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Take A Summer Splash at the Enchanted Forest Water Safari
posted by Teresa Farrell at 2021-07-23 14:34:00
Nestled in the heart of the Adirondack mountains, in the town of Old Forge, Enchanted Forest Water Safari is more than a water park/amusement park combo—it’s a place that’s steeped in tradition and that lives up to its well-earned reputation for family fun. After being closed for the year in 2020 due to COVID regulations, this beloved park is open for business again in 2021!
Enchanted Forest Water Safari has been an Upstate New York staple for generations; folks come from far and wide to spend a summer day on the waterslides and rides, and many are carrying on a tradition that’s gone on since they were kids. The park has won dozens of awards and been named to plenty of best-of lists, and for good reason-- all told, Enchanted Forest Water Safari is home to more than 50 rides and attractions, wet and dry, and there’s truly something for everyone.
Originally established in 1956, what is known today as Enchanted Forest Water Safari began as the Enchanted Forest of the Adirondacks, a park dedicated largely to storybook tales and family entertainment. Today, the focus is still on family fun—but the park has expanded considerably. Now, the park’s roster of water rides has reached new heights—there are 33 of them to choose from, complete with heated water, which makes it a lot easier to plan a trip without worrying what the weather has in store. And, in 2021, three new water rides opened: the Mamba Strike, Serengeti Stampede, and Killermanjaro’s Revenge.
Back on dry land, pick from classic carnival rides like the Ferris wheel, Tilt-O-Whirl, or bumper cars, or spend some time with the younger kids on rides geared just for them. Get a bird’s eye view of the park from the Skyline, or take a loop on land with a spin on the Enchanted Forest Express—the train was the first ride in the park when it opened in 1956, and is still in operation to this day. Younger kids will also enjoy the “Enchanted Attractions,” like the Storybook Lane section of the park, which still stays true to the park’s original concept of bringing nursery rhymes and fairytales to life. There’s also a circus show that goes on twice a day, and a petting zoo, among other attractions. And Calypso’s Cove, right next door to the park, adds to the fun with adventurous options like go-carts for adults and kids alike, an arcade loaded with games, a mini golf course, batting cages, bumper boats, a rock climbing wall, and even a zip line.
If you need a place to stay, there are plenty of options throughout the surrounding town of Old Forge, including a few owned by the Water Safari family. Across the street from the park, the Water’s Edge Inn provides a waterfront lodging experience with high-end amenities and views overlooking Old Forge Pond. Just up the road, a more rustic experience awaits at the Old Forge Camping Resort, which offers tent and RV sites as well as cabins for rent. If you’re planning to stay at either one of these places, plus visit Enchanted Forest Water Safari or Calypso’s Cove, consider a “Stay ‘n Play” package to bundle your tickets and lodging into one and get a discount.
Enchanted Forest Water Safari is open now for the season and will remain open through Labor Day. You can find out more and plan your trip—including buying tickets or making overnight lodging reservations at one of the park’s accommodations--on the Enchanted Forest Water Safari website. Pack your bathing suit and get ready for a wild ride!
Photo Credits
Enchanted Forest Parking Lot With Deer photo credit Enchanted Forest Water Safari
The Shadow photo credit Enchanted Forest Water Safari
Serengeti Stampede photo credit Enchanted Forest Water Safari
RoundUp photo credit Enchanted Forest Water Safari
Rock Climbing Wall Calypsos Cove photo credit Enchanted Forest Water Safari
Cabin at Old Forge Camping Resort photo credit Enchanted Forest Water Safari
The Shadow photo credit Enchanted Forest Water Safari
posted at: 2021-07-23 14:34:00, last updated: 2021-11-23 20:32:02