Idlewild & SoakZone
Idlewild & SoakZone, located in Ligonier, Pennsylvania, is one of America’s oldest amusement parks, blending gentle family rides, classic storybook walk-throughs, and water attractions in a peaceful wooded setting. It’s regularly ranked as one of the best amusement parks in the U.S. for families with younger children.
History & Background
Idlewild originally opened in 1878 as a picnic grove and has evolved into a full-fledged amusement park while maintaining its laid-back, nostalgic vibe. The Mellon family had long operated it before being acquired by Palace Entertainment (now Herschend Family Entertainment) as part of the 2025 acquisition. Its combination of charming rides and natural scenery makes it a Northeast family favorite.
Ticket Prices & Packages
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1-Day Tickets: ~$44.99–$54.99 (cheaper online)
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Under 2 years old: Free
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Season Passes: Gold and Platinum are available with perks
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Group rates and birthday packages are available
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Open late May through early October, weekends only, early/late season.
Typical hours: 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM
SoakZone closes ~5:00 PM
Best times to visit:
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Weekdays in June and early August
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September weekends for lower crowds and cool weather
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Avoid the 4th of July weekend if possible
Top Rides & Attractions
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Rollo Coaster – Historic wooden coaster built into a hillside (1920s classic)
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Wild Mouse – Compact steel coaster with sharp hairpins
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Skooters – Old-school bumper cars
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Ferris Wheel, Tilt-A-Whirl, and Flying Aces – Classic flat rides
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Paul Bunyan’s Loggin’ Toboggan – Flume ride with scenic wooded drop
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Carousel & Antique Cars – Perfect for all ages
Storybook Forest
Idlewild’s most famous attraction for younger kids:
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Walk-through nursery rhyme displays
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Meet characters like Mother Goose, Goldilocks, and Little Red Riding Hood
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Castle, gingerbread house, Jack & Jill’s Hill, and the Crooked Man’s House
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Great photo ops and very interactive for toddlers
SoakZone Water Park
Included with admission, open late June through Labor Day:
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Pipeline Plunge – Speed slides
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Hydra Racer – Mat racing slide
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Wowabunga Family Wave Pool
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Captain Kidd’s Adventure Galley – Multi-level water playground with tipping bucket
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Little Squirts – Splash pad for toddlers
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Cabanas, lockers, and shaded lounge areas are available
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
A major draw for preschoolers:
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Trolley ride with Daniel, Katerina, and friends
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Fully themed show scenes recreating episodes
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Perfect for fans of the PBS Kids hit series
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Meet-and-greet opportunities with Daniel Tiger
Dining Options
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Hootin’ Holler Food Court – Pizza, burgers, chicken tenders, and sandwiches
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Idlewild Grill – BBQ ribs, hot dogs, and classic summer foods
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Olde Idlewild Ice Cream Parlor – Sundaes, cones, and shakes
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Dippin’ Dots, Funnel Cakes, Popcorn, and Lemonade Stands throughout the park
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Picnic pavilions allow outside food — one of the park’s best features
Plenty of allergy-friendly and vegetarian options are available.
Hotels & Accommodation
No on-site lodging, but several good family options nearby in Ligonier, Latrobe, and Greensburg:
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Ramada by Wyndham Ligonier – Closest hotel to the park
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SpringHill Suites Latrobe – Great for larger families
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Hampton Inn Greensburg – About 25 minutes away
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Campgrounds and RV parks in the Laurel Highlands area
Getting There & Parking
Address: 2574 US-30, Ligonier, PA 15658
Located off U.S. Route 30, about 1 hour east of Pittsburgh.
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Parking is free
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Plenty of shaded picnic and parking areas
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Some narrow rural roads — plan on busy weekends
Tips for Visiting
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Plan for half water park, half dry rides on hot days
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Ride the Rollo Coaster and the Wild Mouse first before the lines build
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Don’t skip Storybook Forest — it’s a kid favorite
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Bring a picnic — outside food is welcome
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Daniel Tiger ride is best in the morning before nap-time crowds arrive