A Guide to the Gold Coast’s Theme Parks

Queensland’s sunshine city of the Gold Coast/Yugambeh is home to a variety of adventures that are fun for the whole family. Sitting in the southern region of Queensland, just next to the border of New South Wales, the Gold Coast is a thriving and vibrant city. Famously home to some of the country’s favourite theme parks, you can explore these exciting attractions as you venture between the different parks in your Dollar rental car. 

To get the most value out of your visit to the theme parks, consider purchasing a multi-park pass in advance. You’ll save on both time and money, as buying a multi-park pass online means that you’re ready to explore the parks as soon as you arrive, and you won’t be disappointed by tickets selling out.

Dreamworld is one of the crowd favourites amongst Gold Coast’s theme parks, and is only a twenty minute drive from Gold Coast’s CBD. From thrill rides to family rides to activities for little kids, there’s something for everyone at this exciting park. If you’re an adrenaline seeker, then this park is for you. The popular Claw ride will swing you up into the air while you rotate 360 degrees, while the Giant Drop is exactly what it sounds like - a vertical drop from 119 metres, accelerating at the speed of gravity. For family-friendly rides, the Sky Voyager will transport you through the sky and across Australia through visual effects and physical sensations - such as wind, sound, light and mist. There are also a variety of places to grab something to eat or drink, like the icecream parlour or the burger stand at Food Central, so you can indulge in a break from the action in a relaxed environment.

Just next door to Dreamworld is the sister theme park of WhiteWater World. This water-themed park is great if you’re wanting to cool off from the warm Gold Coast sun and spend a day exploring a wide variety of water-based activities. Great for the whole family to enjoy, WhiteWater World also includes a variety of attractions that both provide a thrill or provide enjoyable family-friendly excitement. While the Triple Vortex is a ride that will peak your adrenaline by whisking you through a dark tunnel atop a tube, the Pipeline Plunge is perfect for kids and families as they scale this water-spouting playground and splash around in the shallows. You can also make the most of Dreamworld’s food central and other refreshment options for when you want a break from the waterpark.

Beloved by many, Warner Bros’ Movie World isn’t only for movie buffs or film experts, but for anyone wanting to make the most of their Gold Coast holiday. This interactive theme park brings to life all the famous characters from popular culture that you know and love. You’ll be able to observe everyone from Mickey Mouse to Superman walking around the Movie World grounds, as well as have a go on their thrilling rides. Many of the park’s rides have been designed within the theme of icons of our screens - such as The Flash Speed Force ride and the Green Lantern Coaster. Rides vary in scariness, too, so thrill-seekers of all ages can enjoy. There’s also a Star Parade, where you can watch all your favourite on-screen characters come to life and even meet them in the flesh. Combining theatrical entertainment with thrill-filled activities, Movie World is a treasure in the trove of Gold Coast theme parks.

A theme park that is famous the world over, Sea World provides a brilliant day of learning and observing some of your favourite sea creatures. You can get up close and personal with a variety of unique sea animals, like dolphins, penguins and seals, and even wave hello to other furry friends, like the adorable polar bears. Sea World also offers some thrilling rides if you’re wanting another dose of adrenaline. Otherwise, wandering between the intriguing exhibitions and watching the shows from the expert performers and animal handlers makes for an ideal way to spend a day at Sea World. If you’re wanting to make your visit to Sea World just that little bit extra special, you can also consider an intimate Animal Adventure encounter - a perfect activity for the whole family to make the most out of this unique park. 

In your Dollar rental car, it’s easy to traverse the Gold Coast and the collection of adventure-filled parks they have on offer, making the most of your precious time in this sunny pocket of Queensland.