The sounds of laughter, children celebrating after winning the Super Goblet Toss, cameras capturing family memories, and the screams of excitement from thrilling rides fill the air at Funland in Rehoboth Beach. Located along the iconic Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, Funland has been a beloved destination for generations, offering a mix of classic rides, arcade games, prizes, and treats for visitors of all ages.
Since opening its doors in 1962, Funland has evolved with new attractions while preserving the charm and family-centered spirit that made it a Delaware tradition. Behind the lights, games, and excitement is a story of dedication, community, and family ownership. Take a closer look at the story behind one of Delaware's most treasured attractions and the people who continue to keep its legacy alive.
Staff at Funland
Funland has been a fixture on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk for generations. What has allowed it to remain a beloved destination for more than 60 years? How has the park become part of the identity of Rehoboth Beach?
There are very few things you can experience as a child and then share with your own children and grandchildren in almost the same way. Funland is one of those rare places! I think this is one of the most important reasons why it is a beloved destination. We hear all the time, “Whatever you do, don’t change a thing!”
Many families visit Funland year after year. What does it mean to be part of so many family traditions?
It is incredibly special. We hear stories every day from guests about what Funland means to their families, and those stories never get old. During the busy summer season, when we’re working long hours, it can be easy to focus on the day-to-day operations. Hearing those memories reminds us just how meaningful this place is to so many people and why we are lucky to do what we do.
What's one story from a longtime visitor that has stayed with you?
There are so many stories that it’s hard to choose just one. One family that comes to mind has a child with special needs who absolutely loves our Merry-Go-Round. Riding it is something they look forward to all winter long. Every opening day, we know they’ll be among the first guests through the doors so they can take that first ride of the season. Throughout the summer, they visit at least once a week, often more and ride the Merry-Go-Round over and over again. By the time September arrives, it’s bittersweet for all of us because we know how much those rides mean to them and how long they’ll have to wait until the next season.
How would you describe the feeling people get when they walk into Funland for the first time—or the hundredth time?
The first thing we notice is the smiles. Whether it’s someone’s first visit or their hundredth, there’s a sense of excitement when they walk through the doors. First-time visitors quickly realize that Funland is different from many other amusement parks because of its family atmosphere and unique character. Our returning guests usually head straight for their favorite ride or game, picking up a tradition they’ve enjoyed for years.
If someone has never visited before, what are the must-do experiences?
If you’re going to play a game, you have to try the Derby horse race game. It’s a Funland classic, right alongside Skee-Ball and Whac-A-Mole. We also still operate five original rides that have been part of Funland since 1962, and those are must-rides for many guests. And of course, no visit is complete without a trip through our Haunted Mansion, which has been a beloved Funland tradition for generations.
What's something visitors might not know about running a boardwalk amusement park?
Most visitors don’t realize how many people it takes to create the Funland experience. Each summer, approximately 170 seasonal employees, along with two generations of our family and full-time staff, work together to make the park operate safely and smoothly. A tremendous amount of planning, maintenance, training, and behind-the-scenes work goes into creating the fun our guests enjoy every day.
If you could describe Funland in three words, what would they be?
Safe. Affordable. Fun.
Merchandise and rides at Funland