Grand re-opening of Playland and the Dragon Coaster
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer – long days, warm nights and even a beachside ride on an iconic 97-year-old wooden rollercoaster.
On Saturday, May 23, Playland, a designated National Historic Landmark in Rye, will officially re-open for the season with a roar: the re-opening of the revamped Dragon Coaster after being shuttered last year for some much-needed structural upgrades, including new wood rails and bolts.
“Westchester County invested close to $150 million into capital projects to restore the historic beauty of the park,” County executive Ken Jenkins said. “For generations, Playland has been a place where families come together, where childhood memories are made, and where traditions are passed down year after year. This investment is about more than restoring rides and infrastructure, it’s about protecting the history, the character and the spirit that make Playland so special.”
In addition to the revamped Dragon Coaster, visitors can view the water from Gondola Wheel, take a spin on the historic Grand Carousel, and enjoy the timeless charm of Kiddyland rides, while savoring favorite park treats and new food offerings throughout the grounds, officials say.
Following Memorial Day Weekend from Saturday, May 23 through Monday, May 25, the park will follow a Wednesday through Sunday schedule for the remainder of the season, through Labor Day, Monday, September 7, 2026. The park will also be open Saturday and Sunday September 12 and 13. The beach will open on a preseason basis beginning Saturday, May 23 at 11 a.m., then will open on a full-summer schedule with the pool on Friday, June 26 and will be open daily, weather permitting, through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7. The park’s full schedule and operating hours are available. Parking is $15 per car and $20 on holidays, park admission is always free, and rider wristbands are available and listed on the website.
For hundreds of years throughout the world amusement parks have appealed to "the kid in all of us." Starting in the 1870's, a bourgeoning population along the Hudson River Valley and in New York City created a need for recreational outlets. With the valley's natural beauty, its access to waterfront cities, and its proximity to the nation's largest metropolis, entrepreneurs were quick to respond.The mass appeal of large parks such as Coney Island and Palisades Amusement Park has been documented thoroughly. The authors highlight some of the lesser known amusement parks, now largely forgotten, that entertained millions into the 20th century. (188 pages)
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