This Great Lakes Destination Is One Of America's Oldest Amusement Parks With Free Entry

Among the best towns to visit on the Great Lakes, there's one in Pennsylvania that also happens to be home to one of the country's oldest amusement parks. In Erie, Waldameer Park & Water World has been delighting visitors since 1896. What started as a trolley park and picnic area on the shores of Lake Erie has grown into a full-fledged summer destination — and unlike most major theme parks, you don't have to pay to get in.

The park's name, Waldameer, means "woods by the sea" in German. Back in the early 1900s, the park's attractions included a Hofbrau German beer garden, carousel, and dance hall. The beer garden's servers even serenaded guests as they enjoyed their brews. But despite its over-a-century-long history, Waldameer doesn't feel like a relic. Visitors can enjoy a mix of vintage rides (yes, there's still the classic Whacky Shack) and more thrilling modern attractions, like the award-winning Ravine Flyer II roller coaster. Within the park, there's also Water World, complete with thrilling water slides and a giant wave pool.

With this park keeping both history buffs and adrenaline junkies happy, it's the perfect day trip to add to your Lake Erie itinerary. So, if you're ready for an old-school amusement park experience, complete with hand-dipped ice cream, an arcade, and Lake Erie views, it doesn't get more classic than Waldameer Park & Water World.

One of the best perks about Waldameer is that anyone can stroll in, grab a funnel cake, and play some classic carnival games without paying at the gate. Pay-per-ride tickets and all-day wristbands are available for purchase if you want to hit the attractions, making this one of the most budget-friendly amusement parks in the country. It's also perfect for families or groups with different interests and thrill levels. There's just one caveat: If you wish to also enjoy the Water World section, you must purchase either a day pass or a combo wristband.

The amusement park has over 30 rides, from not-so-scary kiddie coasters to the famous Ravine Flyer II, a wooden coaster that drops you 120 feet. For something a little more relaxed, take a spin on the Ferris wheel for panoramic views of Lake Erie, or hop aboard the vintage carousel.

Over at Water World, you can enjoy a lazy river, a giant wave pool, and a splash area designed just for the kids. Of course, there are lots of tube slides and speed slides for the more adventurous, and the heated pool is a hit with anyone wanting to just kick back and relax.

Waldameer Park is located near the entrance to Presque Isle State Park, making it an ideal stop on a summer road trip. For example, the Great Lakes Seaway Trail ends in Erie, so Waldameer could be the final destination on your New York road trip full of Great Lakes views. The park is open from late May through Labor Day (peak season is June to August), with daily hours on the website. Parking is free (another rarity for a theme park), and visitors are welcome to bring their own food and coolers in the picnic areas of the park. You can even bring in portable grills and beer (except on holidays). Another perk for roadtrippers and families: pets are allowed in the park area as long as they're leashed.

Ride passes come at different price points, but a one-day combo pass gets you access to everything for $54. For frequent visitors, general season passes are available for $140, with a discount for kids and seniors. Inside tip: Buy your passes online for a discount. No cash is accepted inside the park, so either bring a card or purchase a Wally Card at admissions for gameplay, concession purchases, and gift shop visits.

The Erie area has plenty of family-friendly hotels, lakeside vacation rentals, and campgrounds nearby for out-of-towners looking to extend their stay. Many visitors pair their Waldameer trip with a day on the sandy beaches of Presque Isle, kayaking around the lagoons, or a stop at the Erie Maritime Museum. You're also close to other attractions like the Tom Ridge Environmental Center and the Erie Zoo. So if you're looking for a lakefront summer adventure that's budget- and family-friendly, be sure to add Waldameer to your ultimate amusement parks bucket list.