Okay, all you daredevils out there! Also looking at all of you with a bucket list. And everyone else, too. Here’s another unique adventure to add to your to do list: Ride the oldest wooden roller coaster in the world. Not Pennsylvania. Not America. The world. And, luckily for us Pennsylvanians, it’s right here in good ol’ PA. (Be forewarned, however. You will have to wait to ride it until next summer season as the park where it’s housed is undergoing renovations in 2018.)

Lakemont Park, a popular amusement park in Altoona, has been a favorite summer attraction since it first opened in 1894.
Flickr/Jeremy Thompson
During its storied history, Lakemont Park has undergone numerous transitions. Its latest will transform the park into a combination of a community park and a family entertainment center.
Trip Advisor/Kris N.
But, one thing will remain the same. Lakemont Park, in whatever form it takes, will always possess a secret weapon that draws visitors from all over: Leap-the-Dips.
Wikipedia/Bhatka Dano
The old-fashioned coaster holds distinction as the oldest wooden roller coaster in the world. It opened in 1902 in the park that's now the eighth oldest amusement park in the world.
Flickr/Jeremy Thompson

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Leap-the-Dips, a side friction roller coaster built by E. Joy Morris Company, features a figure eight design, a popular design of the era.
Trip Advisor/Roy H.
But, it faced decline over the years. And, in the 1990s, the wooden roller coaster closed for restoration, reopening in 1999.
Flickr/Inferno Insane
In 1996, Leap-the-Dips secured status as a National Historic Landmark.
Flickr/Jeremy Thompson
Lakemont Park is located at 700 Park Ave., Altoona, PA 16602.
Trip Advisor/Stephen S.
For more information on Lakemont Park, including updates on its return for the 2019 season, click here.

Will you head to Lakemont Park, home to the oldest wooden roller coaster in the world, when it re-opens in 2019? Or, do you already have fond memories of Leap-the-Dips? Share in the comments below! And, while you’re waiting for the return of Leap-the-Dips, click here to read about nine other spectacular amusement parks in PA.

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700 Park Ave., Altoona, PA 16602