Idlewild & Soakzone reopens for season pass holders with changes in place at both parks

LIGONIER, Pa. — Idlewild park has a storied history, but for the first time since World War II, the park's opening date was compromised because of a global pandemic.

“Though it’s a little bit different this year than any other year in our 143-year history, we are able to still provide family fun to thousands of visitors this summer,” said Jeff Croushure, director of marketing.

On Tuesday, season pass holders were able to get inside the park for the first time but with some changes such as face masks and social distancing guidelines.

Some rides were fully operational and others will be opening in phases.

“We also have a sanitizing cleaning crew that will go around, shut down rides throughout the day to sanitize them thoroughly,” Croushure said.

Now, visitors have to reserve their visit online by buying a dated ticket because Idlewild has to operate at half capacity.

There will also be temperature checks to get inside.

“They’ll undergo contactless temperature screenings at our parking lot areas, and if they register higher than 100.4, they won’t be able to spend the day at the park,” Croushure said.

Idlewild was expecting about 1,000 people Tuesday and is hopefully it can still pull off a successful season even though it’s two months late.

“I think families have been waiting to get outside, have a quality day of family fun and Idlewild can provide that,” Croushure said.

Idlewild and Soak Zone will be opening up to the public Saturday and the closing time changes. They moved it up two hours and will close at 6 p.m. instead of 8 p.m.

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