Tucked away on Salem Neck, Kiddieland at the Salem Willows has been delighting children since 1880. This charming little amusement area offers a nostalgic collection of small rides that are well maintained and perfect for kids ages 2 to 10.
One of the standout features is the carousel, originally built in 1865, which is one of the oldest in the country. While the horses may not be original (I believe they were brought in from another carousel in New York), the ride still carries a wonderful vintage charm.
Kiddieland currently offers three additional rides for kids:
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A boat ride where kids can ring bells as they circle around
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A cheerful ladybug ride
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A fast car ride that feels like something straight out of a 1980s carnival
A Glimpse into the Past
The Salem Willows was once a full-scale amusement park in the early 1900s and even hosted acts like Duke Ellington. I would have loved to witness that era. It must have been something magical.
Affordable Fun
Pricing is refreshingly reasonable. You can get 4 ride tickets for $12, which lets your child enjoy each of the four rides once. There are also a few arcade games available (we didn’t try them, but they looked fun).
Treats and Eats
Just around the corner is The Dairy Palace, serving up classic ice cream I can personally vouch for. It’s tasty. You’ll also find Holy Cow, another great option for a sweet treat.
If you’re staying for dinner, The Clam Bake offers a variety of seafood and classic dishes to round out the day. The surrounding park is also a peaceful place to relax and unwind after the rides.
