Amidst the lush woodlands of Dyrehaven, a former royal hunting ground near Copenhagen, lies Bakken, the world’s oldest continuously operating amusement park. Officially opened in 1583, Bakken began not as an amusement park but as a site attracting visitors to its natural spring water, believed to have curative properties. The influx of visitors each spring soon drew entertainers and hawkers, who were the precursor to the rides, games, and stalls that would populate the site.
As its popularity grew over the centuries, Bakken evolved into a full-fledged amusement park. Unlike its younger cousin Tivoli Gardens, which opened in 1843 in central Copenhagen, Bakken has retained a wild, untamed charm that complements its forest surroundings. It hosts a blend of old-world and modern rides—from classic wooden roller coasters to high-speed thrill rides—catering to both nostalgia-seekers and adrenaline junkies.
Aside from the rides, Bakken is renowned for its live entertainment, which ranges from cabarets and concerts to children’s theater. The park's atmosphere is enhanced by its historical buildings and structures, some of which have stood for several centuries. Bakken's communal spirit, free entry, and its scenic locale in a national park make it a unique blend of natural beauty and crafted amusement—a stark contrast to the more commercialized theme parks found around the world.
Today, Bakken continues to draw millions of visitors each year, serving as both a preserve of Danish cultural history and a thriving modern-day amusement park. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of leisure and entertainment, bridging the gap between the past and the present with an eclectic mix of offerings that continue to enchant visitors from around the globe.
