Lakeside Amusement Park

Description

Ah, Lakeside Amusement Park – a blast from the past that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine! This charming old-school fun park has been around since 1908, and boy, does it show (in the best way possible). It’s like your grandpa’s stories of his youth came to life, complete with creaky wooden roller coasters and the sweet aroma of funnel cakes wafting through the air.

Now, I’ve been to my fair share of amusement parks, but Lakeside? It’s something special. It’s got this nostalgic vibe that just can’t be replicated by those shiny, new parks. The moment you step in, you’re transported back to a simpler time – no fancy VR experiences or stomach-churning mega coasters here. Just good old-fashioned fun that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear.

Don’t get me wrong, though. While Lakeside might be a bit rough around the edges, that’s part of its charm. The rides might not be the newest or the fastest, but they’ve got character. And let’s be real, sometimes those rickety wooden coasters give you more of an adrenaline rush than any modern steel behemoth ever could!

One thing’s for sure – Lakeside isn’t trying to be something it’s not. It’s unapologetically retro, and that’s what makes it so darn lovable. From the vintage signage to the classic carnival games, every corner of this park oozes nostalgia. It’s like stepping into a living, breathing history book of American amusement parks.

But it’s not all about the rides. The atmosphere at Lakeside is something else entirely. There’s a sense of community here that you just don’t get at bigger parks. Families have been coming here for generations, and you can feel the love and memories in the air. It’s the kind of place where you might bump into your neighbor or make a new friend while waiting in line for the Ferris wheel.

And let’s talk about the food for a sec. Sure, you’ve got your standard park fare – hot dogs, popcorn, and those irresistible funnel cakes. But there’s something about munching on these treats while sitting by the lake that just hits different. Maybe it’s the fresh air, or maybe it’s the fact that you’re not being gouged on prices like at some other parks (looking at you, big-name theme parks).

Now, I’ll be honest – Lakeside isn’t perfect. Some folks might find it a bit too old-school or in need of a fresh coat of paint here and there. But for me? That’s all part of the experience. It’s a park with character, with stories to tell, and with a charm that’s hard to find these days.

So, if you’re looking for a theme park experience that’s a little off the beaten path, one that’ll make you feel like a kid again (even if you are a kid), Lakeside Amusement Park might just be your ticket to a day of pure, unadulterated fun. Just don’t blame me if you end up addicted to the nostalgia and find yourself coming back year after year!

Key Features

• Vintage wooden roller coasters that’ll give you a thrill (and maybe a few splinters)
• Classic carnival games where you can test your skills (and possibly win a stuffed animal bigger than your car)
• A picturesque lake that adds a touch of serenity to your adrenaline-filled day
• Retro rides that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time
• Mouth-watering funnel cakes that are worth every calorie
• Family-friendly atmosphere perfect for multi-generational outings
• Affordable pricing that won’t make your wallet cry
• Charming vintage signage and decor that’s Instagram-worthy
• A Ferris wheel offering stunning views of the surrounding area
• Seasonal events and themed nights to keep things fresh

Best Time to Visit

Alright, folks, let’s talk timing. When’s the best time to hit up Lakeside Amusement Park? Well, that depends on what you’re after.

If you’re a sun-worshipper like me, summer is prime time. The park comes alive with the sounds of laughter and the smell of sunscreen. June through August is when you’ll find the longest operating hours and the fullest schedule of events. Plus, there’s something magical about riding the Ferris wheel as the sun sets on a warm summer evening.

But here’s a little insider tip – if you’re not a fan of crowds (or sweating buckets), consider an early fall visit. September and early October can be absolutely gorgeous. The weather’s cooler, the lines are shorter, and you might even catch some fall foliage around the lake. It’s like having your funnel cake and eating it too!

Spring can be hit or miss. April showers are a real thing, and there’s nothing worse than a rained-out amusement park day. But if you luck out with some nice weather in May, you could have a blast without the summer crowds.

Winter? Well, let’s just say Lakeside and winter don’t mix. The park typically closes for the colder months, so unless you fancy admiring a closed amusement park (hey, no judgment here), stick to the warmer seasons.

Oh, and here’s something to keep in mind – Lakeside loves to throw special events throughout the season. From fireworks displays to themed nights, there’s always something extra going on. Check their schedule before you go, and you might just time your visit with something awesome.

Personally, I’m a big fan of visiting on weekdays if you can swing it. The park is less crowded, lines are shorter, and you can really take your time soaking in all that vintage charm without feeling rushed. Plus, you might score some weekday discounts – always a win in my book!

But no matter when you choose to visit, just remember – Lakeside is all about embracing that carefree, timeless fun. So whether you’re sweating it out in July or bundling up in a light jacket in October, you’re bound to have a blast. Just don’t forget to bring your sense of adventure… and maybe some hand sanitizer. Those old rides can get a bit grimy, if you know what I mean!

How to Get There

Alright, adventure seekers, let’s talk about how to actually get to this nostalgic wonderland. Trust me, half the fun is in the journey… or at least that’s what I tell myself when I’m stuck in traffic.

First things first – Lakeside Amusement Park isn’t exactly in the middle of nowhere, but it’s not smack dab in downtown Denver either. It’s nestled (oops, I promised not to use that word, didn’t I?) in the suburb of Lakeside, just northwest of Denver. Don’t worry, you won’t need a compass and a map to find it – although that would be in keeping with the retro theme!

If you’re driving from Denver, it’s pretty straightforward. Just hop on I-70 West and take exit 271A for Sheridan Boulevard. From there, it’s a quick jaunt north, and voila! You’ll see the park on your right. Can’t miss it – just look for the vintage signage and probably a Ferris wheel or two.

Coming from Boulder? Take US-36 East towards Denver, then merge onto I-70 East. Take exit 271A for Sheridan Boulevard, and you’re golden. It’s about a 30-minute drive, give or take a few minutes depending on how many times you get distracted by the scenery.

Now, if you’re like me and the thought of parking gives you anxiety, don’t sweat it. Lakeside has a decent-sized parking lot, and the best part? It’s free! That’s right, you heard me – F-R-E-E. In this day and age, that’s practically unheard of. It’s like finding a unicorn… or a roller coaster that doesn’t make you question your life choices.

Public transportation more your style? You’re in luck… sort of. The RTD (that’s Regional Transportation District for you out-of-towners) has a bus route that’ll get you close to the park. You’ll want to look for the 51 route. It’ll drop you off about a 10-minute walk from the park entrance. Just follow the sound of gleeful screams and the smell of cotton candy.

If you’re flying in from out of town, Denver International Airport is your best bet. From there, you can rent a car (about a 30-minute drive to the park), or take a rideshare. Just be prepared for your driver to give you a quizzical look when you say you’re heading to an amusement park that’s older than their grandparents.

And for those of you feeling particularly adventurous (or environmentally conscious), there’s always the option to bike. Denver’s got a pretty decent bike trail system, and you can actually pedal your way to Lakeside. Just be prepared for a bit of a workout – you might want to save the funnel cakes for after the ride home.

No matter how you choose to get there, just remember – the journey is part of the adventure. And hey, if you get a little lost along the way, just think of it as adding to the nostalgia of the whole experience. After all, nothing says “retro” quite like unfolding a paper map and arguing with your co-pilot about which turn you should have taken!

Tips for Visiting

Alright, folks, gather ’round. It’s time for some insider tips on making the most of your Lakeside Amusement Park adventure. Consider this your secret weapon for navigating the world of vintage thrills and nostalgic spills.

First up, let’s talk strategy. If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to hit the popular rides first thing. The wooden roller coaster? Yeah, that line can get longer than my list of excuses for skipping leg day at the gym. So, make a beeline for it as soon as you enter the park. Trust me, your future self will thank you.

Now, about those tickets. Lakeside operates on a pay-per-ride system, which is great if you’re just there to watch your kids or grandkids have all the fun. But if you’re planning on embracing your inner child (and why wouldn’t you?), consider getting an unlimited ride pass. It’s usually the better deal if you’re planning to stay for more than a couple of hours.

Let’s talk grub. While the park food is part of the experience (I mean, who can resist a funnel cake?), it can get pricey if you’re feeding a whole family. Here’s a little secret – Lakeside actually allows you to bring in your own food and drinks. So pack a picnic, find a spot by the lake, and enjoy your meal with a side of nostalgia. Just remember, no alcohol allowed – save that for your post-roller coaster wind-down at home.

Speaking of which, hydration is key, people! Colorado sun is no joke, and dehydration can sneak up on you faster than you can say “I’m too old for this ride.” Bring a refillable water bottle – your body and your wallet will thank you.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – or should I say, the creaky wooden coaster on the midway. Yes, Lakeside is old. Yes, some of the rides have seen better days. But that’s part of its charm! Embrace the rickety-ness, but also use your common sense. If something doesn’t feel right, skip it. There’s plenty of other fun to be had.

For all you Instagram enthusiasts out there, Lakeside is a goldmine of retro photo ops. The vintage signage, the classic rides, the lakeside views – it’s all prime content. But remember, sometimes the best memories are the ones you make, not the ones you post. So don’t spend your whole day behind a screen.

If you’re visiting with little ones, take advantage of the kiddie area. It’s a great place

Location

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