Lake Compounce, while not actually in Boston, is a popular amusement park located in Bristol, Connecticut, making it a feasible day trip from Boston. It holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating amusement park in the United States, having opened its doors way back in 1846.
Rides and Attractions:
- Roller Coasters: Lake Compounce is known for its collection of classic and modern roller coasters.
- Boulder Dash: This wooden coaster is consistently ranked among the best in the world, offering a thrilling ride through the woods.
- Wildcat: One of the park's original coasters, Wildcat, has been recently renovated, providing a smoother and faster experience.
- Phobia Fear and Zoomerang: These steel coasters offer inversions, loops, and high-speed thrills.
- Water Park: Included with your admission is Crocodile Cove, a sizable water park with a variety of slides, pools, and a lazy river.
- Venus Vortex: A towering water slide that plunges riders into a funnel.
- Storm Surge: An enclosed water slide with special effects and lighting.
- Wave Pools: Two different wave pools offer varying levels of intensity.
- Family Rides: Beyond the thrill rides, Lake Compounce has a good selection of family-friendly attractions.
- Thunder N' Lightning: A high-swinging ride that offers great views of the park.
- Wave Swinger: A classic swing ride that spins riders through the air.
- Ghost Hunt: An interactive dark ride where you can zap ghosts with laser guns.
- Kids' Area: Kiddie Land is a dedicated area for younger children with age-appropriate rides and attractions.
Other Amenities:
- Dining: Lake Compounce offers a variety of dining options, from quick-service snacks to full meals.
- Shopping: You can find souvenirs, apparel, and other items at the park's retail shops.
- Cabanas: For a more relaxed experience, cabanas are available for rent in the water park.
- Campground: Lake Compounce has its own campground with various lodging options for those who want to extend their stay.
Special Events:
Lake Compounce hosts various special events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations.
Tips for Visiting:
- Check the park's website: Before your visit, check the park's website for hours of operation, event schedules, and any special offers.
- Arrive early: Especially during peak season, arriving early will allow you to experience more rides and attractions with shorter wait times.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in the summer months.
- Use sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun by applying sunscreen regularly.
- Consider a Speedy Pass: If you want to minimize wait times, consider purchasing a Speedy Pass to access priority boarding on rides.
Lake Compounce offers a great mix of classic charm and modern thrills, making it a fantastic destination for families and amusement park enthusiasts.