Planning a day at the park? Most amusement parks with midway rides open on weekends starting in late May, while water parks, along with Monroe County beaches and state park swimming areas, typically begin daily operations around Father’s Day in mid-June. Parks generally stay open daily through Labor Day, then shift to weekend-only hours into mid-October.
💡 Tip: Check each park’s website for the latest hours, pricing, and seasonal specials. Buying tickets online in advance often saves money and time at the gate.
Finger Lakes Region
Seabreeze Amusement & Waterpark
Irondequoit
Monroe County
Seabreeze is the perfect place to make summer memories. The park features thrilling roller coasters, rides for all ages, and a water park with a wave pool and lazy river. Enjoy classic midway games, live entertainment, and all your favorite summertime snacks. Just the right size for families, Seabreeze is big enough for a full day of fun, without being overwhelming.
Seabreeze is also steeped in history. It’s the fourth-oldest amusement park in the United States and the twelfth-oldest in the world—and one of only thirteen surviving trolley parks. Its iconic Jack Rabbit is the oldest continuously operating roller coaster in America, and the fourth-oldest in the world.
Roseland Wake Park
Canandaigua
Ontario County
Roseland Wake Park in Canandaigua offers a unique adrenaline rush—no boat required. As the first and only cable wake park in the northeastern U.S., it uses overhead cable systems to pull riders across the water, making it accessible for beginners and thrilling for pros. With lessons, rentals, and an inflatable water obstacle course, it’s a must-try summer experience for adventure seekers of all ages.
Roseland Waterpark
Canandaigua
Ontario County
Roseland Waterpark is the largest waterpark in the region. It offers 56 acres of aquatic adventure and nine unique attractions that cater to the entire family. The park has free parking, rental lockers, and concessions available. Additionally, there’s plenty of deck space for visitors who want to relax and soak up the sun.
Western New York
Six Flags Darien Lake Amusement & Waterpark
Darien Center
Genesee County
If you’re seeking an exciting adventure, you should definitely visit this amusement park. It boasts some of the fastest, tallest, and most thrilling rides in the country, including several record-breakers. You can also enjoy a variety of water attractions, such as numerous pools, lazy rivers, multi-passenger rafting experiences, and speed slides. For fans of classic roller coasters, The Viper and Ride of Steel are sure to provide hours of excitement!
Niagara Amusement Park & Splash World at Fantasy Island
Grand Island
Niagara County
Niagara Amusement Park & Splash World blends classic nostalgia with modern summer fun. Recently revitalized, this historic park features family-friendly rides, midway games, and a sprawling water park with slides, a lazy river, and splash zones. Located between Niagara Falls and Buffalo, it offers a retro amusement park experience with room to grow—perfect for families looking for a relaxed, affordable day trip in a scenic setting.
Olcott Beach Carousel Park
Olcott Beach
Niagara County
No general admission fees.
This vintage kiddie amusement park located on the shores of Lake Ontario is open on weekends, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. It is a small amusement park that is perfect for families with young children who are up to 52 inches tall. The park does not require an admission fee, and you can enjoy a ride on the 1928 Herschell-Spillman carousel and five other classic kiddie rides, with each ride costing only 25 cents. The park is run entirely by dedicated volunteers who are passionate about providing a fun and safe experience for all visitors.
Central New York
Sylvan Beach Amusement Park
Sylvan Beach
Oneida County
No general admission fees.
Sylvan Beach Amusement Park offers old-fashioned fun on the eastern shore of Oneida Lake. This charming, lakeside park is packed with vintage appeal—think wooden coasters, arcade games, and classic midway rides that have delighted visitors for generations. With its walkable boardwalk, beach access, and nearby restaurants, it’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and summer relaxation for families and casual day-trippers alike. Parking is limited and strictly enforced, with metered spots and a small lot, so plan ahead or arrive early to enjoy a stress-free visit.
Thunder Island Water Park
Fulton
Oswego County
No general admission fees.
Thunder Island is a family-focused amusement and water park with just the right blend of excitement and charm. Splash down water slides, float the lazy river, or enjoy dry-land attractions like go-karts, mini golf, and zip lines. It’s ideal for younger kids and casual thrill-seekers alike. Affordable admission and a low-key atmosphere make Thunder Island a great summer day trip for families looking to cool off and have fun—without the crowds of larger theme parks.
Remember, we don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.
George Bernard Shaw
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Which are your favorite amusement and water parks?
I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Help Support My Work
People often ask if I get free access to the places I visit. The answer is no—unless I’m invited to a special preview or offered behind-the-scenes access through my media role. Most of the time, I don’t even mention Day Trips Around Rochester, New York when I visit a place. I want to have the same experience you would.
I create and share this content because it brings me joy—and I hope it adds value to your adventures, too.
If my work has helped you explore and appreciate the Rochester area, please consider becoming a paid subscriber on Substack. You’ll receive an email whenever I publish new content and have the chance to connect with a growing community of local explorers.
Thank you for supporting my efforts to keep producing meaningful and helpful content.
Thank you!
Debi
Enjoy the Journey Together!
I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Help Support My Work
People often ask if I get free access to the places I visit. The answer is no—unless I’m invited to a special preview or offered behind-the-scenes access through my media role. Most of the time, I don’t even mention Day Trips Around Rochester, New York when I visit a place. I want to have the same experience you would.
I create and share this content because it brings me joy—and I hope it adds value to your adventures, too.
If my work has helped you explore and appreciate the Rochester area, please consider becoming a paid subscriber on Substack. You’ll receive an email whenever I publish new content and have the chance to connect with a growing community of local explorers.
Thank you for supporting my efforts to keep producing meaningful and helpful content.
Thank you!
Debi
Enjoy the Journey Together!