New Jersey was once home to some of the most beloved amusement parks that defined countless summers, only to now exist in memory. One of the most iconic was Palisades Amusement Park, perched above the Hudson River.
It wasn’t just a park; it was a cultural touchstone. From its breathtaking view of Manhattan to the epic roller coasters and thrilling Cyclone ride, Palisades was the place for family outings.
Open from the early 1900s until it closed in 1971, it had everything: a saltwater pool, live music, and games. There was even a song dedicated to it, capturing just how much it meant to the people who visited.
Then there was Action Park, the stuff of legends—and some bruises. If you grew up near Vernon, NJ, in the ’80s or ’90s, you either went to Action Park or heard the wild stories.
The water park’s most infamous ride was the Cannonball Loop, a water slide with a full 360-degree loop that was quickly shut down because it was too dangerous. Despite all its notoriety (or maybe because of it), people still look back on Action Park with a mix of terror and fondness.
It was the kind of place where you might walk away with a few scrapes, but also some of your best summer stories.
Bowcraft Amusement Park, a more low-key family destination in Scotch Plains, also left its mark. For over 70 years, it offered kid-friendly rides and attractions like the Dragon Roller Coaster and a charming carousel. It may not have had the wild reputation of bigger parks, but for many local families, Bowcraft was the ideal spot for birthdays and weekends until it closed in 2018.
Lake Hopatcong’s Bertrand Island Amusement Park was another classic, blending the feel of a lakeside retreat with amusement park thrills. Its wooden roller coaster and beachfront rides attracted families from all over. Opening in the 1920s and closing in the early ’80s, it had a kind of small-town charm that’s rare today.
And of course, no discussion of lost New Jersey amusement parks would be complete without Hunt’s Pier in Wildwood. Though Wildwood’s boardwalk still thrives, Hunt’s Pier stood out for its unique rides, especially the Golden Nugget Mine Ride. From the 1950s through the mid-1980s, it was a must-see for any family heading to the Shore.
These parks are gone, replaced by housing developments, strip malls, or just fond recollections, but they left an indelible mark on the people who visited. Whether you braved the coasters of Palisades, faced down the danger of Action Park, or spent a day on the boardwalk at Hunt’s Pier, these amusement parks gave us unforgettable memories.
