Enchanted Forest Park boasts a uniquely personal history that sets it apart from traditional theme parks. The park was the lifelong dream of Roger Tofte, who purchased 20 acres of hilly, wooded land in 1964 for just $4,000. Over the next seven years, Tofte painstakingly built the park by hand—sculpting fairy tale characters and castle walls from rebar and cement during his evenings and weekends—before officially opening its gates to 75 paying customers on August 8, 1971. Over the decades, the beloved attraction expanded from its original Storybook Lane to include meticulously crafted western and European villages. Today, it remains proudly family-owned and operated; a cherished, handmade hidden gem of the Pacific Northwest.

Visitors typically begin their journey on the iconic Storybook Lane, stepping through a castle to interact with life-sized nursery rhyme scene. Beyond the handmade dioramas, the park provides unexpected thrills with rides like the Big Timber Log Ride—featuring a roller coaster section and a 40-foot splashdown drop—the classic Ice Mountain Bobsleds, and the interactive, trackless dark ride, Challenge of Mondor. Guests can also explore the Tofteville Western Town, brave a spooky walk-through Haunted House, or take in an original, family-friendly musical at the Summer Comedy Theatre, making Enchanted Forest a uniquely charming and nostalgic destination for visitors of all ages.

Enchanted Forest Website

Since May 30, 1905, Oaks Park has lived by the motto "where the fun never ends," making it one of the oldest continually operating amusement parks in America. Originally established as a "trolley park" to boost ridership on Portland's emerging interurban streetcar system, "The Oaks" immediately captivated visitors. Early guests were thrilled by exotic animals, nightly fireworks, a public bathhouse, and the dazzling glow of electric lights—a true marvel at the turn of the century.

In 1985, the Bollinger Family ensured the park's future by donating it to the non-profit Oaks Park Association (OPA). The OPA’s mission is to preserve this historic landmark while providing affordable family fun. Today, the park blends its vintage charm with modern excitement, most notably through its two signature roller coasters. Families and younger guests love the gentle turns of the Zoooooom Coaster, while those seeking a major rush head for Adrenaline Peak, a premier thrill coaster known for its vertical lift and heart-pounding inversions.

Beyond the rides, the OPA maintains the legendary 1920s wooden roller skating rink, balancing nostalgic heritage with contemporary entertainment. Their mission remains focused on keeping this piece of Portland’s history accessible to all. By operating as a non-profit, Oaks Park continues to be a community-driven destination where memories are made across generations.

Oaks Park Website

Wild Waves Theme and Water Park, located in Federal Way, Washington, has a rich history that dates back to its opening in May 1977. Originally founded by Byron Betts as a modest, 12-acre amusement park called The Enchanted Village, it initially featured just a half-dozen rides, a petting zoo, and a wading pool. Over the decades, the park expanded significantly under various ownerships—including a major growth period under Six Flags in the early 2000s, which expanded the footprint to over 70 acres—before ultimately adopting its current name.

The park today offers a thrilling, dual-experience destination that caters to visitors of all ages. Amusement park enthusiasts can brave classic carnival attractions and four distinct roller coasters, including the looping Wild Thing and Timberhawk: Ride of Prey, which is the largest wooden roller coaster in the state. Beyond the high-adrenaline attractions, the park also features dedicated kiddie zones with gentle rides for younger guests, making it a well-rounded destination for family entertainment in the Pacific Northwest.

Attending the 2026 Preservation Conference is especially meaningful because, in late 2025, the park announced that 2026 would be its last season, permanently closing to the public on November 1, 2026. This will truly be an event with "last rides" significance.

Wild Waves Website