Small World Park, 2551 Harbor St, Pittsburg, CA 94565, US

Spending many spring and summer days running around the grounds of Small World Amusement Park is something of a rite of passage for kids who grow up in Pittsburg, California. With an intimate environment that features a number of attractions geared toward children, Small World Park is an ideal place for parents to relax while their kids tire themselves out.Parking and public transportation at Small World Amusement ParkIt's best to drive to the park since parking is plentiful in the on-site lot and it could be hassle hauling a group of kids to and from the park. Additional parking is available in the shopping center next door on days when the park is packed.Best and worst time to go to Small World Amusement ParkThe park is closed during the fall and winter between November 1 and April 3, and during the spring and summer months the park is closed on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. The park is popular on weekends, so you may want to visit on a Thursday or Friday.Admission to Small World Amusement ParkGeneral admission for visitors between the ages of 15 and 54 is $4.00, senior citizens over the age of 55 are $2.00, children between 1 and 14 are also $2.00, and children under 12 months are free. Wristbands must be purchased to go on rides and cost $1.25 for unlimited rides. Cash is the only method of payment accepted.Must see/do at Small World Amusement ParkThe train ride that goes around the facility is the most popular attraction at the park and is a pleasure for both kids and adults. If you're looking for a bit more speed, a zip line ride is available. Also be sure to stop by the lagoon to do a little crawdad fishing.Other places to visit near Small World Amusement ParkIf you're looking for a bite to eat and want more than what the snack bar has to offer, head to downtown Pittsburg to try out the New Mecca Cafe, a local institution that serves some of the best Mexican food in the area. After you eat, you may want to stop by City Park to watch Pittsburg's own professional baseball team, the independent Pittsburg Diamonds.Insider tip for visitors to Small World Amusement ParkFishing supplies are not offered at the park so remember to bring your own if you plan on catching some crawdads.Author's bio: Dennis Biles is a freelance journalist who was born and raised in the Bay Area. When he's not writing he can often be found losing his mind at Oakland A's games in the Right Field Bleachers.