When you think of Copenhagen or Denmark, amusement parks probably aren’t the first thing that come to mind. But beyond the famous Tivoli Gardens and Legoland, there’s also Bakken—just outside the capital—which some claim is the oldest amusement park in the world.
That’s right, the oldest amusement park in the world! But before you get too excited, let’s set the record straight: this isn’t some ancient Roman coliseum of fun. Still, it offers a great half-day (or even full-day) experience and can even be a totally free outing if you want it to be.
Bakken – The World’s Oldest Amusement Park
Let’s start with a quick overview of why this place is considered so historic.
Bakken—officially called Dyrehavsbakken—is located about 10 km (6 miles) north of Copenhagen, in Klampenborg. Many consider it the world’s oldest amusement park still operating today. Its history dates back to 1583, when a natural spring in the area was believed to have healing powers, attracting thousands of visitors. That crowd drew entertainers, vendors, and performers who began offering games and shows, and from that, Bakken was born.
The park continued to evolve throughout the 18th and 19th centuries with the addition of rides, games, and attractions, all while keeping its open-air carnival charm. While there were other early entertainment venues around the world, Bakken is the only one that has operated continuously for more than 440 years. That’s why it holds a spot in many record books.
The vibe today feels more like a sprawling country fair or flea market than a modern theme park. If you can imagine that kind of setting with some newer rides thrown in, plus a touch of early 20th-century charm and a dash of cheerful chaos, you’ve got the idea.
Admission is Free
One of the best things about Bakken is that entrance is completely free—a rarity in Denmark. Of course, nothing inside comes free, but you can walk in, explore the atmosphere, and soak it all in without paying a dime. There are no gates or fences—you simply walk right in.
If you want to spend more time and enjoy the actual rides and attractions, though, be prepared to reach into your wallet.
Bakken Prices
There are basically three things you can spend money on at Bakken. And it’s worth emphasizing that you only pay for what you want to do. It’s entirely possible to hang out here all day without spending anything.
1. Major Rides and Attractions
You can either buy an all-day pass or pay per ride. The all-day wristband is a good value if you plan to try everything, but if you just want to hop on a few rides, paying per ride might make more sense. Here are some general prices:
- Day pass: 329 DKK. Valid for all rides and attractions (roller coasters, carousels, etc.).
- Individual rides: 20–50 DKK, depending on how “big” the ride is (a.k.a. thrill level).
2. Classic Carnival Games
Bakken is full of nostalgic games like ball tosses, ring toss, horse racing, and archery. Each one charges separately, typically around 20 DKK per try. But beware—it’s rare to stop at just one go. Expect to spend a few hundred DKK if you get into the spirit.
These games are hugely popular and create a festive, bustling atmosphere throughout the park. Plus, many offer real prizes. It’s not uncommon to see people walking around with massive 2 kg boxes of Marabou chocolate they’ve just won.
3. Food and Drink
Bakken is filled with food stalls, restaurants, and snack bars. Sometimes it feels like there are more places to eat than there are rides. Hot dogs, buffets, sweets, cotton candy—you name it.
We tried a buffet restaurant, and for a theme park, the quality was decent. The all-you-can-eat dinner was 219 DKK per person (or 159 DKK for lunch), plus 69 DKK for unlimited drinks. Not cheap, but fair by Danish standards, especially if you plan to sample everything.
There are even a few higher-end spots, though with kids in tow, you’re probably here more for the fun than the food.
Where Is Bakken Located?
Bakken is located in Klampenborg, about 10 km (6 miles) north of Copenhagen. It’s easy to get to by car or train. You can take the Helsingør-bound train (faster) or the C-line S-Tog (slower, more stops). From the station, it’s about a 10-minute walk through a lovely wooded area—or you can hop on a horse-drawn carriage if you’re feeling whimsical.
Bonus Tip: If you’re already in Klampenborg, there’s a beautiful sandy beach just five minutes from the train station. In summer, it’s a great spot for a swim or a relaxing stroll.
