The oldest theme park in the United States is in Bristol, Connecticut.
What began as a lakeside picnic park with gorgeous views has evolved into a theme park with over 35 rides and attractions.
Lake Compoons is recognized as the oldest amusement park in the United States by the National Amusement Park Historical Association and, according to the Library of Congress, is the oldest amusement park still in continuous operation.
What to Pack in a Backpack for a Trip to the Amusement Park
The National Amusement Park Historical Society recognizes it as the fifth oldest theme park in the world.
Earlier parks include Bakken in Klampenborg, Denmark, the Prater in Vienna, Blackgun Chine on the Isle of Wight in the UK, and Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Showcasing the water slides at Lake Compounce What began as a lakeside picnic park with great views has evolved into a theme park with over 35 rides and attractions. (Lake Compounce)
Lake Compoons was first opened to the public as a park in 1846.
According to the theme park’s website, on October 6, 1846, Bristol scientist Samuel Botsford successfully persuaded landowner Gad Norton to allow him to conduct “a series of fantastic electrical experiments,” which ultimately attracted thousands of people to Lake Compounce.
Theme parks such as Lake Compounce offer fun for the whole family. (iStock)
Sources say the first permanent building, the Casino, was built in 1895 and featured a restaurant downstairs and a ballroom upstairs, where dinner cost 50 cents at the time.
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The first motorized roller coaster was opened to the public in 1914 and was called the “Green Dragon.”
The Lake Compoons carousel (not pictured) was originally built in 1898. (iStock)
This ride was replaced in 1914 by the Wildcat Coaster, which still offers guests a thrilling ride today. The Wildcat Coaster has been restored to provide a smoother ride for guests.
Another famous wooden roller coaster at Lake Compoons is Boulder Dash, which opened in 2000.
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The ride has been named the best wooden roller coaster five times by Amusement Today magazine.
Although the park has undergone many changes since it opened, including being acquired by Palace Entertainment in 2009, you can still feel the historic atmosphere throughout the park.
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For example, the merry-go-round, a favorite of children and adults alike, was first built in 1898 and introduced to theme parks in 1911.
Lake Compounce has something for everyone, whether you’re a family, couple or friends. (iStock)
Lake Compounce is also home to the largest water park in Connecticut, and your ticket purchase includes admission to Crocodile Cove.
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Lake Compounce has a wide selection of rollercoasters and kiddie rides for both kids and adults to keep you entertained all day long.
