Nestled along Narragansett Bay in Warwick, Rhode Island, Rocky Point Park was once a thriving amusement park. The attraction brought in visitors from across the state and beyond who were eager to go on its rides and take in the beautiful scenery. Operating from 1847-1995, it was a Rhode Island staple – that is, until it was shuttered and abandoned.
Opening an amusement park on Rhode Island’s coast
Opened in the 1840s by Capt. William Winslow, Rocky Point Park began as a quaint spot for dining and relaxation. By 1847, it had grown into a bustling attraction, offering a variety of amusement park rides and becoming a beloved summer retreat.
Rocky Point Park was home to many popular attractions
Over the decades, Rocky Point Park expanded to include iconic rides like the Skyliner, a corkscrew-loop roller coaster and the Freefall, which both thrilled and terrified visitors with its 13-story drop.
The site even played host to swimming tryouts for the 1936 Olympics, held in Berlin, Germany, and countless concerts. Some of the biggest acts to perform there include the Ramones, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, AC/DC, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar… We could go on, but you get the idea.
Financial difficulties hit Rocky Point Park
Despite its popularity, Rocky Point Park faced financial difficulties in the early 1990s. The privately-held company that owned the attraction struggled to keep it afloat, having used it as leverage to fund other ventures, and it closed in 1995.
An attempt to reopen it the following year was short-lived, and the park officially filed for bankruptcy in 1996, much to the disappointment of patrons.
What happened to the attractions?
Rocky Point Park’s rides and attractions were sold off to other amusement parks. The corkscrew roller coaster, for example, found its new home at Wild Waves Theme Park in Washington, where it continues to operate under the name Wild Thing.
Considering how much use it gets, the ride’s price tag of $850,000 seems like a steal.
Becoming popular with urban explorers
Urban explorers were drawn to the abandoned Rocky Point Park for its eerie beauty. The park’s dilapidated structures and overgrown paths offered a glimpse into a bygone era, evoking a sense of adventure.
What remains at Rocky Point Park?
At Rocky Point Park, visitors can wander through the remnants of the Skyliner, the ruins of the old water tank and the iconic arch that once greeted guests. The latter was originally built for the 1964 World’s Fair in Flushing, Queens, New York. It was moved to Rhode Island in 1966.
Memorialized in a documentary
The park was memorialized by the documentary, You Must Be This Tall: The Story of Rocky Point Park, by David Bettencourt. Featuring interviews with former employees, park-goers and local politicians, the movie highlights the significance and historic value of the site.
Transforming Rocky Point Park into a state park
In 2014, Rocky Point Park became a state park, offering a different kind of attraction for visitors. The change was a collaborative effort between the city of Warwick and the state of Rhode Island, and was aimed at preserving the area’s natural beauty and historical significance. The park now features a mile-long walking path along the shore of Narragansett Bay, providing stunning views of the coast.
What else has changed?
Rocky Point Park’s open spaces and remaining structures offer a serene environment for hiking, picnicking, birdwatching and fishing. There’s also the newly-rebuilt pier, which extends well into Narragansett Bay, and outdoor film screenings and regular food truck nights offer additional excitement.
Rocky Point Park hosts an annual five-kilometer run
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On top of the attractions, the park also hosts an annual five-kilometer run that draws participants from across Rhode Island, who eagerly await the chance to run, jog and walk through the area’s amazing scenery.