Waldameer Park & Water World | Erie

The Waldameer Park & Water World is a historic and popular amusement and water park located in Erie, Pennsylvania, right at the gateway to Presque Isle State Park. It offers a full day of family fun with a mix of classic and modern rides, water attractions, live entertainment, and picnic facilities. Founded in 1896, it is one of the oldest continuously operating amusement parks in the United States and remains family-owned.

Location and History

Address: 220 Peninsula Drive, Erie, PA 16505

Situated near the entrance to Presque Isle State Park, it provides easy access for visitors to combine outdoor nature activities with amusement park thrills.

Over 125 years of operation, the park has grown and modernized while maintaining nostalgic charm, blending vintage rides with innovative new attractions.

Amusement Park Attractions

Ravine Flyer II:
This flagship roller coaster is a hybrid wooden and steel coaster, widely regarded as one of the best in the country. Opened in 2008, it features a thrilling 120-foot drop, speeds up to 60 mph, and crosses over a ravine and a public road, giving a unique, exhilarating experience. It earned the Best New Ride of 2008 award from Amusement Today.

Comet:
A classic wooden roller coaster operating since 1951, offering a nostalgic experience reminiscent of mid-20th-century amusement parks, loved by both families and coaster enthusiasts.

Steel Dragon:
This spinning steel coaster opened in 2004 and provides a dynamic ride where the car spins freely while traveling the track, adding an unpredictable element of excitement.

Whirlwind:
Introduced in 2020, Whirlwind is a spinning coaster that gives riders a fun, fast-paced experience with twists and turns.

Time Twister:
Opened in 2025 replacing the older Spider ride, this family thrill ride swings and spins riders, delivering a mix of excitement and accessibility for a wide age range.

Other rides include classic carnival favorites like Tilt-A-Whirl, Paratrooper, Dodgems (bumper cars), and Ali Baba (a flying carpet ride that rises six stories high).

Water World Attractions

Giant Wave Pool:
One of the largest wave pools on the East Coast, it can accommodate up to 1,000 swimmers, creating simulated ocean waves for fun and relaxation.

Rocket Blast:
A thrilling water coaster with uphill water jets, propelling riders nearly 70 feet across the slide, offering a unique and fast-paced water experience.

Rally Racer:
A six-lane racing mat slide where guests can race each other down colorful slides for added competition and excitement.

Battle of Lake Erie:
A massive multi-level splash zone featuring over 100 water elements, including seven slides, interactive fountains, and a giant 400-gallon tipping bucket that drenches participants.

Awesome Twosome:
A tandem inner tube slide known for fast twists and turns, providing a fun ride for pairs.

Cannon Bowl:
An enclosed bowl-style slide where riders swirl around the bowl before exiting into the splash pool below.

Family and Kids Attractions

Big Rigs:
A charming ride where children pilot their own semi trucks along a winding track that includes tunnels and gardens, providing safe, interactive fun for young kids.

Kiddie Rides:
Numerous smaller rides designed specifically for children, including gentle carousels, mini trains, and more.

Interactive Play Areas:
Designed to engage kids with age-appropriate activities and play structures.

Entertainment and Amenities

Showtime Theater:
Live musical shows are performed three times daily, included with park admission. These free shows offer family-friendly entertainment, often themed around popular characters and seasonal celebrations.

Picnic Areas:
Covered and open picnic facilities are available, allowing families to bring their own food or enjoy meals from onsite vendors.

Food and Games:
Various food stands, snack bars, and midway games are scattered throughout the park, providing plenty of options for dining and amusement.

Free Admission and Parking:
Visitors can enter the amusement park grounds for free. Rides and water attractions require either the purchase of ride tickets or an all-day wristband. Ample free parking is available on-site.

Seasonal Operation and Tickets

Operating Season: Typically open from spring through early fall, including weekends in the shoulder seasons. Water World generally opens in late May and closes by early September.

Ticket Options: Available as individual ride tickets, ride/water wristbands, or combo passes. Discounts may be offered for groups, season passes, or online purchases.

Summary

Waldameer Park & Water World offers a rare combination of classic amusement park nostalgia and modern thrills, paired with a large, well-equipped water park. It appeals to all ages, from toddlers enjoying kiddie rides to thrill-seekers drawn to roller coasters like the Ravine Flyer II. Its location near Presque Isle State Park makes it a perfect addition for visitors wanting to mix outdoor nature exploration with family entertainment. The park's history, family ownership, and community ties make it a cherished local institution and a key tourism attraction in Erie.