Ohio's Forgotten Amusement Park Near Cleveland Is Becoming A Charming New Recreation Spot

Ohio's shuttered Geauga Lake amusement park is getting a new lease on life. The city of Aurora, Ohio is transforming the abandoned site into a brand new lakeside recreation destination, located roughly 30 miles from Cleveland. The property, once home to SeaWorld and Wildwater Kingdom, is set to become a "treasured gem for the residents of Aurora and the neighboring communities," according to the city's website. 

Geauga Lake served as an entertainment destination since the 1880s. While it wasn't America's oldest amusement park – that honor belongs to Lake Compounce in Connecticut – it was, at one time, the largest amusement park in the world. In 2001, the park purchased nearby SeaWorld, expanding its footprint to around 700 acres, reports USA Today. But its reign was brief and the theme park shut down in 2007. Wildwater Kingdom was the last part of Geauga Lake's legacy to close in 2016.

In an effort to revitalize this former hot spot, the city will redevelop 40 acres on the southeast shoreline of Geauga Lake into a new attraction called Aurora Park. Instead of rollercoasters, carousels, and waterslides, Aurora Park will be a lush natural area with hiking trails, a swimming beach, outdoor pool, adventure zone, and much more, repurposing the facilities that once served amusement park guests.

According to the city's website, plans for Aurora Park will "capitalize on the site's natural assets," especially its lakeside atmosphere. One of its key features will be a swimming beach that will connect directly to walking trails around the lake. It's a full-circle moment for Geauga Lake, which began as a popular camping and fishing location with picnic areas in 1887. The park will feature "nostalgic landmarks" from the theme park's heyday, such as the Aquarium and Pearl Diving buildings. The Seal and Penguin Pavilion will become an outdoor amphitheater, and the Dolphin Pavilion will transform into an outdoor recreation area for rock climbing, mountain biking, or rappelling. The original Gatehouse will be used to host farmers' markets and other community events.

According to the city, the goal of the project is to "fully realize the potential of the site's 1,700 feet of linear shoreline." Docks, boardwalks, and scenic overlooks will be installed along the water's edge. The forested parts of the property will feature hiking trails and picnic areas. In the summer, visitors will have access to a "sun-drenched community pool and bathhouse complex," with views of the lake and easy access to the beach.

The initial design and construction phase for Aurora Park is set for completion sometime in 2026, according to the current proposed timeline, with the second phase set for 2027. This timeline is subject to change, and an opening date has not been announced at the time of writing. When it does open, it could become one of the top landmarks to visit in the Midwest. If you're looking for an incredible destination to explore in the meantime, head to Ohio's Hocking Hills State Park, one of the most underrated state parks to visit in the U.S.