Amusement parks offer new thrills

(ARA) - In early fall, theme park thrill-seekers and amusement park aficionados prepare to flock en masse to these attractions across the country. Some 300 million visitors traveled to 400 amusement parks and traditional attractions in 2008, according to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. While the big-name parks are always fun, don't overlook some equally exhilarating, but smaller, regional parks. You'll likely find smaller crowds and save on travel costs.