Theme parks are popular destinations for people of all ages. In 2009, the world's top 25 theme parks had a combined attendance of more than 185 million people. What we know as theme parks have been around for hundreds of years, with Tivoli Gardens in Demark being one of the oldest still in existence. Modern theme parks exist in part because of Walt Disney, who opened Disneyland in Anaheim California in 1955. Theme parks have "themed" areas where all the rides and attractions complement each other, and many theme parks host characters from animated movies and television shows.
Starting in 1955 with Disneyland, the Walt Disney Company has expanded its theme park holding around the globe with two U.S. parks in California and Florida, as well as Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Paris. Disney parks offer a variety of shows, rides and attractions, but often the biggest pull for all guests, not just children, is the chance to meet their favorite animated characters. Sites are set up around the parks for visitors to meet and take pictures with their favorite Disney character. Mickey Mouse, Disney Princesses and other characters from animated films are available throughout the day.
With locations in California, Florida and Japan, Universal Studios Theme Parks are filled with rides and attractions from some of the movie studios' most popular films. Guests to the parks have the opportunity to meet with such classic characters as Betty Boop, Woody Woodpecker and Popeye. Characters from more recent projects also make appearances, many from popular Nickelodeon shows including SpongeBob Square Pants, Dora the Explorer and the Fairly Odd Parents. Guest favorites Shrek, Scooby-Doo and Curious George are also available for photos.
Cedar Fair Entertainment company operates 18 theme and water parks across the country, including Knotts Berry Farm in California, established in 1940 and touted as America's first theme park; Kings Dominion in Virginia, and Carowinds on the border of North and South Carolina. There are also numerous parks throughout the Midwest. Cedar Fair Parks are home to characters from the popular comic strip Peanuts, and guests have the opportunity to meet Snoopy, Charlie Brown and Lucy, along with other Peanuts characters in Planet Snoopy.
Six Flags operates 19 theme and water parks worldwide with 17 U.S. locations. In addition to multiple rides and attractions at each location, themed areas of the park are home to characters from such animated television shows as Looney Tunes, Justice League and Thomas the Tank Engine. Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and other Looney Tunes favorites pose for pictures daily with guests along with DC Comic characters.
