Lakemont Park

Altoona, United States

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Lakemont Park in Altoona, Pennsylvania, United States, is one of the oldest amusement parks in the country, opening in 1894 as a trolley park designed to attract streetcar riders on weekends. It features the Leap-The-Dips roller coaster, built in 1902, which is the oldest operating wooden roller coaster in the world and designated a National Historic Landmark.

Originally encompassing gardens, a lake, a theater, and picnic areas, the park expanded in the early 20th century with rides such as Shoot the Chutes, a Ferris wheel, and the Whip. Lakemont Park served as a popular community gathering spot, hosting events like Civil War reenactments and Bible conferences over many decades.

Though the park temporarily closed from 2017 to 2018 due to financial challenges, it reopened focusing more on family entertainment and community events while keeping its historic rides intact. The park remains a cherished historic site blending amusement with local heritage.