About NAPHA




Our Mission: The National Amusement Park Historical Association is an international organization dedicated to the preservation, documentation, and enjoyment of the amusement and theme park industry - past, present and future.

Educational Fun

NAPHA is the Worlds' Only educational and enthusiast organization dedicated to all aspects of the amusement park and is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation.

Riverview Chicago Origins

Our organization was founded in 1978 by Ralph Lopez - a former employee of Chicago's legendary Riverview Amusement Park (closed 1967). Over the years, we've expanded to include amusement park enthusiasts from around the world.

NAPHA is for Everyone

Membership is open to anyone who has an interest in amusement parks and includes people from all walks of life.

Loads of Benefits

  • Year subscription to NAPHA Magazine (4 issues) 
  • Monthly NAPHA NewsFLASH!!! email newsletter
  • Official NAPHA events (with member discount)
  • Participation in Members' Parks & Attractions Survey
  • Discounts at select parks & attractions
  • Discounted subscription rate to Funworld (IAAPA) magazine
  • And More!
  • Masters of Preservation

    Throughout its history, NAPHA has worked to preserve amusement park history while the NAPHA Archives has served as a resource for authors, historians, documentary producers and manufacturers.

    NAPHA even provided the memorabilia used on the record jacket of Bruce Springsteen's Tunnel of Love single.
    NAPHA has a record of assistance in finding new homes for historic rides to preserve them. Through member donations and auction proceeds, our heritage fund has contributed thousands of dollars to non-profit entities helping to preserve classic rides.

    Mailing Address

    National Amusement Park Historical Association
    P.O. Box 871
    Lombard, IL 60148-0871

    Email Us