Exhausted all your ideas on where to take the kids for their next big holiday? These whacky amusement destinations around the world, from Germany to Dubai, all offer more than your average theme park trip!
Wunderland Kalkar, Germany
At first glance, Wunderland Kalkar might seem like any other ordinary theme park. It’s not too far from Düsseldorf, and it contains a ton of exciting rides aimed at younger children (there are a few rides for older kids, too).
But what makes this place stand out is that it was built on the former site of a once-to-be nuclear power plant that never went online. Don’t worry, it’s perfectly safe to visit! And the plant’s cooling tower now features a swing ride and a climbing wall.
Republic of the Children, Argentina
No grown-ups allowed! Just kidding. But if you’ve ever wanted to teach your kids the value of money, Republic of the Children is a great place to go. This miniature city is open to childlike exploration of all kinds, with many buildings resembling real-life monuments, like the Doge’s Palace in Venice.
Perhaps most interesting, though, is that kids can learn about democracy, take out (imaginary) loans and even elect city officials.
Salina Turda, Romania
Is it a salt mine? Or an amusement park? How about both! This salt mine dates back to medieval times, and today, it’s an amusement park and mine museum nestled 120 metres underground. It features recreational rides like a Ferris wheel, an amphitheatre, a bowling alley and even boats and paddles, to name a few. The park is generally open seven days a week, with entry and rides costing just a few dollars each.
Diggerland, U.K.
Diggerland is all about construction machinery-themed amusement, where kids (and adults) can go on tractor and dump truck rides, operate various digging machines and even drive mini cars. There are currently four Diggerland locations in the U.K. – at Kent, Devon, Durham and Yorkshire. If you’re in the U.S., you’ll also find a Diggerland in New Jersey.
Sanrio Hello Kitty Town, Malaysia
Got kids who are Hello Kitty crazy? Or just love pink?
This awesome theme park has everything you could ever want, from a life-size Hello Kitty house and Purrfect Stage performances to a Hello Kitty Teacup Ride and a studio where you can make your own Kitty souvenirs.
You’ll find Sanrio Hello Kitty Town close to Skudai in southern Malaysia, close to the Singapore border. Heads up – there’s also a Legoland Resort just down the road.
Dubailand, UAE
Dubailand is not ready yet, but when it is, it’s going to be a stunner (we hope)! Dubailand is meant to be twice the size of Florida’s Walt Disney World and will be home to a variety of individual theme parks, including Sahara Kingdom, a Planetarium, and (potentially) a Marvel Superheroes park, among others.
There’ll definitely be something for everyone here, from rollercoaster lovers to sports freaks to parents who just want to relax.
Dubailand is set to be completed by 2020, so we’re keeping our fingers crossed.