Warm summer weekends call for city escapes and adventure — and what better place to find both than at one of the many theme parks near Boston. From the North Shore to the further-flung Lake Compounce, below are some of the best theme parks near Boston to pay a visit to this summer.
1. Six Flags New England
Though it’s a two-hour drive from Boston, Six Flags New England is worth the trek. It’s a one-stop destination for all your theme park desires, with enough attractions to satisfy most thrill seekers or anyone simply looking to escape the city. It’s also the oldest park in the national Six Flags theme park chain. From thrilling roller coasters to kiddie rides, this renowned theme park is perfect for a weekend getaway. Plan for a day trip to experience all this park has to offer within its 235 acres, including the much-lauded Superman the Ride, the longest and tallest coaster on the East Coast!
Find it at 1623 Main St, Agawam, MA 01001.
2. Canobie Lake Park
This charming lakeside theme park is a mere hour (31 miles) north of Boston. Like many attractions near Boston, it’s older than the average theme park, having opened in 1902. This century-old theme park once featured a botanical garden alongside a handful of rides. Today, the ride selection has grown to include over numerous attractions and four roller coasters, including the popular Canobie Corkscrew and Untamed. Kids and history buffs alike will enjoy the park’s antique carousel, constructed in 1903 and featuring a zoo of wooden animals.
Find it at 85 N Policy St, Salem, NH 03079.
3. Water Wizz
Water Wizz of Cape Cod is a perfect destination for those already headed to the Cape, as it’s an hour-and-a-half drive from Boston. However, those who make the trek will be rewarded with impressive rides. Among them are the Devil’s Peak, a 61-foot free-fall waterslide, and a twisting, partially enclosed tube ride cleverly titled Squid Row. Water Wizz also appeared in the 2010 movie Grown Ups.
Find it at 3031 Cranberry Highway, East Wareham, MA 02538.
4. Lake Compounce
Though it’s a longer drive from Boston (two hours, to be exact), there’s a compelling reason to make a trip to Lake Compounce. It’s North America’s oldest continually operating theme parks, having first opened its doors in 1846. Fans of history and (modest) heights will enjoy riding the Wildcat, one of the oldest roller coasters in the world. This wooden coaster has been around since 1927. For the more modern thrill-seeker, Lake Compounce is also home to more modern coasters like Boulder Dash, a wooden coaster that takes guests along the lush, tree-lined perimeter of the park. The historic theme park also includes water park sections and Dino Expedition, a Jurassic Park-esque “zoo” of animatronic dinosaurs.
Find it at 186 Enterprise Dr, Bristol, CT 06010.