6 Amusement Parks Near Rochester

Oh, how we miss our amusement parks in the winter! When May comes around, you find the parks with dry-rides opening on the weekends, and then every day around June 1.

The water parks, along with most Monroe County beach parks and State Parks with public pools, tend to open closer to Father’s Day in mid-June. They’ll run every day through Labor Day, then taper the hours back to weekends-only until mid-October.

My father used to have a membership to Darien Lake. He would plan days off from work just so he could go during the week and ride the water slides all day! 

Having grown up in Irondequoit, I’m incredibly partial to Seabreeze.

Here is some helpful information, but you will always find the most current information on each park’s website for hours & pricing.

Always look for specials. Even just purchasing online in advance can provide you with discounts.

1. Seabreeze Amusement & Waterpark

Irondequoit

A ride & slide pass will cost about $32 for an adult.

Get a whole world of family fun with roller coasters, thrilling adult and family rides, great kiddie rides, and a whole waterpark, too.

Play on the midway, see a spectacular show and enjoy some summertime treats. Not too big, and not too small – just the right size for your family.

Located in Rochester, NY near Lake Ontario, with plenty of free parking.

2. Darien Lake Amusement & Waterpark

Darien Center

A gate pass runs about $50.

We’re New York State’s Coaster Capital, and Western New York’s #1 Family Fun Destination! 

In addition to rides & slides, Darien Lake specializes in entertainment, hosting a summer concert series, plus in-park themed events.

3. Roseland Waterpark

Canandaigua

A gate pass is around $30

Roseland Waterpark is the largest waterpark in the Finger Lakes Region with 56 acres of aquatic adventure and 9 unique attractions for the entire family.

Sparkling heated water, certified lifeguards, free parking, rental lockers, concessions, and plenty of deck space for relaxing make this the hottest spot to get cool on Canandaigua Lake.

4. Fantasy Island Amusement & Waterpark

Grand Island

A gate pass is about $35

Over 40 Rides, Water Slides and Shows. Family rides like the Gondola Wheel and bumper cars.

High flying thrill rides like the Silver Comet and Mind Warp. Carousel and kiddie rides, plus a train. Water slides, lazy river and wave pool. Even live Wild West shows.

Fantasy Island has it all! Located minutes away from Buffalo and Niagara Falls.

5. Sylvan Beach Amusement Park

Sylvan Beach

Unlimited ride pass is abut $25

With roots beginning in the 1870’s the area has a rich history. It thrives today as a great beach location with all of the makings of a wonderful vacation spot.

The numerous shops, restaurants, amusement park, beach, entertainment, local festivals and more provide for great summer fun!

6. Thunder Island Water Park

Fullton

Prices are based on rides and attractions with no general admission fees. Great news for chaperones!

Check out our eight water slides with 5 pools, 3 styles of go-karts, a beautiful sprawling jungle golf course and the newest Soaring Eagle Zip line ride.

And some of the best of all things: NO general admission. That’s right, no general admission and that means no sales tax on rides or attractions and no parking fees. Pick your preferences whether it’s just golf, go karts, zip-lining or water sliding. 

Remember, we don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing! George Bernard Shaw

Where are your favorite amusement parks?

Share your thoughts with us in the comments. Your insight and experience is invaluable!