Three for the kids: USA theme parks

Elmo is a hit at Sesame Place, Philadelphia. Photo / Sesame Place

They may be the most visited but Disney parks aren't the only American option to amuse the family, writes Sarah Pollok.

1 Legoland California, San Diego

Whether your kids are obsessed with the multi-coloured building blocks, or just love a good roller coaster, Legoland is one your whole family will love. The 60ha theme park is just an hour's drive from San Diego and with more than 60 shows, rides, and attractions, it has plenty to keep everyone busy. It is separated into 10 themed areas and kids can explore the Jurassic "Dino Island" rides or meet the Lego King and Queen at "Castle Hill". Although it's perfect for 2 to 12-year-olds, Legoland hasn't forgotten the grown-ups, who can be catapulted down waterslides on Viking Splash or wander around the Lego-built Miniland. If a day isn't quite enough to get your Lego fix, book into the Legoland resort, one of TripAdvisor's best family hotels in the USA.

2 Victorian Gardens, New York

New York's art galleries, fine dining and Broadway shows make it a Disneyland for adults but kids? Not so much. So, if your little ones need a day to run wild, Victorian Gardens amusement park is the place to go. Located in the middle of town, the fairground pops up in Central Park every summer at the Wollman Rink just off 59th and 5th Avenue. Hosting more than a dozen traditional fair rides, Victorian Gardens is a blast from the past with miniature roller coasters and whack-a-mole, as well as the beloved bumper cars and flying swings. For the less adventurous, or worn out little ones, the live magic shows, circus performers and comedy acts are sure to keep you entertained. At $10 to $20 a head, it's a carnival experience that won't break the bank.

3 Sesame Place, Philadelphia

Prepare for your favourite puppets to come to life at the 5ha Sesame Place amusement park. Half an hour from Philadelphia city, the park is packed with roller coasters, flying swings, freefalls and of course, Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster and more. With a water park to keep you cool on summer days, character dining experiences at the park restaurants and live performances of Elmo's Musical, there's more than enough fun for the entire family. If you end up charmed by the lovable puppets and want to stay on, get yourself a hotel package with one of the park's official partners such as the Marriott or Holiday Inn Express.