Washington Park in Michigan City, Indiana once featured amusement attractions including thrill rides, concessions and entertainment facilities, making it a popular destination throughout the early to mid 20th century.

     Early Recreational Development.

    .     Washington Park.was founded in 1891 along Lake Michigan to provide recreational space.  By 1913, the South Shore Amusement Company operated entertainment amenities such as a dance floor, skating rink, bath house,.boat rentals, concessions and Thrill Rides.  This effectively made it an amusement destination for locals and visitors coming from nearby cities like nearby cities like Chicago

     New Deal Enhancements

     During the 1930’s, federal.programs like the WPA and its predessor agencies built new park structures and features.  These included the observation tower, the monkey island, and brick shelters for animals, picnic shelters, a rock.garden, tennis courts, and pathways connecting these attractions.

     The zoo and landscaped areas added whimsy, resembling an amusement style park, while providing  public recreation and entertainment.

     Mid 20th Century Amusement Activity

     Video records and home movies from the 1950’s and 1960’s confirm that thrill rides and beachside amusement attractions were active in Washington Park during that period.  Short 8mm film.clips show rides, concessions and family entertainment, indicating the park functioned as a seasonal amusement location down by the beach.

     Legacy and Modern Status

     Many of the historical amusement features no longer operate today, but significant  WPA-ERA structures like the observation tower, rock gardens,  and zoo facilities remain. Modern.Washington Park.coninues as a public park with a beach, playgrounds,marina, zoo, picnic areas and historic landmarks, pserving the legacy of its past entertainment offerings.