When Kings Island opened in 1972, Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana residents were blessed with an amazing summer escape. Complete with 47 total attractions, an amphitheater, and an amazing water park, Kings Island has hosted mountains of memories. The park houses the world's longest inverted roller coaster and the world's longest wooden coaster, as well as the longest roller coaster in the United States. So, let's take a walk down memory lane and discuss some cherished memories from our favorite amusement park.
1. The Old Theme
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For those born in the 1990s, Paramount's Kings Island was the highlight of the summer. Whether you wanted to watch Avatar bend water or watch Tommy Pickles toddle along, every character from every show was represented. I mean, Snoopy is iconic, but we miss SpongeBob!
2. Blue Ice Cream
This blue soft serve ice cream can't be found anywhere else. If you order a blueberry and vanilla swirl, you have found the perfect treat. On a steamy July afternoon, the "Blue Ice Cream Station" is the best hangout.
3. "Son of Beast" Disaster
From spinal injuries to numerous concussion symptoms, this roller coaster was an amusement park's worst nightmare. I'm sure that a number of lawsuits resulted from this attraction, and the demolition was definitely interesting to watch.
4. "Congo Falls" Soak Station
Who doesn't love the deck overlooking the "Congo Falls" attraction? You never need to wait in line for the ride itself; you'll get soaked just watching the raft slide down the incline. Repeat as desired.
5. "Halloween Haunt" Scares
As October draws near, sweatshirts, bonfires, and zombies creep closer and closer. This event isn't for the faint of heart. I'm not kidding. On a lighter note, you do get an opportunity to ride the best attractions at night.
6. The "Scooby-Doo! and the Haunted Castle" Oasis
If you were ever in need of a break from the unforgiving heat, the Scooby-Doo! Castle was the answer to your prayers. Not only was the game enjoyable, but the line's length always allowed for a well-deserved breather in the air conditioning. Well played, Kings Island... Well played...
7. "Flight of Fear"
I only have one piece of advice for Kings Island newcomers. When the operational staff instructs you to push your head against the headrest, DO. IT. Whiplash is inevitable if you refuse.
8. "The Racer" Legacy
When they reintroduce the backwards-riding carts, I will ride this roller coaster again. A legendary roller coaster should be treated as such.
9. "The Beast"
"The Beast" is (and always will be) the highlight of every trip to Kings Island. How many people can say that this attraction was their first roller coaster? I know that it was mine, and I will cherish that memory forever.
10. Ascending the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is the key piece of architecture in the park. Unfortunately for many residents of Ohio and Kentucky, this is the only Eiffel Tower they will ever climb. When the tower breaks the skyline from the view of your car window, you know that a full day of fun is ahead. Plus, the view is amazing.
11. The Beauty of the Gold Pass
The Kings Island Gold Pass stood as a symbol of power for many students. You were granted year-round access, and owners could occasionally bring a friend to the park for free. For some reason, your friends always multiplied when your parents handed you a pass.
For every child (as well as all children at heart), Kings Island will always be a part of our identity. Now, let's get excited for #MysticTimbers2017!
