 | | Photo by Kelly McKinnell |
 Sticky snow cones, sensational stomach flips and screams of terror: Ah, summer's in the air. Those amusement parks that we loved as kids still call to us as adults, so pack up the sunscreen, the Pepto and anyone in your house over—or under—48 inches and head for one of the noteworthy playgrounds listed below. |
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Astroland Amusement Park
 Lindbergh said riding the Cyclone at this Coney Island classic was scarier than flying the Atlantic solo. But, then again, maybe he never rode the subway after midnight. |
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Kennywood
 This beautifully landscaped historic landmark is famous for its old-fashioned small-park atmosphere and big-league roller coasters. |
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Cedar Point Amusement Park & Resort
 This vintage lakeside park holds records for the most rides and the tallest, fastest roller coaster, including one in which passengers are ba-zoomed 'round a giant German frau. |
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Paramount's Carowinds
 Perhaps the only amusement park that straddles two states, this local favorite features a coaster aptly named the Hurler and the tallest water-slide on the East Coast. |
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Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom
 Mickey's East Coast outpost makes even the most world-weary adult feel like a kid again. Don't forget Snow White's sunscreen. |
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Busch Gardens
 Lions and tigers and coasters, oh my. Africa just got closer with the roar of wild animals and rides at this brewery-turned-gardens-turned-amusement park. |
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Knott's Camp Snoopy at the Mall of America
 With seven acres devoted to everyone's favorite beagle, this shopping mall centerpiece is the nation's largest indoor theme park—and the most exciting shortcut to the Gap. |
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Six Flags Astroworld
 A sprawling park boasting the fourth largest collection of coasters in the world, including the very scary Cyclone. Even the amusement parks are bigger in Texas. |
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Santa Cruz Boardwalk
 This California beachfront gem stands out for its old-time boardwalk and classic rides. Think "Endless Summer." |
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Disneyland
 The mother of all amusement parks, the Magic Kingdom remains an ageless, enduring American classic that appeals to the child in all of us. |
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