A Road Trip Into Pennsylvania’s Lost And Reimagined Amusement Parks

Pennsylvania’s amusement parks have seen it all; from booming summer crowds to quiet abandonment. Some have vanished entirely, while others have been brought back to life in new forms.

This road trip takes you through a mix of lost landmarks and reimagined favorites, offering a glimpse into the state’s rich, often overlooked amusement history.

1. Cascade Park

Open from 1892 to 1986, Cascade Park was a prominent amusement park known for its scenic views and a large carousel building. After being closed and reopened several times, the rides were eventually removed. Today, the site operates as a public park, and visitors can find some former ride foundations. While not much of the original park remains, those familiar with its history can still spot quiet reminders of what used to be.

2. Williams Grove Amusement Park

Nestled near Mechanicsburg, Williams Grove operated from 1928 until 2005. The park’s vintage charm remains frozen in time, with its iconic yellow roller coaster still visible from nearby roads.

Flash floods in 1972 nearly destroyed the park, yet it survived another three decades. Today, the empty midway and silent rides create a photographer’s paradise where you can almost hear echoes of yesteryear’s excitement.

3. Rocky Springs Park

Once a trolley park outside Lancaster, Rocky Springs entertained families from 1899 until it was boarded up in 1966 due to declining attendance. A new owner reopened the park in 1979, but it closed for good a few years later.

Though the park’s swimming pool is gone, some concrete foundations and other remnants of former attractions can be seen. A lone carousel building remains, but the historic carousel itself was sold and is currently in storage, awaiting a permanent home.

4. Bushkill Park

Opened in 1902, Bushkill Park was one of the country’s oldest continuously operating amusement parks. After suffering severe damage from floods in 2004 and 2006, it closed. While it has not fully reopened as an amusement park, some restoration efforts have occurred, and it is sometimes used for special events, with some structures still in place.

5. Conneaut Lake Park

This park has faced numerous closures and financial struggles over the years. It has been sold and renovated multiple times but still offers some rides.

The Blue Streak roller coaster, a famous wooden coaster, unfortunately burned down during a dismantling process in 2022. While the park no longer draws the large crowds it once did, it continues to operate on a smaller scale for those who still enjoy its remaining attractions.