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For other uses, see.Kings IslandSloganIt's Amazing In HereLocation,:OwnerGeneral ManagerMichael KoontzOpenedApril 29, 1972 ( 1972-04-29)Previous namesParamount's Kings Island (1993–2006)Operating seasonSpring through fallVisitors per annum3.486 million in 2018Area364 acres (147 ha)AttractionsTotal48Roller coasters14Water rides3WebsiteKings Island is a 364-acre (147 ha) located 24 miles (39 km) northeast of in. Owned and operated by, the park first opened in 1972 by the. It was part of a larger effort to move and expand, a popular resort destination along the banks of the that was prone to frequent flooding. After more than $300 million in capital investments, the park features over 100 attractions including fourteen and a 33-acre (13 ha) water park.Early in its history, Kings Island has appeared in popular sitcoms and received widespread recognition for its record-breaking attractions and events.

One of the park's most well-known attractions, is often credited with reviving worldwide interest in roller coasters during the 1970s. Others, such as and, have set several world records, some of which remain standing. The largest investment in park history is, a scheduled to open in 2020.

The park has also suffered through times of negative publicity, particularly surrounding the early demise of roller coasters and.Kings Island is divided into several themed sections and operates seasonally from early spring through the fall, partially reopening for Winterfest during the. In 2017, Kings Island was the second-most visited seasonal amusement park in the United States behind, with an estimated 3.47 million visitors. It was third overall for seasonal attendance in North America, which was led. In addition, Kings Island has won Golden Ticket Awards from for having the 'Best Kids' Area' in the world for eighteen consecutive years (2001–2018) as well as “Best New Ride” in 2017 for. Kings Island's iconic entrance with theKings Island was conceived as early as 1964 when, a popular amusement park 10 miles (16 km) east of downtown on the banks of the, 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 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 announced plans to build a theme park in Northern Kentucky – well within Coney Island's primary market that extended as far south as. The announcement highlighted the need for change and gave Wachs' proposal credibility within the organization.Gary met with the president of, a business interested in promoting its recently acquired division, to discuss a possible merger.

In July 1969, Taft Broadcasting Company purchased Coney Island for $6.5 million and soon after purchased 1,600 acres (650 ha) in, for $3.2 million. Kings Island still owned 773 acres (313 ha) of that purchase as of 2005. The site is located between and the in what was then a part of. Following the purchase, Fess Parker's efforts to secure financing fell apart along with his plans to build a competing theme park.

Taft Broadcasting and KECO (1970–1992) 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 for its recognition of the area as well as its predecessor Coney Island. Most of the former park's rides were relocated, and much of what remained was demolished.

Coney Island's popular Sunlite Pool attraction continued to operate, however, and 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. View from in the mid-1970s with the (1975–1986) to the rightOne of the first major attractions featured at the park was, a wooden roller coaster consisting of two trains that race side-by-side on identical tracks. Designed by legendary designer, who 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 (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 a new junior wooden coaster in the originally named.

The most expensive ride to open with the park was, a $2-million attraction that featured over 100 animatronic characters.Kings Island was nationally promoted in two well-known on. Each filmed an episode on location at the park: in 1972 and in 1973. The Brady Bunch was produced by, a large Taft Broadcasting shareholder. The park also held several world-record-breaking events. In 1974, 69-year-old set a world record for the longest at a distance of 1,800 feet (550 m), which was performed 60 feet (18 m) off the ground. The following year, successfully jumped fourteen buses on his at Kings Island, clearing a distance of 133 feet (41 m) – a record that wasn't broken until 1999. The longest successful jump of his career was also his last major stunt, and the nationally televised event was broadcast live on ABC landing 52 percent of the TV audience for 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 the park at the forefront of the industry. To keep momentum going, Kings Island spent years researching and designing a mammoth roller coaster, 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, an amusement ride company well known for its work at and, to develop a unique roller coaster concept. Opened to the public in 1981 as the first modern-day, featuring an overhead track with train cars that swung freely from side to side, meant to simulate the feeling of flight. Although it was well-received by those who rode it, 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, 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, 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 (KECO), a company formed by senior executives and general managers of Taft Attractions Group.

Three parks – Kings Island, and – 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, led.

The deal included a contract with KECO to continue managing park operations. KECO, which retained ownership of the other two parks, also added to its portfolio after purchasing it in 1989 from the city of.

Paramount's Kings Island (1992–2006). The Eiffel Tower and the fountains at nightIn 1992, (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. They bought out the remaining 80% stake in Canada's Wonderland in 1993, raising the number of parks to five.

That same year, Paramount Parks began incorporating themes from its movies into the park. Entered the picture after acquiring Paramount in 1994, paving the way for the appearance of themes. First was Nickelodeon Splat City, followed by Nickelodeon Central and eventually Nickelodeon Universe.In 1997, a year after leaving Deerfield Township, the city of 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. On June 14, 2005, Viacom announced intentions to split into two companies ( and ) with CBS inheriting Paramount Parks.

Seven months later in January 2006, CBS announced intentions to sell its theme park division. CBS CEO said that despite the health and profitability of its Paramount Parks business, it was 'one that just doesn't fit our core strategy'. Cedar Fair era (2006–present) After receiving interest from a variety of potential suitors, CBS announced the sale of Paramount Parks to on June 30, 2006, for approximately $1.24 billion. The acquisition of Kings Island gave Cedar Fair ownership of the last of three major amusement parks in, alongside and – the latter was purchased from in 2004. Part of 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, The Italian Job Stunt Track became, Tomb Raider: The Ride became and Top Gun became. Nickelodeon's presence remained until the 2010 season, when Cedar Fair began incorporating its theme throughout the park, primarily in the children's area.In late 2009, the Mason City Council decided to put 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 waterpark. Council member Tony Bradburn argued that it was necessary for the city to help pay for infrastructure improvements, as well as cover police and fire expenses. This proposed tax hike was the center of debate for several months. Kings Island actively encouraged the public to write, email and call Mason City Council representatives to express opposition. On February 8, 2010, the Mason City Council voted 5–1 against the measure. Areas and attractions.

See also: Action Zone Action Zone opened in 1974 as Lion Country Safari, a 100-acre (40 ha) section of the park featuring a 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. It was later renamed Wild Animal Safari in 1977. In 1983, 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 (1977–87), the first steel looping roller coaster to run both forward and backward in the United States, and (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, a suspended roller coaster from, 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 the area's renaming to Action Zone and the addition of two new attractions –.

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.opened in 2000, 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, which opened in 2003 as the largest ride in the world, and, the world's longest which opened in 2014 at the former location of Son of Beast. NameOpenedManufacturerModelDescriptionThrill rating2014Inverted CoasterAn with seven inversions located in the former location of Thunder Alley. It is the longest of its kind in the world.51993SuspendedA in which free-swinging cars are suspended below the track. Formerly known as Top Gun (1993–2007); Flight Deck (2008-2013)5Congo Falls1988Shoot-the-ChuteA water ride with a 34' drop. The ride opened as Amazon Falls (1988–1998) and was later renamed Congo Falls after the Paramount film.42003Giant FrisbeeA ride that swings riders at an angle of 120° creating a maximum arc of 240°, lifting riders 137 feet (42 m) into the air. Riders reach speeds up to 76 miles per hour (122 km/h).51999Gyro DropA rotating ride which at 315 feet (96 m) is the tallest of its kind in the world (although sister park Kings Dominion has one with a longer drop that does not rotate).

Formerly known as Drop Tower: Scream Zone and Drop Zone: Stunt Tower (1999–2007).41999An inverted roller coaster. Formerly known as FACE/OFF (1999–2007).5Timberwolf Amphitheatre1982N/AN/AConcert venue built to replace Stadium of the Stars.1995Sky Fun 1 Inc.Dual SwingPay-per-ride Double with a dive of 153 feet (47 m).5Coney Mall When Kings Island first opened in 1972, a section of the park was dedicated to its predecessor,.

The area was constructed to resemble the former park's carnival-style layout and featured many of its which were relocated, including Monster, Scrambler, and Dodgem. One of the flagship attractions during the park's inaugural year, The Racer, was located in this section. In addition to rides, some of Coney Island's famous Ginkgo trees were transplanted, lining the middle of the walkway. Originally called Coney Island, the area was later renamed Old Coney in 1980 and again to its present name Coney Mall in 1986. The area also features game booths, arcades and concession stands reminiscent of and from the early twentieth century.In 1975, Zodiac debuted in the Coney Island mall, which was billed as a 'spinning, climbing double ferris wheel'.

Brokered by and manufactured by Waagner-Biro, the three-minute ride featured twelve gondolas on each of the two wheels which were mounted to a long, hydraulic arm. It closed in 1986 and reopened at in 1989. In the 1980s, the area saw the additions of, and, a six-inversion looping roller coaster that briefly held a world record for most inversions. Following Paramount's acquisition of the park in 1992, Coney Mall was further expanded in 1994 with Days of Thunder, a motion simulator ride in the new attraction, and in 1996 with, the world's first to feature a (LIM).In 2005, one of the last Paramount-themed attractions to open at the park, (now known as Backlot Stunt Coaster), was unveiled. The roller coaster replaced the antique car ride Les Taxis., a previously known as X-Flight at, was relocated to Kings Island next to Flight of Fear in 2007.

The area housing both roller coasters became known as X-Base, a sub-section within Coney Mall that took on its own theme. The most recent addition to Coney Mall was, added in 2011. The 301-foot-tall (92 m), three-minute features 32, two-person carriages that spin around a central tower up to 30 miles per hour (48 km/h). Kings Mill Antique Autos, a new antique cars ride, debuted in 2019. Kings Island announced in September 2019 that Vortex would be closing permanently after 33 years of operation on October 27, 2019.

NameOpenedManufacturerModelDescriptionThrill ratingDodgem1986Majestic Manufacturing (Azzurra)Italian-made that seat two people with fully functional headlights, taillights, rear-view mirrors and hazard flashers. Single car bumper cars with a rectangular floor area previously operated at from 1924 to 1971, and were relocated to Kings Island, but the smaller ride was removed after the 1985 season and replaced with this larger, different shaped version for the 1986 season.4Kings Mills Antique Autos2019Gould ManufacturingAntique car rideAn antique car attraction reminiscent of the former Les Taxis ride.

Includes a covered bridge, a pond, a faux gas station, and several billboards that reference past Kings Island attractions.2Monster1972Eyerly MonsterTraditional ride that spins in three different circles at the same time. It quickly raises and lowers riders as their cars spin. Operated at (1969–1971).3Scrambler1972Scrambler – Traditional DeluxeTraditional amusement park ride.

3 arms spin riders giving them the sensation of almost hitting the wall. Operated at (1969–1971).

3Shake, Rattle & Roll1975A classic spinning ride. Formerly known as Troika.31972Wooden.A twin tracked wooden roller coaster designed by the late John Allen.

The trains on the south track were changed to ride backward in 1982, but the original orientation was restored in 2008.42011A flat ride featuring two-person swings that slowly rotate and ascends the 301-foot (92 m) tower until reaching the top where speeds increase up to 30 miles per hour (48 km/h). After several delays, it opened June 21.4Zephyr1986Wave SwingerA suspended that rotates with a wave motion lifting riders up to 30 feet (9.1 m) in the air.3X-Base X-Base is a sub-area of Coney Mall that opened in 2007. Was introduced in 1996, but with the addition of in 2007, the area took on its own theme, centered around flight and propulsion.

Although previously designated by a sign, the area is not listed on the park map. Firehawk closed in 2018 and was removed prior to the 2019 season. In place of the demolished ride, Cedar Fair filed plans with Mason City Town Hall, which revealed blueprints for a new and trademark names for Orion and Polaris. On August 15, 2019, Kings Island held an evening event to officially announce the new coaster as. Along with Orion's scheduled opening in 2020, X-Base will be renamed Area 72.

NameOpenedManufacturerModelDescriptionThrill rating1996LIM Catapult CoasterAn indoor prototype, which has an identical installation at that opened on the same day. Over-the-shoulder harnesses were removed and replaced with lap bars in 2001. Formerly known as Outer Limits: Flight of Fear (1996–2000).52020Hyper CoasterAn upcoming Hyper Coaster model from B&M that will feature a 300-foot drop (91 m), 5,321 feet (1,622 m) of track, and a maximum speed of 91 mph (146 km/h). The largest investment in park history will become the seventh in the world and open as the tallest and fastest roller coaster in the park, built on the former location of.5International Street At the heart of the amusement park, visitors are greeted by International Street which lies just beyond 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 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 a practice used by throughout their theme parks.The area's main attractions include the Royal Fountain, a 600,000-US-gallon pool (2,300 m 3) capable of shooting 10,000 US gallons (38 m 3) of water into the air each minute, and the signature, a one-third scale replica of the which offers a view of the entire park to its guests.

Grand Carousel, a classic built in 1926 and originally located at Coney Island, is another International Street attraction. Also located here is the Kings Island Theater and a variety of restaurants and souvenir shops.In 1992, a attraction known as was added to the park's lineup. It utilized an -style system to transport riders through specially themed rooms resembling a behind-the-scenes tour of a haunted theater. Previously, the building housed the Enchanted Voyage (1972–1983) and Smurf's Enchanted Voyage (1984–1991), both dark rides that used unaccompanied boats floating along water-filled guideways. After a couple theme changes in 2003 and 2010, Phantom Theater became known as. NameOpenedManufacturerModelDescriptionThrill rating1972Paris TowerAn approximately one-third scale replica of the in at 314 feet (96 m) and 450 tons.

The tower was initially 331.5 feet (101.0 m), but the structure's top antenna was eventually removed. Has a near-exact replica.2International Showplace1977N/AN/AEntertainment venueInternational Street Bandstand1972N/AN/AEntertainment venue formerly known as Royal Fountain BandstandKings Island Theater1976N/AN/AEntertainment venue formerly known as American Heritage Music Hall and Paramount TheaterGrand Carousel1972Carousel, PTC #79The classic was built in 1926 and is painted with more than 20,000 sheets of 23-karat (96%) gold, 1,000 sheets of sterling silver and 48 hand-carved wooden horses. It features the #157. Operated at (1926–1971).1Oktoberfest Oktoberfest, relating to the eponymous, 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.

Nearby is an outdoor bar that serves, with a portion of its seating area located above water bordering Oktoberfest lake. Rides within this section of the park include a called, which opened in 1991, and a swinging ride called Viking Fury, which opened in 1982., one of two pay-per-ride attractions at Kings Island, is also located within Oktoberfest. NameOpenedManufacturerModelDescriptionThrill rating1991Mine trainA.5Festhaus1982N/AN/AEntertainment venue and food court2002Fixed Foundation SlingshotPay-per-ride attraction that catapults riders 275 feet (84 m) in the air up to 100 miles per hour (160 km/h) in a steel cage that flips multiple times before returning slowly to the platform.5Viking Fury1982Super Bountyride.3Planet Snoopy. See also:The area initially opened with the park in 1972 as and was later shortened to Hanna-Barbera Land. The area's flagship attraction was a junior named (later known as Woodstock Express), which like The Racer was designed by John C.

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 Kings Mills Log Flume was updated with a children's theme and renamed The Wild Thornberrys River Adventure. The Rugrats Runaway Reptar was introduced the same year.

This expansion into an area that was originally part of Rivertown became known as. 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 comic strip themes in 2010 – the children's brand marketed at other Cedar Fair parks. Nickelodeon Universe became known as. The area features many rides intended for smaller children, as well as three family-oriented roller coasters and a. Has awarded Kings Island with the for Best Kids' Area in the World for eighteen consecutive years (2001–2018).

Kings Island's Planet Snoopy was also the largest in the Cedar Fair chain until 2013, when Kings Dominion doubled the size of its Planet Snoopy section. NameOpenedManufacturer(Model)DescriptionThrill rating2010,A with a haunted attraction theme where riders shoot laser guns at various targets including ghosts, skeletons, and other props. Utilizes an -style transport system that was previously used for (1992–2002) and Scooby-Doo and the Haunted Castle (2003-2009). The building originally housed an indoor boat ride, Enchanted Voyage (1972-1983) and Smurf's Enchanted Voyage (1984-1991), manufactured by.1Character Carousel1982(36-Foot Carrousel)Children's. Formerly known as Hanna Barbera Carousel (1982–2005) and Nick-O-Round (2006–2009).1Charlie Brown's Wind Up1992for children.

Formerly known as Flintstone's Flyers (1992-1997), Pixie and Dixie's Swingset (1998–2005), and Backyardigan's Swing-Along (2006–2009).12001Steel roller coaster for all ages. Formerly known as Rugrats Runaway Reptar (2001–2009). Its top speed is 26 miles per hour (42 km/h) and lasts for roughly 1 minute and 30 seconds.4Joe Cool's Dodgem School1977Jurgen Scmidt, Rivervaze, NJChildren's. Formerly known as Boulder Bumpers (1977–2005) and Jimmy Neutron's Atom Smasher (2006–2009).2Kite Eating Tree2006(Jumpin' Star)A mini-drop ride that lifts riders 20 feet (6.1 m) into the air that bounces up and down as the ride eventually lowers to the ground. Formerly known as Plankton’s Plunge (2006–2009).3Linus' Beetle Bugs1972(Whip Jr.)Classic.

Operated at (1967–1971). Formerly known as Screecher, Funky Phantom, Alley Cat 500 and Swiper's Sweepers (2006–2009).1Linus' Launcher2006(Kite Flyer)Formerly known as Phantom Flyers (2006–2009).3PEANUTS 5001979Venture Ride Manufacturer Inc.Drivable car ride.

Formerly known as Mr. Jinks Jalopies (1979–??), Kiddie Turnpike, Fender Bender 500 (??–2005) and Nick Jr. Drivers (2006–2009).1PEANUTS Off-Road Rally1972Hampton Amusement CorporationMiniature car ride. Operated at (1969–1971). Formerly known as Pee Wee Raceway, Motor Mouse and Go Diego Go!1Race For Your Life Charlie Brown1972/Themed ride modeled after the 1977 Peanuts.

Operated at (1968–1971). Closed during the 2000 season, it reopened under a new name and Nickelodeon theme in 2001. Formerly known as Kings Mills Log Flume (1972–1999) and The Wild Thornberrys River Adventure (2001–2009).4Sally's Sea Plane1998(Crazy Bus)Formerly known as Atom Ant's Airways (1998–2005) and Timmy's Airtours (2006–2009).2Snoopy vs. Red Baron1992(Mini Jet)Themed after the comic strip featuring. Formerly known as Red Baron's Bi-Planes (1992-1997), Dick Dastardly's Biplanes (1998–2005) and Blue's Skidoo (2006–2009).2Snoopy's Barnyard Friends2015N/APetting zoo housed in amphitheater originally opened in 1995. Venue previously known Nickelodeon Theater, Putz HQ (2009), and Peanuts Playhouse.Snoopy's Junction1982Guided rail train cars.

Formerly known as Scooby Choo (1982-1997), Quick Draw's Railway (1998–2005) and La Adventura de Azul (2006–2009).1Snoopy's Space Buggies2015(Jump Around)A circular flat ride on which vehicles attached to a central console bounce up and down.2Surf Dog2006Surfboard themed ride that spins as it glides over a ramp. Formerly known as Avatar: The Last Airbender (2006–2009).4The Great Pumpkin Coaster1992A junior steel roller coaster that takes riders up a small hill through a series of dips and then circles back around to complete the circuit for a second time.

The ride lasts for roughly 52 seconds. The queue area used to be the loading area for the Smurf's Enchanted Voyage ride. Formerly known as Scooby Zoom (1992–1997), Top Cat's Taxi Jam (1998–2005) and Little Bill's Giggle Coaster (2006–2009).21972A family wooden roller coaster, formerly known as Scooby Doo (1972–1979), Beastie (1980–2005) and Fairly Odd Coaster (2006–2009). The coaster featured a small tunnel at the base of its first drop from 1980 through 2005.4Woodstock Gliders2015A flying scooters ride with eight carriages that each have a paddle, enabling guests to change the movement of their carriage.3Woodstock Whirlybirds1998Caripro Amusement TechnologyHelicopter-themed sky tram. Formerly known as Yogi's Sky Tours (1998–2005) and Lazytown Sportacopters (2006–2009).1Rivertown 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. 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, 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 ride that operated through the 2000 season, and roller coaster in 1979. Designed internally by Kings Island, The Beast opened as the tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster in 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 called, which opened in 1985, and a heavily themed, indoor 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 2009, the park's first roller coaster from, called, opened in Rivertown. The 230-foot-tall (70 m) reaches 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, 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 the world.

NameOpenedManufacturer(Model)DescriptionThrill rating2009(Hyper coaster)A steel that is 230 feet (70 m) tall and 5,282 feet (1,610 m) long with a top speed of 80 mph (130 km/h). Diamondback spans 10 acres (40,000 m 2) of terrain and features a splashdown water effect finale.51972Crown Metal Products Company( ( 914 mm) 4-4-0 Steam Train)A ride that travels in a 5,585-foot (1,702 m) loop that provides transportation between the main park and Soak City. Before the water park and its station were built, the train ride was a narrated excursion, traversing open fields and wooded areas with multiple props themed to the, small buildings and a fort. The trains are scale replicas of the famous 1800s locomotive known as.

The two trains are named 'Kenny Van Meter' (Blue Train, Engine 12) and 'Lew Brown' (Green Train, Engine 19), formerly 'Tecumseh' and 'Simon Kenton' respectively. The Rivertown station is also known as 'Losantiville Station'.12017A wooden roller coaster that is 109.2 feet (33.3 m) tall and 3,265 feet (995 m) long with a top speed of 53 mph (85 km/h). The attraction ends with an indoor segment, heavily marketed with the hashtag #WhatsintheShed, that includes one of three projected monsters and various animated props.41979Kings IslandA wooden roller coaster constructed and designed internally by Kings Island, which consistently remains a top roller coaster among many industry experts and enthusiasts. When it first opened, it held virtually every major record for roller coasters (tallest, fastest and longest).

As of 2014, it still holds the record as the longest wooden roller coaster in the world according to. The ride takes advantage of the hilly terrain and has two separate chain lifts throughout the course.52005A based on a chase sequence in the 2003 film.

Riders launch into a parking garage, dodge police cars, and are attacked by a helicopter which ignites fire all around riders before hitting a second launch section, sending riders into darkness. Formerly known as The Italian Job: Stunt Track (2005–2007).51985(Rapid Ride)that takes riders on a winding course through the densely wooded terrain in Kings Island's Rivertown. Riders are placed in circular inner-tube rafts that seat up to six.

Whirlpools, hidden geysers and wave makers randomly soak riders along the route. It is one of the longest rides in the park at 5 minutes and 20 seconds.4Soak City. Main article:Included with park admission, Soak City is a 33-acre (13 ha) featuring two, 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, played by who 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, was added for the 2016 season. Halloween Haunt.

Halloween Haunt is a -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 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 Following a twelve-year absence, park officials confirmed in 2016 that Winterfest would return in 2017.

The annual, Christmas-themed holiday festival operates from mid-November through late December and features ice skating on the Royal Fountain as well as the lighting of the park's Eiffel Tower. Several ride attractions are open, and International Street is transformed into a winter village filled with Christmas carolers, homemade crafts, and holiday-themed refreshments and snacks.Fast Lane. See also:, introduced at Kings Island in July 2011, 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.

The two options available for purchase are Fast Lane and Fast Lane Plus, the latter of which adds several additional rides to the list. Kings Island offers Fright Lane passes that operate the same way as Fast Lane but are for Halloween Haunt attractions only. A feature called 'Skeleton Key' was added to Fright Lane in 2014, which unlocks additional room access within certain haunted attractions.

Significant facts. Son of Beast with loop.

1979: Kings Island unveiled setting records as the world's tallest, fastest and longest roller coaster. 1981: The park introduced, generally accepted as the first permanent modern-day. However, plagued with mechanical problems and downtime, The Bat was removed just three years later in 1984. 1982: Kings Island introduced Winterfest, a -time holiday event which ran from late-November through December. The yearly event was discontinued after the 1992 season, though it made a one-year appearance in 2005 before returning permanently in 2017. 1984: opened as the first roller coaster to be designed from the ground-up as a stand-up coaster, even though others had been converted to stand-up designs.

King Cobra was dismantled and put up for sale in 2002, when downtime and maintenance proved prohibitive. Overview of, plus and. 1987: The was added to the park and briefly held a record with six inversions. 1989: debuted as a family water park featuring a wave pool, water slides and other attractions.

1999: Kings Island's 'Adventure Village' area began the first of a two-year expansion to re-energize the area. Renamed Paramount Action Zone, the area was completely re-themed as a brightly colored movie studio backlot. Two new rides, and, opened with the latter setting a new record for the world's tallest gyro drop. 2000: For the second year of the Paramount Action Zone two-year expansion, opened setting records as the world's tallest, fastest and only-looping wooden roller coaster.

Billed as a sequel to Kings Island's own legendary roller coaster, Son of Beast was also the park's first. In October 2000, Kings Island debuted FearFest which runs annually from late September through October (later renamed to ). 2002: opened at Kings Island using an unorthodox marketing approach.

The vehicle was by design concealed from view even as guests are being seated. Opening-day riders did not know what was going to happen as the ride started. Under the hood, the ride was based on a typical model ride, except that this version was the world's first Giant variation to hold nearly twice as many riders as prior efforts. In addition, the ride operated indoors synchronized to a musical score, lasers, water effects, fog and theatrical lighting. Diamondback's lift hill. 2005: Kings Island opened, a roller coaster that primarily focused on special effects to tie in with the film (sister park opened one the same year). 2007: Kings Island unveiled, a roller coaster.

The ride originally opened in 2001 at under the name but was relocated to Kings Island after the 2006 season. Its track colors were changed from neon green to red, while its supports were changed from dark gray to steel gray. 2009: A steel from called opened in place of the former Swan Lake. 2010: opened in place of the Nickelodeon Universe kids area. The -themed attractions and characters from Hanna-Barbera's Scooby-Doo were completely removed. This change marked the first time since the park's debut in 1972 that was not present in the park. 2011:, a tower swinger ride manufactured by, was added to the Coney Mall next to the Vortex.

A called debuted at Kings Island as the world's largest animatronic dinosaur park. It is located in Coney Mall near WindSeeker. Dinosaurs Alive 3D was also introduced to the Action Theater presented in Dolby 3D. 2012: was announced on September 2, 2011, as the new name for Boomerang Bay. The Australian theme was dropped and additions included a second, larger wave pool along with sand-volleyball courts and a completely revamped lazy river with new names all around. 2014: The longest in the world, opened in the location previously occupied by Son of Beast and Thunder Alley within the park's Action Zone. 2017:, a wooden coaster manufactured by is added.

It is located in the park's Rivertown area. Winterfest has also been confirmed to make its return after a twelve-year hiatus. 2018: Firehawk permanently closed in October 2018.

2019: The Les Taxis attraction, retired in 1992, is brought back as Kings Mills Antique Autos with new vehicles and in a new location. Vortex closes permanently on October 27, 2019. 2020:, a 300-foot (91 m) steel coaster manufactured by, is added as the park's first. Kings Island. Retrieved April 18, 2018.

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Kings Island and Cedar Point were voted some of the best amusement parks in the country, according to USA TODAY readers.

North America is home to more than 400 amusement parks and attractions attracting some 375 million visitors annually, according to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions.

Despite all of those options, two Ohio theme parks made the top of the USA TODAY'S 10Best list.

Theme park industry experts nominated their favorite parks, hotels, restaurants entertainment and water parks from across the country. Then USA TODAY readers voted for their top picks.

Cedar Point took the top spot and Kings Island took the No. 3 spot. Hotel Breakers, located just a few steps from Cedar Point, was chosen as best amusement park hotel.

The Steel Vengenace at Cedar Point was voted best roller coaster. Diamondback at Kings Island was voted the ninth best roller coaster.

These are the top 10 winners of Best Amusement Parks:

1. Cedar Point - Sandusky, Ohio

2 .Knoebels - Elysburg, Penn.

3. Kings Island - Mason, Ohio

4. Silver Dollar City - Branson, Mo.

5. Dollywood - Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

6. Six Flags Great Adventure - Jackson, N.J.

7. SeaWorld Orlando - Orlando

8. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay - Tampa

9. Hersheypark - Hershey, Penn.

10. Busch Gardens Williamsburg - Williamsburg, Va.

Quiz: Are you a true Kings Island fan? Try to decipher these license plate riddles

New in 2019: Sneak peek at this season's new attractions at Kings Island

What's the best roller coaster in Ohio? It's a time-tested Cincinnati favorite