Top Amusement Parks in St. Petersburg, FL

by Pablo Koch-Schick April 14, 2022

Sunshine? St. Pete practically invented it. This Gulf Coast gem tucked between Tampa Bay and the waters of the Gulf of Mexico is famous for holding the record for the most consecutive sunny days, 768, to be exact. But let’s be real: what’s even better than a sun-soaked day? One that’s filled with roller coasters, splash zones, funnel cake, and pure adrenaline.

Whether you're a local looking to shake up your weekend or a visitor exploring all the cool things to do in Florida, St. Petersburg delivers in a big way. Beyond its beautiful beaches, energetic pier, and colorful street art, this city puts you closer than ever to some of the best amusement parks in the USA.

So throw on your shades, slather on that sunscreen, and let’s look into the top spots for thrill rides, family fun, and memory-making magic near St. Pete.

In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some of the amusement parks near St. Petersburg, Florida. So pack your sunscreen, bathing suits, comfy clothes, and get ready for some fun!

Amusement Parks near St. Petersburg, Florida

Busch Gardens

A smiling family enjoying a ride at an amusement park, highlighting fun activities and cool things to do in Florida.

Just a short drive from downtown St. Pete, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is one of those top amusement parks near St. Petersburg, FL that delivers serious bang for your buck. This 335-acre park isn’t just about heart-racing coasters; it’s also a living, breathing safari with over 12,000 animals from around the world.

Want to ride one of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the country? Or maybe you'd rather feed a giraffe and wander through beautifully landscaped gardens before catching a live concert under the lights? Busch Gardens serves up all of that, and more. With new attractions always rolling out, you’ll want to check park news before you visit so you don’t miss the latest thrills or special offers.

Pro tip: Visiting during the July Sale Save window and score some major discounts on tickets, and the park app makes it easy to view ride wait times, purchase add-on experiences, or even book a private tour for your whole family.

Walt Disney World Resort

The iconic Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World in Florida, under a twilight sky with a crescent moon, showcasing a must-visit attraction.

No list of the top amusement parks near St. Petersburg, FL, would be complete without the magical world of Disney. Located just under a two-hour drive from St. Pete, Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando is an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

With four iconic parks, you can easily spend several days immersed in fantasy, fun, and full-on excitement. From jaw-dropping new attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind to the timeless joy of meeting Mickey and Minnie on Main Street USA, this place is built for visitors of all ages.

Parades? Epic.
Rides? Next level.
Restaurants and shopping? Endless.

Whether you’re conquering roller coasters or watching your little ones light up during the fireworks over Cinderella Castle, Disney has a way of turning every visit into a core memory.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to plan ahead and grab your tickets early, especially if you’re visiting during peak summer months. This is one destination where the magic really does live up to the hype.

Disney's Magic Kingdom

There’s just something about Magic Kingdom, you could visit a dozen times and still feel that tingle when you step onto Main Street, U.S.A. Located in Bay Lake, about an hour and a half from St. Petersburg, this park is a true fairytale brought to life.

Perfect for the whole family, Magic Kingdom takes you through themed lands like Adventureland, Tomorrowland, and Fantasyland, each packed with rides, characters, and that signature Disney sparkle. One minute you’re flying through the stars on Space Mountain, the next you’re meeting Cinderella in front of her castle.

Don’t miss out on new attractions like the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or the buzz around the upcoming Frozen Ever After ride. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, there’s always more to explore.

Pro tip: Visiting during summer? Pack your patience, or better yet, use Genie+ to skip those long waits and maximize the fun.

This is one attraction that never loses its magic, no matter your age. Come ready to smile, scream, snack, and make memories that’ll last way longer than the fireworks.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Love Disney movies? Big on Star Wars? Obsessed with Toy Story? Then Disney’s Hollywood Studios is your cinematic playground. Just a hop from St. Pete, this park throws you straight into the spotlight with attractions based on your favorite films and characters.

Here, you don’t just watch the action, you’re in it. Drop into the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, belt it out during the Frozen Sing-Along, or dodge boulders at the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! There’s a little something for every type of movie buff, from tiny tots to full-grown thrill seekers.

As the light changes and night falls, the vibe only gets better. The neon glow, live street performances, and nighttime shows give the entire park a pulse that keeps the excitement going well after sunset. It’s a top pick for the whole family, and hands down one of the most immersive parks in Florida.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Entrance sign to Rainforest Cafe surrounded by lush greenery, highlighting a unique dining experience and cool things to do in Florida.

If your idea of fun includes safari trucks, soaring coasters, and walking trails lined with exotic animals, then Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is calling your name. This nature-meets-magic destination blends conservation with edge-of-your-seat excitement, creating an experience that’s both wild and wonderful for the whole family.

Hop aboard the Kilimanjaro Safaris to spot elephants, lions, and rhinos roaming free, or conquer Expedition Everest, one of the most thrilling coasters in the Disney lineup (watch out for the Yeti!). For fans of musicals and storytelling, don’t miss stage favorites like Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!

Whether you’re there to explore lush trails, snap pics of creatures you’ve only seen on National Geographic, or just enjoy the shaded serenity of the Tree of Life, Animal Kingdom brings something special to every visitor, especially during the vibrant summer season when nature is at its boldest.

It’s part theme park, part living jungle, and 100% unforgettable adventure.

EPCOT

At EPCOT, the future meets global culture in one unforgettable park, and it’s just a short drive from St. Petersburg. Known for its blend of science, innovation, and international flair, this park delivers attractions that spark curiosity and ignite the imagination. Whether you're a foodie, a thrill-seeker, or just love to explore, EPCOT has something for the whole family.

Start with Spaceship Earth, the iconic geosphere that lights up brilliantly at night, then buckle up for high-speed thrills on Test Track or float through the clouds with Soarin’ Around the World. Feeling hungry? Get ready to eat your way across 11 different countries in the World Showcase, from buttery pastries in France to sizzling street food in Morocco. Yes, the restaurants are that good.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting during summer, plan ahead, grab your tickets, check ride wait times, and don’t miss the seasonal events and festivals EPCOT is famous for.

Universal Studios

At Universal Studios Florida, you're not just watching the movies, you’re living them. Located in Orlando and well worth the drive from St. Pete, this park drops you right into the middle of your favorite film scenes with jaw-dropping sets, explosive stunts, and rides that blur the line between fantasy and reality.

Zoom through a cursed tomb on Revenge of the Mummy, join the chaos of a heist with Fast & Furious – Supercharged, or fly through New York with Spider-Man. And for serious thrill-seekers? Don’t skip the Incredible Hulk Coaster, it’s as intense as it sounds.

Beyond the rides, there’s live entertainment, street performances, and immersive experiences perfect for visitors of all ages. Whether you're geeking out in Diagon Alley, dancing in Springfield with the Simpsons, or sipping a butterbeer at night, every corner of Universal pulses with excitement and cinematic detail.

Pro Tip: Want to make memories with the whole family? Universal’s seasonal summer shows and fireworks bring the entire park to life under the Florida light, a must-see for anyone visiting the country's entertainment capital.

Universal's Islands of Adventure

Craving a next-level dose of adventure? Just outside of St. Pete, Universal’s Islands of Adventure delivers an all-out epic day of thrills. This Orlando-based park is where your favorite blockbusters become reality, from roaring raptors in Jurassic Park to spellbinding wand duels in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Every land here is designed to drop you inside the story. One minute you’re escaping a T. rex, the next you’re flying through Hogwarts, or getting soaked on Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls. For little explorers, play areas like Seuss Landing offer colorful, interactive fun without the high-speed drops.

Whether you're braving The Incredible Hulk Coaster or Skull Island, the attractions here bring heart-pounding excitement to visitors of all ages.

Pro Tip: Want to maximize the day? Check the app to view ride wait times, snag tickets, or find shade when the light starts heating up. And don’t worry, there are plenty of misting fans, splash zones, and even a mini water park feel to keep you cool.

Universal's Volcano Bay Water Theme Park

Need to cool off while turning up the excitement? Head to Universal’s Volcano Bay water theme park, a wildly immersive water park, where towering slides and tropical vibes collide. At the heart of the park is Krakatau, a colossal smoking volcano that powers the park’s signature ride, the Krakatau Aqua Coaster. Think water slide meets roller coaster... inside a mountain.

Surrounding the volcano? Crystal-clear lagoons, body slides, and lazy rivers designed for every age and comfort level. Whether you’re drifting or diving, Volcano Bay is built to make memories while keeping the whole family refreshed under the Florida light.

Pro tip: Use the TapuTapu wearable system to skip the lines and keep track of ride wait times while you explore the park. Perfect for high-energy kids and grown-ups who just want a cabana.

SeaWorld Orlando

Ready to mix marine wonder with roller coaster rush? At SeaWorld Orlando, you’ll come face-to-face with ocean giants while catching some serious air on thrill rides like Mako, Manta, and Ice Breaker.

This one-of-a-kind amusement park gives visitors the chance to play and learn all at once. Wander through massive aquariums, get splashed by dolphins, or watch orcas leap under a canopy of choreographed lights. Then catch a live show or ride Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin through a chilly world of ice and color.

From sharks and rays to turtles and sea lions, the attractions at SeaWorld offer unforgettable encounters with creatures from all over the country and beyond.

Aquatica Orlando

Next door to SeaWorld is its splashy sibling, Aquatica Orlando, where colorful slides twist through aquariums and playful dolphins swim beside you as you fly by. This water park blends high-speed thrills with relaxing getaways, perfect for both little splashers and wild-at-heart adults.

Hop on Ray Rush or Ihu’s Breakaway Falls if you’re feeling brave, or grab a tube and float the day away on Roa’s Rapids. Want to play it cool? Stretch out on the white sand beach or grab a bite at one of the casual restaurants around the park.

With something for every age, Aquatica makes it easy to explore, unwind, and make memories, all in one sunny Orlando escape.

Adventure Island Water Park

Just minutes from Busch Gardens, Adventure Island Water Park is Tampa’s answer to next-level water fun, and it’s a must-do if you're staying closer to St. Petersburg. With over 30 acres of rides, slides, wave pools, and splash zones, this water park hits the sweet spot between excitement and easygoing.

Ride through tunnels on Solar Vortex, float the lazy river, or conquer the newly updated Wahoo Remix under glowing LED lights. It’s built for summer, but with heated pools, it stays warm even when the sun takes a break.

Pro Tip: Check the park news for special offers, cabana rentals, and meal deals. It's also one of the easiest parks to navigate, making it a hit for families who want to play, chill, and splash on repeat.

Whether you’re after thrill, chill, or pure splashy fun, Adventure Island promises a water-filled day your whole family won’t forget.

Another great thing to do while in St Petersburg is deep fishing! Check out those tricks on how to avoid seasickness onboard!

Have Some Fun and Visit an Amusement Park Today!

There are many amusement parks near St. Petersburg, Florida, that are perfect for a day full of fun-filled excitement. Whether you're looking for a thrill-seeking adventure or just want to relax and enjoy some family time together, these amusement parks have something for everyone.

Visitors enjoying a thrilling swing ride against a clear blue sky at an amusement park, showcasing fun and cool things to do in Florida.

Another great thing to do while in St Petersburg is deep fishing! Check out those tricks on how to avoid seasickness onboard!

Ready to Book Your Epic Day?

Whether you’re staying at the historic Don Cesar, visiting from another country, or rediscovering your own backyard, St. Petersburg, FL, and its neighboring cities have thrills for every pace.

Check for special offers
Look up ride wait times
Book ahead to avoid the rush
Follow the park news for new attractions and surprises

This isn’t just another stop on the map; it’s your gateway to an epic year of thrills, splashes, and unforgettable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions about Amusement Parks Near St. Petersburg, FL

What’s the best way to plan my amusement park visit in the St. Pete area?

Start by checking each park’s website for upcoming events, special offers, and ride closures. Many parks now offer mobile apps where you to easily navigate maps, food stops, showtimes, and even purchase add-on experiences like fast passes, photo packages, or cabana rentals. Planning ahead = less stress and more fun!

Are these parks good for families with small children?

Absolutely! Whether you're heading to Disney, Busch Gardens, or Adventure Island, every park has areas designed just for little ones, from splash pads to interactive zones. Plus, the staff is known for being friendly and energetic individuals who go the extra mile to make your experience magical.

Can I save money with any passes or seasonal deals?

Yes! Many parks run discounts during the year, especially in summer or during holiday weekends. Keep an eye out for the July Sale Save deals or combo tickets. Some even offer amazing perks like free parking, early entry, or food credits when you bundle.

What are “add-on experiences,” and are they worth it?

Add-on experiences seriously level up your day. Think private safari tours, VIP show seating, or spa-style cabanas by the lazy river. They're great for those who want to discover more without the hassle. Pro tip: These extras sell fast during upcoming events, so grab them early!

Do these parks offer job opportunities?

Yes, they’re often hiring for seasonal and year-round positions! If you’re seeking friendly and energetic individuals to join your business or looking for a fun job yourself, most parks post openings online. From lifeguards to entertainers, there’s a place on the team for almost everyone, and the perks? Think free park entry, employee discounts, and unforgettable experiences.

Can I relax if I’m not into thrill rides?

Totally! Parks like Aquatica, Volcano Bay, and Adventure Island offer sandy beaches, wave pools, and even spa-like experiences where you can kick back in style. Plus, shaded lounges and chilled-out snack spots make it easy to take a break while the rest of the group rides.

I’ve been before, what’s new for repeat visitors?

Even if you’ve visited previous seasons, there’s almost always something fresh to discover, whether it’s new attractions, nighttime shows, seasonal food menus, or expanded ride experiences. Be sure to check each park’s news tab to hear what’s new before you go!