Forget Disneyland: 10 Unique Amusement Park Destinations

The first amusement parks were simple affairs with basic rides and attractions meant to thrill and entertain¹. But as the world has evolved, so too have these parks, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and redefining the very concept of amusement. 

Take a gander at some of the most bizarre, one-of-a-kind amusement parks around the globe that are sure to leave you in awe.

1. Haw Par Villa – Singapore

Opened in 1937, Haw Par Villa features over a thousand statues and hundreds of dioramas depicting scenes from Chinese legends and beliefs. 

Its most famous attraction is the Ten Courts of Hell, a series of dioramas that graphically illustrate the punishments for various sins in the afterlife, such as being sawed in half for wasting food or having your intestines pulled out for cheating on exams. (ref)

2. Diggerland – UK & USA

If you’ve ever dreamed of operating heavy machinery, Diggerland is the place for you.  With locations in the UK and the US, this construction-themed park allows visitors to drive and operate real diggers, excavators, and other construction equipment.  Kids can dig holes, move dirt, and even race diggers around a track.  

Diggerland was created by the chairman of a leading construction equipment rental company in Europe and has been a hit since opening in 2000. 

3. Ferrari World – Abu Dhabi, UAE

As the world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park, Ferrari World features rides and attractions inspired by the iconic Italian sports car brand.

The park’s main attraction is the Formula Rossa roller coaster, which holds the record for the world’s fastest roller coaster, reaching speeds of up to 149 mph.  Visitors can also experience driving simulators, take a tour of a recreated Ferrari factory, and even get behind the wheel of a real Ferrari. 

4. Parque EcoAlberto – Mexico

Parque EcoAlberto in Mexico offers a unique and controversial experience – a simulated illegal border crossing into the United States. Visitors are led through a realistic reenactment of the dangerous journey, complete with gunshots, sirens, and Border Patrol agents. 

The park’s goal is to raise awareness about the risks and challenges faced by undocumented immigrants, and a portion of the proceeds goes to the local community.  While some see it as an educational experience, others have criticized it for exploiting a sensitive issue. (ref)

5. Loveland – South Korea

Loveland in South Korea is an adults-only theme park dedicated to sex and eroticism. The park features over 140 sculptures depicting various sexual acts and positions, as well as an erotic art gallery and a “hand-carved” trail.

Loveland was created with the goal of promoting a healthy attitude towards sexuality and has become a popular destination for couples and bachelorette parties. 

6. Suoi Tien Theme Park – Vietnam

Suoi Tien Theme Park in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is a unique blend of an amusement park, a zoo, and a Buddhist temple.  The park features rides and attractions inspired by Buddhist beliefs and Vietnamese folklore, including a water park with an artificial beach and a “Palace of Unicorns” that depicts scenes from Buddhist hell.

Visitors can also explore Buddhist temples, watch cultural performances, and even participate in traditional Vietnamese activities like hat knitting and brocade weaving. 

7. Crocosaurus Cove – Australia

For those seeking a truly wild adventure, Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin, Australia, is a must-visit.  This unique park is home to the world’s largest collection of Australian reptiles, including massive saltwater crocodiles. 

The park also features daily reptile shows and educational exhibits, making it a thrilling and educational experience for all ages.

8. Išgyvenimo Drama – Lithuania

Išgyvenimo Drama, or “Survival Drama,” in Lithuania offers a truly immersive experience – a simulation of life in a Soviet bunker during the Cold War.  Visitors are deprived of their personal belongings, interrogated by actors playing KGB agents, and subjected to psychological and physical punishment.  

The experience lasts for three hours and requires participants to sign a waiver, as disobedience can result in harsh consequences.  While controversial, the park aims to provide a realistic glimpse into the harsh realities of life under Soviet rule.

9. Bon-Bon Land – Denmark

Bon-Bon Land in Denmark is a theme park that embraces the gross and the juvenile.  The park features rides and attractions with names like “Dog Fart Rollercoaster” and “The Water Rat,” as well as imagery of vomiting rodents and urinating ants.  

Despite its crude themes, Bon-Bon Land has been a hit with families and children since opening in 1992, offering a unique and humorous take on the traditional amusement park experience. 

10. Harmonyland – Japan

Harmonyland in Japan is a theme park dedicated to the world of Hello Kitty and other Sanrio characters. 

The park also features parades, live shows, and plenty of opportunities for photo ops with the beloved characters.  For fans of the iconic Japanese brand, Harmonyland is a dream come true.

Source:
1. https://www.theparkdb.com/blog/history-of-theme-parks/