Seabreeze Amusement Park | Rochester

Seabreeze Amusement Park is a historic amusement and water park located in Irondequoit, New York, just north of Rochester on the shores of Lake Ontario. It is the fourth-oldest operating amusement park in the United States, having opened in 1879. Owned and operated by the Norris family for several generations, Seabreeze blends nostalgic charm with modern attractions, making it a major seasonal destination for families and thrill-seekers in Western New York.

Historical Overview

Seabreeze began as a trolley park, created to encourage weekend ridership on the Rochester and Irondequoit Railroad. Over time, it evolved into a full-scale amusement park. By the early 20th century, it featured a variety of entertainment options including a dance pavilion, a vaudeville theater, and a midway. Despite several fires and changing times, Seabreeze has remained in continuous operation, adapting while preserving its heritage. Its longevity and family ownership have made it a regional landmark.

Amusement Rides

Seabreeze offers over 70 attractions, including classic amusement rides, modern thrill rides, and a water park. The park is divided into several sections: thrill rides, family rides, and kiddie rides.

Thrill Rides

Jack Rabbit:
The park’s most iconic ride. Built in 1920, it is the oldest continuously operating wooden roller coaster in America. Designed by John A. Miller, it features a 75-foot drop, multiple airtime hills, and a classic out-and-back layout with a tunnel finale. The coaster is a cherished piece of amusement history.

Whirlwind:
A compact spinning steel coaster where cars rotate freely while navigating sharp turns and drops. It provides a disorienting but fun ride experience.

Bobsleds:
Introduced in 1961, it was one of the earliest steel roller coasters with a bobsled-style track, mimicking the feeling of sliding through icy troughs. The ride is unique for its open-car design and smooth transitions.

Revolution 360:
A pendulum ride that swings riders in a full circle, combining high-speed spinning with vertical motion.

Music Express:
A high-speed circular ride that moves forward and in reverse with flashing lights and music.

Log Flume:
A classic water ride with two drops, including a splashdown finale, popular on hot summer days.

Family Rides

Seabreeze Carousel:
A beautifully restored 1900s carousel featuring hand-carved wooden horses. This classic ride reflects the park’s historic roots.

Bumper Cars:
A traditional midway favorite with electric cars for all ages.

Tilt-a-Whirl, Flying Scooters, Wave Swinger:
A mix of spinning and swinging rides for moderate thrill levels.

Sky Ride:
A scenic chair lift offering aerial views of the park and Lake Ontario.

Train Ride and Gondola Wheel:
Relaxed family rides offering slower-paced enjoyment.

Kiddie Rides

Kiddie City:
A dedicated area for young children with mini versions of classic rides such as a kiddie roller coaster, spinning helicopters, and carousels.

Twirlin' Tea Cups and Bear Trax:
Engaging rides for toddlers and preschoolers that provide mild excitement and easy access.

Water Park: Raging Rivers

Seabreeze’s water park, included with general admission, features multiple water attractions:

Wave Pool:
A large, beach-style pool that simulates ocean waves at intervals, suitable for all ages.

Lazy River:
A slow-moving waterway where guests can float on inner tubes, ideal for relaxation.

Helix:
A bowl-style slide where riders spiral around before dropping into a pool.

Hydro Racer:
A multi-lane mat slide where guests race head-first against others.

Soak Zone and Looney Lagoon:
Interactive water play areas for children with fountains, tipping buckets, and mini slides.

Body and Tube Slides:
High-speed slides with various heights and paths for different thrill levels.

Food, Facilities, and Amenities

Seabreeze has a variety of food concessions offering:

Traditional amusement park food like burgers, pizza, fried dough, cotton candy, and funnel cakes

Healthier options and vegetarian choices at select stands

Picnic groves available for group outings (reservable in advance)

Additional amenities include:

Lockers and changing rooms

Free parking on-site

Rental cabanas in the water park area

Stroller and wheelchair rentals

Souvenir and gift shops

Events and Entertainment

While Seabreeze primarily focuses on rides, it also features:

Live entertainment shows during the peak season

Special themed weekends and family fun days

Birthday party packages and corporate events

Admission and Season

Operating Season:
Typically open from late May (Memorial Day weekend) through Labor Day, depending on weather.

Tickets:
Admission includes access to both the amusement park and water park. Prices vary for adults, children under 48”, and seniors. Children under 2 are free.

Season Passes:
Available for frequent visitors, offering unlimited entry, food discounts, and early access options.

Location and Accessibility

Address:
4600 Culver Road, Rochester, NY 14622

Accessibility:
Most rides have posted accessibility guidelines. The park accommodates guests with disabilities, and maps are available showing accessible paths and entrances.

Legacy and Appeal

Seabreeze combines the nostalgia of old-fashioned amusement parks with updated facilities and attractions, offering a full day of fun for families, couples, school groups, and tourists. Its lakeside setting, iconic wooden coaster, and walkable layout make it a unique gem among American amusement parks.