Classic Amusement

A lot can change in 100 years, but the greatest thing about Lakeside Amusement Park is how much everything has stayed the same. You can still take a spin around the lake in "Puffing Billy" and "Whistling Tom," the park’s original miniature steam engines that were installed for the opening in 1908 after their debut at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair. Or, if you have a thing for speed, try the Wild Chipmunk or the wooden Cyclone Coaster, which was designated a historic landmark by the American Coaster Enthusiasts.

"Lakeside is one of the very few family-owned amusement parks still in existence," enthuses spokeswoman Connie Moore. "There is some wonderful art deco neon that you just don't find other places, and there are some wonderful rides. Parking is free, and we encourage families to bring their own picnics into the park."

Along with the nostalgia evoked by the retro decor, almost everyone's got a story and a memory from Lakeside, some great, some just embarrassing — like the time my leg got stuck on the carousel horse and I ended up flashing everyone. Fun times!

Celebrate a century of Lakeside, 4601 Sheridan Boulevard, today from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Major rides start by 1 p.m., and admission is $2.50 (rides not included) or $19.75 for an unlimited-ride wristband. For more information, call 303-477-1621.
May 2-Sept. 1; Mon., May 26, 2008