Worth the Drive

Walled Lake Amusement Park became a destination for people across southeast Michigan, known as “The Picnic Wonderland,” as automobiles and major highways such as Grand River Avenue made it accessible. Because interurban trains did not travel to Walled Lake, visitors came by car from Detroit and other places for the park’s rides and roller coaster after it opened in 1929. Many local youngsters were not allowed to visit because it was considered a place for “folks from the big city.” The park was also popular for company picnics and events until it closed in the 1960s. Park owner Fred Pearce had built 27 roller coasters at other locations around the country.

Novi, Michigan · United States