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One of the most popular attractions when Kings Island opened in 1972 was the Enchanted Voyage. At a cost of $2 million to build, it was also the most expensive ride for the park’s debut season and the main attraction in the Happy Land of Hanna-Barbera. There was no such thing as being too young or too old to appreciate the animation and the scenes.

Four members of the family who were the first to walk through the gates at Kings Island when the 364-acre amusement and water park opened 45 years ago in 1972 returned to the park for a visit.

Kings Island's colorful nightly fireworks display takes place every night the park closes at 10 p.m. or later this summer. Set to a stirring musical background, it is visible for miles around the area.

The city of Cincinnati has, perhaps, the most noteworthy German heritage of any city within the United States. Dating back to the 1700’s the influx of German settlers brought with them talents and abilities that show in the architecture, landmarks and industries that still populate the area to this day. It seemed only natural that Kings Island would incorporate the city’s vast German influence into its design. 

Thousands of contemporary Christian music fans from throughout the Midwest will descend upon Kings Island later this month for the 24th annual SpiritSong festival. Set for Thursday, June 22 through Saturday, June 24, the three-day music festival will showcase national headlining artists from across the country at the park's 10,000-seat, outdoor TImberwolf Amphitheatre. Artists performing range from pop and rock to hip-hop.

Planning for the new Island Smokehouse inside Kings Island's Soak City started during the summer of 2016. Executive Chef Nathan Gushulak helped customize the layout of the Island Smokehouse from top to bottom, turning a blank canvas into a masterful piece of art. Inside of Island Smokehouse, the park installed custom smokers, grills, and a new state-of-the-art kitchen that can create barbecue masterpieces, and that they did!

One of the major new attractions at Kings Island 40 years ago was the 1800-seat outdoor amphitheater, International Showplace. Featured in the theatre in 1977 was a 25-minute production entitled “Music Hit Parade”, performed by 12 young singers and dancers and a 10-piece orchestra.

For parts of five decades, it has been the premier entertainment destination in the Midwest for millions of families seeking the best in rides, shows and attractions, all in a magical setting: Kings Island. Since opening in 1972, Kings Island has worked hard to ensure a visit to the park is a vacation to remember for the entire family – the best day of the year. 

Sometimes your Best Day Ever at Kings Island also happens to be the hottest day ever -- at least it feels that way. While we definitely recommend indulging in some cold Blue Ice Cream, odds are you’ll need a healthy pick-me-up during your visit. Here’s where to find the best health-conscious snacks during your visit!

A brand new dining option has opened in Soak City Water Park. Offering a completely unique dining experience and a menu created by the park’s executive chef, Nathan Gushulak, guests can enjoy the smells and tastes of smoked pulled pork, briskets and wings, hand-breaded chicken tenders and shrimp, all cooked to perfection on the restaurant’s wood fired smoker.