Ghost Hunt

Lake Compounce, located in Bristol, Connecticut, is known as America’s oldest continuously operating amusement park. With a rich history dating back to its opening in 1846, the park offers a variety of attractions for thrill-seekers and families alike. But one ride that stands out for its eerie charm and spine-tingling thrills is the Ghost Hunt. This classic dark ride blends traditional haunted house elements with interactive gaming, making it a must-see for those looking to add a supernatural thrill to their park experience.

History of the Ghost Hunt

The Ghost Hunt ride first opened in 1999 and was created by the Sally Corporation, a company famous for its dark ride creations. It replaced a former ghostly attraction, the “Devil’s Den,” which had been a traditional haunted house-style ride. The new version kept the eerie theme alive but added modern technology and interactive elements, making it one of the first interactive dark rides of its kind in the Northeast.

The ride’s storyline is set in an old, decrepit mansion said to be haunted by mischievous ghosts. The attraction invites guests to board a “ghostmobile” and join in a hunt to capture these spirits before they take over the mansion completely.

The Ride Experience

Riders enter the creepy manor through the old entrance hall, where a disheveled atmosphere sets the tone for what’s to come. After boarding one of the specially equipped ghostmobiles, participants are handed laser blasters and tasked with zapping glowing targets as they travel through a series of haunted scenes.

Each scene is filled with special effects, animatronic characters, and hidden surprises, making the experience dynamic and unpredictable. Guests will encounter a variety of ghouls, from skeletal apparitions to creepy clowns and ghostly butlers, as they move through the mansion’s cursed halls.

The goal of the ride is to score as many points as possible by hitting the moving targets attached to the ghostly characters and other supernatural objects throughout the ride. This interactive element adds a layer of competition among riders, making it as much a game as it is a dark ride.

Technical Aspects

The Ghost Hunt features an innovative ride system developed by the Sally Corporation, known for its smooth trackless movements and precise targeting technology. Each ghostmobile is equipped with on-board audio systems and responsive laser guns, allowing riders to hear their scores and receive feedback on their performance throughout the experience.

The targets in the ride are varied, with some requiring multiple hits to score, while others, like the elusive "boss ghosts," are worth higher points and trigger unique effects when hit. The ride culminates in a showdown with the ride’s most infamous ghost, a final challenge that leaves riders on the edge of their seats.

What Makes Ghost Hunt Unique?

While many haunted attractions focus solely on scaring guests, Ghost Hunt blends traditional haunted house elements with interactive gameplay, making it an experience that appeals to both families and thrill-seekers. The ride’s balanced mix of suspense, humor, and gameplay creates a unique combination that keeps guests coming back to improve their scores.

The attraction also stands out for its attention to detail. Each scene is filled with intricate props, detailed sets, and carefully programmed animatronics, giving the ride a distinct, immersive feel. The ride’s ability to mix lighthearted fun with ghostly frights makes it a memorable part of any visit to Lake Compounce.

Tips for Riding

1. Go for High-Value Targets: Some ghosts are worth more points than others. Look for targets that are harder to hit or only appear briefly.
2. Pay Attention to Audio Cues: The on-board audio system often gives hints about which targets are active or when a high-scoring opportunity is coming up.
3. Compete Against Friends: The ride’s scoring system makes it fun to challenge friends and family to see who can get the highest score.
4. Ride at Night for Maximum Effect: While the ride is enclosed, experiencing it after sunset adds an extra layer of spookiness.

The Ghost Hunt at Lake Compounce is a testament to the park’s ability to combine nostalgia with modern thrills. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or just looking for a unique, spooky ride to enjoy with family, this interactive dark ride is not to be missed. With its immersive sets, clever use of animatronics, and competitive gameplay, Ghost Hunt remains one of the park’s most beloved and haunting attractions.