Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

Formerly known as Marine World, this is a combination wildlife park, oceanarium, and amusement park. Some of its most popular attractions include a killer whale show, water rides and roller coasters, an animal nursery, a family of elephants, and roaming cartoon characters like Bugs Bunny and Batman. Bring the kids to take in a sea lion show after you get splashed by Shouka, the resident 4000-pound killer whale, or check out the thrill ride Vertical Velocity. The park is located a short 30-minute drive north of San Francisco.