26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia

(661) 255-4100

www.sixflags.com

Six Flags's world-class coasters and other rides make it particularly suited to teens and adults. However, Bugs Bunny World, its kids' area based on the Looney Tunes cartoons, contains plenty of rides designed for younger people, including a kids-only roller coaster.

You'll also find Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in the same place. The large water park contains water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and three large activity areas. Hurricane Harbor charges a separate admission fee, but you can also buy an all-inclusive (discounted) ticket. See Chapter 6 for details.

Six Flags Magic Mountain opens seven days per week during the spring and summer. However, unlike the Disney theme parks, it is open only on weekends and holidays the rest of the year. See Chapter 6 for a summary of admission prices.

To get to Magic Mountain from Anaheim, take the Interstate 5 freeway (I-5) north toward Sacramento. Exit at Magic Mountain Parkway and follow the signs to the entrance. From Hollywood and Universal City, take US 101 north, transferring to the 170 freeway north to connect with I-5.

Once you arrive at Magic Mountain, you'll find free day kennels for your pet near the parking lot and several picnic areas where you can enjoy food you bring to the park. You can't bring food from outside into the park itself and dining options there are minimal, so you may want to pack a picnic and eat it here.

When you pay for parking, you'll receive a full-color park map and guide. Reviewing the map before entering the park will help you get around and chalk out a plan to see everything. Each ride's height restrictions are also listed in the free booklet, as is information about shows and dining options.

The walk between the parking lot and the entrance can take more than fifteen minutes. You may want to take the tram and save your legs for walking later. Expect to spend up to fifteen minutes to get through the security screening before you get inside.