The Northeast is home to amusement parks that have become part of family traditions for generations. These places combine history, charm, and dependable fun that never lose their appeal. Many have operated for more than a century, continuing to welcome parents, children, and grandparents to the same coasters and carousels. Wooden rides still shake with energy, lakeside parks remain gathering spots, and boardwalk lights mark the start of summer for countless families. Each park reflects its local character while keeping a sense of familiarity that draws visitors back year after year. Together, they remind us that simple entertainment can still create lasting memories worth repeating every season.
1. Hersheypark (Hershey, Pennsylvania)
Families visiting Hersheypark find a place where roller coasters, chocolate, and nostalgia meet in one sweet setting. The park features more than 70 rides, including 15 coasters that range from family-friendly to extreme. Guests stroll between themed zones, sample desserts, and join seasonal festivals that change the atmosphere with every visit. Hershey’s Chocolate World next door invites visitors to craft their own candy bars and watch the chocolate-making process firsthand. The mix of sensory delight and coaster excitement keeps Hersheypark at the top of most travel lists.
2. Lake Compounce (Bristol, Connecticut)
Generations of visitors have gathered at Lake Compounce since 1846, drawn by its combination of heritage and fresh attractions. The lakeside setting provides a peaceful backdrop for coasters, water rides, and classic amusements. Boulder Dash, the award-winning wooden coaster, rushes through trees and rocky slopes with breathtaking speed. Families cool off at Crocodile Cove, float in wave pools, and picnic under shaded groves. Evenings bring fireworks and concerts that carry over the water. The park’s careful upkeep and family-friendly layout make it a summer staple across New England.
3. Kennywood (West Mifflin, Pennsylvania)
Kennywood invites families into a space where classic rides and record-setting coasters share the same skyline. Founded in 1898, this National Historic Landmark still operates many original attractions alongside modern marvels like Phantom’s Revenge and Steel Curtain. Guests can savor funnel cakes along the midway or join in seasonal festivals that transform the park with lights and music. Wooden icons such as Jack Rabbit and Thunderbolt continue to excite riders after more than a century. The friendly staff and manageable size keep visits easy for families with children of all ages.
4. Santa’s Village (Jefferson, New Hampshire)
Families looking for a year-round holiday spirit head to Santa’s Village, a cheerful park where it feels like December in every season. Since 1953, it has welcomed guests with reindeer rides, cookie-decorating stations, and festive shows filled with laughter. The Reindeer Carousel, Skyway Sleigh, and Chimney Drop provide gentle thrills, while Santa’s Home offers photos and warm greetings no matter the month. The surrounding White Mountains add crisp air and natural beauty without overshadowing the joyful design. Visitors often return yearly to mark family milestones, proving that a park built on kindness and creativity can remain timeless for children and nostalgic adults alike.
5. Sesame Place (Langhorne, Pennsylvania)
Sesame Place welcomes young families into the colorful world of Sesame Street. Children dance in parades, laugh with costumed characters, and ride attractions sized for beginners, like Big Bird’s Tour Bus and Elmo’s Cloud Chaser. Parents appreciate the park’s thoughtful layout and trained staff who create a calm, inclusive setting. As the nation’s first Certified Autism Center, it provides sensory-friendly areas and clear signage to make every guest comfortable. Summer brings splash zones, while cooler months feature themed weekends that extend the fun beyond water play.
6. Canobie Lake Park (Salem, New Hampshire)
Visitors at Canobie Lake Park find classic fun just a short drive from Boston. This century-old park features more than 85 rides and attractions surrounded by tree-lined walkways and lake views. The Yankee Cannonball remains a regional legend for its wooden speed, while Untamed adds sharp drops for thrill seekers. Younger guests enjoy Kiddieland and gentle water rides, perfect for hot afternoons. Live music, fireworks, and nighttime fountain shows turn the park into a full-day celebration. Families appreciate its clean grounds, friendly staff, and steady ticket prices. Year after year, Canobie Lake Park proves that consistency and atmosphere keep memories strong.
7. Palace Playland (Old Orchard Beach, Maine)
Families walking along Old Orchard Beach often stop at Palace Playland, where the boardwalk lights shimmer beside the Atlantic. Operating since 1902, this beachfront park offers over 30 rides ranging from gentle carousels to the Sea Viper roller coaster. Children play in one of New England’s largest arcades while parents enjoy ocean views from the Ferris wheel. The layout keeps every attraction close to the shoreline, making it easy to combine a beach day with amusement-park excitement. As night falls, fireworks burst over the pier and music carries through the salt air. Palace Playland remains a cherished Maine tradition that captures summer at its purest.
8. York’s Wild Kingdom (York Beach, Maine)
York’s Wild Kingdom welcomes families with the rare mix of amusement rides and animal encounters in one easy-to-navigate setting. Guests enjoy classic midway attractions, a scenic Ferris wheel overlooking the beach, and arcade games that capture the feel of a summer fair. The zoo area features more than 50 animal exhibits, including Maine’s only White Bengal Tiger, lemurs, and the popular Butterfly Kingdom. Families appreciate the short walks between rides and exhibits, allowing them to enjoy a full day without fatigue. Picnic areas, snack stalls, and proximity to the beach make it ideal for relaxed outings. York’s continues to draw visitors who return each season for its variety, friendliness, and coastal charm.
