enjoy together. Unlike many overpriced theme parks, Storyland's food and souvenirs are reasonably priced.

Holiday World, Santa Claus, Indiana

Fans of Holiday World gush about the amusements park's friendly staff, impressively clean grounds, and exciting rides. Ride the theme park's giant wooden roller coaster and get soaked at the water park area. As an added bonus, Holiday World keeps the trip affordable by offering free inner-tubes, sunscreen, soda, and parking.