My Gateway Vacation

There comes a point when you have seen enough restaurants, monuments, and other typical tourist attractions. Children especially may not find these too exciting. France offers quite a few theme parks to keep families happy. They can be located throughout the country and differ in size and themes.

You do not have to be in North America to enjoy Disneyland. Disneyland Resort Paris includes two theme parks. It opened in April of 1992 and was the second Disney resort to open outside of the United States. It is one of Europe's biggest tourist destinations. The first theme park is based off the original park in California. It is the largest based on the original with more than 140 acres. Walt Disney Studios Park is another spot to visit. Other than the theme parks, there is an entertainment district that has many restaurants, shops, and other venues. This stays open after the park closes, so your fun does not have to end until you want it. There is also Golf Disneyland which offers 9 hole and 18 hole courses.

You may not want to see Disneyland since you could see it in the United States whenever you wish. Another fun theme park to visit is Parc Astrix. The theme park is based on the stories of Astrix. Astrix is a series of French comic books. The park is located 20 miles north of Paris, in the city of Plailly. If you enjoy roller coasters, this is the park for you since it is known for its large variety of roller coasters to choose from. Other features of the park include a swinging ship, a rapid river ride, and a haunted mansion that has special effects. It used to be open only from April until October, but since 2007 the park is also open in the winter.

Puy du Fou theme park is the second most visited attraction in France after Disneyland Paris. Puy du Fou is a historical theme park that is located in Western France in the city of Les Epesses. The theme park has five attractions to choose from. One of the attractions is known as The Vikings. It is a set reconstructed from a 1000 year old fortress. Gladiators are another part of the park. It takes place in a replica of a coliseum in Rome. The show consists of traditional parades, chariot racing, and executions. There are many other shows to be entertained by when visiting the park.

One other park that can be fun for the whole family is located in Lower Normandy, France. Parc Festyland has a theme that is both in its rides and restaurants. A lot of the park has to do with Vikings. You will find roller coasters, bumper cars, and a water slide.

Theme parks are opened throughout the year, so when planning your trip, make sure it is open when you will be there. There is usually a park in every area of the country so they will be easy to find. It will not only be a fun time for your children, but for you also!