Fairytale Town is an old-fashioned themed park designed to encourage imaginative play. There are no rides, only "sets" of loved nursery rhymes and fairy tales where kids can pretend to be their favorite characters or make up their own stories. Resident animals (rabbits, pigs, duck, goats, a cow, and a donkey named Eeyore) up the appeal for pint-size visitors; lovely landscaping, low prices and the laughter of happy children are the clinchers for grownups.

This is a great introductory amusement park for younger children. The rides are all geared for the under-8 set: teacups, bumper cars, miniature train, carousel and a mini roller coaster for example. There's a snack bar where you can get kid-preferred eats like chicken nuggets, nachos and hot dogs. All rides require one ticket.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the water rides in Sacramento's largest amusement park. Attractions here include a wading pool, "Shark Attack" (a five-story interactive waterslide), "Hook's Lagoon," and an inner-tube ride down the rapids of a man-made river. Additional features include sandy beaches with man-made waves, picnic areas, and a full concession stand. Shower areas are also conveniently available.

VALLEJO. It's a whole new world just 55 miles outside of Sacramento. This park is America's only such facility that combines an oceanarium, theme park, and wildlife exhibits. Several different shows are presented each day, and the rides will thrill children and adults alike. Visitors can also enjoy observing and interacting with numerous wild animal residents, too - a Seafari Pass allows you to get up close and personal with some of the animals, and you can even feed them!