Description of the park
One of the top parks in the country for families with young children, Idlewild is full of charm along with genuine nostalgia for an attraction dating back to 1878. Olde Idlewild, one of seven areas in the park, features classic rides like a carousel of the 1920s, a caterpillar from 1947, one of two remaining that still use a canopy, and the Rollo roller coaster, circa 1938, a wooden roller coaster.
Even the most “modern” areas of the park date back to an earlier time. The Story Book Forest, which opened in 1956, gives children the opportunity to enter the world of fairy tales. And Raccoon Lagoon is full of kiddie rides. With the theme of the PBS children’s show Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, a streetcar transports families to the Land of Make Believe, where characters from the beloved show, including Daniel Striped Tiger, are available for meetups and greetings.
Other features include Confusion Hill, a ride attraction filled with illusions that confuse visitors. The Jumpin ‘Jungle area includes a large slide, swing bridge, crawl tunnel, and the Bubbling Springs ball pit.
Don’t forget your bathing suits. In addition to the dry games, Idlewild offers a good collection of waterslides and other water park attractions in the SoakZone area, including a Little Squirts kiddy pool and a dump bucket. The park also hosts musical shows and an ongoing program of special events such as fireworks and Christmas in July. In October, Idlewild presents Hallowboo, a fearless Halloween festival.
New to the park
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
In 2015, the former land of Mr. Rogers was re-themed to the PBS spinoff series Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.
Location and phone
Ligonier (50 miles from Pittsburgh), Pennsylvania
(724) 238-3666
Hotel Information
Compare prices for hotels in Idlewild-area on TripAdvisor.
Admission information and operating season
Admission to the park includes all rides, attractions, and shows, including the SoakZone water park rides. Children under 2 years old are free. Reduced rates are available for seniors (55 and older). Season passes are available.
Idlewild is open from May to October.
Addresses
From Pittsburgh:
Route 376 Parkway East to PA Turnpike to Exit 67, Irwin. Route 30E to Ligonier.
From Altoona:
Route 220 S, Route 22 W, Route 219 S. Route 30 W to Ligonier.
Other parks
- More theme parks for families with young children
- More theme parks in Pennsylvania
- More Pennsylvania water parks
Official Web site
Idlewild
