If you’re looking for a fun and exciting theme park experience in Ohio, look no further than Kings Island! With a rich history and a wide variety of attractions, entertainment, and dining options, Kings Island is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.
History and Background
If you’re planning a visit to Kings Island, it’s important to understand the rich history and background of this iconic theme park. From its humble beginnings to its current status as Ohio’s premier theme park, Kings Island has a fascinating story that’s sure to enhance your visit.
A Humble Beginning
Kings Island first opened its gates in 1972, after four years of planning and construction. At the time, it was owned by Taft Broadcasting Company and designed by theme park visionary Don Helbig. The park’s initial attractions were geared towards families and included the Grand Carousel, the Enchanted Voyage boat ride, and the antique cars.
New Ownership and Expansion
In 1984, Kings Island was sold to Kings Entertainment Company, which brought with it new attractions and expansions. The park added more roller coasters, including The Bat, which was the world’s first suspended roller coaster, and King Cobra, the world’s first stand-up coaster. The park also added a water park, Boomerang Bay, and a children’s area called Hanna-Barbera Land.
Cedar Fair Takes Over
In 2006, Kings Island was sold to Cedar Fair Entertainment Company, which also owns other major theme parks like Cedar Point and Knott’s Berry Farm. Under Cedar Fair’s ownership, Kings Island continued to expand and improve. In 2009, the park opened the world’s longest wooden roller coaster, The Beast, which is still one of its most popular attractions. And in 2014, the park opened Banshee, a world-record-breaking coaster with seven inversions.
A Top Destination
Today, Kings Island is a top destination for theme park enthusiasts and families alike. The park boasts more than 100 attractions, including 15 roller coasters, a water park, and a variety of entertainment and dining options. It’s also home to several world-record-breaking coasters, including The Beast, Banshee, and Diamondback.
But Kings Island isn’t just a collection of rides and attractions. It’s a place where memories are made and families come together to have fun. Whether you’re riding the coasters, enjoying a show, or simply strolling through the park, you’re sure to have a memorable experience at Kings Island.
Top Attractions
Kings Island is one of the most popular theme parks in the United States, and for good reason. With over 100 attractions, including 15 world-class roller coasters, there’s something for everyone at this Ohio-based amusement park. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top attractions that you won’t want to miss.
1. Roller Coasters
One of the main draws of Kings Island is its impressive collection of roller coasters. From classic wooden coasters to state-of-the-art steel machines, Kings Island has it all. Here are just a few of the park’s most popular coasters:
- The Beast: This iconic wooden coaster is one of the longest and fastest in the world, with over 7,000 feet of track and speeds of up to 65 miles per hour.
- Banshee: With seven inversions and a top speed of 68 miles per hour, Banshee is one of the most thrilling coasters in the park.
- Diamondback: This steel coaster boasts a 215-foot drop and speeds of up to 80 miles per hour, making it one of the tallest and fastest in the park.
2. Family-Friendly Attractions
While Kings Island is known for its thrilling roller coasters, there are also plenty of attractions that are perfect for families with young children. Here are a few of the park’s most popular family-friendly rides:
- Kings Mills Antique Autos: This classic car ride allows families to cruise around a scenic track in vintage-style cars.
- Snoopy’s Space Buggies: Kids can pilot their own space buggies on this fun ride that’s perfect for little ones.
- The Great Pumpkin Coaster: This junior coaster is designed for kids who aren’t quite ready for the park’s bigger coasters.
3. Water Park
In addition to its impressive collection of rides and roller coasters, Kings Island also has a large water park called Soak City. With attractions like water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, Soak City is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day.
4. Shows and Entertainment
Finally, Kings Island is known for its top-notch shows and entertainment. From live music performances to theatrical productions, there’s always something happening at the park. Some of the most popular shows include:
- Gravity: This high-energy show features acrobats, dancers, and aerialists performing gravity-defying stunts.
- Peanuts Party in the Plaza: Join Snoopy and his friends for a dance party featuring classic Peanuts tunes.
- Cirque Imagine: This colorful and imaginative show features world-class acrobats, dancers, and aerialists performing in a circus-inspired setting.
Entertainment and Shows
Kings Island is more than just a theme park with thrilling roller coasters and fun rides. The park also offers a variety of entertainment and shows that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top shows and entertainment options available at Kings Island.
1. Live Music
One of the highlights of the park’s entertainment lineup is the live music performances. From local bands to national acts, Kings Island features a variety of talented musicians playing a range of genres, from rock and pop to country and blues. Some of the most popular live music events include:
- Summer Nights Concert Series: This series features live music from popular local and regional bands, with shows held in the park’s International Street area.
- Grand Carnivale: This festival features live music and dance performances from around the world, with acts ranging from Brazilian samba to Chinese dragon dancing.
- Live and Local: This event showcases local musicians and bands, with shows held at various locations throughout the park.
2. Theatrical Productions
In addition to live music, Kings Island also offers a variety of theatrical productions that are sure to impress. From Broadway-style musicals to stunt shows, the park has something for everyone. Some of the most popular theatrical productions include:
- Peanuts Celebration: This event celebrates the iconic Peanuts characters with live shows featuring music, dancing, and audience interaction.
- Cirque Imagine: This colorful and imaginative show features world-class acrobats, dancers, and aerialists performing in a circus-inspired setting.
- Gravity: This high-energy show features acrobats, dancers, and aerialists performing gravity-defying stunts.
3. Special Events
Throughout the year, Kings Island hosts a variety of special events that offer unique and exciting entertainment options. Some of the most popular events include:
- Halloween Haunt: This annual event features spooky mazes, scare zones, and live shows that are sure to give visitors a fright.
- WinterFest: During the holiday season, Kings Island is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with millions of twinkling lights, festive shows, and holiday-themed attractions.
- Grand Carnivale: This festival, mentioned earlier, is a celebration of cultures from around the world with live entertainment, food, and a nightly parade.
Food and Dining
Visiting a theme park like Kings Island is always an exciting adventure, and no adventure is complete without some delicious food and dining options. Fortunately, the park offers a variety of food and dining options to satisfy any craving or dietary need. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top dining options available at Kings Island.
International Street
One of the most popular dining areas at Kings Island is International Street. This area features a variety of restaurants and food stands that offer a range of international cuisine, from Italian and Mexican to Chinese and Greek. Some of the most popular International Street dining options include:
- LaRosa’s Pizzeria: This iconic Cincinnati pizzeria offers delicious pizza, pasta, and salads.
- Coney Bar B Que: This barbecue joint serves up slow-cooked meats, including pulled pork, beef brisket, and smoked turkey.
- Panda Express: This popular chain offers classic Chinese dishes like orange chicken, kung pao chicken, and fried rice.
Festhaus
Located in the Oktoberfest area of the park, Festhaus is a popular dining spot that features a German beer hall-style atmosphere and a variety of German-inspired dishes. Some of the top Festhaus dining options include:
- Sausage Haus: This food stand offers a variety of delicious sausages, including bratwurst, mettwurst, and hot dogs.
- Bier Garten: This outdoor dining area offers a selection of craft beers and German-inspired snacks like pretzels and potato pancakes.
- Hank’s Mexican Grill: This food stand offers Tex-Mex favorites like tacos, burritos, and nachos.
Sweet Treats
No visit to Kings Island is complete without indulging in some sweet treats. Fortunately, the park offers plenty of options for those with a sweet tooth. Some of the most popular sweet treats include:
- Blue Ice Cream: This iconic Kings Island treat is a must-try for any visitor. The blue soft-serve ice cream is a refreshing treat on a hot day.
- The Sweet Spot: This candy shop offers a variety of sweet treats, including fudge, caramel apples, and cotton candy.
- Dippin’ Dots: This ice cream stand offers the classic flash-frozen ice cream dots in a variety of flavors.
Tips for Visiting Kings Island
Planning a trip to Kings Island can be overwhelming with so many attractions, dining options, and shows to choose from. To ensure that you have the best possible experience, here are some tips for visiting Kings Island:
1. Plan Ahead
Before you arrive at the park, it’s important to plan ahead to make the most of your visit. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Buy Tickets Online: Purchasing your tickets online in advance can save you time and money. Plus, you’ll have access to special offers and promotions.
- Check the Park Hours: Kings Island’s hours vary throughout the season, so be sure to check the schedule before you arrive to avoid disappointment.
- Download the Kings Island App: The Kings Island app is a great tool for planning your visit. You can use it to check ride wait times, view show schedules, and more.
2. Get to the Park Early
Arriving at the park early can give you a head start on the crowds and allow you to experience more attractions without long wait times. Plus, you’ll have more time to explore the park before it gets too hot and crowded.
3. Take Advantage of Fast Lane
If you want to avoid long wait times, consider purchasing a Fast Lane pass. This pass allows you to skip the lines on select rides and attractions, so you can spend more time enjoying the park.
4. Wear Comfortable Clothing and Shoes
With all the walking and rides, you’ll want to wear comfortable clothing and shoes to avoid discomfort and blisters. Additionally, be sure to check the weather forecast before you arrive to dress appropriately.
5. Stay Hydrated
With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget to stay hydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration and fatigue.
6. Take Breaks
With so much to see and do, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and tired. Be sure to take breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge.
7. Don’t Miss the Shows
In addition to the rides and attractions, Kings Island also offers a variety of shows and entertainment. Be sure to check the schedule and catch a show or two during your visit.
In conclusion, Kings Island is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun-filled day of adventure and excitement. From the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to the family-friendly rides, delicious dining options, and entertaining shows, Kings Island has it all. By following the tips in this guide, you can plan a visit that is memorable, comfortable, and enjoyable. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable experience at Kings Island!
READ MORE HERE: Kings Island: Amusement Park & Water Park | Cincinnati, Ohio