You just stepped off the most thrilling ride of your life. The adrenaline is pumping, and you can’t wait to smile, laugh, and scream even more throughout the day. In the midst of the fun, a grumble is heard from your stomach. You realize it’s almost time for lunch, or perhaps a snack. The question becomes, “What do I choose? Is there something unique here that I can’t get anywhere else?”
Every theme park in the world is host to unique rides and an even more diverse selection of delicious food items. Many travelers make the trek to theme parks to try out their signature snacks and creations. From funnel cakes to corn dogs to even more exotic dining fare, theme parks are the place to go for a range of menu items that will delight your taste buds!
Bring your family along as we share 8 of our favorite, not-to-be-missed theme park treats!
1. Granny’s Apple Fries | LEGOLAND® Florida
French fries have become a snack and lunchtime staple at most theme parks, but what happens when you take this traditional side dish and change it up with apples? You get one of the most sought-after treats on this list. Granny’s Apple Fries, a unique creation developed at LEGOLAND® Florida, has become a must-purchase food item for families. These cinnamon and sugar apple fries also come with a vanilla cream dipping sauce. We won’t tell if you spend time, in between rides, licking your fingers from all the tastiness!
2. Giant Pink-Iced Donut | Universal Orlando Resort™
Whether you are on the hunt for a breakfast treat guaranteed to satisfy the entire family or just a sweet snack on the go, a stop to Lard Lad Donuts in the Universal Studios Florida park™ will satisfy your donut desires. The Giant Pink-Iced Donut, made famous by the Simpsons animated series, is not only large enough to feed multiple guests, but will make your mouth water with the perfect mixture of glaze, donut, and sugary sweetness. You won’t be disappointed with this enormous donut!
3. Stone Soup | Dollywood Family Amusement Park
Dollywood is home to southern hospitality, scrumptious home cooked meals, and unforgettable snacks throughout the theme park. While there are so many food items to choose from, the Stone Soup at Aunt Granny’s Restaurant is a favorite during any visit. Not only is the soup a filling dish, but it also has a beautiful story connection to its creation, which you can read in Dolly Parton’s book, My Life and Other Unfinished Business.
4. Seabreeze Waffles | SeaBreeze Amusement Park
Located in Rochester, New York, SeaBreeze Amusement Park is one of the oldest theme parks in the United States. Not only do local residents and travelers enjoy the rides and scenic views, but they also travel for one particular food item, the Famous Seabreeze Waffles. These sugar waffles are the best sweet treat you can find. In fact, some travelers admit to paying admission just to experience the taste of these sweet waffles.
5. The Mac Bowl | Kings Dominion
Most kids will tell you there is nothing better than macaroni & cheese. And the publisher moms here at Macaroni Kid would have to agree. Well, what about gourmet mac & cheese, otherwise known as The Mac Bowl? Get ready to take your dining experience to the next level with a customizable mac & cheese bar experience. Choose from 29 different toppings including vegetables, meat, and even savory sauces. The best part is you can make it as fancy or kid-friendly as you want.
6. Frozen ButterbeerTM | Universal Studios Hollywood
Get your wands ready and make plans to get your hands on the most delicious beverage on the list. For those unfamiliar with J.K. Rowling’s famous beverage, a Butterbeer is a butterscotch flavored drink typically topped with creamy foam. Don’t get us wrong. Butterbeer in all its forms is delicious and refreshing, but there is something truly magical about the Frozen Butterbeer on a warm afternoon of casting spells at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
7. Dole Whip | Walt Disney World Parks
If you are a Disney theme park aficionado, this selection won’t surprise you one bit. Considered one of the most famous, delectable treats on the list, the Dole Whip is a soft-serve flavored dessert that is popular with both adults and kids. The original flavor is pineapple, and the treat has an almost cult following among regular theme park visitors. It’s the perfect treat on a hot summer day and even counts as a snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan.
8. Giant Candy and Chocolate | Hersheypark
You can fulfill all your childhood dreams with a trip to Hershey Park, more specifically at Hershey’s Chocolate World. This store (Hershey’s largest) is a dream come true with jumbo-sized candy options, customizable sweet selections, and lots of chocolate. You won’t find items like this anywhere else in the world. While you are there, you can also get a quick chocolate fix by hopping on the Hershey’s Chocolate World free tour ride, complete with singing cows and a chocolate sample as you depart.
HONORABLE FOOD MENTION LIST
We have so many favorites and didn’t want to leave out these treats that almost made our top 8 list.
- Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar - Walt Disney World Parks
- Cheese on a Stick - Cedar Point
- Mickey Waffle - Walt Disney World Parks
- Grey Goose Citron Lemonade Slush (21 and older only) - Walt Disney World Parks, Epcot
- Potato Patch Fries - Kennywood
- Dippin' Dots - Multiple locations nationwide
What are your favorite treats from theme parks? Do you have that one item that you “must have” every time you go? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!
