I love amusement parks—especially the ones with those rickety old wooden roller coasters that shake, rattle, and roll like they’ve got something to prove. And yes, even at my age, I’m still that guy who rushes for the front seat... or the very back. (They each have their own kind of thrill — don’t make me choose!) I also conveniently ignore those “keep your hands inside the car” signs. Mine are up from start to finish, thank you very much. Do I scream? Maybe. Maybe not. You’ll just have to ride with me and find out!
Lucky for us, Connecticut is home to not one, but two amusement parks with wooden coasters. And if you're willing to hop across the state line, there’s a third just over the border in Agawam, Massachusetts. I get it — not everyone is into old-school coasters that sound like they might fall apart (but never do!). Good news: all three parks also have plenty of family-friendly rides and some seriously awesome water parks.
So grab your crew, slather on that sunscreen, and get ready to scream, splash, and smile all day long!
Lake Compounce – Bristol, Connecticut
Welcome to the oldest continuously operating amusement park in the U.S.—yep, since 1846! Lake Compounce covers 332 acres and is packed with fun, including 31 rides. Two standouts for thrill seekers: Boulder Dash, an award-winning wooden coaster that zips through the woods (many consider it the best wooden roller coaster in the country), and the classic Wild Cat, now restored to its former glory. Don’t forget your swimsuit—Crocodile Cove, the largest water park in Connecticut, has 15 slides and all the splashy fun you could want.
Quassy Amusement & Waterpark – Middlebury, Connecticut
Quassy is the definition of old-school charm. This lakeside gem has been around since 1908 and it’s got that laid-back, bring-the-whole-family vibe. Think classic rides, a cozy atmosphere, and a super fun water park complete with slides, splash pads, and beachy spots. The Wooden Warrior coaster is small but mighty—and surprisingly smooth! Bonus: there's free entry and you just pay per ride (or grab an all-day pass). Bring a picnic, spread out on the grass, and enjoy some good old-fashioned fun.
Six Flags New England – Agawam, Massachusetts
Just over the Connecticut border is Six Flags New England, and trust me—it’s worth the drive. With over 60 attractions and 11 roller coasters, it’s a thrill-seeker’s dream. The headliners? The Thunderbolt (truly rickety!), Superman The Ride (hands-down one of the best steel coasters in the country with the scariest first drop ever) and Wicked Cyclone, a hybrid wood-steel coaster that will leave you breathless. Not into coasters? No problem! There are plenty of rides for kids and less-adventurous adults and Hurricane Harbor, the ginormous water park inside Six Flags, has slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools galore.
Whether you're chasing big thrills, planning a splash-filled family day, or just craving a little summer nostalgia, these parks deliver the fun in spades. So go ahead—get in line, throw your hands in the air, and enjoy the ride!
Thinking about a move to Connecticut? Or maybe you're already here and ready to upsize, downsize, resize—or rightsize. Wherever you're headed, I'm here to help. The search for a home is more than a transaction—it’s a journey, and I’d be honored to take it with you.
Let’s talk.
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