AMUSEMENT PARKS > MASSACHUSETTS

SALEM WILLOWS PARK
167 Fort Ave, Salem, MA (map)
978.745.0251
http://www.salemwillowspark.com

Take Rte 128 north to Rte 114 east, head into Salem, and look for the signs, or take Rte 1A to Salem. Visitors can enjoy the seashore, arcade and carousel, kiddie rides, and ample picnic grounds and recreational facilities. Rowboats and equipment can be rented for ocean fishing, and two beaches are available for swimming. Open Mon through Sat from 10 am to 11 pm, and on Sun from 11 am to 11 pm. Free parking and admission.

SIX FLAGS NEW ENGLAND
Main St (Rte 159 South), Agawam, MA (map)
877.474.9352
http://www.sixflags.com

(From the east, take the Mass Pike to Exit 6, then follow I-291 west to I-91 South. Take Exit 3, cross the bridge, and take the first exit. Follow the rotary to Rte 57, then to Rte 159 south.) Formerly called Riverside Park, the 235-acre property is now part of the Six Flags chain and is easily the largest amusement park in New England. There are 10 roller coasters, including the innovative floor-less Batman: The Dark Knight and the 22-story Superman: Ride of Steel, rated the number-one coaster on the planet. 2006 offers two new attractions, Catapult and Splash Water Falls, in addition to more than 50 other rides. There are two areas that cater to kids, and non-spinning attractions include a 1950s-style soda shop, live Dixieland and rock music, and the usual glut of food stands. From June 17 through Aug 27, open daily from 10 am to 10 pm. Non-peak-season hours may vary. Check Web site for details. Admission $49.99, $29.99 for children 36 to 53 inches tall, free for children under 36 inches. Parking $15.

STORYLAND
Rte 16 (Exit 23 or 32 off I-93), Glen, NH (map)
603.383.4186
fun@storylandnh.com
http://www.storylandnh.com

This 35-acre children's theme park features 21 theme rides, including an antique carousel, swan boats, an African safari, and a pumpkin coach. Rides have names like the Crazy Barn, Polar Coaster, Dutch Shoes, Turtle Twirl, Bamboo Chutes, and the Buccaneer Pirate Ship. New for 2006 is the Flying Fish ride. Other attractions include a sandcastle maze, a talking treehouse, and three rotating live shows. Food stands and picnic areas available. From June 19 through Labor Day, open daily from 9 am to 6 pm. Admission $22, free for children three and under.

WATER WIZZ WATERPARK
Rtes 6 and 28 (near Buzzards Bay), East Wareham, MA (map)
401.364.2070 or 508.295.3255
waterwizz@cox.net
http://www.waterwizz.com

Attractions include the Pirate's Plunge, Squid Row, Harpoon Lagoon, other tube rides, and the relatively dry pastime of miniature golf. Also check out Mussel Beach, a 15,000-square-foot wave pool. Open June 17 and 18 from 10 am to 4 pm. Open from June 19 through July 1 from 10 am to 6 pm, from July 2 through Aug 19 from 10 am to 6:30 pm, and from Aug 20 through Labor Day from 10 am to 6 pm. All hours are weather permitting. Regular season (after June 19) admission $28, $18 after 3:30 pm, $10 after 4:30 pm, $11 for seniors and children less than 48 inches tall. Visit Web site for group rates.