Arts & Entertainment

New Season At Lake Compounce Starts Saturday

Located in Bristol and Southington, the season kicks off at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 27.

Another season kicks off Saturday, April 27, at Bristol/Southington's Lake Compounce, one of the nation's older (if not the oldest) amusement parks.
Another season kicks off Saturday, April 27, at Bristol/Southington's Lake Compounce, one of the nation's older (if not the oldest) amusement parks. (Lake Compounce)

SOUTHINGTON/BRISTOL, CT — April is always a month of "opening days," whether it's fishing or baseball.

But on Saturday, April 27, a long-anticipated "opening day" will take place at one of Connecticut's most iconic tourist destinations — Lake Compounce, which dates back to 1846.

Laying claim to being one of the nation's oldest and longest-operating amusement parks, Lake Compounce is home to a plethora of heart-pounding roller coasters, thrill rides, and even rides for the kiddies (or the less brave).

Find out what's happening in Southingtonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The new season, which lasts through Halloween and Christmas, has seen some additions and subtractions.

Earlier this year, the park announced the closure of its bumper cars, the classic trolley that parallels the lake, and a kiddie ride called "Jolly Jester."

Find out what's happening in Southingtonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

But significant upgrades have been made to two beloved roller coasters that are both critically acclaimed and thrill-inducing.

New tracks have been laid out for the "Wildcat" wooden roller coaster while new segments were added to the mountain-hugging "Boulder Dash" coaster, the park's signature ride and considered one of the best in the nation.

The park, located at 185 Enterprise Drive, Bristol, is located in Southington as well.

And for a limited time, guests have the chance to save up to 50 percent off on tickets and season passes.

In addition, 2024 will see the return of Kids Fest and an All-New Beach Bash, among other events, including "Phantom Fall Fest" for Halloween and the "Holiday Lights" event at Christmastime.

Needless to say, enthusiasm is high for another year of fun there and it has even caught the attention of Gov. Ned Lamont, who Tweeted about it on "X" (formerly Twitter).

For more information on Lake Compounce and to purchase tickets/passes, click on this link.

From Jan. 24: 'Lake Compounce Closing Three Attractions, Upgrading Others'

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