What are your Kings Island Must-Do's?
Don Helbig
|
As someone that has grown up with Kings Island, I’m often asked, “What is something that I must do when I go?” A dozen things quickly come to mind, so I thought I’d share my list of Kings Island must-do’s. Remember, this is my list – each person has their own list. So, after reading my list let me know in the comments section what is on your own must-do list for Kings Island.
No. 1 – The Grand Carousel, International Street
My visits to Kings Island tend to either begin or end with a spin on the Grand Carousel. To me, it’s the heart and soul of the park. No visit to Kings Island is complete for me without a ride on the oldest attraction in the park.
No. 2 – The K.I. & Miami Valley Railroad, Rivertown
The wail of the train whistles, the sound of wheels and axles as they churn (chugga-chugga, chugga-chugga), and of course the steam, are all woven into the fabric of the sights and sounds of Kings Island.
No. 3 – The Racer, Coney Mall
While it’s no longer the longest, fastest, tallest, most thrilling ride at Kings Island, it’s still a ride with class and the coaster that rekindled America’s interest in the wooden roller coaster in the 1970’s.
No. 4 – The Beast, Rivertown
When you say Beast, you’ve said it all! The Beast opened in 1979 and still holds the record as the longest wooden roller coaster in the world.
No. 5 – Blue Ice Cream, Planet Snoopy
If you visit Kings Island and don’t have a blue ice cream cone, did you really visit?
No. 6 – Race for Your Life Charlie Brown, Planet Snoopy
A classic flume ride, one of my favorites going back to 1972. This ride is so much fun with family and friends and a great way to beat the heat on a summer day.
No. 7 – Orion, Area 72
The award-winning giga coaster is everything a steel roller coaster should be, and more! It’s big, it’s fast, there’s airtime. The complete package!
No. 8 – Diamondback, Rivertown
Since it’s debut in 2009, Diamondback has ranked among the top steel roller coasters in annual industry and enthusiast polls, and with good reason. Riders snake their way around 5,282 feet of track at speeds up to 80 mph with a splashdown ending.
No. 9 – Mystic Timbers, Rivertown
A ride that’s both fun and thrilling, Mystic Timbers is non-stop action as you traverse through 3,265 feet of track at speeds up to 53 mph.
No. 10 – Adventure Express, Oktoberfest
Celebrating its 30th anniversary season this year, Adventure Express is one of the most underrated rides at Kings Island.
No. 11 – Eiffel Tower, International Street
This is an obvious choice. You can’t beat the view of the 364-acre amusement and water park and surrounding area.
No. 12 – Coney Bar B. Que
You’ve got to eat, right? When you’re at Kings Island, you don't want to miss out on barbecue favorites like Smoked St. Louis-style ribs, hand-pulled pork, rotisserie chicken and smoked sausage.
Okay, that’s my list. Now I want to see yours!