Among the best towns to visit on the Great Lakes, there’s one in Pennsylvania that also happens to be home to one of the country’s oldest amusement parks. In Erie, Waldameer Park & Water World has been delighting visitors since 1896. What started as a trolley park and picnic area on the shores of Lake Erie has grown into a full-fledged summer destination — and unlike most major theme parks, you don’t have to pay to get in.
The park’s name, Waldameer, means “woods by the sea” in German. Back in the early 1900s, the park’s attractions included a Hofbrau German beer garden, carousel, and dance hall. The beer garden’s servers even serenaded guests as they enjoyed their brews. But despite its over-a-century-long history, Waldameer doesn’t feel like a relic. Visitors can enjoy a mix of vintage rides (yes, there’s still the classic Whacky Shack) and more thrilling modern attractions, like the award-winning Ravine Flyer II roller coaster. Within the park, there’s also Water World, complete with thrilling water slides and a giant wave pool.
With this park keeping both history buffs and adrenaline junkies happy, it’s the perfect day trip to add to your Lake Erie itinerary. So, if you’re ready for an old-school amusement park experience, complete with hand-dipped ice cream, an arcade, and Lake Erie views, it doesn’t get more classic than Waldameer Park & Water World.
Rides and slides at Lake Erie’s Waldameer Park & Water World
One of the best perks about Waldameer is that anyone can stroll in, grab a funnel cake, and play some classic carnival games without paying at the gate. Pay-per-ride tickets and all-day wristbands are available for purchase if you want to hit the attractions, making this one of the most budget-friendly amusement parks in the country. It’s also perfect for families or groups with different interests and thrill levels. There’s just one caveat: If you wish to also enjoy the Water World section, you must purchase either a day pass or a combo wristband.
The amusement park has over 30 rides, from not-so-scary kiddie coasters to the famous Ravine Flyer II, a wooden coaster that drops you 120 feet. For something a little more relaxed, take a spin on the Ferris wheel for panoramic views of Lake Erie, or hop aboard the vintage carousel.
Over at Water World, you can enjoy a lazy river, a giant wave pool, and a splash area designed just for the kids. Of course, there are lots of tube slides and speed slides for the more adventurous, and the heated pool is a hit with anyone wanting to just kick back and relax.
Planning your visit to Waldameer Park & Water World
