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US News:
Alabama - (10/17/08) According to this news article 400 acres of property has been purchased this week for the Country Crossings project. Though this article fails to mention the theme park, you can see artwork about the entire project proposal here.
(8/14/08) According to the local news the ground breaking for the Country Crossings project is set for September 12th. Unfortunately the article doesn’t go into details about exactly what the final design of the project will involve or what we can expect from the “Midway Theme Park”.
(6/3/08) A project by the name of Country Crossing is in development for Alabama that is said to include a “Midway Theme Park”, concert Amphitheater and Musical Fairgrounds.
Arizona - (4/2/09) While I’m sure any and all plans for new theme parks in Arizona are about as solid as a cloud, a reader did come across this website showing off some concept artwork for two different “Grand Canyon” theme park concepts.
(1/28/09) If the economy wasn’t enough of a factor delaying the proposed 2010 start of construction for the Waveyard project in Arizona, an archaeological study team has now discovered what seems to be an ancient canal under the proposed site.
While there hasn’t been much news about Waveyard lately, the $250 million proposed waterpark resort concept was proposed to take over what was formerly a municipal golf course (Riverview Golf Course) and softball fields. The park itself will feature surf waves, whitewater rafting, snorkeling and more.
(12/1/08) The temporary Santa’s Theme Park that has entertained entertainment seekers in Arizona for the past three winter seasons at the Firebird Raceway will not be returning this year. According to this article the event actually lost money last year and won’t be returning.
(9/24/08) It looks like everyone in Arizona now wants to build their own theme park as a third new park concept has come up for something called Coyote Canyon, a Western themed park hoping to build on a 1,200 acre site in the City of Florence. They’re talking big though up front, which isn’t always a good sign, especially when they describe the park’s signature roller coaster concept called Thunderbird which would feature a 250 foot vertical drop along with another coaster that will have a 300 foot drop down into a canyon. Then there is the unrealistic timeline that worries me, as they are pitching a 2010 opening date that just seems a bit unrealistic for a project of this magnitude. Check out the official website for some minimal details, an unfinished look and a very amateurish logo.
(7/11/08) Another developer it looking to perhaps follow in the footsteps of the Decades park project in the Eloy area with an old west themed park project called Old Arizona Territory. Read all about it here… because the way these guys are talking, they sounds as if they could open this project even more Decades can open.
 California - (6/10/09) Dino Mountain has returned to the San Diego Wild Animal Park as you can see in the photos posted here by one of our readers. In addition to the animatronic dinosaurs they also snapped up several pictures of the new ZipZine attraction at the park.
(5/28/09) Pictures of the new Elephant Odyssey attraction at the San Diego Zoo have been posted here.
(5/8/09) For years Garden Grove has been chasing a dream to add their own world class amusement attraction after watching all the tourist dollars get sucked away into nearby Anaheim. According to the OC Register, the city will be consideirng a plan from a developer to come in and build a large indoor waterpark resort, which is being described as the largest such attraction west of the Mississippi. Of course, that isn’t saying much as there are only a handful of such resorts west of the old Miss anyway. The plans include a 10 story tall hotel with a 3 acre indoor/outdoor waterpark on a 10.3 acre site, to go near the intersection of Garden Grove Blvd and Harbor, only a mile from Disneyland.
(5/5/09) I’ve got a quick update on the new Zipline attraction at the Wild Animal Park. A reader has informed me that the attraction had just opened and they were able to try it out on May 1st.
(5/3/09) A reader has sent in some pictures of the new ZipLine
attraction just added to the San Diego Wild Animal Park. From the look of things, it’s not quite ready to open yet, but likely will be in the near future.
(4/28/09) The LA Times has posted a brief write up about the opening of the new Zip Line attraction at San Diego’s Wild Animal Park. The attraction is in soft-opening mode right now, but will officially open on May 1st.
(4/24/09) After more than 20 years of operation, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not museum in Buena Park, just down the street from Knott’s Berry Farm, has closed down for good. From the sounds of things, there was some kind of failure between the local franchise operator and the corporate office who would actually like to open a new version of the attraction in the area.
(4/17/09) A new waterpark for California was just approved, to be built just NorthWest of Bakersfield by the Clearwater Waterpark Development LLC group, the same people who run the Wild Rivers park in Irvine. It looks like after all the talks to build a new park in the Temecula area (Splash Canyon) went sour, they decided to move to a new area and try again, where permission was granted for their park project without any opposition. No word on if they will reuse the Splash Canyon name or come up with something else.
(3/10/09) According to this article, San Diego’s Belmont Park has opened two new attractions: a 1,300 square-foot Magical Mystery Mirror Maze this year as well as something called the Vault Laser Maze Challenge. Not to be confused with Laser Tag, the Laser Maze where you have to navigate through a maze of laser beams without triggering the alarm.
(3/4/09) It’s been quite some time but we have an update about the proposed Splash Canyon waterpark project in Temecula, CA. The last we had heard shortly after the park was given permission to go ahead, the locals filed lawsuits and got the permits pulled, which let the project fall back into limbo and disappear. Now according to this article from last fall the developer was looking at a new site and a possible partnership to make it happen. Unfortunately that’s where the story ends again… and we know so many plans have fallen apart everywhere since last fall, so I’m guessing Splash Canyon is just quietly waiting out the depression or worst-case it could have been abandoned. Anyone know for sure?
(3/1/09) I’ve heard that the current plan for the San Diego Zoo’s new Elephant Odyssey is to open it on or around May 23rd. Meanwhile at the Wild Animal Park they are planning on opening a few more upcharge attractions this year. One of which will be a walking trip around the park that will include a 3,600 foot Zipline over some kind of animal exhibit. Speeding by at about 50mph, the zipline is supposed to be built by the same Flightline people who did the new one just outside Las Vegas. The overall experience is said to take about 2 hours and will include a few smaller “practice” runs on smaller ziplines. It is expected to open sometime in May most likely and will end up costing you about $75 for the experience, on top of whatever else you paid to get into the park. Speaking of extra charge items, I’ve heard that the park will also open bring back the old popular Dino Mountain attraction for the summer, which will also feature some kind of Africa 4D film or simulator attraction. Oh yeah, the park is also supposed to open something called the Mule Ridge Wilderness Tour, which will take guests on a 2 hour tour through the southern section of the park that used to be covered by the old Monorail, but you get take a ride on a Mule instead and pay for the discomfort. Ok, ok… I’m glad to see new attractions go into the Wild Animal Park, but as someone who grew up in San Diego and went to the park often, I’ve just been very disappointed with the new direction (and ton of pay per attraction concepts) the park has been investing in following the destruction of the WGASA Bush Line monorail which was included with admission.
(2/11/09) Thanks to
a local reader for sending in four new pictures of the new Elephant exhibit under construction at the San Diego Zoo.
As previously described, this is a new 7.5 acre Elephant Odyssey exhibit which is described as the “biggest and most unusual” thing they’ve ever built. The new exhibit will take over most of the West side of the Zoo and be six times larger than the current exhibit, though it will apparently open in two phases.
(1/14/09) The local news reports that the newly reborn Nut Tree amusement park (2006) has closed down due to the current economic conditions. There is a video on the site showing off photos and footage of the park.
(1/13/09) Westcoaster has posted a large update from the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park.
(12/29/08) The LA Times has posted a list of what all the various SoCal theme parks are doing for New Years Eve celebrations.
(12/15/08) A power outage in California in the area around the Santa Monica pier left several riders stranded in mid air on the new Ferris wheel. Work crews actually had to break out a “hand crank” to get the people down before the power was restored 20 minutes later. Click here to see the report and watch a short video.
(12/11/08) While I haven’t found a website for this place yet, it seems a new indoor FEC has opened in Burbank earlier this month called Kids Castle. According to this news article the place include an arcade, rooms for birthday parties, a playground, and even an indoor Himalaya ride apparently.
(11/28/08) A couple of news bits for you animal park fans in California. Apparently this winter will be the last time that the Wild Animal Park will hold it’s annual Festival of Lights event. The plan is now to hold a new similar event at the San Diego Zoo next year from now on.
(11/27/08) According to this article a new 60’s themed mirror maze will coming to Belmont Park in time for Spring 2009.
Florida - (6/17/09) Florida fun seekers looking for some new cheap thrills may be interested in taking a trip out to Weeki Wachee. Now that the state has taken over control of the park they are lowing admission from $26.57 to just $13 for adults, and from $18 to $5 for kids. The new lower prices will take effect on July 1st.
(4/14/09) The old carousel that used to run at Miracle Strip Park has reopened this past weekend in it’s new home in the middle of “Pier Park”.
(3/13/09) A developer is considering building a new waterpark in Panama City, FL under the name of Emerald Coast Waterpark. You can read the details here.
(2/23/09) I missed hearing about this earlier this month, but it seems that the Dania Beach Hurricane was the subject of an escape artists latest stunt. He was blindfolded, shackeled, put in a straight jacket and then tied down to the inside of the coaster’s train before sending him off on his ride where he attempted to “escape” his bonds during the 120 second ride.
(12/1/08) The Lowry Park Zoo has apparently added a new Tiger themed kiddie coaster to the Wallaroo station area. RCDB has confirmed that this is the former Tiger Terror from Wild Adventures.
(11/27/08) A great article was posted the other day talking about the endless rumors that has been circulating for years in Florida that Six Flags is going to build a new theme park in Pasco county, and often repeating in other counties in the state. For some reason this rumor just will not die and I know I’ve heard it on and off myself for about the past decade.
Georgia - (6/2/09) According to this news report a pirate themed waterpark, tentatively called Pirates Cove Water & Fun Park, is being proposed for a 22 acre site near Savannah, GA. Propsoed by Dream Water LLC, they envision a park full of waterslides and massive themed pirate ship structures. They also want to throw in other FEC style entertainment options like a batting cage, paintball field, mini-golf for those no-so-warm months of the year.
(2/12/09) Anyone who’s done a little history digging into some of the country’s most odd “lost” theme parks from the past has probably heard about the indoor World of Sid & Marty Krofft theme park attraction in downtown Atlanta inside the structure that is now home to CNN. You can see a few pictures taken inside posted to AtlantaTimeMachine.com that show off the inside of the Pinball Machine Ride. Pictures of this fabled attraction seem rare and hard to come by however, but a good description of the entire attraction can be found here.
(5/7/08) The Georgia Aquarium has announced that over the next two years they will be expanding the facility to add a $110 million dolphin exhibit where guests will not only be able to view them, but also swim with them (for an extra fee of course). The new 1.3 million gallon expansion is expected to open in November 2010 and become home to four dolphins, all coming from the Dolphin Conservation Center at Marineland in Florida.
Illinois - (6/1/09) Theme Park Review has posted a good in-depth look at Kiddieland Amusement Park. Check it out.
(5/25/09) The Chicago area will lose an attraction this year as Kiddieland Amusement Park will close down for good at the end of this season, their 81st. You can read the story here.
(1/13/09) A reader who dropped by Navy Pier earlier this month did some poking around online to uncover some interesting developments. On this site you will see a list of proposed purchases for the pier, which include not only the previously mentioned Giant Wheel but also some kind of “Tower Thrill Ride” as well as other “Amusement Ride(s), Attraction(s) and Entertainment Venue(s)”. In other news, they also informed us that Time Escape, a time travel themed experience and simulator ride, has now closed.
(1/5/09) While got another article that talks about rebuilding the former Santa’s Village park at Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Lodge.
(12/8/08) The old Santa’s Village park from Illinois is looking to make a comeback of sorts, as many of the buildings and items are looking to be moved down to Grizzly Jack’s Grand Beat Lodge indoor waterpark. The idea under consideration is to rebuild the Santa’s Village section of the park only for 2010 if they go through with it, though the owner has already purchased a number of old rides and props from the closed park already.
(9/17/08) Chicago’s famous Navy Pier is now looking to replace their old 150 foot tall Ferris wheel with a new bigger wheel by 2010. From the sound of things, they would love to get one of the new generation giant wheels that can take 30 minutes to go around and feature enclosed temperature controlled cabins.
Indiana - (6/16/09) The closed Fun Spot park in Indiana has bought ad space in Amusement Today (see it here) to sell Afterburner, their Arrow Shuttle coaster. While Fun Spot really just said they were not going to open for THIS SUMMER, once has to wonder if they decided to close down the attraction entirely now.
(3/11/09) The economy has taken another victim this week as the Fun Spot Amusement Park and Zoo in Angola, IN has announced on their website that they will not be opening for the 2009 season. The small park is known as one of the last locations where you can find an Arrow Shuttle Loop (Afterburner) which was relocated to the park from Florida’s Boardwalk & Baseball when it closed. The Afterburner is actually Arrow’s prototype unit as well.
Kansas - (4/22/09) According to the news, vandals invaded Joyland once again either late Sunday or early Monday and went on a rampage through at least five different buildings.
(4/13/09) The epic and miserable decline of Witchita’s Joyland park has made another milestone this week after a fire broke out in the park and gutted a good portion of a building that used to house some of the park’s stores. No determination has been made about the cause of the fire but considering how many vandals have broken in lately to cause all kinds of havoc for the park, arson is clearly a primary suspect right now. Right now the chance of the park ever reopening again is slim to none, despite the efforts of the last group who came in and gave it a serious attempt, only to be shot down by the locals who were unwilling to let the park operate in a fashion that would allow it to be profitable. My Take: As sad as it is to say, stick a fork in this one, it’s done.
(1/6/09) The local news confirms that Joyland’s owners have sold off some of the park’s rides and suffered another vandalism attack this past weekend as someone decided to climb to the top of the roller coaster and remove the “Last Warning – Do Not Stand Up – Sit Down!” sign. As for the rides, they admit to selling the Paratrooper, Round-Up and Big Truck Ride.
(12/29/08) While we haven’t heard any official news reports about the status of Joyland since October, a local area reader went by the park the other day and noticed that there was a crew there removing the “truck ride located near the tilt-a-whirl” with a larger truck sitting just outside the park. The last official news was that the Nelson’s were trying to sell the park again, so we’ve got to wonder if they found a buyer or are simply starting to sell off the rides piecemeal.
Louisiana - (5/29/09) Southern Star Amusements is back again and has started talking with the city about taking over the former Six Flags New Orleans park site. You can also watch a video report shot at the park site along with an interview with Southern Star.
(2/19/09) The man behind the unsuccessful attempt to revive Six Flags New Orleans has posted the real story about just what happened over at the Unofficial Jazzland Info website. It’s an interesting read about all the various forces involved as well as some basic cost rundowns about just what it would take the get the park back up and running again.
Maine - (12/26/08) After a brief announcement about an LL Bean ‘theme park’ style project that would be built close to their 24-hour store in Freeport, Maine. As I recall, the outdoor adventure style project would have featured things like a fake river rapids course, ropes courses, and other more extreme style adventure opportunities. Announced about 18 months ago, no one has really heard a peep about the project since then, until this week. In an article that talks about possible layoffs and cost cutting within the company, they do mention that the planned “theme park-style adventure center” to be built on a 700 acre site about a mile from the Flagship store is still moving forward, though it will probably be another 3 years before it’s finished.
Maryland - (6/18/09) Adventure Park in Maryland has announced plans to build a small 5.5 acre waterpark. The first of two phases will feature a wave pool, water play structure with four slides and a changing room. The really interesting part of the story is just how they are looking to pay for it… as they are trying to pre-sell a 7-Year Annual Pass to the park for $300 (break down to just $42.85 a year) or a Family Park of four 7-Year Passes for $1,000. With the right about of pre-sales, they believe they could pay for the park in advance and avoid having to deal with all the current banking issues.
Massachusetts - (6/7/09) Sometime this past week the entire back portion of the Lincoln Park Comet collapsed. You can see pictures of the wreckage posted here. According to RCDB, the coaster opened back in 1946 and hasn’t operated since 1987.
(9/5/08) The town of Douglas, MA has given preliminary approval for a plan to build a $160 million Pangaea Theme Park project that would have an educational and entertainment focus. One of our readers did come across what appears to be the official website for the project that talks a bit more about the details for the park and some proposed attractions.
Mississippi - (4/10/09) A reader reports in with an interesting report from Tunica, MS. The scuttlebutt around the area is that the Harrah’s casino there may be planning on opening a waterpark of some kind in 2010. This is apparently a plan to lure in more family guests by offering a popular extra feature. Anyone know more?
Montana - (12/10/08) The state of Montana hasn’t had it’s own roller coaster since the early 1970’s but Amusement Park Drive In is looking to change all that when they open two coasters in 2009, a Little Dipper and a Monster Mouse, both from Alan Herschell. As the name implies, the facility is a small kiddie amusement park by day (or before the movie starts) and a Drive In movie theater by night. Tickets to ride cost just $1 each. Believe it or not, but this actually isn’t an old drive-in theater looking for a new way to make a buck, as the entire project just opened in 2005.
New Jersey - (6/30/09) Screamscape sources tell us that progress on the massive Xanadu project has come to a halt following the pullout of a major investor in the project. I’ve been told that currently, all work crews may have been pulled off the job, leaving the project’s status in limbo, as well as assuring that it will miss it’s once promised August 2009 opening date. Considering how much work has been completed on this project however, I would think that eventually it will be finished and opened... one way or another.
(2/24/09) The local news talks a bit about the massive Xanadu mall project, which is now set to open in August 2009. They say that the mall is currently 70% leased, but it’s unknown if they will be able to fill up the rest of the space given the current status of the economy.
(10/16/08) The latest news update on the Pepsi Globe project talks about some of the unique features of this attraction, stating that the giant wheel will also have a 150 foot LED Screen to display the Pepsi Globe logo, part of the 10 year partnership between Pepsi and Xanadu. Set to open next summer, they have begun to form the concrete foundation for the ride. After the winter is over it will take about three months to put up the ride.
 (9/15/08) Premier Rides has announced that they have been awarded the contract to build the 286 foot tall Pepsi Globe Observation Wheel for the Meadowlands Xanadu complex. The wheel will be leased and operated by Merlin Entertainment, who has experience running the London Eye wheel. Each ride on the Pepsi Globe will last 25 minutes, with each of the 26-glass enclosed climate-controlled capsules able to hold up to 20 riders at a time.
“We at Premier Rides are extremely honored to have been selected to design and build such a visionary attraction that the Pepsi Globe Observation Wheel represents,” said Jim Seay, President, Premier Rides, Inc. “Being part of the group that creates a signature product is both an honor and a significant responsibility.”
(3/19/08) We found a few more details about Merlin’s deal to open the Legoland Discovery Center at Meadowlands Xanadu here. The site will feature Lego rides, an adventure trail, a cinema, play area, café and more. As part of the deal Merlin will “operate” the Pepsi Globe giant wheel for them, so Merlin isn’t involved in the ownership then. Merlin does have experience with this kind of thing however as they also operate the London Eye.
(3/10/08) The new giant wheel opening at Meadowlands Xanadu this November now has a name… The Pepsi Globe. The 287 foot tall wheel will be the first of it’s kind in this country and Merlin Entertainment is also said to be involved with it somehow in addition to the opening of their second Legoland Discovery Center at the complex. (The first will open this summer in Schaumburg, IL.) With Merlin’s ownership of Madame Tussauds and the Sea Life centers, I wonder if Meadowlands Xanadu may become home to more Merlin attractions in the future.
New York - (5/15/09) The new Coney Island Amusement advisory Panel has announced their recommendations for the redevelopment of the area for the 21st century. The recommendations follow three days of workshops and discussions focused on branding, marketing, planning, programming and development at Coney Island, and will be used by the City to shape and inform development plans.
“With the rezoning of Coney Island underway, we are focused on ensuring that the amusement area is a vibrant and dynamic district for generations to come,” said Deputy Mayor Lieber. “We’ve called on the leaders of the amusement industry to help develop the best strategies for growing and enhancing this iconic part of New York City.”
“This was a welcome opportunity for members of the amusement and entertainment community to come together under one roof and discuss the opportunities that exist and the challenges that New York City faces as it undertakes this exciting revitalization of Coney Island,” said Amusement Panel Chair and Premier Rides, Inc. President Jim Seay. “Coney Island is a brand that means so much to so many, and from what I’ve seen and heard here this week, the private sector believes that the City has put together a plan that will build on the history and enhance one of America’s treasures.”
The panel released seven guiding principles that will assist the City in continued planning efforts for a permanent amusement operation and development of a 27-acre amusement and entertainment district at Coney Island. A final report of the panel’s findings will be released this summer. The principles include:
- Leverage Coney Island’s Brand and its Unique Natural and Historical Assets
- Honor and Celebrate Coney Island’s History; But Don’t Get Overly Nostalgic
- Get the Core of Coney Island’s Amusement District Right
- Expand Coney Island’s Seasonal Core Amusement Experience to the Larger, Year Round Urban Entertainment District
- Coney Island Must Remain Accessible, Open and Affordable
- City Ownership of Coney Island’s Amusement Area is the Important to Move Forward
- DON’T WAIT. There is Only One Chance to Get this Right
A critical component of successful development of the area is the programming of the twelve-acre amusement core that faces the Boardwalk. When properly programmed, 12 acres is a sufficient space, and could contain around 30 major amusements, including thrill rides, coasters and other family attractions. The core should be an “Air-In-The-Face” experience, focusing on speed, thrills, and adrenaline.
While parts of the amusement district will be seasonal, the Coney Island experience should extend to the 15-acres outside the amusement core, featuring a critical mass of indoor attractions, rides, restaurants, and hotels. Big-box and mall retail should not be allowed in the entertainment zone; it will erode the amusement district and dilute the brand. Coney Island should be about the totality of the experience across the district and how the indoor and outdoor areas work together.
The City should think in terms of phased development of the permanent amusements as the infrastructure allows and as is financially feasible. It should begin with the installation of a major roller coaster followed by additional programming as the infrastructure is built out. The time is now to identify and select a single industry operator/developer to oversee the development. The operator/developer can begin to build permanent amusements and introduce innovative programming before area infrastructure is complete.
(4/3/09) Nunley’s historic 1912 Stein & Goldstein of Brooklyn Carousel is coming back this summer, with an expected reopening date of May 2nd, after being restored for the past couple of years. The Carousel was once part of the Nunley’s park in Long Island which was open from about 1939 until it closed in 1995. Before taking root at Nunley’s, I’m told that the Carousel came from Coney Island. Nassau County bought the ride when Nunley’s closed to save it from being auctioned off in pieces to collectors.
(4/2/09) The latest development in the Coney Island saga has the city making an offer to purchase 10 acres of property for their future amusement re-development for about $105 million if Thor accepts. However… so far they have been hesitant to do so.
(3/30/09) The small army is quite busy in Coney Island these days, making sure that the infamous Coney Island Cyclone will be ready to rock and roll on opening day, April 5th. (Why Sunday and not Saturday? I’ll never know...) As per tradition, the first 100 people in line on Sunday will be given free rides on the Cyclone, which is turning 82 years old this season.
(3/19/09) New York’s Battery Park will add the SeaGlass Carousel, allowing the riders to sit on fish instead of horses. The new carousel will open later this year, and you can see an video with preview images of it here.
(3/10/09) According to this news article, several children were listed as injured when a wheel broke on the Python’s Pit kiddie coaster at Jeepers, an indoor kiddie theme park in Albany, New York, causing it to come to a very sudden stop.
(1/29/09) City officials have announced that the old Rocket attraction from Astroland will be saved and installed as part of a new amusement park by the Brooklyn boardwalk. The Rocket, an old style simulator kind of ride, was donated by Carol Hill Albert and Jerry Albert who’s family owned Astroland form 1962 through to it’s closure last year.
(1/21/09) The plan to re-invent and rezone Coney Island is now moving towards a public approval process this week according to this article. The 19-block rezoning plan will create “an open and accessible 27-acre indoor and outdoor amusement and entertainment district stretching along the famed boardwalk from the Parachute Jump to the New York Aquarium.” In addition to a 12 acre boardwalk amusement park area there will be areas set up for hotel, retail, and other entertainment uses. There are also areas set aside for new residential use as well.
(12/13/08) It seems we have another victim of a lease not being renewed in Coney Island, this time to one of Thor’s most vocal critics.
(11/18/08) There is lots of buzz over the future of Coney Island once again as new plans for the area have started to leak out. Meanwhile the city says they are working on a deal to buy 10.5 acres in the area from Thor which will include the 3 acres Astroland site. Meanwhile some of the visions and ideas for what the new city owned theme park area might look like have been posted online here.
North Carolina - (5/3/09) A new ZipLine attraction has been added to Charlotte’s
WhiteWater Center. A local area reader sent in a bunch of great pictures showing off the new attraction, which makes a run over the park’s rapid runs. (Thanks to Ken Rutherford for all the photos!)
(3/24/09) According to this article a plan is in the works to bring in up to 15 temporary carnival rides to Carolina Beach near Wilmington, a bit North along the coaster and across the state line from Myrtle Beach, SC. The plan is to try and revive the area for the summer with extra attractions like the proposed rides, a concert stage, mini golf and more. Even better, this summer will act as a test run to the town to see if this is something they should install perminently, since it has been a decade or more since the area last had rides nears the beach.
(2/20/09) The unique US National Whitewater Center in Charlotte is in financial trouble, with it’s losses jumping ever higher this past year. To try and lure people in over and over, they are taking a tip from the theme park playbook and will offer a $49 all-access pass that includes unlimited whitewater rafting, kayaking and rock climbing for the day. To see more about this park that includes the world’s biggest artificial white-water river, check out Screamscape’s own Features page about it, posted back when the center first opened in Fall 2006.
Ohio - (3/24/09) According to Geauga Lake Today, on April 25th there will be an event held to celebrate the former Geauga Lake Big Dipper’s place in history as the 12th oldest coaster in the world. There will also be guest presentations, speakers, park memorabilia and more on display. This “Town Hall Meeting” is also asking everyone to sign a petition to save the ride.
(2/25/09) Bad news in Ohio this week as the Governor is proposing a plan to add 20 more school days to the schedule over the next decade, possibly stretching the school year out towards the end of June. This is obviously not a good thing for the theme parks who were quick to point out that school’s early start in mid August is already a harmful situation for them.
(1/1/09) It looks like the development of the old Geauga Lake site has received another setback as the Jacob’s Group who was planning to develop a 30 acre section into a retail project has pulled out. It seems that their big anchor store client backed out of the project, and without them the rest of the project isn’t viable. As for the other bidder who was to have taken over the former Geauga Lake Hotel site, the article also mentions that their plan was to turn it into a “children’s residential center”, something that would require a zoning change which has not been granted at this time. In the meantime, it looks like Cedar Fair may simply be content to sit on the land for up to five more years while they ride out the current recession.
(12/19/08) According to the local news Cedar Fair has confirmed that the historic carousel from Geuaga Lake will be refurbished and then sent to another Cedar Fair park sometime in the spring. They declined to say exactly which park would receive it however.
Oklahoma - (4/16/09) The former Santa Monica Ferris Wheel was purchased last year by an Oklahoma developer who said he had some big plans for it he would announce in the future. That time is now it seems, as he hopes to use the ride to anchor a new development he calls The Waterfront, which will include many new homes, condos, apartments, office space, retail space and even a hotel. He hopes to have the project (and wheel) ready to open in 2012.
Oregon - (1/9/09) Winter ice storms have taken a toll on the Enchanted Forest theme park, causing over 100 trees to fall over and damage sections of the theme park. Apparently one branch dropped near Jack & Jill, shattering Jill’s fiberglass head, while a tree landed on the Bumper Car building and another fell through the roof of a “theater snack bar”. Crews are cleaning up the debris and should have everything repaired in time for the park’s March 19th season opening.
Pennsylvania - (6/7/09) Take a moment to flashback to see a video of the now defunct White Swan Park in Coraopolis, PA, which closed back in 1989. AmusementParkWorld.com has posted a new video shot in the park the year before it closed showing off the old classic Amusement Park and it’s collection of older rides from the previous era, including a good look at the old Mad Mouse about half-way through.
(4/23/09) Good news for Lakemont Park fans, as a new website has now gone live.
(4/22/09) After a minor event in January where Lakemont Park’s website went off the grid for a time, all seemed well once it came back, but a few readers have reported lately that the park’s website has vanished once again. The recession has become a threat so small attractions who were holding onto too much debt and have suddenly found themselves unable to refinance it. Has Lakemont fallen into a similar hole or are they just having internet issues? Anyone know more?
(2/12/09) NewsPlusNotes has posted an interview with the GM of Lakemont Park this week where they talk about a number of topics including Leap The Dips. They also mention that the park has decided not to add anything until a nearby road widening project is finished in 2010 or 2011.
(1/21/09) The good news is that the Lakemont Park website is back up again. A reader who went by the park the other day also reported that nothing looked out of the ordinary and that all seemed well.
(1/19/09) In a strange development that has some worried, the Lakemont Park website is now offline. I’m hoping that this may simply be a problem with their webhost or even plans to launch a new website for the park and not a sign of something far worse, like the park closing down. Anyone know more?
(8/3/08) We don’t see footage from Lakemont Park very often, so make the jump over to CoasterForce to check out a new trip report that includes a ton of Leap-The-Dips photos, including a firsthand look at a mishap on it where one of the wheels jammed and broke off bringing the car to a grinding stop. From there the story gets more weird as the mechanics free up the car again and one of them jumps into the front row with the photographer and tells everyone to lean to the side away from the broken wheel so that the train can finish the journey on the remaining three wheels. Ooookay… and a bunch of this is caught on video too, along with the panicking mother of two in the back row. Who knew you could stand-up in a coaster and kick-push it like a giant skateboard?
South Carolina - (6/19/09) It’s been a few years since I’ve been anywhere near Pedroland, located at the infamous South of the Border tourist trap. It was pretty much falling apart with virtualy no rides still running when I passed through there back then, but you’ve got to see it now over at SouthernScream. Not only do all the ride’s appear closed, but the place is a ghost town... all you need to do is wait for nightfall and I think the Zombie masses might take over. Ahem... anyway it looked like the Wild Sombrero ride was being removed during their visit and they also tell us that all the cars on the Ferris Wheel were also removed.
(6/4/09) The final approval has been given and new rides for the North Myrtle Beach fun zone will begin showing up in mid-July. The list of rides will also include a ferris wheel and some kind of roller coaster, all of which will run through Labor Day weekend.
(5/25/09) According to this news report Burroughs & Chapin have now turned over the management of the two small rides areas at Broadway At The Beach (Carousel Park and Pavilion Nostalgia Park) over to PARC Management. It was just last year that B&C sold off the Myrtle Waves waterpark and NASCAR Speedpark to PARC Management as well as B&C seeks to get out of the attraction biz. PARC also mentioned that they would be looking to add new rides next year to their Myrtle Beach attractions as well as look into ways to expand their presence in the local market.
(4/27/09) Discover Myrtle Beach will soon launch their first ever Pulse Awards, to recognize Excellence in Service to Grand Strand businesses. From May 1st to September 30th, visitors to the website will be able to vote for their favorite tourism establishment. For more information click here.
(4/23/09) Plans are being made to open up a new small attraction park in North Myrtle Beach according to this article. The project is being backed by the owner of the Wild Water & Wheels attraction and a local land owner, as they plan to create a small seasonal seaside attraction that would feature kiddie rides, a Ferris wheel and one small coaster.
Tennessee - (5/29/09) The new MagiQuest center is now open in Pigeon Forge. You can find out more about it at the official page and if you want to see more, take a look at our feature article about the original Myrtle Beach location here. Looking through the official MagiQuest site, I also came across a page that talks about a new MagiQuest Online project that is in the works. Rumor has it that we may hear more about this particular project before too much longer.
(3/29/09) A local source tells me that the Belle Island project just filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection this week after the project has been stalled for the last two months. It seems they decided that a bankruptcy filing would be the best way to get the project “back on track” and finish the construction.
(2/25/09) The state of Tennessee has put a new law into effect that will put tougher regulations for amusement rides into effect in the state. The new law will cover both installed rides at theme parks and attractions as well as portable rides. The state used Dollywood as a model for how things should be done everywhere else in the state.
(1/29/09) While Dollywood may be closed right now a new attraction has opened at Ober Gatlinburg. At a cost of about $1.5 million it seems they have built a 10-lane snow tubing park for guests to enjoy over the winter months.
(1/28/09) While I’ve heard that tourist in the Pigeon Forge area is doing better than the downturn compared to other areas of the country, it seems the progress of the new Belle Island project has slowed to a crawl. According to this article numerous contractors have filed liens against the project for non-payment, as the credit-crunch is making everyone a little more cautious. According to Belle Island they admit to the problem but believe they are close to a deal with several banks to extend their credit, so they can pay off what they owe and get the crews back to finish up the remaining 10% of the work left so they can open Belle Island in time for Spring 2009.
(12/1/08) Construction on Belle Island Village in Pigeon Forge is moving forward, but if you take a look at the construction pictures on the website and the live webcam, it’s clear that some areas are more complete than others. According to a press release issued on November 7th they plan on announcing the official opening date in the near future as progress was then said to be close to the 90% mark. A second press release also mentioned that they have partnered with Central Amusement International LLC to provide and operate an amusement rides package for an area they are calling Carnival Cove. Set to open on March 1st, 2009, they’ve already announced two rides: Great American Steamboat Chase (Wave Swinger) and Twister Mountain, a spinning coaster. All of the rides are from Zamperla, so we can confirm that Twister Mountain will be a Crazy Mouse. Other attractions in Belle Island will include the Debbie Reynolds Hollywood Motion Picture Museum, The Darrell Waltrip Racing Experience and Otter Cove.
(11/26/08) Titanic, a huge $25 million museum attraction is coming to Pigeon Forge with an intended 2010 launch date. The project will go on a 5.6 acre site near Black Bear Jamboree and Wonderworks on the north end of town. In addition to touring a museum of artifacts guest will be able to touch an iceburg, feel the chill of the 28º water and sit in a lifeboat. It will look quite impressive from the outside as well which you can see at the official website.
(10/2/08) Libertyland may have closed at the end of the 2005 season, but it’s story lives on in the never-ending saga of the Zippin Pippin, a wood coaster said to be Elvis Presley’s favorite. Put up for auction, the Pippin was sold in 2006 to a traveling museum group who really only wanted the car that Elvis rode in. They then donated the ride later in the year to the Carolina Crossroads development in North Carolina who was going to move the coaster to their proposed entertainment and retail development. After that I thought that the story was over, but it seems that setbacks have prevented the Carolina Crossroads project from becoming fully realized. This is where the story and the facts get a little fuzzy.
From what one source tells me the Carolina Crossroads people may have donated the Pippin back to the “Save Libertyland” group. Following this move there was a very real possibility that the Pippin could not only be saved but kept in Memphis, moved over to be part of proposed Pyramid Amusement Park project. After being hung out to dry too many times by the city, the Erison group who were behind the Pryamid took their ball and went home. So from the sound of things the Pippin is now back where it started, rotting away uncared for in it’s old location, with the wrecking ball looming in a not too distant future as the city seeks to sell off the property out from under it. So click here if you want to put in another vote to Save the Pippin.
Texas - (6/17/09) For anyone who happens to be missing Astroworld right now, check out this collection of old photos and press releases from the park posted by Shane’s Amusement Attic.
(5/20/09) Officials of the Texas State Fair have shown off a new plan that would bring rides to the site operating all year long. If they get their way, they want to add a new roller coaster and several other thrill rides to the 20 acre site in Dallas by 2012. They’ve also got their eyes on a large observation tower to be called the Top of Texas Centennial Tower and then an $8 million roller coaster after that.
(4/17/09) Texas residents, Hawaiian Falls is currently seeking a boy and a girl (age 10-14) to server as their on-camera spokesperson in TV commercials and radio spots in the Dallas / Ft. Worth area. They will be holding an open casting call at 9am on Saturday, April 25th at The Boardroom – Embassy Suites – The Galleria. Find out all the official information here.
(2/19/09) After months of cleaning and repair work following Hurricane Ike, Schlitterbahn Galveston will be ready to reopen to guests on March 14th. “The park looks better than brand new, I’m really proud of what our team accomplished over the past several months,” said Ron Sutula, general manager of Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark. New enhancements have also been added to the park such as a new sweet shop, free WiFi access, extra seating at the wave pool and a new RFID wristband system allowing guests to make cashless transactions.
(12/22/08) For those seeking to recall some fond memories about the history of Astroworld and a retelling of the park’s final days, check out this two part series posted to ThrillNetwork: Part 1 & Part 2.
Washington - (4/20/09) A kiddie ride (Lolli Swings) at the Puyallup Spring Fair toppled over, injuring five children and one adult.
(1/8/09) While Seattle is set to close down the Fun Forest amusement area by the end of 2009, the online news article sure gave the place a facelift by posting a picture of Six Flags Magic Mountain instead.
Wisconsin - (3/4/09) According to RCDB, the Avalanche (S&S Wooden Coaster) at Timber Falls in the Dells has been renamed as Hellcat this season. The park’s website however has not been updated to reflect this change yet.
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