Guide to New England Amusement Parks & Water Parks
From roller coasters and carousels to wave pools and water slides, this roundup of New England amusement parks and water parks offers something to suit every preference.
By Yankee Staff|Jul 19 2018|
Welcome to Canobie Lake Park, since 1902!
Credit: Aimee SeaveyCredit: Aimee Seavey
Guide to New England Amusement Parks & Water Parks
CONNECTICUT AMUSEMENT PARKS & WATER PARKS
Quassy Amusement Park | Middlebury, CT
The shores of Lake Quassapaug are home to one of Connecticut’s oldest amusement parks and one of two remaining “trolley parks” in the country. Spotting names like Frog Hopper, Big Flush Water Coaster, and Grand Carousel, you and your kids will easily want to make a day of it at Quassy. The Splash Away Bay water park and areas for swimming and picnicking are bonus attractions.Lake Compounce | Bristol, CT
There’s something for everyone at America’s oldest amusement park: water rides, classic rides, kiddie rides, dance and comedy shows — and, of course, roller coasters and thrill rides. In 2016 the magnetically propelled Phobia Phear Coaster, which races at speeds of up to 65 mph and flips riders 150 feet in the air, became the most hotly anticipated new thrill in park history. Named a 2016 Yankee Editors’ Pick for “Best Tourist Hot Spot.”
Palace Playland at Old Orchard Beach in Maine
Credit: Michael BoucherCredit: Michael Boucher
MAINE AMUSEMENT PARKS & WATER PARKS
Funtown Splashtown USA | Saco, ME
At this beloved Saco institution, you’ll find rides that range from kid-friendly excitement to heart-in-your-throat thrills, with the latter including Maine’s only wooden roller coaster, New England’s longest and highest log flume, and the 220-foot plummet of the Dragon’s Descent turbo drop tower. And don’t forget to bring your swimsuit, which you’ll want for the raft rides, slides, and other watery fun. Named a 2017 Yankee Editors’ Pick for “Best Adventure Park.”Palace Playland | Old Orchard Beach, ME
This family-oriented amusement park sits right on the beach, making it one of the most picturesque New England amusements parks around. Enjoy a morning of swimming and building sand castles, then head over to Palace Playland’s 24,000-square-foot arcade for some afternoon fun. In addition to the arcade, take ride on the Electra Wheel for a terrific seaside view.Aquaboggan Water Park | Saco, ME
If you’re looking for a thrilling water adventure, you’ll love Aquaboggan Water Park. While there are some dry-land rides such as the Grand Prix racing cars and mini golf, the main attractions are the water rides. Go tubeless on the Turbo Drop or spend some time chilling in the Giant Wave Pool.
Credit: Photo by Thomas Wagner / CC BY-SA
MASSACHUSETTS AMUSEMENT PARKS & WATER PARKS
Six Flags New England | Agawam, MA
Formerly the site of Riverside Amusement Park, Six Flags New England offers mega-thrills and all-day family fun at what is arguably the biggest amusement park in New England. The park’s many classic rides — including a dozen roller coasters — will satisfy adults and older kids, while a turn on the Wacky Wheel ferris wheel and the 1909 Illions carousel is perfect for the younger set. Visiting the park on a hot day? Don’t miss the Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Waterpark.Water Wizz | East Wareham, MA
The kids might be impressed to learn that this family-owned park has been featured in two Hollywood movies, including a 2013 favorite, The Way Way Back. But they’ll be even more thrilled with the Hurricane Hill water slide, the Squid Row tube ride, and the Mussel Beach wave pool. Named a 2014 Yankee Editors’ Pick for “Best Family Water Park.”Edaville Family Theme Park | Carver, MA
Edaville started out as a small loop railroad transporting cranberry bog workers, but when locals clamored for rides, owner Ellis D. Atwood obliged, and “Edaville” (Atwell’s initials inspired the name) was born. Over the years, Edaville has grown into a full-blown amusement park with over 90 rides and attractions, including themed areas dedicated to dinosaurs and Thomas the Tank Engine, respectively.
Until next time, Story Land!
Credit: Aimee Tucker
