With rising gas prices, trips to well know national parks such as Disney World, have become somewhat cost prohibitive. But that’s not to say that CT residents don’t have great alternatives if water slides and roller coasters are what you’re looking for.

CTFG would like to offer up some other nearby suggestions that tend to be overshadowed by their out-of-state counterparts. What they might lack in size, they undoubtedly make up for in fun!

Lake Compounce - Bristol, CT

Here is the perfect opportunity to add a little excitement and adventure into your life without having to travel very far!! Ideally positioned in Central CT, Lake Compounce has been providing its visitors with thrills for over 160 years and is considered America's oldest operating amusement park. It's time to bring out the child in you and treat yourself and/or your family to a fun-filled day full of excitement.

With major improvements to the park since 1996 (totaling more than $60million), one should not have to look very far to find a ride to enjoy. Lake Compounce offers its visitors a unique layout that does an exceptional job of blending together a combination of amusement rides and water rides.

The infamous "Boulder Dash" roller coaster and "Mammoth Falls" raft adventure guarantee to provide you with some excitement. Granted, it might not be the largest amusement park that you will ever encounter but it can definitely be one of the most enjoyable at a fraction of the price.

Six Flags New England - Agawam, MA

Connecticut is very fortunate to be in such close proximity to this widely heralded amusement park. When Riverside Amusement Park was purchased by Six Flags Theme Park Inc. in 2000, amusement park enthusiasts across the state were thrilled with the news. In only a short period of time, they had transformed this park into an absolute masterpiece. Six Flags has grown considerably in size over the last several years and offers a wide array of attractions for people of all ages.

Whether you enjoy thrill rides, tamer rides, children’s rides, water rides, games, or performances, this park has exactly what you are looking for!! For you roller coaster crazies who are looking to get your heart rate up, CTFG would recommend taking a ride on the Mind Eraser, Flashback, or Pandemonium.

In 2003, the Island Kingdom Water Park was introduced at the park. Here, you can either spend the day floating around the lazy river or zipping down one of it’s many water slides. All-in-all, Six Flags New England can hold its own against any amusement park across the country. Make a day of it and take advantage of all that awaits you!!

 

 

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