AMUSEMENT PARKS > CONNECTICUT

LAKE COMPOUNCE THEME PARK
Rte 229N (Exit 31 off I-84), Bristol, CT (map)
860.583.3300
info@lakecompounce.com
http://www.lakecompounce.com

While other places must build ever-higher roller coasters, Lake Compounce can claim a superlative as long as it stays in business. It opened in 1846, making it the oldest amusement park in the country. Besides bragging rights, you'll find water slides, Down Time (the 185-foot freefall), the Ghost Hunt (fun with black lights!), and Boulder Dash (considered one of the best wooden coasters in the world). Hours of operation vary. Visit Web site for details. Regular admission $32.95, $23.95 for juniors, $16.95 for seniors, free for children three and under. Special group rates available. Parking $5.

OCEAN BEACH PARK
1225 Ocean Ave (Exit 82A off I-95), New London, CT (map)
800.510.7263
http://www.ocean-beach-park.com

The wooden boardwalk is the main attraction here. It's where you may likely find yourself sidetracked for a couple of hours just waving at the ferries. If that gets tiresome, there's an arcade, miniature golf, a triple water slide, a kiddie playground, midway games, children's rides, a Scrambler for the older guests, a nature walk, and an Olympic-size pool. No pets allowed. Open on weekends from 8 am to 10 pm, and on weekdays from 9 am to 10 pm. Beach closes at sundown. Parking $14 on weekends, $10 on weekdays. Parking prices include admission. Pedestrian admission $5, $3 for children and seniors. Locker rentals available.

QUASSY AMUSEMENT PARK
Rte 64 (Exit 17 off I-84), Middlebury, CT (map)
800.367.7275
info@quassy.com
http://www.quassy.com

Located on Lake Quassapaug, this park specializes in water activities, with a cruise boat (the Quassy Queen II), water coaster, and pedal boats. Check out Saturation Station, a multi-tiered area featuring more than 30 ways to get soaked. Other attractions include a roller coaster, an arcade, a petting zoo, food stands, a beach, and karaoke. From June 23 through Aug 27, open Sat through Thurs from 11 am to 8 pm, and on Fri and Sat from 11 am to 10 pm. Open July 4 from 11 am to 10 pm. Visit Web site for other special dates. Free admission. Individual ride tickets $3. All Day Ride & Swim passes $19.95, $15.95 for children under 45 inches. Season passes and group rates also available.