A Hidden Gem of an Amusement Park: Waldameer Park & Water World
Erie, PAWaldameer Park and Water World
Waldameer Park & Water World in Erie, PA.
Opening in 1896, Waldameer is currently the 6th oldest continuously operated amusement park in the United States. We first discovered the park in the summer of 2023 and returned for our second trip in summer 2025 and loved it just as much. With 5 coasters of various sizes, classic family rides, kiddie rides, and a whole water park, there is something for everyone.
We love that the park is reasonably priced and has free parking. Waldameer also has a wristband system, so if someone in your group is a non-rider, they can enter the park free of charge and still enjoy time with friends and family.
Both times we were there, the lines were very reasonable and the park was clean and not crowded. They have a very family-friendly atmosphere with lots of shade trees, benches, and pavilions where you can enjoy outside food and drinks. While we didn’t take advantage of bringing our doodles, we could have because Waldameer is one of the few amusement parks that welcomes pets.
Waldameer is just minutes from Lake Erie and Presque Isle. From the top of the over 100 foot Ferris Wheel, you can see beautiful views of Lake Erie, Presque Isle, and on a clear day, you may even see the shores of Canada.
Do you love nostalgic wholesome amusement parks like we do? Where else should we visit? Hop over to our Instagram or Facebook pages to let us know!
Waldameer Park & Water World, a family-friendly amusement park.
Tips for Visiting:
1. Pack water bottles, snacks, and lunch for your crew. But, if it’s in the budget, splurge on some amazing fair fare. There are many pavilions on the south side of the park. Our favorite is Merry Go Round Grove which is located behind the Music Express and very convenient to rest rooms.
3. Consider packing a small bag or fanny pack. Have a place you can easily stash your small belongings during rides so you don’t end up losing them. Think phone, car keys, sunglasses, and a credit/debit card or Wally Card.
4. Waldameer is CASHLESS. Bring a credit or debit card to use or convert cash to a Wally Card (1 point = $1) at the admission counter, Wally Card kiosks, guest services, or the Arcade Card dispensers.
5. Take a quick trip to dip your toes into Lake Erie. Lake Erie is just minutes down North Peninsula Drive from Waldameer Park with beautiful beaches on Presque Isle.
Local Campgrounds:
1. Camper’s Hill Campground. 12681 Route 89, Wattsburg, PA 16442. Phone: (814) 739-2272. Within 30 miles of Waldameer. Offers discount tickets to the Park.
2. Erie KOA Holiday. 6645 West Road, McKean, PA 16426. Phone: (800) 562-7610. Within 10 miles of Waldameer.
3. Folly’s End Campground. 8600 Avonia Road (Rt. 98), Girard, PA 16417. Phone: (814) 474-5730. About 12 miles from Waldameer.
4. Higby’s Campground & Cottages. 24360 Lakeview Drive, Union City, PA 16438. Phone: (814) 694-3050. About 34 miles from Waldameer.
5. Meadville Campground. 25164 Highway 27, Meadville, PA 16335. Phone: (814) 789-3251. About 45 miles of Waldameer.
6. Presque Isle Passage. 6300 Sterretania Road, Fairview, PA, 16415. Phone: (814) 833-3272.
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