Rocky Point Amusement Park

The Skyliner gondola ride station nicolab (Atlas Obscura User)

Remnants of the Rocky Point Amusement Park are still visible today. In operation from the 1840s to 1996, the amusement park was once the biggest attraction in Rhode Island complete with a dining hall serving classic New England food and hosting concerts. Although its use as an amusement park ended in 1994, and the land was abandoned for 20 years, most Rhode Islanders who lived nearby at the time recall fun family gatherings and good times at the park.

One of the most iconic features is a giant “A” shaped arch. Originally one of 11 arches from the 1964 World’s Fair, it was brought to Rocky Point in three pieces. The property reopened to the public as a state park in 2014.

Today there are still remnants of the amusement park rides scattered across the park. The graffiti-covered base of an old water tower, the central support for the Circle Swings, stairs that once led to the Horror House, and the filled-in Olympic-sized salt-water pool. The wires and pulleys for the Skyliner gondolas are seen stretching up a hill into the woods. If you look carefully, you might see the old rollercoaster rails hidden under fallen leaves. The giant “A” arch still stands.

The pier has recently been rebuilt, and now offers stunning views of Narragansett Bay and much of Rhode Island’s northern coastline. Around the park, there are signs with old photographs that describe the park in its heyday.

Know Before You Go

Dogs are allowed at the park on leash.

There are two parking lots, one just outside of the southern end of the park, which requires a short walk into the park, and a lot inside of the park. There are also a few handicapped parking spots down by the water.