I’ve come to realize that, if you are a roller coaster lover, Southern California is the place to visit. In fact, two of the coolest theme parks for coaster enthusiasts can be found in the Los Angeles area. Although the Disneyland Resort does offer some fun rides, it is not in the Top Two.

Here we’re speaking of Knott’s Berry Farm and Six Flags Magic Mountain (aka Magic Mountain to the locals). The SoCal Guru notes that these two destinations have focused directly on roller coasters and thrill rides to differentiate themselves from Disneyland.

Magic Mountain is crazy with wild coasters; the place is lousy with thrill rides. Check out the SoCal Vacation Guru for more information about the park, as there’s lots more to do there besides roller coasters (for the rest of your group who may not be coaster fanatics).

The second Southern California theme park with a strong emphasis on roller coasters is Knott’s Berry Farm, although it too offers many activities such as Ghost Town. My daughter worked on the new Silver Bullet ride and she says that is one of several coasters that will really help you lose your dinner.

Speaking of dinner, if you go to Knott’s, don’t forget to allow time to eat at Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant. For like 70 years or more this establishment has been delighting tens of thousands of diners with down-home cooking. You’ll find useful information, tips and recommendations for enjoying Knott’s Berry Farm at the SoCal Guru site. The site covers hotels near the park, and provides useful information about other theme parks and vacation opportunities in SoCal.

You can learn about the other Los Angeles-area theme parks, namely the Disneyland Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood. Those parks offer many great attractions and some good thrill rides, but not as many as at Knott’s and Magic Mountain. I hope this is helpful if you love coasters!