Kings Island turns 48 years old

Kings Island is 48-years-old today. The park opened to the public on April 29, 1972 and has grown exponentially since welcoming its first guests.

Although the Racer roller coaster still speeds up and down the tracks and the Grand Carousel still spins as it did years ago, there were just over 60 attractions for guests to enjoy when Kings Island opened in 1972. Now, after nearly five decades of capital investments in excess of $400 million, there are more than 100 attractions.

In 1972, five themed areas were highlighted. Today there are seven. The employment opportunities have changed dramatically as well. Where it once took 1,300 employees to operate the park on any given day during the season, it now requires approximately 5,000 to keep the 364-acre amusement and water park in operation. The changes have not been limited to the park itself. The area surrounding the park, once farmland, now thrives with commercial and retail businesses, as well as the incredibly increasing population of homes.

An annual visit to Kings Island has become tradition for millions of people. It’s where friendships began, where engagements happen, and where family firsts and milestones are celebrated. It’s fun and thrilling. The place so many Kings Island fans call home.

Share your favorite Kings Island memories in the comments area below.