Wooden coasters, gold stars for celebrities, and Stephen King’s muse—uncover six fun facts about historic Canobie Lake Park.

As spring approaches in New England, families throughout the region eagerly anticipate the opening of one of its most treasured attractions. Canobie Lake Park in Salem, New Hampshire, will open its gates for the 2025 season on May 17, continuing a tradition of family entertainment that spans more than 120 years. This beloved destination offers more than just thrilling rides—it’s a living piece of American recreational history. Here are six fascinating facts about this enduring New England landmark that might surprise even longtime visitors.

1. A trolley park pioneer

In the early 1900s, trolley companies needed a way to boost weekend ridership when commuters weren’t traveling to work. The Hudson, Pelham & Salem Railways opened Canobie Lake Park in 1902 to give people a destination and reason to ride the trolleys on weekends. Per New Hampshire Magazine, the park initially featured botanical gardens, an electric fountain, a bandstand, restaurants, a penny arcade, and a carousel—quite different from today’s thrill-seeking destination. Today, Canobie is one of America’s few remaining trolley parks, a vanishing piece of early 20th-century recreational history.

2. Rescued from residential development

The Great Depression nearly spelled the end for Canobie Lake Park, per Park World Online. After the decline of trolley travel due to the growing popularity of automobiles, the park closed on St. Patrick’s Day in 1929. By 1931, the property was headed for subdivision into residential lots when Patrick J. Holland, an Irish construction contractor, purchased the entire property for $17,000. His vision and investment not only saved the park but also launched its renaissance with new attractions and modern amenities.

3. The iconic Yankee Cannonball

While many historic amusement parks have sacrificed their classic wooden roller coasters for modern steel versions, Canobie Lake Park still proudly features the Yankee Cannonball as its centerpiece attraction. Installed in 1936 during the Great Depression, this wooden marvel has thrilled generations of parkgoers and remains one of the park’s most popular rides. Originally called the Greyhound, this roller coaster has survived countless trends and changes in the amusement industry, becoming a true New England icon.

4. A theater that hosted legends

Few visitors realize they’re walking in the footsteps of musical royalty when they visit the park. Canobie Lake Park’s historic Dancehall Theatre hosted renowned performers including Ella Fitzgerald, Doris Day, Sarah Vaughn, Duke Ellington, Frank Sinatra, and countless others during its Big Band era. The venue became a premier entertainment destination from the 1930s through the 1950s. Today, gold stars bearing performers’ names are embedded in cement at the entrance of the refurbished Art Deco ballroom, preserving this remarkable musical legacy.

5. Stephen King’s spooky inspiration

Horror maestro Stephen King found creative inspiration in Canobie Lake Park’s charming atmosphere. The author told NPR he used Canobie as the model for the amusement park in his novel “Joyland” after searching for one “that was nice and clean and sunlit, but wasn’t too big.” During his research visit in 2012, King was particularly intrigued by the park’s dark ride attraction, “Mine of Lost Souls,” taking photographs inside to incorporate elements into his supernatural mystery novel about a haunted amusement park.

6. Family-owned for generations

Unlike many amusement parks that have been absorbed by large corporate chains, Canobie Lake Park maintains its independent spirit through family ownership. Three families—the Bernis, Captells, and Ulakys—purchased the park in 1958, and their descendants continue to operate it today. This family stewardship has allowed the park to preserve its unique character while evolving with the times. The owners are known for their hands-on approach and commitment to cleanliness, with staff members (including the owners themselves) immediately addressing any maintenance needs to keep the park pristine.

Planning your 2025 Canobie adventure

As Canobie Lake Park prepares for another season of creating memories, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic American amusement parks. With over 85 attractions ranging from heart-stopping thrill rides to family-friendly experiences and the refreshing Castaway Island Water Park, this New Hampshire treasure continues to delight visitors while honoring its rich heritage.

Whether you’re screaming on a coaster, enjoying a live show, or simply soaking in the scenery of Canobie Lake, you’re participating in a tradition that has spanned generations of New England families. As the park’s vintage slogan once proclaimed, Canobie Lake Park remains “Just for Fun!”

You can find more information about the 2025 season, park hours, and tickets on Canobie’s website.

This article may have been created with the assistance of AI.