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92-487: Early in its history, Kings Island appeared in popular sitcoms and received widespread recognition for its record-breaking attractions and events. One of the park's most well-known attractions, The Racer , is often credited with reviving worldwide interest in roller coasters during the 1970s. A variety of attractions over the years introduced notable milestones, and The Beast and Banshee are two that have set enduring world records. The largest single investment in park history

184-408: A canoe ride in a part of Rivertown known as Kenton's Cove. Throughout the 1970s, Rivertown saw the addition of several attractions including Kenton's Cove Keelboat Canal in 1973, which was an elevated log flume ride that operated through the 2000 season, and The Beast roller coaster in 1979. Designed internally by Kings Island, The Beast opened as the tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster in

276-511: A company formed by senior executives and general managers of Taft Attractions Group. Three parks – Kings Island, Kings Dominion and Carowinds – were involved in the sale. Taft invested in KECO to retain one-third interest. Three years later in 1987, Kings Island was sold individually to American Financial Corporation , led by Carl Lindner . The deal included a contract with KECO to continue managing park operations. KECO, which retained ownership of

368-438: A competing theme park. Construction began on June 15, 1970. Later that year, a public contest was held to name the new park. "Kings Island" emerged the most popular, as the name was a nod to both the local Kings Mills area as well as the park's predecessor Coney Island. Most of the rides at Coney Island were relocated, and much of what remained was demolished. The popular Sunlite Pool attraction continued to operate, however, and

460-503: A distance of 133 feet (41 m). The jump set a world record that held until 1999. It was the longest successful jump of his career as well as his last major stunt, and the nationally televised event was broadcast live on ABC, landing 52 percent of the TV audience during that hour with an estimated 55 million viewers. Park executives favored the national exposure and additional revenue being generated by record-breaking, newsworthy events that kept

552-418: A large airtime hill, also known as a camelback , before splitting up into separate structures. After splitting, each train passes over another small airtime hill before rising into a turnaround to begin the return trip. After descending the turnaround hill, the trains reach a medium hill where the tracks rejoin the main structure. They race back over a series of smaller hills until reaching the final brake run at

644-418: A large airtime hill, also known as a camelback , before splitting up into separate structures. After splitting, each train passes over another small airtime hill before rising into a turnaround to begin the return trip. After descending the turnaround hill, the trains reach a medium hill where the tracks rejoin the main structure. They race back over a series of smaller hills until reaching the final brake run at

736-500: A new junior wooden coaster in the Happy Land of Hanna-Barbera originally named Scooby Doo . The most expensive ride to open with the park was Enchanted Voyage , a $ 2-million dark ride attraction that featured over a hundred animatronic Hanna-Barbera characters. Kings Island was nationally promoted in two well-known sitcoms : The Partridge Family in 1972 and The Brady Bunch in 1973. Each filmed an episode on location at

828-525: A practice used by Disney throughout its theme parks. The area's main attractions include the Royal Fountain, a 600,000-US-gallon pool (2,300 m) capable of shooting 10,000 US gallons (38 m) of water into the air each minute, and the signature Eiffel Tower , a one-third scale replica of the original which offers a view of the entire park to its guests. Grand Carousel, a classic carousel built in 1926 and originally located at Coney Island,

920-438: A recently added attraction. Though only intended for the remainder of the 1982 operating season, the change lasted twenty-six years due to its popularity. It wasn't until 2008 that Cedar Fair restored The Racer to its original form by changing the right track to ride forward again. In addition, each side was assigned a color—red and blue—with the red trains on the right and the blue trains on the left. On June 18, 2007, The Racer

1012-438: A recently added attraction. Though only intended for the remainder of the 1982 operating season, the change lasted twenty-six years due to its popularity. It wasn't until 2008 that Cedar Fair restored The Racer to its original form by changing the right track to ride forward again. In addition, each side was assigned a color—red and blue—with the red trains on the right and the blue trains on the left. On June 18, 2007, The Racer

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1104-426: A revival of the industry around the world, typically referred to as the industry's second golden age . Both sides of the track raced forward until May 28, 1982, when the trains on one side of the track were reversed to ride backwards. The Racer became the first racing roller coaster in the world to do so. It is thought that this move was to accommodate guests who were frustrated over the frequent closure of The Bat ,

1196-426: A revival of the industry around the world, typically referred to as the industry's second golden age . Both sides of the track raced forward until May 28, 1982, when the trains on one side of the track were reversed to ride backwards. The Racer became the first racing roller coaster in the world to do so. It is thought that this move was to accommodate guests who were frustrated over the frequent closure of The Bat ,

1288-450: A section of the park was dedicated to its predecessor, Coney Island . The area was constructed to resemble the former park's carnival-style layout and featured many of its flat rides which were relocated, including Monster, Scrambler, and Dodgem. One of the new flagship attractions during the park's inaugural year, The Racer, is located in this section. In addition to rides, some of Coney Island's famous Ginkgo trees were transplanted, lining

1380-400: A suspended roller coaster from Arrow Dynamics , in 1993. Located next to the habitat attraction, it was titled after a film of the same name and was the first ride to be added to the park with a Paramount theme. The following year, the entire area was renamed Adventure Village coinciding with the removal of the animal habitat and monorail ride. In 1999, a two-year expansion initiative began with

1472-508: A swinging pirate ship ride called Viking Fury, which opened in 1982. The area initially opened with the park in 1972 as The Happy Land of Hanna-Barbera and was later shortened to Hanna-Barbera Land . One of the area's flagship attractions was a junior wooden roller coaster named Scooby Doo , which like The Racer was designed by John C. Allen but intended for younger riders. Enchanted Voyage , an Old Mill dark ride that ferried guests in unaccompanied boats along water-filled guideways,

1564-650: A theme park in Northern Kentucky ;– well within Coney Island's primary market that extended as far south as Louisville . The announcement highlighted the need for change and gave Wachs' proposal credibility within the organization. Gary and Ralph met with Dudley S. Taft, president of Taft Broadcasting Company , to discuss a possible merger. Taft Broadcasting was interested in promoting its recently acquired Hanna-Barbera division, and in July 1969,

1656-399: A top speed of 80 mph (130 km/h) and features a splashdown water effect finale. In August 2016, Kings Island revealed plans to build Mystic Timbers , a 109-foot-tall (33 m) wooden roller coaster that opened in 2017. The new ride added 3,265 feet (995 m) of track bringing the park's wooden coaster total to 18,804 feet (5,731 m), making it the most of any amusement park in

1748-447: A unique roller coaster concept. The Bat opened to the public in 1981 as the first modern-day, suspended roller coaster featuring an overhead track with train cars that swung freely from side to side, designed to simulate the feeling of flight. Although it was well received, it was plagued with design flaws and constant maintenance that resulted in frequent closures over its short, three-year history. In order to appease frustrated guests,

1840-738: A very successful decade, the first major era of roller coasters in the United States would come to an end in the 1930s as the economy struggled during the Great Depression . Although new roller coasters were still being built, the demand wouldn't be the same for decades to come. By the 1960s, the industry was at an all-time low. Traditional amusement park rides, such as carousels, mill chutes , and even wooden roller coasters were losing popularity with newer generations. This led president of Philadelphia Toboggan Company and well-known coaster designer, John C. Allen , to decide in 1968 that it

1932-608: A year after leaving Deerfield Township, the city of Mason annexed most of Kings Island. A temporary measure allowed for some land to remain in Deerfield in an attempt to appease park officials and reduce the impact on the township. The rest would be annexed in 1999. In 2005, Viacom split into two companies, Viacom and CBS Corporation , with CBS inheriting Paramount Parks. CBS made the decision to sell its theme park division in January 2006. CBS CEO Leslie Moonves stated that despite

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2024-791: Is Orion , a $ 30-million giga coaster that opened in 2020. The park has also experienced a number of setbacks generating negative publicity, including the early demise of The Bat and Son of Beast roller coasters, both of which were problematic rides. Kings Island is divided into nine themed sections and operates seasonally from early spring through Labor Day in the fall, followed by two additional holiday-themed events known as Halloween Haunt and Winterfest. Kings Island had an estimated 3.18 million guests in 2021, ranking third in attendance among seasonal amusement parks in North America behind sister parks Canada's Wonderland and Cedar Point . In addition, Kings Island has won Golden Ticket Awards in

2116-480: Is a list of former employees at Kings Island that later became well known in another industry: Dogstreet Cemetery is located at the north end of the Kings Island parking lot and is maintained by Deerfield Township. The historic cemetery dates back to 1803. The Warren County Genealogical Society documented nearly 70 grave sites in the cemetery, though as of 2005, only 52 headstones remained. On January 11, 2012,

2208-499: Is a secondary queue system that offers shorter wait times on the park's most popular rides. In addition to the standard admission charge, visitors can bypass the standard wait line by purchasing a wrist band that grants access to the Fast Lane queue. A limited number of wrist bands are sold each day. Kings Island offers Fright Lane passes that operate the same way as Fast Lane but are for Halloween Haunt attractions only. The following

2300-403: Is also one of the few original Kings Island attractions still in operation today. Following a very successful decade, the first major era of roller coasters in the United States would come to an end in the 1930s as the economy struggled during the Great Depression . Although new roller coasters were still being built, the demand wouldn't be the same for decades to come. By the 1960s, the industry

2392-504: Is another International Street attraction. Also located here is Kings Island Theater along with a variety of restaurants and souvenir shops. Oktoberfest, relating to the eponymous German festival , opened with the park in 1972. The area resembles a German town with timber-framed, German-style architecture. The Festhaus building is its central attraction, featuring live shows with several indoor eateries. Rides within Oktoberfest include

2484-557: Is transformed into a winter village filled with Christmas carolers, homemade crafts, and holiday-themed refreshments and snacks. The event debuted in 1982 and returned annually through 1992, followed by a brief return in 2005. Under Cedar Fair's ownership, the park listened to guest feedback and brought Winterfest back in 2017. They planned several years in advance to increase the scale of the event, which showcases over 5 million color-changing lights and dozens of live performances each night. Fast Lane , introduced at Kings Island in July 2011,

2576-507: The 2010 season, when Cedar Fair began incorporating its Peanuts theme throughout the park, primarily in the children's area. Nickelodeon Universe was renamed Planet Snoopy to complete the transition. In late 2009, the Mason City Council added a measure on its 2010 ballot that would mandate a 3-percent ticket tax and a 5-percent parking tax at both Kings Island and The Beach Waterpark . Council member Tony Bradburn argued that it

2668-475: The 2021-2022 off season the ride got repainted for the park's 50th anniversary celebration. The Racer features an out and back roller coaster layout with two identical tracks that run parallel to one another. Unlike earlier racing coasters, Allen took the unique approach of splitting both tracks apart into separate structures prior to the first turn. The design allows for two trains to race in similar fashion from start to finish, making similar turns and traversing

2760-475: The 2021-2022 off season the ride got repainted for the park's 50th anniversary celebration. The Racer features an out and back roller coaster layout with two identical tracks that run parallel to one another. Unlike earlier racing coasters, Allen took the unique approach of splitting both tracks apart into separate structures prior to the first turn. The design allows for two trains to race in similar fashion from start to finish, making similar turns and traversing

2852-471: The Kings Island resort, in 1972 Taft Broadcasting Company built a golf course, hotel and campground. The Racer (Kings Island) The Racer is a wooden, racing roller coaster located at Kings Island amusement park in Mason, Ohio . It was designed by John C. Allen , well-known for his contributions to roller coasters during the mid-twentieth century, and debuted at the park's grand opening in 1972. It

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2944-415: The addition of new rides and attractions. The park originally opened with sixty attractions which grew to more than a hundred by 2017. The number of themed areas has also expanded from the original five – Coney Island, Happy Land of Hanna-Barbera, International Street, Oktoberfest, and Rivertown – to eight by 2023, including the latest additions of Area 72 and Adventure Port. A water park was added in 1989, and

3036-542: The agreement allowed Kings Island to continue using Nickelodeon themes and characters for four years and other Paramount-related branding for ten years, with the option to extend the license on both. Cedar Fair opted for a buyout option within an agreement clause to remove Paramount branding after one season. Beginning in 2008, Face/Off became Invertigo , The Italian Job Stunt Track became Backlot Stunt Coaster , Tomb Raider: The Ride became The Crypt and Top Gun became Flight Deck . Nickelodeon's presence remained until

3128-401: The amusement park and cemetery were featured on season 8, episode 1 of Ghost Hunters entitled Roller Ghoster . The show investigated claims of haunted occurrences inside the park and around the cemetery, particularly of a ghost reportedly known as "Missouri Jane." Warren County Genealogical Society records document a grave for a Missouri Jane Galeenor, who died in 1846 at age five. As part of

3220-435: The annual publication from Amusement Today , including "Best Kids' Area" in the world for eighteen consecutive years (2001–2018) and "Best New Ride" in 2017 for Mystic Timbers . In the same publication, The Beast consistently ranks as one of the top ten wooden coasters in the world. Kings Island was conceived as early as 1964 when Coney Island , a popular amusement park 10 miles (16 km) east of downtown Cincinnati on

3312-476: The area became known as Wild Animal Habitat and included Adventure Village, a new area within the rebranded section. Over the years, it featured rides such as Screamin' Demon (1977–1987), the first steel looping roller coaster to run both forward and backward in the United States, and King Cobra (1984–2001), a stand-up looping roller coaster that was the first of its kind in the world. Early in its tenure after purchasing Kings Island, Paramount unveiled Top Gun ,

3404-403: The area's renaming to Action Zone and the addition of two new attractions – Drop Zone: Stunt Tower and Face/Off . When it debuted, Action Zone resembled a movie stunt set featuring a water tower as the centerpiece. The water tower was originally part of a skit with stunts and special effects that imitated a live movie set with a director and stunt performers. Son of Beast opened in 2000,

3496-459: The banks of the Ohio River , suffered from a major flood that submerged the area in over 14 feet (4.3 m) of water. Although occasional flooding was common at the successful park, the flood in 1964 was the fourth highest on record and caused considerable damage. Faced with already-limited space for expansion and parking, the event triggered discussions within the organization about relocating

3588-422: The children's brand marketed at other Cedar Fair parks. For the 2024 season, Kings Island expanded Planet Snoopy, adding a new themed section called Camp Snoopy. It features a new family Boomerang roller coaster from Vekoma called Snoopy's Soap Box Racers, as well as additional play areas and activities for families. Some attractions were also re-themed. During the 2021-2022 off season the ride got repainted for

3680-545: The children's brand marketed at other Cedar Fair parks. Nickelodeon Universe became known as Planet Snoopy . The area features many rides intended for smaller children, as well as three family-oriented roller coasters and a skater coaster . Amusement Today awarded Kings Island with the Golden Ticket Award for "Best Kids' Area in the World" for eighteen consecutive years (2001–2018). Kings Island's Planet Snoopy

3772-449: The company behind Kings Island's Mystic Timbers in 2017. The Racer's first drop and turns out of the station were refurbished previously several years earlier. Then in 2021, by The Gravity Group , more than 500 feet (150 m) of track that stretched from the base of the first drop to the fourth airtime hill was replaced to allow for a smoother ride experience. That year, the original entrance sign and train logos were restored. During

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3864-449: The company behind Kings Island's Mystic Timbers in 2017. The Racer's first drop and turns out of the station were refurbished previously several years earlier. Then in 2021, by The Gravity Group , more than 500 feet (150 m) of track that stretched from the base of the first drop to the fourth airtime hill was replaced to allow for a smoother ride experience. That year, the original entrance sign and train logos were restored. During

3956-553: The company purchased Coney Island for $ 6.5 million and 1,600 acres (650 ha) in Warren County, Ohio , for $ 3.2 million. Kings Island still owned 773 acres (313 ha) of that purchase as of 2005. The site is located between I-71 and the Little Miami River in what was then a part of Deerfield Township . Following the purchase, Fess Parker's efforts to secure financing fell apart along with his plans to build

4048-624: The construction of Kings Island. Determined to recapture some of Coney Island's traditional themes at the new park, Gary Wachs and his father met Allen in 1970 at an IAAPA convention in Chicago . They convinced Allen to officially come out of retirement and design a roller coaster that would be as popular as Shooting Star at Coney Island, but also unique at the same time. Construction of the attraction began in 1970. The first test runs were conducted in September 1971. The Racer opened officially to

4140-495: The health and profitability of Paramount Parks, the business was "one that just doesn't fit our core strategy". After receiving interest from several potential suitors, CBS announced the sale of Paramount Parks to Cedar Fair on June 30, 2006, for $ 1.24 billion. The acquisition of Kings Island gave Cedar Fair, who had recently acquired Geauga Lake from Six Flags in 2004, ownership of all three major amusement parks in Ohio . Part of

4232-460: The last Paramount-themed attractions to open at the park, The Italian Job: Stunt Track (now known as Backlot Stunt Coaster), was unveiled. The roller coaster replaced the antique car ride Les Taxis and Ohio Overland Auto Livery. In 2009, the park's first roller coaster from Bolliger & Mabillard , called Diamondback , opened in Rivertown. The 230-foot-tall (70 m) hypercoaster reaches

4324-410: The main entrance. As one of the park's original staples when it opened in 1972, International Street was designed by Bruce Bushman, a former Walt Disney Imagineering layout design artist. The area's architecture and cultural themes represent Italy, Spain, Germany, and Switzerland. To save on the cost of construction, the second story of each building was designed on a three-quarters scale, borrowing from

4416-470: The middle of the walkway. Originally called Coney Island, the area was renamed Old Coney in 1980 and Coney Mall in 1986. The area also features game booths, arcades, and concession stands in the style of state fairs and traveling carnivals from the early twentieth century. Zodiac, described as a "spinning, climbing double ferris wheel", debuted in 1975 as one of only two of its kind in the United States. Brokered by Intamin and manufactured by Waagner-Biro,

4508-410: The new park, Gary Wachs and his father met Allen in 1970 at an IAAPA convention in Chicago . They convinced Allen to officially come out of retirement and design a roller coaster that would be as popular as Shooting Star at Coney Island, but also unique at the same time. Construction of the attraction began in 1970. The first test runs were conducted in September 1971. The Racer opened officially to

4600-441: The number of employees required for park operations has grown from 1,300 to approximately 4,000. Action Zone opened in 1974 as Lion Country Safari, a 100-acre (40 ha) section of the park featuring a monorail ride that took guests on a safari-style tour through an animal preservation. This was part of a network of other safari-style zoos also called Lion Country Safari . It was later renamed Wild Animal Safari in 1977. In 1983,

4692-420: The other two parks, also added Great America to its portfolio after purchasing it in 1989 from the city of Santa Clara, California . In 1992, Paramount Communications Inc. (formerly Gulf+Western) purchased KECO along with Kings Island from American Financial in a deal worth $ 400 million. Paramount formed a new division known as Paramount Parks . KECO owned 20% of Canada's Wonderland, and Paramount bought out

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4784-530: The park at the forefront of the industry. To keep momentum going, Kings Island spent years researching and designing a mammoth roller coaster, The Beast , which opened in 1979 as the tallest, fastest, and longest wooden roller coaster in the world. It was designed and manufactured internally by the park. On the heels of early success came turbulent times beginning in the 1980s. Kings Island partnered with Arrow Development , an amusement ride company well known for its work at Disneyland and Disney World , to develop

4876-529: The park in 1992, Coney Mall was further expanded in 1994 with the addition of Days of Thunder, a NASCAR -themed motion simulator ride based on the 1990 film of the same name . The ride was housed within Action Theater located near The Racer's turnaround, and it was later updated with different shows based on James Bond , SpongeBob , and other themes before its closure in 2013. A 301-foot-tall (92 m), three-minute swing ride called WindSeeker

4968-484: The park was partially restored years later. Less than two years after breaking ground, Kings Island opened its gates to the public on April 29, 1972. It was the first of several preview events. The grand opening was held the following month on May 27, 1972. One of the first signature attractions featured at the park was The Racer , a wooden roller coaster consisting of two trains that race side by side on identical tracks. Designed by legendary designer John C. Allen , who

5060-442: The park, and actors in costume engage with guests. The event originally debuted as FearFest in 2000, and the name was later changed to Halloween Haunt in 2007. Winterfest is an annual Christmas-themed holiday festival that operates from mid-November through late December, featuring ice skating on the Royal Fountain as well as the special lighting throughout the park. Some rides and attractions are in operation, and International Street

5152-521: The park, which were later broadcast on ABC . The Brady Bunch was produced by Paramount Television , a large Taft Broadcasting shareholder. The park also held several world-record-breaking events. In 1974, 69-year-old Karl Wallenda set a world record for the longest tightrope skywalk at a distance of 1,800 feet (550 m), which was performed 60 feet (18 m) off the ground. The following year, Evel Knievel successfully jumped fourteen Greyhound buses on his Harley Davidson at Kings Island, clearing

5244-505: The park. Leading the way was Gary Wachs, son of Coney Island president Ralph Wachs, who with friends and family owned a majority of stock. He decided it was time to relocate the park to stay competitive. After years of research and traveling abroad, he presented ideas for a new theme park to the company's board of directors. Some board members opposed relocating, including significant stockholder Charles Sawyer. It wasn't taken seriously until 1968 when actor Fess Parker announced plans to build

5336-534: The parks 50th anniversary celebration. Rivertown is an area within the park that features a western theme depicting a town with ranch-style buildings, old wooden signs, and one of the park's most iconic attractions, the Kings Island & Miami Valley Railroad . Originally intended to be named Frontier Land , the area was eventually named Rivertown when it debuted with the park in 1972. The area included attractions such as Kings Mill Log Flume and Shawnee Landing,

5428-424: The popular TV sitcom The Brady Bunch in 1973 and is often recognized for playing a vital role in the roller coaster renaissance of the 1970s. The Racer inspired similar designs in other roller coasters, such as Racer 75 (formerly Rebel Yell) at Kings Dominion and the now-defunct Thunder Road at Carowinds . The Racer is also one of the few original Kings Island attractions still in operation today. Following

5520-479: The public at Kings Island's grand opening on April 28, 1972. It is located in Coney Mall, a section of the park originally known as Coney Island. The roller coaster appeared on national television in 1973, when it was featured in an episode of The Brady Bunch called "The Cincinnati Kids". The ride ignited interest in roller coasters following decades of decline, and the attention it received eventually led to

5612-420: The public at Kings Island's grand opening on April 28, 1972. It is located in Coney Mall, a section of the park originally known as Coney Island. The roller coaster appeared on national television in 1973, when it was featured in an episode of The Brady Bunch called "The Cincinnati Kids". The ride ignited interest in roller coasters following decades of decline, and the attention it received eventually led to

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5704-475: The remaining 80% stake in 1993, raising the total number of parks to five. Later that year, Paramount Parks began incorporating themes from its movies into each park. Viacom entered the picture after acquiring Paramount in 1994, paving the way for the inclusion of Nickelodeon themes. Nickelodeon Splat City , an interactive splash pad area, was added in 1995, which later evolved into Nickelodeon Central (2001) and eventually Nickelodeon Universe (2006). In 1997,

5796-400: The same length. Previously, racing designs would keep both tracks side-by-side throughout the entire course of the ride. After leaving the station, trains pass through turnarounds, travel over transfer tracks, and merge at the base of the lift hill. They ascend an 88-foot tall (27 m) lift hill, followed by an 88-foot (27 m) first drop and two small airtime hills. The trains then reach

5888-400: The same length. Previously, racing designs would keep both tracks side-by-side throughout the entire course of the ride. After leaving the station, trains pass through turnarounds, travel over transfer tracks, and merge at the base of the lift hill. They ascend an 88-foot tall (27 m) lift hill, followed by an 88-foot (27 m) first drop and two small airtime hills. The trains then reach

5980-408: The second year of the area's two-year expansion. It was the tallest and fastest wooden roller coaster in the world and the first of its kind to feature a vertical loop. As a result of a number of structural issues and two accidents, the ride closed permanently in 2009 and was eventually demolished in 2012. Other notable rides include Delirium , which opened in 2003 as the largest Giant Frisbee ride in

6072-498: The south track of The Racer began running its trains backward in 1982, which became so popular that the change remained until 2008. The park also pushed forward with its next major addition, King Cobra , which opened in 1984 as the first of its kind to be designed from inception as a stand-up roller coaster. Kings Island also went through a series of ownership changes over the next decade. Taft sold its theme park division in 1984 for $ 167.5 million to Kings Entertainment Company (KECO),

6164-413: The station. An early concept differed from the final version, which had both lift hills split apart. Trains would then enter a spiraling drop and race through a series of airtime hills along the outside of the track. At the turnaround, the tracks turned toward one another creating a near miss element as the tracks joined up, allowing the trains to race side-by-side back to the station. Another early concept

6256-413: The station. An early concept differed from the final version, which had both lift hills split apart. Trains would then enter a spiraling drop and race through a series of airtime hills along the outside of the track. At the turnaround, the tracks turned toward one another creating a near miss element as the tracks joined up, allowing the trains to race side-by-side back to the station. Another early concept

6348-458: The three-minute ride featured twelve gondolas on each of the two wheels, which were mounted to a long, hydraulic arm. It was removed following the 1986 season and relocated to Wonderland Sydney , where it reopened in 1989. In the 1980s, flat rides Skylab (1986–1997) and Zephyr were added, along with a looping roller coaster named Vortex (1987–2019), which was the first in the world to feature six inversions. Following Paramount's acquisition of

6440-414: The transition. Area 72, formerly known as X-Base, is an area themed as a secret aerospace research facility that features two roller coasters. The area first opened as a small subsection of Coney Mall when Flight of Fear was introduced in 1996. It expanded in 2007 following the addition of Firehawk and was labeled X-Base, a name only designated by a small sign in Coney Mall. Firehawk closed in 2018 and

6532-455: The world, and Banshee , the world's longest inverted roller coaster which opened in 2014 at the former location of Son of Beast. In 2023, Kings Island opened a newly themed area called Adventure Port, which introduced family rides Sol Spin and Cargo Loco. The area was previously a part of Oktoberfest and includes a mine train roller coaster called Adventure Express , which opened in 1991. Adventure Express received theming enhancements during

6624-506: The world, and in addition to retaining its record length, it remains one of the most popular wooden roller coasters in the annual Golden Ticket Awards from Amusement Today . Other rides added over the years include a river rafting ride called White Water Canyon , which opened in 1985, and a heavily themed, indoor flat ride called Tomb Raider: The Ride (later renamed The Crypt), which opened in place of Kenton's Cove Keelboat Canal in 2002. The Crypt closed permanently in 2011. In 2005, one of

6716-421: The world. Included with park admission, Soak City is a 33-acre (13 ha) water park featuring two wave pools , several children's areas and a variety of water slides. It originally opened in 1989 as WaterWorks and has since been expanded several times. It was renamed in 2004 to Crocodile Dundee's Boomerang Bay , based on the titular character from the film "Crocodile" Dundee , played by Paul Hogan who

6808-426: Was added for the 2016 season. Kings Island announces an expansion for the 2025 season with the addition of RiverRacers, a dual-racing water coaster. Halloween Haunt is a Halloween -themed event at Kings Island that operates on weekends from September through October. It features haunted houses, mazes, live shows, and most of the park's regular season attractions. Special lighting and fog effects are utilized throughout

6900-426: Was added in 2011, which features two-person swing carriages that rotate around a central tower at a maximum speed of 30 mph (48 km/h). For the 2019 season, an antique car ride called Kings Mill Antique Autos, designed to resemble the retired Les Taxis (1972–2004), returned to Coney Mall as a new attraction. At the heart of the amusement park, visitors are greeted by International Street, which lies just beyond

6992-476: Was added in 2023, replacing part of Oktoberfest and adding two new family rides – Sol Spin and Cargo Loco. Through the 2024 season, Kings Island expanded Planet Snoopy with the addition of a new themed section called Camp Snoopy. On July 1, 2024, a merger of equals between Cedar Fair and Six Flags was completed, creating Six Flags Entertainment Corporation. Kings Island has invested more than $ 300 million in improvements since its grand opening in 1972, including

7084-431: Was also a primary attraction that opened with the park. Shaped like a large TV set, the building housed separately-themed areas that made heavy use of animatronic Hanna-Barbera characters. The ride was overhauled for the 1984 season when it became Smurf's Enchanted Voyage . In 1992, the building was transformed once more into Phantom Theater , replacing the ride's waterways with an Omnimover -style system of transport. It

7176-399: Was also hired to promote the revamped water park. Following Cedar Fair's acquisition of Kings Island, it was later renamed Boomerang Bay , and all references to the film character were removed. On September 2, 2011, Kings Island announced a $ 10-million expansion of the water park for the 2012 season, as well as a plan to rename it Soak City . Tropical Plunge, a seven-story water slide complex,

7268-564: Was also the largest in the Cedar Fair chain until 2013, when Kings Dominion doubled the size of its Planet Snoopy section. The portion of the area that borders Rivertown was revamped in 1995 with the addition of a kids' play area, stage and water attraction, and the new sub-section was named Nickelodeon Splat City . In 2001, the log ride Kings Mills Log Flume was updated with a children's theme and renamed The Wild Thornberrys River Adventure. The Rugrats Runaway Reptar inverted roller coaster

7360-680: Was at an all-time low. Traditional amusement park rides, such as carousels, mill chutes , and even wooden roller coasters were losing popularity with newer generations. This led president of Philadelphia Toboggan Company and well-known coaster designer, John C. Allen , to decide in 1968 that it was time to retire. Allen was one of the last remaining designers with experience from the first golden age of roller coasters having studied under legendary designer Herbert Schmeck . The Wachs' family owned and operated Cincinnati's Coney Island before selling to Taft Broadcasting in 1969, but they remained in control of park operations and made many decisions during

7452-594: Was awarded the Coaster Landmark Award by the American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE). A plaque for the award is on display near the ride's entrance. As part of a routine, annual maintenance program common with wooden coasters, sections of The Racer are occasionally retracked over the years as needed. For the 2019 season, the back turns and several other small sections of The Racer were retracked by Great Coasters International ,

7544-438: Was awarded the Coaster Landmark Award by the American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE). A plaque for the award is on display near the ride's entrance. As part of a routine, annual maintenance program common with wooden coasters, sections of The Racer are occasionally retracked over the years as needed. For the 2019 season, the back turns and several other small sections of The Racer were retracked by Great Coasters International ,

7636-453: Was closer to the final version, except the camelback hill at the split was positioned after the turnaround instead of before it. The Racer is one of four wooden roller coasters within the park. The other three are The Beast , Woodstock Express , and Mystic Timbers . Don Helbig holds several park records. Among these, he holds the record for most times riding the Racer, which as of 2008

7728-401: Was closer to the final version, except the camelback hill at the split was positioned after the turnaround instead of before it. The Racer is one of four wooden roller coasters within the park. The other three are The Beast , Woodstock Express , and Mystic Timbers . Don Helbig holds several park records. Among these, he holds the record for most times riding the Racer, which as of 2008

7820-519: Was convinced to come out of retirement, The Racer was the first of its kind in 35 years and played an integral part of the roller coaster renaissance of the 1970s. Decades later, it was distinguished as a Roller Coaster Landmark by American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) in recognition for its historical significance. Other roller coasters present on opening day in 1972 were the Bavarian Beetle, a small steel coaster brought over from Coney Island, and

7912-443: Was introduced the same year. This expansion into an area that was originally part of Rivertown became known as Nickelodeon Central . Hanna-Barbera Land was gradually converted over the next several years and eventually renamed "Nickelodeon Universe" in 2006. Following Cedar Fair's purchase of the park from Paramount in 2006, Nickelodeon-themed elements were eventually removed and replaced with Peanuts comic strip themes in 2010 –

8004-415: Was nearly 12,000. The Racer (Kings Island) The Racer is a wooden, racing roller coaster located at Kings Island amusement park in Mason, Ohio . It was designed by John C. Allen , well-known for his contributions to roller coasters during the mid-twentieth century, and debuted at the park's grand opening in 1972. It was thrust into the national spotlight after being featured in an episode of

8096-425: Was necessary for the city to help pay for infrastructure improvements, as well as cover police and fire expenses. The proposed tax hike was the center of debate for several months, as Kings Island actively encouraged the public to write, email, and call Mason City Council representatives to express opposition. On February 8, 2010, Mason City Council voted 5–1 against the measure. A new themed area called Adventure Port

8188-486: Was removed prior to the 2019 season. The park began leaking clues that implied a new ride would take its place, and in August 2019, the park unveiled plans to build Orion , the park's first giga coaster , with park guests and press in attendance. The area, which received an updated theme and was added to the official park map for the first time, was renamed Area 72 for the 2020 season. When Kings Island first opened in 1972,

8280-536: Was themed as a behind-the-scenes tour of a haunted theater. The theme and ride vehicles would see additional changes over the years – Scooby Doo and the Haunted Castle in 2003 and Boo Blasters on Boo Hill in 2010 – but the same underlying transportation system was retained each time. Following Cedar Fair's purchase of the park from Paramount in 2006, Nickelodeon-themed elements were eventually removed and replaced with Peanuts comic strip themes in 2010 –

8372-406: Was thrust into the national spotlight after being featured in an episode of the popular TV sitcom The Brady Bunch in 1973 and is often recognized for playing a vital role in the roller coaster renaissance of the 1970s. The Racer inspired similar designs in other roller coasters, such as Racer 75 (formerly Rebel Yell) at Kings Dominion and the now-defunct Thunder Road at Carowinds . The Racer

8464-482: Was time to retire. Allen was one of the last remaining designers with experience from the first golden age of roller coasters having studied under legendary designer Herbert Schmeck . The Wachs' family owned and operated Cincinnati's Coney Island before selling to Taft Broadcasting in 1969, but they remained in control of park operations and made many decisions during the construction of Kings Island. Determined to recapture some of Coney Island's traditional themes at

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