Pet policies at top amusement parks in North America

A visit to a theme park is a summertime ritual for many North Americans, however, keep in mind when planning your trip, Rover may or may not be welcome.

Canada’s Wonderland, Vaughan, Ontario – Grade: B+ 
Located about 25 miles north of Toronto, the park is home to the nation’s biggest roller coaster, the Behemoth. As for pets, for a daily fee of $6, the park provides an air-conditioned self-serve kennel facility equipped with a water faucet, bowls and kennel cages up to 28” height. Although it’s not exactly doggie daycare – guests are responsible for feeding, watering and exercising their pets – at least your four-legged family member will be cool and comfortable on a hot summer day. 

Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio – Grade: B+ 
Cedar Point, known as the roller coaster capital of the world, is similar to Canada’s Wonderland, with a self-serve kennel facility called Pet Chek. For $15 per animal, per day, your pet will be provided a cage or run, dry dog food and fresh water. Owners may return to feed their pet throughout the day; overnight lodging is not available. 

Knoebels Amusement Park, Elysburg, Pennsylvania – Grade: A+
Offering free admission since 1926, Knoebels is a classic theme park with a nearby campground of 550 sites and 36 log cabins. Dogs are welcome at the park: “It has long been the policy of the park to allow dogs to visit with their families,” according to an e-mail from the park. “We do insist that all dogs be on leashes and kept under control, and of course all pet owners are required to clean up after their pets.” 

Noah’s Ark, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin – Grade: D
Billing itself as America’s largest water park, Noah’s Ark offers 51 water rides, 2 giant wave pools, two rivers, and 4 children’s water play areas, however pets are not allowed and nearby pet boarding facilities are available. 

Schlitterbahn Waterpark, New Braunfels, Texas – Grade: F
Family-owned and operated, Schlitterbahn Waterparks operates three parks in Texas, but the best is in New Braunfels, according to Lonely Planet. Unfortunately, the onsite resort does not allow pets. 

Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson, New Jersey – Grade: D
As the largest park in the Six Flags system, Six Flags Great Adventure – home of the tallest and fastest roller coaster in America. Other than service animals, pets are not permitted in the park. The park website offers information on nearby pet boarding kennels.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles – Grade: A
From theme park rides and shows to a real working movie studio, visitors can enjoy a full day of action-packed entertainment. Complimentary kennel services are available during park hours. Only water is provided, so visitors are advised to bring pet food and toys or belongings to help make their pets’ stay comfortable. 

Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom, Orlando, Florida – Grade: C
Magic Kingdom theme park – Disney’s Orlando original – covers 107 acres including classic displays like Main Street, U.S.A. and Tomorrowland. Other than service dogs, pets are not permitted. Kennel facilities located across from Disney’s Port Orleans Resort offer accommodations, activities and amenities for pets like grooming and doggie day camp. 

Research your pet-friendly vacation online
Whether you choose to spend your summer vacation at the cottage or campground, or sightseeing on road trips, the main thing is enjoying quality time with your furry family members. For more information on pet-friendly vacations, check out websites like bringfido.com or dogfriendly.com.

Credit:  FreeDigitalPhotos.net