Once a beloved icon of mid-century entertainment, Palisades Amusement Park was a vibrant 30-acre amusement park that overlooked the Hudson River from the top of the New Jersey Palisades.
Review:★★★★★ Though it closed in 1971, its legacy continues through memorials, educational programs, and cultural preservation efforts.
Recommended for
This destination is ideal for:
- History buffs interested in American amusement park culture
- New Jersey and NYC locals with nostalgic ties to the park
- Families and educators exploring 20th-century entertainment history
- Pop culture enthusiasts curious about the park’s impact on music and media
Location & Contact
- Address: Winston Drive, Cliffside Park, NJ 07010
- Map: View on Google Maps
- Website: Palisades Amusement Park Historical Society
Historic Overview
- Opened in 1898 by the Bergen County Traction Company as a trolley park.
- Located atop the scenic New Jersey Palisades, overlooking Manhattan and the Hudson River.
- Renamed and expanded multiple times by owners including the Schenck brothers and later the Rosenthals of Coney Island fame.
Popular Attractions & Legacy
- Hosted mid-century youth events, variety shows, and music festivals.
- Home to the nation’s largest saltwater swimming pool, filled directly from the Hudson River.
- Featured iconic rides such as the Cyclone roller coaster.
- Closed in 1971 due to safety concerns, overcrowding, and development pressures.
Current Memorial & Preservation
- The Little Park of Memories: A public memorial located on the former park site, featuring engraved bricks and ride names.
- Cyclone Coaster Cars: Five original cars from the Cyclone were returned in 2014 for restoration and display.
- Historical Programming: Includes a lecture series, multimedia exhibits, and community outreach through the Palisades Amusement Park Historical Society.
Explore More
- Browse archived photos, videos, and stories on the Historical Society’s website.
- Purchase books, prints, and educational materials celebrating the park’s cultural and musical legacy.
- Attend public events honoring the park’s impact on 20th-century American leisure.
Plan Your Trip