Disney/Universal versus hometown parks

As a native Floridian, I grew up with Disney only an hour and a half away. I really wasn't aware of the "amusement" park. I only knew integrated themeing and storylines for each attraction. It wasn't until a couple of years ago, when I went on a whirlwind tour of 11 parks outside of FL (including the HP, Kennywood, SFOG, etc.) that I saw the difference between a theme park and an amusement park (I'm still not quite sure where Six Flags fits into it).
I'm wondering if anyone prefers the Disney-type experience to the more old-fashioned amusement park experience (or vice-versa).
I, myself, loved Kennywood's old-time feel. I found it very refreshing - of course, I also love a lazy November day at Disney's Animal Kingdom due to its amazing themeing.

Just wondering,
Jason T.

It really depends. Outside of Orlando, parks don't seem to be very good at executing theme (I think that's where your Six Flags comment comes in). Parks like Cedar Point and Kennywood have a theme of a different sort: An amusement park theme. It's about the rides, the atmosphere and the food!

I personally like both types of parks. A park like IOA needs theme because they have a relatively small ride count, ditto for Disney. The theme stuff does make for a better family experience. As a childless twentysomething, show me the ride entrances!

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Jeff
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