Geauga Lake - Always a Funtime Hardcover – February 9, 2026

It’s Funtime!Geauga Lake: Always a Funtime tells the story of how Geauga Lake, a modest railroad stop and lakeside recreation spot developed into a beloved and innovative amusement park. With insider stories and over 200 black and white photos, this book captures first-hand how Geauga Lake grew into a family destination remembered across generations.Located just nine miles north of Ohio Turnpike Exit 13, and easily accessible from Cleveland, Akron, and much of Ohio, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, Geauga Lake provided summer recreation for over a century.Unforgettable thrills and excitement came from classic attractions such as the Big Dipper, Rockets, Skyscraper, Double Loop, and Merry Oldies, along with the Wave and numerous midway games and entertainment.Geauga Lake transformed from simple beginnings into a modern amusement park and an industry leader, pioneering a philosophy of annual investments that brought new rides, attractions, and experiences each year. The park became known for its unique marketing and promotions. While zany commercials aired on local TV, newspapers and billboards advertised each summer’s new surprises. Guests eagerly anticipated the addition of Boardwalk Shores, The Wave – the largest tsunami wave pool east of the Rockies at the time, the Raging Wolf Bobs for the parks Centennial Anniversary and the most famous reptile in the Midwest, Butch Hightide and Turtle Beach.Every season brought something new, and visitors flocked to the park with excitement, whether for a day trip, group or company outing, Oktoberfest, or simply a long weekend paired with nearby attractions. These visits created shared memories, now captured by author Mike Funyak, in this book to preserve Geauga Lake’s place in amusement park history. Read more