Olentangy Park

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Olentangy Park was a popular amusement park located in Columbus, Ohio.


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Summary

It opened in 1880 and was one of the oldest amusement parks in the country until its closure in 1939. Today, the park is a historic site and is known for its rich history and nostalgia.

Some good reasons to visit Olentangy Park include its historical significance, its unique and exciting attractions, and its beautiful scenery. Visitors can enjoy a variety of rides, including the Ferris wheel, roller coasters, and a classic carousel. The park also features a large lake, a dance hall, and several other attractions and exhibits.

One of the most popular points of interest at Olentangy Park is the roller coaster, which was built in 1905 and is one of the oldest operating wooden roller coasters in the world. Visitors can also explore the park's many historic buildings and exhibits, which provide a glimpse into the past and offer a unique look at the park's history.

Interesting facts about Olentangy Park include its role as a popular destination for families and individuals alike, and its influence on the development of amusement parks in the United States. The park was also known for its beautiful gardens and landscapes, which were carefully tended to by the park's staff.

The best time of year to visit Olentangy Park is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warm and the park's attractions are open to visitors. However, the park is open year-round and visitors can enjoy a variety of seasonal events and activities throughout the year. Whether you're a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or simply looking for a fun and unique experience, Olentangy Park is a must-visit destination in Ohio.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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