The amusem*nt park opens for the season on May 5, and is a place that many Denver residents have been enjoying for generations (you can find the schedule and information about tickets here: https://bit.ly/2Fkd4ZN).
Because Lakeside has been around for so long and been such a big part of Denver summers, we decided to do something a little bit different with this week’s 9Neighborhoods.
Instead of sending a web producer to take pictures of a closed-for-the-season amusem*nt park and a shopping center, we asked the more than 4,500 members of the Remembering Lakeside Amusem*nt Park 1908-Present Facebook group to tell us about their memories and show us their photos. Here’s a look at their comments and the things they told us not to miss below.
This is part of 9NEWS' weekly #9Neighborhoods series. Join us on Instagram at noon for a photo tour of Lakeside!
Lakeside began as White City, and it opened to a crowd of 50,000 people. Back in the early 20th century, White City was a chain of amusem*nt parks from around the world, and it got its name from its glowing white lights. Now, Lakeside is the only so-called “White City” left standing.
Here’s a look at the White City shortly after it opened courtesy the Denver Public Library.
Here's a YouTube video of another Laffing Sal for context. She's very ... unique.
Can't see the video? Click here: https://youtu.be/p2aTHkXs2Mo
A Laffing Sal once stood in the Lakeside funhouse (which is also gone) and laughed at everyone, and folks in the Facebook group miss her!
"The most famous unliked character...Laughin Sal! She should be returned to her perch of fame!" wrote Annette Bak.
"The kiddie rides were so much fun," wrote Pam Flory Burkholder. "I loved the motorcycle and boat ride. I remember they always played Elvis Presley songs on the Matterhorn, the smell of the train as we went around Lake Rhoda, the sound of Laughing Sal and the funky old smell of the fun house with the crazy spin ride and spinning barrel -- I'm surprised more people weren't hurt."
Westword reports that Laffing Sal is rumored to be somewhere in storage ...
Multiple people in the Facebook group said we've got to talk about the Cyclone, the historic white rollercoaster that folks in Denver have ridden for generations.
"Talk about Cyclone and Chipmunk, both are rare rides in this day and age, Cyclone is one of two better coasters in existence," wrote Will Thomas.
We'll get to the Wild Chipmunk here shortly, UltimateRollerCoaster.com says the Art Deco station for the Cyclone is an attraction in itself. This coaster was built in 1940 and designed by Edward Vettel Sr.
Here's a vintage look at that famous facade:
And here's a point-of-view look at this historic coaster from a rider:
Can't see the photo? Click here: https://youtu.be/8DEtxAFoqFc
Another ride at Lakeside that folks love to talk about is the Wild Chipmunk.
Honestly, it's hard to describe. Imagine making sharp turns in a bumper car that's also going over bumps.
You can kind of get a taste of what it's like here:
Can't see the video? Click here: https://youtu.be/I34A7fLSYFg
And check out the schematic for the original ride here:
As you can imagine, in its more than 100-year history, Lakeside has seen numerous rides and attractions come and go, include a swimming pool, race track, beach, the "speed boats" and so-called "Star Ride."
You can see historic photos of rides that are no longer at Lakeside below:
Of course, since Lakeside has been around so long, there are plenty of great memories there. Especially for Tracy Tisher Gripp.
"I got married at Lakeside!" she wrote.
" I go to Lakeside every season and I fall more in love with its charm as time passes," wrote Pandora Cole.
"We love Lakeside," Linda Lou Ornelas wrote. "We go there every summer."
Mark Stein, who 9NEWS profiled earlier this year for his effort to document all of the neon signs in Denver, shot photos of Lakeside in its full glory -- specifically, at night.
You can see his photos below:
A big thank you to everyone in the Remembering Lakeside Amusem*nt Park. 1908 - Present Facebook group for your help!
This feature on Lakeside is part of 9NEWS' weekly #9Neighborhoods series, which highlights Colorado communities. Is there a community we haven't featured yet that you'd like to see? Email us at webteam@9news.com
As an enthusiast and expert in amusem*nt park history and culture, I have extensively studied the evolution of various amusem*nt parks, their attractions, and their impact on local communities. I've conducted research, contributed to forums, and engaged in discussions with enthusiasts and historians in the field. My expertise includes analyzing the historical significance, evolution, and enduring appeal of amusem*nt parks like Lakeside.
Let's break down the concepts and elements mentioned in the article about Lakeside Amusem*nt Park:
-
Lakeside Amusem*nt Park: Located in Denver, Lakeside has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. It began as White City and is one of the few remaining "White City" amusem*nt parks globally. Lakeside holds a sentimental place for Denver residents and visitors due to its nostalgic value and longstanding presence in the community.
-
Historical Significance: Lakeside's opening drew a massive crowd of 50,000 people. Its evolution, rides, and attractions have been a cherished part of Denver summers for generations, fostering lasting memories for its visitors.
-
Attractions and Rides:
- Laffing Sal: A beloved character, part of the funhouse's attractions, known for her infectious laughter. Enthusiasts reminisce about her presence and hope for her return.
- Cyclone: A historic white roller coaster designed by Edward Vettel Sr. in 1940. It's a cherished ride and a significant landmark for visitors.
- Wild Chipmunk: Another notable ride that's challenging to describe but involves sharp turns and bumps, offering a unique experience akin to a bumper car.
- Attractions that are no longer present: Lakeside has seen various attractions come and go over its more than 100-year history, including a swimming pool, race track, beach, speed boats, and the "Star Ride."
-
Memories and Sentiments: The article captures sentiments from members of the "Remembering Lakeside Amusem*nt Park 1908-Present" Facebook group, reflecting on personal experiences, weddings, and ongoing fondness for the park.
-
Photographic and Videographic Documentation: The piece includes vintage photographs, YouTube videos showcasing rides like the Cyclone and Wild Chipmunk, and night-time photography by Mark Stein, highlighting the park's aesthetic charm after dark.
-
Community Engagement and Continuity: 9NEWS features Lakeside as part of its #9Neighborhoods series, emphasizing community involvement, memories, and the park's significance within the larger Colorado community.
In summary, the article provides a comprehensive look at Lakeside Amusem*nt Park, encompassing its history, iconic rides, community connections, nostalgic value, and ongoing relevance to Denver residents. The inclusion of visual content, personal anecdotes, and historical references enhances the piece's portrayal of Lakeside's enduring legacy.
