Experience Family Fun at Lake Compounce, America’s Oldest Amusement Park

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A wooden roller coaster at Lake Compounce

Travel Guides Family Friendly Amusement Parks

By Lauren Richards/Sept. 4, 2023 2:30 pm EST



Summer is moving quickly, and soon the late sunsets will be no more. If you’re looking to savor the last few weeks of hot weather and sunshine with your family, you might’ve considered packing into the car and heading to an amusement park for a day of sun and fun. Everything from the thrilling roller coasters, to the tasty snacks, to the colors and sounds are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces, no matter their age. There’s something for everyone, even the pickiest member of your family, be it the fastest ride in the park or the slowest.

If you want to visit one of the best theme parks you’ve never heard of, Lake Compounce could be your answer. America’s oldest amusement park has stood the test of time and continues to offer families days of enjoyment and pure fun. Get your passes, load up the car, and head on over to Lake Compounce in Bristol, Connecticut.

Perks of the park

A carousel at Lake Compounce

Lake Compounce first opened its doors in 1846, making it not only the oldest operating amusement park in the USA, but the oldest in North America as a whole. It offers several rides ranging from mild to intense, and even has a water park.



Every Saturday during the summer they host performances on the floating stage in the lake. They’ve featured artists like Everclear and CeeLo Green, as well as local performers. So after a day of fun on the rides, you can enjoy live entertainment with a lovely view of the water.

In the winter, they turn their park into a holiday theme park you won’t want to miss, complete with light shows and festive food and drinks. “My first time to Lake Compounce was to see the Holiday Lights on New Year’s Eve night. I had a great time,” a reviewer on TripAdvisor wrote. “[It is] beautifully decorated for the holidays [with] lots of rides, and a carousel operating. Gift shop concessions opened and small quick-serve eateries opened. The park is easy to walk around and enjoy.”

Know before you go

A ride at Lake Compounce


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Ritu Manoj Jethani/Shutterstock

Lake Compounce’s summer season ends on September 5th in 2023. It’s open on weekends in the fall through November, and once again for Thanksgiving weekend. It reopens every weekend in December for its light shows and entertainment. The park offers daily tickets, group deals, and a variety of types of seasonal passes, and both season passes and daily tickets occasionally go on sale, especially toward the end of summer. 

With it’s history starting out as a “picturesque picnic park” on Lake Compounce, today the amusement park is still great for the entire family, however, it can get crowded, which results in long lines. If you’re willing to wait, the rides can be a blast for everyone involved. “Every summer me and my family purchase the season pass,” a reviewer on Yelp wrote. “[It’s a] nice place to have some summer fun and get out of the house. Totally recommend this place.”

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.