This old time theme park nestled in the Mount Washington Valley of New Hampshire has remained a summer destination for generations of families. Parents and grandparents return to introduce their children to the park they knew and loved as kids. On their return, they are often pleasantly surprised to find fun new additions such as the Polar Coaster as well as all their old favorites like Cinderella's Castle and The Antique Automobile Ride.
The whimsical entrance to Story Land has been in the same place since the Morrell family opened the park in 1954. The Crooked House portal is the gateway to a child's fantasy land based on familiar nursery rhymes. Kids will recognize the Three Little Pigs, Humptey Dumpty, Alice in Wonderland, Peter Rabbit, and Mother Goose to name a few. Moving further into the park, older kids will enjoy a dowsing at the Bamboo Shoots log ride or Dr. Geyser's raft ride. The Polar Coaster has just enough of high speed excitement at 30 mph for the under ten crowd and Mom and Dad, too. For those with stronger stomachs, there are the Whirling Whales and the Flying Fish. There is a traditional carousel for the youngest set.
Play areas at Story Land are very engaging and original. Everyone will enjoy cooling off on a hot summer's day at the Oceans of Fun "Spray Ground." The whole family will enjoy the Loopy Laboratory where kids of all ages can safely blast foam balls using a variety of amazing shooting and projectile devices. And speaking of shooting.....do you remember the old time carnival shooting gallery and horse race games? Well, Story Land has them for you to relive your childhood memories and introduce your children to some fun.
Story Land is definitely for the kids age ten and under, however the founders have not forgotten amenities that help parents enjoy the park, too. There is ample seating at most venues. Misting tents are spaced throughout the park to help beat the summer heat. The cleanliness of the park and the courtesy and efficiency of the staff has been a hallmark since its opening. It is one of the reasons families return again and again. There are ample food vendors with prices that won't gouge your wallet. Picnic lunches are also allowed and lockers are available to hold them.
After 54 years of operation under the Morrell family, the park was sold this winter. The new owners, Kennywood Entertainment, are also known for their family oriented theme parks in Pennsylvania. They have voiced their intentions to keep the old style park the same for future generations.
The park is open in the summer every day mid-June through August. It is open for weekends Memorial Day Weekend through mid-Jun and Labor Day through Columbus Day. Allow at least half a day to enjoy the park, but most families will want to make the visit a full day to thoroughly enjoy every aspect. Parking is free and the amusement park is handicap accessible. For more detailed information on admission prices and times visit the Story Land web site at www.storylandnh.com
Leave a comment