Idlewild and Soak Zone - Lewis and Clark Trail Experience

Information

Idlewild's gates open at 10:30 a.m. Park Rides, attractions and refreshment stands begin to open progressively between 11:00 and 11:30. Idlewild's gates close at 6:00 p.m. Due to student employees' school and school related activity schedules, the park does have some limited operation dates near the beginning and end of the season. A list of Scheduled Operations is listed daily in the Alert Panel at the top of the website and will serve as your best source for information on what rides and attractions may not operate during limited operation dates. Operational hours, policies, prices, rides, entertainment, and attractions are subject to change without notice. Sorry, no refunds.

724-238-3666

lat: 40.2615155 long: -79.2770723

Located in Ligonier, an hour’s drive southeast of Pittsburgh, Idlewild has the distinction of being the oldest amusement park in Pennsylvania and the 3rd oldest in America.

From waterslides to Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, roller coasters to Story Book Forest, there are plenty of attractions to provide fun for the entire family. The Park is filled with classic rides such as the Red Baron, Wild Mouse, Skooters, Flying Aces, and Balloon Race. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit for the wave pool! And to feed the appetite, there are plenty of kiosks in the park for delicious meals, snacks, and sweets.

Enjoy chicken tenders, hoagies, Philly cheesesteaks, and the always popular Potato Patch fries. To cure your sweet tooth, try Wild West Kettle Korn, Sweet Treets Candy Shoppe, or Idlewild’s famous funnel cakes. Staples like Auntie Annes and Dippin’ Dots can also be found in the park, as well has lighter options like salads.

Idlewild and SoakZone has been awarded the Golden Ticket 8 years in a row as the Best Children’s Park, and in 2019 was awarded 3^rd place for the Best Family Park, out of all of the parks in the amusement park industry.

A large children's book as the entrance to Story Book Forest at Idlewild along the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail

A large children's book as the entrance to Story Book Forest at Idlewild along the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail

Water slides and swimming pool at Idlewild and Soak Zone along the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail

Water slides and swimming pool at Idlewild and Soak Zone along the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail

Map of Idlewild and SoakZone along the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail

Map of Idlewild and SoakZone along the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail

Logo for Idlewild and SoakZone Park along the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail

Train ride through Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood at Idlewild along the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail

Train ride through Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood at Idlewild along the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail

Balloon Race rice at Idlewild along the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail

Balloon Race rice at Idlewild along the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail

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LCTE Travel Newsletter

Our bi-weekly newsletter provides news, history, and information for those interested in traveling along along the Lewis & Clark Trail.

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Download and explore our APP! Check it out if you

Download and explore our APP! Check it out if you haven’t yet to bring the adventure and magic of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail on your mobile device. Scan the QR code here or find it on your app store.

Check out our digital Travel Magazines! Today’s

Check out our digital Travel Magazines!

Today’s Feature, The Inaugural Issue: https://publuu.com/flip-book/561309/1367654

In this issue you can find interesting historical anecdotes from the trail, key sites to see while traveling, and business/ park/ state travel information to help you along on your journey!

Click the link above for this issue or see this link for the full catalogue of available magazines: https://lewisandclark.org/travel-magazine/

Site of the Week: Travelers’ Rest Step Into His

Site of the Week: Travelers’ Rest

Step Into History at Travelers’ Rest State Park!

Located in western Montana, Travelers’ Rest State Park is the only confirmed campsite of the Lewis and Clark Expedition with physical evidence. The Corps of Discovery stopped here twice—first in September 1805 before crossing the Bitterroot Mountains and again in June 1806 on their return journey. Archaeologists have uncovered fire pits and traces of mercury from the expedition’s medical supplies, confirming this as a key location on their route.

During Lewis and Clark’s time, the area was an important meeting place for Indigenous tribes, with open meadows, dense forests, and the nearby Lolo Creek providing fresh water and resources. Today, the landscape remains much the same, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
Fun fact: During the summer of 2002, archaeologists unearthed a trench latrine containing traces of mercury, fire hearths, and remnants of lead used for firearm maintenance and production. This discovery established Travelers’ Rest as the only known campsite along the Lewis and Clark Trail with physical proof of the expedition’s stay.

Visitors can explore a museum, hiking trails, and interpretive programs, where they can learn about the expedition and the Native peoples who shaped this region’s history. If you love history and nature, Travelers’ Rest is a must-visit!
Have you been there? Share your experience below!

All photos courtesy of Cait Clark

Discover History at the Nez Perce National Histori

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The Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center in Idaho offers a deep look into the history and culture of the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) people, who played a crucial role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition. In 1805, after a grueling journey through the Bitterroot Mountains, the Corps of Discovery arrived in Nez Perce territory, starving and exhausted. The Nez Perce provided food, shelter, and guidance, helping Lewis and Clark continue their journey westward.

Back then, the area was home to vast prairies, towering pine forests, and winding rivers—landscapes that remain largely unchanged today. The visitor center, set against this breathtaking scenery, offers exhibits, artifacts, and stories that highlight the Nez Perce’s enduring legacy.

Fun fact: The Nez Perce not only aided Lewis and Clark but also introduced them to their expertly crafted Appaloosa horses, known for their speed and endurance.
Visitors can explore museum exhibits, watch cultural demonstrations, and walk interpretive trails. Nearby, the Lolo Trail offers a chance to experience part of the same route Lewis and Clark traveled.

For history lovers and outdoor adventurers alike, the Nez Perce National Historical Park is a must-visit!

All photos credited to Cait Clark.

Step Into History at the Lewis and Clark Interpret

Step Into History at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Sioux City, Iowa!!

Located along the Missouri River, the Sioux City Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center offers an in-depth look at the legendary Lewis and Clark Expedition and its impact on the region. This site is especially significant as it honors Sergeant Charles Floyd, the only member of the expedition to die during the journey. His passing in 1804 near present-day Sioux City remains an important chapter in expedition history.

During Lewis and Clark’s time, this area was an untamed wilderness of rolling prairies and towering cottonwood trees. Today, it is home to a modern interpretive center surrounded by beautiful riverfront landscapes, parks, and monuments, including the Sergeant Floyd Monument, a 100-foot obelisk marking his burial site.
Fun fact: The center features life-sized animatronic figures of Lewis, Clark, and Floyd, bringing history to life in an engaging way!

Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, historical reenactments, and educational programs. The nearby riverfront trails and parks offer a perfect place for walking, biking, and reflecting on the expedition’s journey. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, the Sioux City Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is a must-visit!

All photos credited to Cait Clark