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California's Great America: Thrills and Family Fun

Experience thrilling rides, family fun, and live entertainment at California's Great America in Santa Clara, the ultimate Bay Area destination for unforgettable memories and exciting adventures.

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California's Great America, located in Santa Clara, is a premier amusement park offering a thrilling mix of roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, and live entertainment. With over 60 rides, including the Gold Striker, Northern California's tallest and fastest wooden coaster, and the exciting RailBlazer, there's something for everyone. The park also features Planet Snoopy, a dedicated area for younger guests, and South Bay Shores, a vibrant water park included with admission. From adrenaline-pumping rides to captivating shows and diverse dining options, California's Great America provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages, making it a must-visit destination in the Bay Area.

A brief summary to California's Great America

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends or during special events, to maximize your time and avoid long lines at popular rides.
  • Consider purchasing a Fast Lane pass to skip the regular lines at select rides and attractions, allowing you to experience more in a shorter amount of time.
  • Take advantage of the park's dining plans to save money on food and beverages throughout the day.
  • Check the park's schedule for live shows and entertainment, and plan your day accordingly to catch the performances that interest you.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes, as you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors and on your feet.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving, take US 101 and exit onto Great America Parkway. Follow the signs to the park. Parking is available for $35 per vehicle. RV parking is $40. A passenger drop-off area is located just past the parking lot entrance at 4911 Great America Parkway.

  • Public Transport

    Several public transportation options serve California's Great America. VTA (Valley Transportation Authority) light rail and buses arrive daily from points throughout Santa Clara County. Take the VTA light rail to the Great America-Santa Clara station. Alternatively, Amtrak and ACE (Altamont Commuter Express) trains arrive at the Great America station from various points. From the train or light rail station, it's a short walk to the park entrance. A single VTA fare is $2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the area. A ride from downtown Santa Clara to California's Great America typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand.

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Discover more about California's Great America

California's Great America, a sprawling amusement park in the heart of Santa Clara, has been a beloved destination for thrill-seekers and families alike since its opening in 1976. Spanning 112 acres, this park offers a diverse array of experiences, from heart-stopping roller coasters to delightful live entertainment, ensuring a memorable visit for everyone. The park boasts an impressive collection of roller coasters, each offering a unique adrenaline rush. Gold Striker, the tallest and fastest wooden coaster in Northern California, provides a classic coaster experience with a modern twist. RailBlazer, a single-rail coaster, offers a thrilling and innovative ride. For those seeking more traditional thrills, Demon and Grizzly provide classic coaster experiences with plenty of twists, turns, and drops. Beyond the coasters, California's Great America features a wide variety of family-friendly rides and attractions. Planet Snoopy, a dedicated area for younger guests, offers gentle rides and opportunities to meet beloved Peanuts characters like Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and Lucy. The park also features classic amusement park rides like a double-decker carousel, ensuring fun for all ages. In addition to the rides, California's Great America offers a diverse range of live entertainment. Throughout the year, the park hosts various shows and performances, from musical revues to stunt shows, providing a welcome break from the thrills of the rides. Special events, such as Memorial Day weekend celebrations with fireworks, add an extra layer of excitement to the park's atmosphere. During the warmer months, visitors can cool off at South Bay Shores, a water park included with admission to California's Great America. This water park features a variety of water slides, wave pools, and other aquatic attractions, providing a refreshing escape from the California sun. Whether you're looking to brave the thrilling drop slides or relax in the lazy river, South Bay Shores offers something for everyone. California's Great America also offers a wide variety of dining options to satisfy every palate. From classic amusement park fare like burgers and fries to more diverse offerings like pizza, chicken sandwiches, and seafood, there's something for everyone. Several dining plans are available for guests to choose from. The Single-Meal Deal covers one meal during your visit, and includes an entree, side and a regular-size fountain drink. The All-Day Dining Plan allows you to pick an entree and a side from participating restaurants in the park as many times as you want during your visit, waiting 90 minutes between each use. For those looking to enhance their visit, California's Great America offers several add-ons and upgrades. Fast Lane passes allow guests to skip the lines at select rides, maximizing their time in the park. Season passes offer unlimited visits throughout the year, along with other perks like free parking and discounts on food and merchandise. Cabana rentals at South Bay Shores provide a private and relaxing space to unwind between water park adventures. While the park provides a comprehensive experience, it's worth noting that some attractions have minimum height requirements, so it's essential to check these before planning your day. Additionally, the park can get crowded, especially on weekends and during special events, so arriving early is recommended to make the most of your visit. California's Great America is easily accessible by car and public transportation. The park is located near major highways and offers ample parking for a fee. Several public transportation options, including VTA light rail and buses, also serve the park, making it easy to reach from various points in the Bay Area. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a family looking for a fun day out, or simply seeking a memorable experience, California's Great America offers something for everyone. With its diverse array of rides, attractions, entertainment, and dining options, this amusement park is a must-visit destination in the Bay Area.

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