2020 Media Tour at Kings Island: Two important stories to tell about this season

Today marks the eve of Opening Day at Kings Island. At least for passholders who have made a reservation to visit the park for the first time of the season when the gates open on Thursday, July 2.  As is tradition, we hosted a small media event for local and regional reporters and photographers. It wasn’t the event we were originally planning for our new coaster, Orion’s, debut, but we had another important story to tell about the park this season. 

That story? Safety.

It's not a new story though. Sure, this year has been unusual, but one thing that hasn’t changed, since the park opened in 1972, is the unwavering commitment to the highest safety standards. Because of that, the experience our guests will have this season has changed (Read about it here), So, today we previewed Orion, yes.  But, we also walked local and regional media through the park to show different parts of the experience, and how it’s changed to keep you safe through enhanced procedures that reduce the spread of germs.

Our tour started at the Temperature Check tent, where everyone who entered the park today had their temperature checked and answered a brief health questionnaire.  We walked up International Street and talked about the (more than 600) new hand sanitizer stations added around the park.  We pointed out that we’ve transitioned our park map from being printed to being available on the Kings Island mobile app. They saw firsthand how our associates routinely sanitize rides, restaurants, shops and games- any high touch areas. We did all this while wearing a face covering, except in the RelaxZone near the base of the Eiffel Tower, and while eating lunch at Coney Bar B Que.  (Face coverings also are not required on water rides like White Water Canyon or Race for Your Life, Charlie Brown.)

The star of the show was Orion, where participants were able to ride. Reviews afterward talked of the stunning views, the pure speed and the smooth ride that coaster manufacturer B&M is famous for designing. A reporter asked, “What are you most looking forward to when you open the gates tomorrow?” My response, “I want our guests to experience the thrill of Orion, the world’s seventh giga coaster. But more important, I want to welcome our guests back to Kings Island, and for them to see how hard we’ve worked to create a safe place to have fun.”

You see, we’ve found that when the park focuses on safety, our guests can focus on fun.  And, that’s what we’re here to do.  Welcome back to a place where you can make memories with the people who matter most to you. Welcome back to Kings Island…..and enjoy the ride!