In the theme park industry, it is nearly impossible to succeed without continuous innovation and the development of new and exciting experiences to draw in guests. However, some risks come without much reward.
Join us as we look at 4 of the most expensive theme park mistakes…
1.Rocket Rods at Disneyland – Cost: $25,000,000
Rocket Rods at Disneyland was conceived as a high-speed thrill ride, utilizing the existing PeopleMover infrastructure. Construction began in 1997 amidst much fanfare. Engineers worked to adapt the track and create a futuristic experience that would rival the enjoyment of the beloved attraction it would replace.
Upon its grand opening, Rocket Rods dazzled visitors with its sleek design and promises of rapid transit. However, technical difficulties quickly plagued the ride, leading to frequent breakdowns and lengthy periods of downtime. The high-speed nature of the attraction also caused strain on the aging infrastructure, resulting in significant maintenance issues.
Despite attempts to rectify the problems, Rocket Rods proved to be financially unsustainable. Eventually, Disneyland made the difficult decision to permanently close the attraction, marking the end of its brief presence in the park. The track and infrastructure remain and serve as a reminder of the enjoyment that once was and the failure that followed.
2. Galactic Starcruiser at Walt Disney World – Cost: $400,000,000
The Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser was an immersive hotel experience located at Walt Disney World Resort that opened in May of 2022. It offered guests a unique opportunity to step into the Star Wars universe and live out their own adventure aboard the Halcyon, a fictional starcruiser. Guests would be fully immersed in the story from the moment they arrived, with the hotel designed to resemble a spacecraft. Upon check-in, guests would become part of the ongoing narrative set within the Star Wars galaxy.
The experience included interactions with characters from the Star Wars universe, such as Rey, Chewbacca, and Kylo Ren, as well as the chance to participate in lightsaber training, droid racing, and other immersive activities. Meals were even served in a themed dining room, complete with alien delicacies and entertainment.
From the beginning, fans critiqued the extravagant price tag. The two-night experience averaged at least $5,000 for two people. Many resort visitors argued that they could stay at one of Disney World’s other hotels and visit the theme parks for much less for a family.
Other guests who did visit the Starcruiser commented that it was not worth the price to visit again, leading to low levels of repeat visitors. Unfortunately, after only a year and a half of operation, it was announced that Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser would offer its last voyage in September of 2023.
Continue to read about Son of Beast at Kings Island and X at Six Flags Magic Mountain…
3. Son of Beast at Kings Island – Cost: Approximately $30,000,000 (after ongoing modifications and improvements)
Son of Beast at Kings Island was a bold endeavor in the world of roller coasters. Construction began in 1999 intending to create the world’s tallest and fastest wooden. The ride’s massive structure and innovative design garnered significant attention, promising an adrenaline-fueled experience unlike any other.
However, the construction process was plagued with issues. Kings Island had decided to partner with the now-defunct Roller Coaster Corporation of America (RCCA), and this would serve as one of the park’s biggest missteps when it came to this behemoth coaster. Whether it was poor construction practices or simply that RCCA was in over their heads, the massive wooden support structure needed to support Son of Beast would not be properly constructed leading to several issues and a lawsuit between Paramount (the owners of Kings Island at the time) and RCCA.
When it opened to the public in 2000, Son of Beast amazed riders with its towering height, steep drops, and the thrilling inclusion of a vertical loop, a feat previously unheard of in wooden coasters. However, the ride’s intense forces and rough ride experience quickly became a point of contention among guests.
Despite efforts to improve the ride’s comfort and safety, including modifications to the track and trains, Son of Beast continued to face operational challenges. In 2009, after nearly a decade of operation, the coaster would permanently close the coaster due to ongoing maintenance costs, rider injuries, and underperforming popularity.
4. X at Six Flags Magic Mountain – Cost: $55,000,000 (after 2007 refurbishment and rebranding)
X, later renamed “X2,” is a roller coaster located at Six Flags Magic Mountain in California. Conceptualized in the late 1990s, it aimed to redefine roller coaster experiences with its fourth-dimensional design, featuring rotating seats that sit on the sides of the track rather than above or below it.
However, the project faced delays and technical hurdles as engineers worked to develop a reliable restraint system and ensure the stability of the rotating seats. Construction progressed slowly, and unexpected issues prolonged the coaster’s completion timeline. The coaster opened to the public in 2002, and in 2007 it faced a massive refurbishment and rebranding and reopened as X2.
While X2 continues to operate, the coaster is what many enthusiasts consider to be the “nail in the coffin” for well-known coaster manufacturer Arrow Dynamics. Arrow was a pioneer for coaster manufacturing for several decades, bringing coaster icons like Magnum XL 200, Loch Ness Monster, and Matterhorn Bobsleds to life. The turbulent story of X and Arrow Development best highlights the ambitious pursuit of innovation in roller coaster design and the risks involved in pushing the boundaries of theme park attractions.
Let us know your thoughts on these 4 most expensive theme park mistakes. Are there any others that should be added to the list? Leave us a comment below or on our Facebook page.
