Free Admission, Rides and Parking Memorial Day Weekend
Playland Amusement Park is back for the 2025 season, and it’s kicking things off in a big way. Over Memorial Day Weekend—Saturday, May 24 through Monday, May 26—visitors can enjoy everything this Westchester County landmark has to offer with free admission, rides and parking all three days. The Park will be open from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. each day.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Opening this park in time for Memorial Day Weekend wasn’t easy. It took hustle. It took late nights, early mornings, and a team of County employees who refused to give anything less than 100 percent. From Public Works to Parks, from leadership to laborers — including contractors, vendors, the Westchester Children’s Museum, the New York State Department of Labor and even the Governor’s Office — this was truly an all-hands-on-deck operation. And even though we’re not fully open yet, what you see here today is a $150 million investment in you, in our history, in our children and grandchildren. Playland, as it stands today, is a testament to what’s possible when people care deeply about this place and the families who come here. And let me tell you — we are just getting started.”
Rides
In Kiddyland, young guests can enjoy eight of the 21 rides currently available. For those seeking bigger thrills, five of Playland’s 20 major attractions will be up and running, including two of the three newer rides.
At this point in the season, not all rides are open. As we open the Park, it is being done in sections. This weekend, the iconic Dragon Coaster and Derby Racer will remain closed. The area of the park that includes the Dragon Coaster has not yet opened for the season.
Two of the three newer rides will be open to the public. The third attraction—Jack the Puppeteer, originally installed by Standard Amusements—has experienced ongoing mechanical issues. After being largely non-operational last season, it remains out of service and is currently awaiting necessary repairs from the manufacturer.
Entertainment
To keep the energy high all weekend long, Playland is offering live entertainment throughout the park. Highlights include:
- Coaster the Dragon, Playland’s beloved mascot, meeting and greeting guests
- An Interactive DJ in the Park, spinning music and leading games for all ages
- A live Steel Drum Player, adding a summer soundtrack to your stroll
- Strolling Entertainers, including jugglers and performers to surprise and delight
- A dedicated DJ at the Beach and Pool Area, creating a fun and festive vibe by the water
The Westchester Children’s Museum, an interactive learning space for children and families, will also be open throughout the weekend.
Arcade Game Room & Basketball
The fun doesn’t stop at the rides. Playland’s Arcade Game Room will be open for the season with most games available for free play. Plus, guests can shoot hoops at the Basketball Game area, located near the Double Shot Ride, which is also open for free play during opening weekend.
Food Vendors
This year, some of Westchester’s most beloved food vendors will line the park, serving everything from savory comfort foods to sweet summer treats. Opening weekend visitors can grab a bite from:
- Graziella’s – Authentic Italian dishes
- Westchester Burger – Gourmet burgers with local flair
- Lulu’s – Bold, flavorful Mexican fare
- Walter’s Hot Dogs – A Westchester classic
- Mr. Softee – Iconic soft-serve ice cream
There is also the Tiki Beach Pier Restaurant on the boardwalk, a go-to destination for those seeking an unforgettable beachfront dining experience or using a new mobile app, a to-the-beach treat.
Playland has been a destination for fun, nostalgia and summertime joy for generations—and this weekend marks the start of another season of memories. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the tradition.