Amusement & Entertainment

Hello, fellow Connecticut residents! When you think of a local "amusement center," what comes to mind? For many of us in the Nutmeg State, a truly fantastic experience blends classic fun with the unique charm of our coastal towns. That's exactly what you'll find at Amusement & Entertainment, perfectly situated within the beloved Ocean Beach Park in New London. This isn't just any amusement center; it's an integral part of one of Connecticut's most cherished seaside destinations, offering a diverse array of activities that appeal to all ages. This article is designed to give you a comprehensive look at Amusement & Entertainment, from its convenient location and accessibility to the exciting services and features that make it a local favorite. We'll also provide essential contact information and explain why this venue is an ideal choice for a memorable day out right here in Connecticut.

Amusement & Entertainment, as it refers to the recreational offerings at Ocean Beach Park, provides a delightful blend of classic beachside fun and modern entertainment. It's truly a multi-faceted destination where the natural beauty of the shoreline meets thrilling attractions. Unlike standalone indoor amusement centers, its integration with Ocean Beach Park allows visitors to seamlessly transition between relaxing on the sand, splashing in the waves, and enjoying lively rides or arcade games. One happy customer enthusiastically declared, "Cafe Pasture in Norwalk and Ocean Beach are the 2 best beaches in the state of travel an hr and 10 min to come here and its more then worth it," perfectly capturing the widespread appeal and perceived value of a visit. Another simply stated, "Having great day at the beach," emphasizing the core attraction. This combination of a pristine beach environment with an engaging amusement component makes it a unique and highly desirable option for families, friends, and individuals looking for a complete day of leisure and excitement in Connecticut. It’s a place where childhood memories are made and where adults can unwind and reconnect with the simple joys of summer.

The location of Amusement & Entertainment is one of its strongest assets, being an integral part of the renowned Ocean Beach Park at 1225 Ocean Ave, New London, CT 06320, USA. New London is a vibrant coastal city in southeastern Connecticut, easily reachable from various parts of the state and beyond. Its position on the Long Island Sound makes it a picturesque and refreshing destination.

For those traveling by car, the park is conveniently accessible via I-95, a major interstate highway running through Connecticut. This makes it a straightforward drive for visitors coming from Hartford, New Haven, or even Rhode Island. Once you arrive at Ocean Beach Park, there is ample parking available. However, it's important to note that parking typically incurs a fee, which often includes admission to the park itself, especially during peak season. You can find detailed information on parking rates on the Ocean Beach Park website. The park's layout is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to easily walk between the beach, the amusement areas, and other amenities. While public transportation options to the immediate area might require some planning, the overall accessibility by car ensures that a fun-filled day at Amusement & Entertainment is within reach for most Connecticut residents looking for a great escape. Its seaside location truly enhances the overall experience, combining entertainment with natural beauty.

Amusement & Entertainment, as part of the broader Ocean Beach Park experience, offers a wide range of services and attractions designed to provide comprehensive fun for visitors of all ages. These services extend well beyond typical arcade games to encompass a full day of recreational opportunities.

• Sandy Beach Access: Enjoy the beautiful, sugar-white sand beach for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles, complete with lifeguard services during operational hours.
• Olympic-Sized Outdoor Pool: A large freshwater pool perfect for swimming laps or simply cooling off, providing an alternative to ocean swimming.
• Water Slides & Spray Park: Thrilling water slides and a playful spray park area, particularly popular with children, offering exciting ways to beat the summer heat.
• Mini Golf Course: An 18-hole miniature golf course provides a fun and challenging activity for families and friends.
• Arcade with Retro Games: A classic arcade filled with a mix of modern and nostalgic retro games, where you can win tickets and claim prizes.
• Amusement Rides: A selection of traditional amusement rides, including a charming carousel and potentially other rides suitable for various age groups. (Specific rides may vary by season or year).
• Playgrounds: Multiple playground areas designed for children to climb, swing, and explore.
• Food Court & Cafe: A variety of dining options ranging from quick snacks and ice cream at the Boardwalk Creamery to more substantial meals at the cafe, which often features an outdoor deck with views.
• Nature Trail & Boardwalk: A scenic boardwalk perfect for strolls, offering picturesque views of Long Island Sound, and a nature trail for those who enjoy walking amidst natural beauty.
• Special Events: The park frequently hosts special events, including concerts, classic car cruise nights, and dazzling fireworks displays, particularly during the summer season.

Amusement & Entertainment within Ocean Beach Park boasts several key features and highlights that make it a premier destination for fun in Connecticut.

• Award-Winning Beach: Ocean Beach Park is recognized nationally, having been "Voted one of the best beaches by National Geographic and named one of the top 25 beaches in the US by Travel + Leisure." This prestigious recognition highlights the quality of its natural environment.
• Comprehensive Family Entertainment: The park offers a unique combination of a pristine beach, an Olympic-sized pool, thrilling water slides, classic amusement rides, mini-golf, and an arcade. This diverse range of attractions ensures that every member of the family, regardless of age, will find something to enjoy, making it a perfect all-day destination.
• Cleanliness and Well-Maintained Facilities: As a popular public park, Ocean Beach Park strives to maintain a high level of cleanliness and upkeep across all its facilities, contributing to a pleasant and safe experience for visitors.
• Scenic Coastal Location: The stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Long Island Sound from the boardwalk and beach areas provide a beautiful backdrop for a day of fun and relaxation, enhancing the overall ambiance.
• Seasonal Programming: Beyond its regular attractions, the park's calendar is often filled with special events like concerts and fireworks, offering unique experiences throughout the operating season.
• Value for Money: The combined entry for parking and park admission often provides good value, allowing access to a wide array of activities without separate fees for each attraction, although some rides may have individual costs.

For direct inquiries about Amusement & Entertainment or Ocean Beach Park, here is the primary contact information:

Address: 1225 Ocean Ave, New London, CT 06320, USA

Phone: (860) 447-3031

Mobile Phone: +1 860-447-3031

It is always recommended to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information on operating hours, admission prices, specific event schedules, and any seasonal changes, as these can vary.

For residents of Connecticut, Amusement & Entertainment at Ocean Beach Park is an exceptional destination that truly embodies the spirit of summer fun in our state. Its comprehensive offerings mean you don't have to choose between a beach day and an amusement park adventure; you can have both! The strong positive feedback from visitors, who are willing to travel over an hour to enjoy its amenities, speaks volumes about its quality and appeal. Its integration with one of Connecticut's "best beaches" by national publications provides an unparalleled backdrop for enjoyment.

Whether you're planning a family outing, a fun day with friends, or simply seeking a relaxing yet engaging escape, this New London gem caters to all. The combination of active pursuits like swimming and water slides, leisurely strolls along the boardwalk, classic entertainment like arcade games and mini-golf, and the option to attend special events, makes it a multifaceted attraction that offers something new with every visit. By choosing Amusement & Entertainment at Ocean Beach Park, Connecticut locals are not just visiting an amusement center; they are embracing a beloved regional institution that consistently delivers memorable experiences and contributes to the vibrant recreational landscape of our beautiful state. It's a perfect place to "have a great day at the beach" and so much more.

Amusement & Entertainment

1225 Ocean Ave, New London, CT 06320, USA