Normal theme parks vs. destination park

What in your opinion makes some parks ie Cedar Point and obviously WDW a vacation destination vs other parks ie just about any SF park? What does CP and Disney offer, other than on site lodging that makes them a destination instead of a day trip/ locals only park?

Something out of the ordinary. Something world-known.

The first and most important difference they have is they are resorts. Staying onsite has a huge effect on people psychologicaly. It is so nice that you unpack at your hotel and then never set foot in your car until you leave.

Hand and hand with the resorts are the fact that destination parks are that the majority of people want to spend more then one day at them. I dont know about you but I could never see myself spending 3 days at SFGAm, but I have done it many times @ CP. WDW of course I cant get enough of, I think I could stay onsite for months (if only I had the money ;))