10 Must-Watch Movies Set in Amusement Parks

Description: Although not a traditional amusement park, Westworld is a futuristic theme park where guests can live out their fantasies with robots. Things go awry when the robots start malfunctioning, leading to chaos.

Fact: Directed by Michael Crichton, this film was one of the first to use computer-generated imagery (CGI) for its visual effects. It inspired the HBO series of the same name.

Description: This horror film follows a group of teenagers who get trapped in a carnival funhouse with a killer on the loose. It's a classic example of how amusement parks can turn from fun to frightful.

Fact: The film was directed by Tobe Hooper, known for "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre." The funhouse was built specifically for the movie and was designed to be as creepy and claustrophobic as possible.

Description: While not strictly about an amusement park, this film features a Vietnam vet taking over Central Park, which includes scenes at an amusement area within the park, creating a tense atmosphere.

Fact: The film was based on a novel by Stephen Peters and was shot in Toronto's High Park, which was transformed to resemble Central Park.

Description: Although primarily a zombie movie, it includes scenes at an island amusement park where the undead rise, providing a unique setting for horror and action.

Fact: The film is based on the popular Sega arcade game of the same name, but it deviates significantly from the game's plot.

Description: While not exclusively set in an amusement park, a significant and iconic scene takes place at an abandoned theme park, where the characters face off against zombies in a thrilling and comedic showdown.

Fact: The amusement park scene was filmed at Wild Adventures Theme Park in Georgia, which was closed for the day to allow for filming. The park's name was changed to "Pacific Playland" for the movie.

Description: Directed by George A. Romero, this experimental film uses an amusement park as a metaphor for the aging process, showing an elderly man's struggles and societal neglect.

Fact: The film was thought to be lost until a print was discovered in

Description: This horror-comedy reimagines the classic children's TV show into a dark tale where the beloved characters go rogue at a birthday party in their amusement park.

Fact: The film was a direct-to-video release, but it gained a cult following for its unique premise of turning a beloved children's show into a horror movie.

Description: This coming-of-age comedy-drama captures the summer of 1987 at a rundown amusement park where a recent college graduate finds love, friendship, and a bit of trouble. It's a perfect blend of nostalgia and youthful exploration.

Fact: The film was inspired by writer-director Greg Mottola's own experiences working at an amusement park. The park in the movie was actually a real amusement park in Pittsburgh, Kennywood, which was temporarily renamed Adventureland for filming.

Description: A mad bomber targets amusement parks across the country, with a focus on roller coasters, creating a suspenseful ride for viewers as a detective tries to stop him.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use Sensurround, a sound system designed to simulate the physical sensation of being on a roller coaster.

Description: Shot guerrilla-style at Disney World and Disneyland without permission, this surreal film explores the dark side of the happiest places on Earth, blending family vacation with psychological horror.

Fact: The film was shot entirely on location at Disney parks, using hidden cameras and actors who had to blend in with real park visitors. Disney has not officially acknowledged the film.