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California's Great America
Amusement Park in San Francisco, California
Good-for-Kids Rating
BabiesToddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Amusement Park
California's Great America Description
There's no question about it. The thrill rides at Northern California's most elaborate theme park are spectacular, and the roller coasters are great, shocking fun. Kids ages 10 and older just might want to ride them nonstop. The Vortex is the West's first stand-up roller coaster; the FireFall features 360-degree loops from 60 feet up; and the Grizzly is a classic wooden coaster based on the late, lamented Coney Island Wildcat. The Drop zone Stunt Tower is one of the tallest free-falls in the world, and the circa 1976 Carousel Columbia is the world's tallest two-story merry-go-round.
Pint-size members of the family aren't forgotten. KidZville has colorful rides and attractions especially for children ages 12 and under. They feature Hanna-Barbera characters such as Yogi Bear, Fred Flinstone, and Scooby-Doo, plus mini bumper cars and a giant "construction zone" obstacle course. Several live shows put the icing on this great big cake.
Planning Notes
- Plan your lunch. Food and beverages are not allowed into the park, but there are picnic areas in the parking lot. If you leave for lunch, get your hand stamped at the exit so you can return to the park.
Just the Facts
Hours: Mon.-Thu. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri.-Sun. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Open mid-March through August.
