You may have been to Disneyland, but these theme parks are in a whole different league. Forget classic bouncy castles or bumper car rides. These playgrounds may not be for everyone, but they are continually flooded with people who come for the exciting, the cute, the weird, the scary or the outright crazy experiences on offer.
CROCOSAURUS COVE – DARWIN, AUSTRALIA
Need the perfect experience for a daring trip with friends? Sink into the “Cage of Death” at Crocosaurus Cove, an “unusual” reptile theme park, and get a real close look at the Northern Territory Saltwater Crocodile (also known as a “really, really, really massive crocodile”…) through an acrylic cage. Other fun at Crocosaurus Cove includes feeding the crocs and, strangely… shopping for quality crocodile skins. Oh, and did we mention they host functions such as weddings as well? www.crocosauruscove.com
DIGGERLAND – VARIOUS LOCATIONS, UK
Nothing says “dude” more than construction machinery. In case you have always wanted to take a spin in a dumper truck, this offbeat theme park is sort of like heaven. Great for bachelor parties maybe? Or, why not get some friends together and enjoy an adrenaline charged digger race? Whatever you’re imagining, high-octane adventures await in this excavator playground. Ps. Rides are of course mostly outdoors and in muddy conditions, so remember to pack your wellies. www.diggerland.com
LOVE LAND – JEJU ISLAND, SOUTH KOREA
For a feast in sex-theme sculptures, curious exhibitions, rides and sex-ed film screenings head to this somewhat offbeat theme park on an island off South Korea’s coast. It may sound kinky but that was not originally intended. We hear this theme park was actually created for South Korean newlyweds to learn about sex. However, we suspect they may see some other visitors as well. And hey, there is a play area for minors while adults browse the park so you can even bring your kids. All in the name of love and sex – go South Korea, we say. www.jejuloveland.com/html/eng.html
HOLY LAND – ORLANDO, FLORIDA
We hope we don’t get crucified for mentioning Holy Land as an offbeat theme park. This biblical museum presents musical events, exhibits and more that is sure to get your pulse increasing if you are a fan of Jesus. Whether you go for the passionate reenactments or for the gardens and architecture, this religious playground might just raise your spirits. www.holylandexperience.com
BONBON LAND – HOLME-OLSTRUP, DENMARK
It would take the Danish to create an offbeat theme park featuring a whole range of gross depictions of animals puking or urinating. Now, the existence of such depictions inside a park called “BonBon” has to do with the fact that the park was created by the BonBon candy company – known for candies such as “bird droppings”, “earwax” and “boogers”. Sounds childish? That’s because the names were in fact invented by kids. And this park is definitely family friendly, just get your kids and enjoy a great ride on the “Dog Fart Coaster” and they may never beg you to go to Disnelyand again. www.bonbonland.dk
HARMONY LAND – OITA, JAPAN
Who doesn’t love Hello Kitty? The world would surely be a worse place without a theme park dedicated to this much-adored Japanese character. We’re not sure if this is really an offbeat theme park, but since the lifestyle brand itself is so incredibly cute we thought it deserved a mention among other slightly “extreme” playgrounds. Visit Kitty Castle and see how the feline superstar lives, take a ride on the Time Machine of Dreams, or any other of the sweet stuff available to experience. Hey, even the website is cute: www.sanrio.co.jp/english/harmony/harmony.html
FERRARI WORLD – ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Due to open its doors on September 27th, 2010 this roaring playground will no doubt beckon everyone who has a passion for everything Ferrari. Expect nothing short of luxury shopping and dining, 4D simulators and all sorts of speed thrill rides to die for – such as the fastest roller coaster in the world, the Formula Rossa. For the ride of your life, book your ticket to Abu Dhabi now. www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com
DWARF EMPIRE – KUNMING, CHINA
Is this true? Yes it is. Dwarf Empire is like a small town that has only been open for about a year but already employs more than 100 people who are all less than 4 feet tall. The big plans are supposedly to increase this offbeat theme park to hire and house more than 800, who will live in tiny houses and sing, break dance or otherwise entertain visitors during opening hours and then go about their usual lives the rest of the time. (We don’t have the URL to share here, but if someone does – do post it in the comments.)
SUIO TIEN PARK – HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM
If Walt Disney would have been a Buddhist, he may have liked Suio Tien Park. Colorful, playful and featuring everything from godlike pastel statues and spiritual imagery to an impressive crocodile and tortoise aquarium, this Buddhist playground is a major tourist attraction. Enter the Unicorn Palace or visit the Dinosaur Garden, or just come here to learn a little more about Vietnamese history and legends – this place is sure to put some sparks into your imagination. www.suoitien.com
Got more offbeat, different or amazing theme parks to add to this list? Post them in the comments!
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