Enchanted Forest Water Safari is Old Forge's headline attraction for families: a combined water and amusement park with slides, classic rides, shows, games, and a long-running storybook theme. It is not subtle, but on a hot Adirondack day it makes perfect sense.
The park is seasonal, usually a summer trip rather than a year-round reason to come. If you are travelling without children, it is less essential, but it explains why Old Forge gets so lively in July and August.