Kiddieland Amusement Park: A Nostalgic Journey Through Melrose Park’s Iconic Attraction

The Closure That Shook a Community

On a crisp autumn day in September 2009, the gates of Kiddieland Amusement Park closed for the final time. The air was filled with a mixture of sadness and celebration as families gathered to enjoy one last ride on the iconic attractions. Kiddieland, a park that had been a staple of family entertainment for 81 years, was shutting its doors forever. The news struck a chord with many who had grown up visiting the park, celebrating birthdays, and making memories that would last a lifetime. The closure, attributed to a long-standing dispute within the family that owned the park, left many feeling as though a part of their childhood had been taken away.

The Beginnings of a Local Legend

Kiddieland was established in 1929 by Arthur Fritz Sr., a visionary who saw the potential for a family-oriented amusement park. The park started small, featuring a handful of rides, but quickly expanded to include attractions that catered to children and adults alike. Its most famous ride, the "Little Dipper" roller coaster, opened in 1950 and became an iconic fixture of the park. This wooden coaster was a rite of passage for many children, offering just the right amount of thrills for those brave enough to ride it. Other beloved attractions included the Ferris wheel, bumper cars, and the antique carousel, which was one of the park's original rides.

A Multigenerational Love Affair

Kiddieland wasn't just a place for fun—it was a multigenerational experience. Parents who had once visited the park as children returned with their own kids, continuing the tradition of family outings to the park. Grandparents recounted stories of their first rides on the same attractions that their grandchildren were now enjoying. The park became a cherished landmark, one that encapsulated the innocence of youth and the importance of family bonding. Year after year, Kiddieland provided a familiar setting where families could escape from the pressures of daily life and immerse themselves in simple joys.

Rides and Attractions: The Heart of Kiddieland

The attractions at Kiddieland were diverse, offering something for everyone. The park boasted over 30 rides, with the most popular ones catering specifically to children. However, there were a few thrilling rides designed for older guests, such as the log flume and the classic Tilt-A-Whirl. The ride selection reflected the park’s commitment to being a family-friendly environment where children could have their first taste of amusement park excitement without the overwhelming nature of larger, more intense parks like Six Flags.

Key Attractions:

• Little Dipper Roller Coaster: As one of the oldest wooden roller coasters, it provided just enough excitement for children and adults alike.
• The Train Ride: Taking families on a scenic journey around the park, this miniature train offered both relaxation and nostalgia.
• The Ferris Wheel: Offering a bird’s eye view of the park, the Ferris wheel was a favorite for those looking to enjoy a slower-paced ride with a stunning view.
• The Carousel: Built in the early 20th century, this antique ride featured beautifully painted horses and intricate details, a symbol of Kiddieland’s dedication to preserving history.

The Cultural Impact of Kiddieland

For over eight decades, Kiddieland was more than just an amusement park—it was a cultural icon within the Chicagoland area. The park had an immeasurable impact on the surrounding community, providing employment opportunities, boosting local tourism, and establishing itself as a beloved tradition for families throughout the region. Its location in Melrose Park made it easily accessible, drawing visitors from Chicago and its suburbs. Kiddieland became synonymous with summer fun, with many families making annual trips to the park as part of their vacation plans.

Economic and Social Contributions

Kiddieland’s contribution to the local economy cannot be overstated. During the park’s peak seasons, it employed hundreds of staff, from ride operators to food vendors. Many of these jobs were seasonal but provided crucial income for students, retirees, and locals seeking part-time work. The park’s presence also boosted surrounding businesses, including restaurants, gas stations, and hotels, as visitors from outside the area would spend money in the community. In addition, Kiddieland sponsored local events and was involved in charitable activities, further cementing its role as a key player in the community.

The Fight to Preserve the Park

In the years leading up to its closure, Kiddieland became embroiled in a bitter family dispute over the future of the park. The Fritz family, who had operated the park for generations, faced internal conflicts that eventually led to the park’s sale. Attempts were made by local preservation groups to save the park, including a campaign to have it designated as a historic landmark. Unfortunately, these efforts were unsuccessful, and the park was ultimately sold to a local business developer.

A Final Legacy: The Auction of Memories

After Kiddieland closed its doors, a massive auction was held to sell off the park’s rides, memorabilia, and equipment. This event attracted bidders from across the country, many of whom were determined to preserve a piece of Kiddieland’s history. The Little Dipper was purchased by Six Flags Great America and relocated to their park, ensuring that this iconic ride would continue to bring joy to a new generation of children. Other items, such as the carousel horses and train cars, were bought by collectors and museums, further ensuring that the park's legacy would live on in some form.

The Emotional Farewell

For those who grew up with Kiddieland, its closure marked the end of an era. Memories of the park are still cherished by those who visited it in their youth. Photographs, souvenirs, and stories are passed down to younger generations who never had the opportunity to experience the park themselves. While Kiddieland may no longer exist in its original form, its impact on the community and the generations who visited it is undeniable.

Looking Back with Fondness and Forward with Hope

Though Kiddieland Amusement Park is now a thing of the past, it lives on in the hearts of those who made it a part of their lives. Its closure serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of some of life’s most treasured experiences, yet it also highlights the power of memory and nostalgia. Kiddieland will forever be remembered as a place where families could come together, share laughter, and escape the worries of the outside world, even if just for a day. While there will always be new attractions and parks, the spirit of Kiddieland will never be forgotten.