Linnanmaki

Linnanmaki is Helsinki's amusement park, run for charity since 1950 on a hill above the city, a cheerful mix of modern thrill rides and old favourites. Its heart is the Vuoristorata, a wooden rollercoaster from 1951 still braked by hand, and entry to the grounds is free.

Background

The name, colloquially Lintsi, comes from Vesilinnanmäki, Water Castle Hill, as locals called the hill in the early 20th century after its two water towers of 1876 and 1938. Both were cut off from the water grid in 2003 but are protected from demolition. Six Finnish child welfare organisations leased the land in 1950, and in 1957 they formed the Children's Day Foundation, which still runs the park and has donated over €130 million in total to child welfare. The site now covers 7.5 hectares and draws about a million visitors a year. Besides its rides, it holds the Peacock Theatre, built in 1950, and a Sea Life aquarium opened in 2002.

Source: Wikipedia, "Linnanmäki"

The main sights

• The wooden coaster - the 1951 Vuoristorata, still operated with a hand brake.
• Modern thrill rides - drop towers and coasters for the brave.
• Family rides and the views - gentle rides and a look over the city from the hill.
• Free grounds - stroll in without a ticket and pay only for rides.

When to go

The summer season from spring to autumn for the full park; it also opens for a Halloween and a Christmas season. Evenings and weekdays are calmer than sunny weekends.

Good to know

It is a seasonal amusement park, closed in the depths of winter apart from special seasons. Free entry is generous, but the rides add up if you ride a lot, so a wristband suits big days. It is a lively family and teen attraction rather than a cultural sight.

Nearby

Central Helsinki is a short tram ride; the Linnanmaki hill gives a view over the city.

Key facts