A small amusement park named Lakemont Park in Altoona is where the world's oldest operating coaster is located. This roller coaster, called Leap the Dips opened in 1902 and is one of the last “side friction” coasters. A side friction coaster is one that usually has a wooden track and a lack of up-stop wheels.

The title of the oldest operating wooden roller coaster in the world belongs to Leap-the-Dips at Lakemont Park in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Built in 1902 by the Edward Joy Morris Company, it is a "side-friction" coaster, meaning it lacks the "under-friction" wheels that lock modern coasters to the track. Because of this vintage design, the cars move at a relatively slow speed of about 10 mph and do not feature steep drops or high speeds; instead, the thrill comes from the slight "leaps" as the cars transition between levels. It is a designated National Historic Landmark and has survived several periods of closure and extensive restoration to keep it running for over 120 years. Another notable mention is the Scenic Railway at Luna Park in Melbourne, Australia, which opened in 1912 and is the oldest continuously operating coaster, as it never faced the long-term closures that Leap-the-Dips did. Both rides offer a unique "time machine" experience, allowing modern thrill-seekers to feel exactly how amusement park guests felt at the dawn of the 20th century.