Crystal Beach Park

Crystal Beach Park was an amusement park that stretched along Lake Erie's shore with roller coasters, rides, and games spread across a waterfront site. Visitors could enjoy multiple attractions across the sprawling grounds while overlooking the water.

The site began in 1888 as a religious campground and transformed into an entertainment destination after the Crystal Beach Company formed in 1890. It grew into a popular getaway for visitors from across the region.

The Crystal Ballroom, which opened in 1925, became North America's largest dance hall, accommodating 3,000 dancers and featuring performances from major bands.

The location was accessible via ferry from Buffalo, which brought visitors across Lake Erie on a regular basis. The crossing itself was a routine part of the visit for many travelers.

The Cyclone roller coaster, built in 1927, featured an unusual track design with continuous twisted turns throughout its path. The complex layout made maintaining the ride exceptionally demanding.

Location: Crystal Beach

Official opening: May 28, 1888

GPS coordinates: 42.86303,-79.06029

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:46