Opened in 1892, Conneaut Lake Park is one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States. Their motto is "where the past becomes the future,'' and many of the attractions are refurbished original versions or replicas of the attractions that once were found when this park first opened. Today, guests can learn more about the history of this park by visiting on weekends, when the Conneaut Lake Area Historical Society's Lakeland Museum is open dockside at the park. Conneaut Lake Park is located on the western side of the lake.
There are a variety of rides open annually at the park, which is under lease with an Ohio ride company to operate the rides. Among these rides are the miniature train, the carousel, the Lake Erie train, a Ferris wheel, and a number of other traditional park rides. Over the next few years, the park will also re-open The Blue Streak, their historic wooden roller coaster, which is currently undergoing safety upgrades and repairs. Along with these rides, the park also operates Splash City, a small water park with a variety of rides for the whole family.
One of the most popular attractions at Conneaut Lake Park is the Kaylee Belle. This historic boat docks along the Glass Pier, which is located in front of the Hotel Conneaut. This boat was build in 1969 for the Columbus Zoo and is available not just for daily tours, but also for private parties on the lake and chartered rides. The daily rides through the amusement park are narrated and cost $8 for adults and $2 for children.
Conneaut Lake Park is also has a beach area along the lake that is perfect for picnics and enjoying the sun. Nearby, there are campgrounds available for guests who want to stay for more than a day, but don't wish to stay at the Hotel Conneaut.
Along with daily activities, there are a number of annual events that occur on the lake, especially around the holidays. Guests can enjoy boat rides, water sports, sunbathing, and other activities around the area, and the lake can be rented for class reunions, picnics, weddings, and parties. The park has an annual boat show every June, as well as concerts, car cruises, special pricing for holidays, fireworks around the fourth of July, conferences, art fairs, and more.
Conneaut Lake Park is open during the summers on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. On Thursdays, they are open from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, on Fridays and Saturdays from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and on Sundays from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Admission to the park is free, making it one of the few free amusement parks in the United States. Guests can pay for ride ticks or purchase an adult Ride Band for $19.95 and a child's ride band for $15.40. They also have ride band options for just the water park, as well as season passes available. For more information, guests can call 814-382-5115.
