SDCFans - The Unofficial Fan Site For Silver Dollar City
Silver Dollar City & Celebration City Discussion => General Silver Dollar City Talk => Topic started by: shavethewhales on March 17, 2011, 12:30:10 PM
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Please use this thread to discuss your recent visits to SDC and tell us anything new/interesting you saw or experienced.
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I posted a trip report under the "Happy SDC Opening Day" thread. Photos posted on my Flickr account:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/juniordugan
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Well, folks, I was hoping some of our faithful friends here would have posted some trip reviews from Friday and Saturday. Anyone make a trip this weekend? I'm eager to read your first impressions for the 2011 season. My opening day trip was fun. Great to walk the park and see everything again. However my legs are still sore! :) Remember to post photos. Thanks!
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tomorrow night, and i will have some pics if i can get them to load..
Still jealous of you and your opening day trip!!
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I noticed in Junior's pictures that there is a new "You have a great past ahead of you" sign at the entry way. Sure wish I could have the old one!
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Here's a pic review on my flicker. i spent most of my time visiting with the "old timers", many of you that are regulars should notice this: SDC has gone through a huge change of employees, the past couple of weeks. Without the loyal to the character of SDC among the employees, it'd be just another amusement park. All in all, opening day was a blast. The longest line was PK & FITH. Lots of new signage, roofs, floors, a couple new stands/buildings...Headed back today! :)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30708145@N02/sets/72157626179880693/
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wow, neat'o! cool to see some of them behind the scenes of the park shots. & really weird to see a vehicle in the streets of SDC! ;)
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Great pics Tinmann...Appreciate the posting :)
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Wow...thanks for the pictures. What was the "add on" space behind the Mine/Mill complex? I could see what was left of the old stone foundation. How will the new room/s be used?
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Lighting fast trip to the park today.
I arrived at 10:25 to a long line of traffic down Indian Point road, it was back up the hill towards 76 but moved at a very rapid pace. I decided to preferred park as I had my little dog with me and wanted to be close. The line for paid/preferred parking was a double line and not single as it has been in the past. If you encounter this go to the right. They have a roll out cart with a register and its moves much faster than the inside lane.
Upon entering the park they had every turn style open and it moved very quickly, no back up at all.
We walked onto the square and felt that they had enlarged the public area by moving some of the flower beds back. ( We may have been mistaken but it felt more open).
There was no entertainment on the grandstand at any time when we were near the square. We made our way down to HDH via the swinging bridge and as I suspected there is no more wilderness to this area, it seemed very busy on both sides with the swings and then the street on the right and the play area on the left. I did a little investigating of the play area it was well done and very busy. The Bear shop was nicely done and I feel a good addition to the area. There is a lot of life down that lane now.
It was approx 11 and we passed AP, they were just opening, WF had little to no line with 2 trains running.
Down towards FITH the new chip stand looks great, NOTE: they no longer serve the chicken fajita skillet they now serve another potato based option and I believe a Philly cheese. Bad news for no carb diet folks.
FITH was backed up all the way to the street.
Powder Keg down.
Nobody on the RB.
The swing had 1 arm running and the line literally snaked out of the building ( I don’t understand this)
Skipped the swing.
They did some work on the inside of the creek towards the LROTO, looks to me like they poured a slurry with stones in it on all the flat areas where water flowed ( people slipping?)
Walking up towards the WB ( moment of silence) they pushed the fence back from the street all the way to the ride tower tripling the common area here, great move!.
Up and to the left towards the GE I noted the new funnel cake ice cream stand, it was a great addition. They removed a game for this. Honestly I think they could replace all the games in that area with food stands creating a “ food court” and I would be happy as I could be. I really think the games are cheap and “ Six Flags” like.
Heading back up towards the square I passed the new trees they planted near the horse bridge. They planted some LARGE trees.
Up to the square again I also noted that in front of the mill was more open than I remembered.
I am not sure if anyone else noted this or if it was just me but also it seemed that they have removed some of the larger trees from the square area………( anyone have any input on this…was it just me?)
They did improve the flow of the HH, the snack bar is gone, clothing shelves and t-shirts in its place.
Nothing seemed changed in the OM on the way out.
I walked away feeling like they were trying to do things quickly, there is sometimes unnecessary backup at the entrance and while parking but this visit it ran fast, as did the trams.
I am looking forward to WF in April. I will be able to really spend a day during the festival, this was a fast trip but that’s what Seasons Passes are for.
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Great report, mh. You've given me some things to look for, next week.
Has anyone seen the "quote sign" from the old smoking area that was removed for HDH? Remember there is a running competition for the first to spot it (if it's still anywhere at all).
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We arrived home this evening after spending 4 days/3 nights at SDC for opening weekend. We had a great time. I'll try to write a detailed report soon.
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I will also do a more detailed report later for now though. here is a pic of the new foodstand, 25 minute line for FITH, and couple of pics of AP, geyser gulch
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25 minute line for FITH
I was really surprised at that line, I am thankful for a seasons pass and my frequency of visiting as I didn't feel bad skipping it.
But man that was long.
Was PK closed all day? it was in the morning......
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We had a very unexpected trip to SDC on Friday. We had not planned on being there until April 22, but my DH was off on Friday so I took an unplanned day off we loaded up the car and took off.
The kids were most surprised!
We arrived about 10:30 and traffic was backed up a little onto 76 but things moved quickly. We were able to get through the preferred parking line relatively quickly (and whoever said stay to the right in that line was correct in our experience also). We had the kids strollered and were in the gates before 11:00.
We went straight to HDH. First impression is that we are going to be spending a lot of time there this summer. However there are some issues that need to be worked out. 1. They need signage or an employee telling people where the stroller parking and extra benches are. Because the parking area is not visible from the entrance people park the strollers in the street and walkway. IT really jammed things up there. 2. The parents and employees should not allow children to play in the rocks at the slide landing. Even if they are “behind” the slide. Redirect the kids over to the sand area. 3. The measuring station is not well placed now. I will get into this more in a second. My kids are 4.5 and 2.5. The first time through the houses I went with them. The older one took off and was through it twice before the younger one was through the first time. After a couple more times we started letting them go through on their own. About the time I thought to myself that they should have been through I heard my son (2.5) screaming in the houses. So I ran up the exit stairs to see him up at the top (in the middle house) crying. The SDC employee was apologizing for him being so upset. I guess she walked over and grabbed his hand to try to measure him. I showed him her name tag and explained that since she had a SDC sign and her name there she was okay to talk to. As I am calming him down the employee tells me that she still needs to measure him. So we do and he is more than tall enough to be in it by himself. After that he is done. My daughter really wanted to ride the carousel but it was broken down so we decided we would come back later.
Headed on to the GE. Got nachos and popcorn at the Lady Liberty stand then went to the measuring station. DD was over 42 and DS was over 36. (HOORAY FOR ME NOT HAVING TO RIDE THE FROGS ANYMORE!) We took them to the frogs and ladybugs. Then booked it across to FITH. Line was full and moved nicely. DS loved his first ride on it and DD is always happy to see Red Flanders in his long johns. Headed back over to HDH. Went through the tree tops a few more times. Kids rode the LS. The line area and lack of viewing for this is crappy. No other way to put it. They wanted to ride a second time so I headed up to the swinging bridge to try and get a snap shot. And given how violently my arms were shaking I got a couple that were decent. After the LS, and another explanation that the carousel was still broken, we went to FM. The line was out by the street but moved quickly. As usual we forgot to park the stroller by the exit and instead hoofed it back up the hill to get that so we could move onto the GE and a family twirl on the Teacups. Following the teacups we had two kids fighting to stay awake, so we stopped in Browns and picked out suckers then headed to the car. It was about 3:00 and every parking lot was full as we were leaving.
Some other things to note: There is a new ice cream and funnel cake concession at the entrance to GE, the new chip concession at Lumber jack looks nice. I didn’t have a chance to look around much or go in a single building but everything was clean and freshly painted and generally freshened up. The Bradford pears were in full bloom and so was the forsythia.
Now, about the measuring station. If people need to be measured for PK, WF, FITH, HDH, AP, GE, why can you only measure at GE? Measuring needs to be more centrally located. I really liked the way they were running the station on Friday though the two guys in there when we were rolled that line through!
I do appreciate that fact that they no longer do the trailblazer right inside the turnstiles since that area is such a logjam anyway.
So…that’s it until April 22. Can’t wait to get back!
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(and whoever said stay to the right in that line was correct in our experience also).
The man on the outside had a cart with his register on it and he didn't have to walk back and forth inside the little shack.
Goes to show you how saving a couple steps can collectively save LOTS of time and make a line move that much quicker.
I would say it ran 1.5-2 to 1 ( if you know what I mean).
Stay to the right
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Made it to SDC yesterday. So glad we watched the weather and chose Sunday over Saturday. It was lovely!
Got there about 2, parked right next to a tram pick-up, and off we went. Stopped to get a strawberry smoothie and take a potty stop in the main building only to find that concession stand is now gone and all new clothing displays set up. This was the only place to get one of those wonderful strawberry smoothies btw.
Our 2.5 dd had "choo choo train" on the brain, so we went straight there. My smoothie-craving dh got in line to see if he could get a drink at the stations' concession stand, but the line moved insanely slow. I felt bad for the two guys running it - two windows, two guys, and ONE register. Finally got a drink and the train arrived. The ride was great. The actors are fresh and ready for a new season. Is the redhead Irish? I detected an accent being fought off.
After the train, we crossed over to HDH where we rode the carousel twice. Line was short and operator was friendly. DD is only 34", so she couldn't ride the LS, and I wouldn't set her loose in the treehouse just yet. We spent a great deal of time in the sand area. She loved it and it was a nice shady area for parents to chill. The only thing I don't like about HDH is that I miss it being a nice little pit of wildlife. Seems like the park is turning into lots of tree tops... I miss the breaks in buildings and attractions.
The smoothie search continued. This took us around the park... twice. No strawberry smoothies, only one guy with the strawberry ice stuff. Poor dh was bummed, but we got two mug fulls and headed to the GE.
The frogs. The bugs. Oh my! DD really enjoyed them this time (hasn't been on them since last fall). The operators were all friendly and lines were short.
On the way out I had to get some taffy since I read so much about it on here. It's pretty good and I'm sitting here munching on some now. I bought some Wildfire taffy since I love hot stuff and ya'll said it would burn a hole in your mouth... Well, four pieces down and it was warm at best. I think some of ya just have wienie taste buds. ;)
It's nice to see the park spruced up for another season. I found the employees all very pleasant and refreshed. Can't wait for everything to get in full swing!
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Though this is a different thread, every piece of Wildfire is not flaming hot. Hopefully, you'll get to a hot one.
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For a strawberry smoothie try the Berries and Cream stand located in front of the Silver Dollar Saloon. Last season they had both strawberry and peach smoothies; I would think they would still have them.
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"wienie taste buds"? Man i have to meet you some time queenmum. I dont even touch those things let alone eat them!! ok that being said.
*My sunday afternoon visit... Several items have been hit on so i will bumpr over them or maybe repeat them. Also in my defense I am not as informed on the parks as many of you are, so just work with me.
*got there about 1:00, Checked the HH 1st of all, I do like the concessions stand gone. And of course replaced with more product for the consumers ;D
*Murals do look good, and are easier to see.
*I did like the fresh look, new mulch,fresh paint, everything clean, trees blooming. And yes it is a fact the SDC asphalt has it own smell!! loved it!
*As we headed toward cardiac hill I was a little disappointed to find the leather shop and knife shop closed until 4-7. I know they would not be "performing". but did expect them open.. oh well
*Coasters and AP were all running, had some lines. but i was just looking around enjoying being there!
*Somebody mentioned something about the area behind the falls between WF and PK. nothing going on there. Looks unharmed.
* NOW i am have puter problems will finish in another post.... stay tuned
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PART TWO>
* walked over past RB and listened to the science teacher, that whole area looked good, down through the riverfront, new signs, paint. looked real good!
*geyser gulch was BUSY, No threat of that area being ignored by the little ones, I posted a pic earlier.
*walked up past WB, noticed the fence as mentioned earlier, But saw no other signs of "production".
*went over by HDH and the train. Only thing i questioned was they moved the smoking section over by the woodcarvers building, I would have thought the smoking section would have been in view of the HDH entrance. (To watch for kids coming out). I did post pics of HDH under 2011 projects.
*wifey and i decided we were hungry so we headed for Jacks sandwhich shop for a philly sandwhich. WRONG!!!! jacks is strictly a cold meat restaraunt now. NO hot food there. the philly is down on waterfront now. oh well. cold ham and cheese it was! good flavor, but not what i was tuned in for.. but didn't want to back track.
*got my months supply of taffy of course.
*Overall good first day for us. lots of new stuff to see. ready to go back next month and spend some real time there.
Oh yea! forgot our tram died at stop #3 and they had to get us another one to deliver us to our cars!
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oh, forgot a funny one! I was outside of the taffy house, and this family of 4 walked by son about 5 or6 probably, and a toddler in a stroller. Mom and dad were "discussing" where something was.? he said over there, she said no. they were waving hand all directions.
Ok check this oout, they had 2 open bags of kettle corn, 3 or 4 SDC bags of goodies they bought somewhere.. Ok now we are between HH and taffy shop. right. SO I ASKED them, what are you folks looking for? READY???? they were looking for MARVEL CAVE!!!!
I laughed as gentle as i could and explained they needed to turn around and walk about 100 feet!!!! OH MAN!!
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I don't think anyone else pointed this out but if they have I am sorry.. They have redone the floor in Mollys Mill. It looks great. I have a pic but do not have access to put it up right now.
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Question for the one of you "masters" of SDC>..
I was walking past the FL exit, and looked back toward the lake,ride area and it looked different.? did they paint that area? change the sign? what? I looked at it a couple of time and could not figure ou what looked difeerent.. AND NO i did not take a pic. that would have been too easy.
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Ooops! I meant to say Flooded Mine. FM not FL.!
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We headed out to SDC this morning. It was cold! We bundled up a little, but we didn't bring coats and gloves--just sweatshirts and jeans. There was no wait for a tram; we got on at Stop 2. By the time we got to the square, it was about 9:15. We looked around a little, and we watched the flag-raising. There was only ONE veteran! There weren't too many people there at opening!
We went straight for the coasters, but it was too cold for them to start up. We hadn't thought of that! Plan thwarted! We walked on to Fire-in-the-Hole instead. When we came out, the line was out of the queue! It was one of the few rides open.
We walked over to Half Dollar Holler. My girls each stuffed a bear. It was fun and warm! We took the little one through the tree house, but she is still a little young to enjoy it. The carousel wasn't open yet, so we left. (She was also too short for the kiddie swings.)
We mainly poked around the shops here and there. We stopped by the Homestead, and they were about to eat. They'd made ham and potatoes casserole. Some coasters had opened up, but the lines were long. We're ride snobs, so we didn't wait for anything. That's why we show up at opening! We did squeeze in a carousel ride.
We decided to leave, and it was pretty busy. Ticket lines were long.
Since we go all of the time, it's not a big deal to leave if it gets too busy for us, but I would not want to be there right now if this was my only time to visit. There are few shows. The saloon show isn't even going on. Some shops are also not open. We knew this going in, but I don't know if everyone does. Again, we are SDC snobs! We'll check things out tomorrow morning.
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hopefully warmer for you tomorrow and no rain.. good luck on the coasters!
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hopefully warmer for you tomorrow and no rain.. good luck on the coasters!
Well, we didn't go in today until 2:00 p.m., and then it was 44 degrees. It did warm up this afternoon, and the last hour we spent there was exceptionally pleasant. We snuck in a ride on Wildfire around 4:00. The line was out of the building when we arrived, but it was a quick wait later. They were running two trains, and although we had to snake around the queue, we were on the last seat in under 10 minutes. PowderKeg was pretty packed the one time we checked. We rode Flooded Mine with no wait.
Maybe I was in a bad mood today, but I had an "unmagical" lunch experience. I decided to get one of those bloomin' onions. I was behind one other party in line, and these two guys were standing over to the side. One was in wheelchair. The first lady in line was ordering lots of things, so it took a little bit. Ok, whatever. Then this guy to the side jumps ahead of me and says "What do they have?" At first I thought he just wanted a better look at the menu. Then he went up to the counter to order. I decided to let it go; I'm in my happy place, right? Besides, maybe he was in line, but got off to the side or something. He ordered food, and it was for the guy in the wheelchair. Then he wanted a bag for the food, so someone had to track one down. Then he paid with a meal ticket. They finally decided to ring it up later.
So, I get up there to order my onion, and they said "You do know it will be 10 minutes." It had already been awhile, and I figured the rest of my family had already got food and were eating, so I said to nevermind. I was being impatient, I know, but I could've had the thing by the time they got to me if I could've told them to start it.
So I went to the skillet place not to far away by the Lumber Camp. I thought I would just get a Philly sandwich. There was no one in line ahead of me. The "cook" took my order right away and was friendly. The guy at the cash register didn't acknowledge me at all. A few moments later, he greeted a coworker. I thought he said "hello" to me, and I answered, but he wasn't talking to me. The coworker ended up ringing up the sandwich. I handed her my Visa, and the cash register guy asked for my ID. I'm glad you're looking at my ID, but that was the only thing he said to me--lol. In the time it took to get a sandwich with no line, I could've had the stupid onion.
Maybe I just wasn't in the SDC spirit the last couple of days, and most of you know I seldom complain about the park. Maybe I just need a break. It just seemed that people weren't very nice. The exception was the Build a Bear place. Those ladies in there were really sweet. Ok, enough of my ramblings for now.
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stacey, tough couple of days.. sorry for you. BUT........
step back,
close your eyes,
deep breaths,
smell the fresh asphalt?,
hear the train whistle in the background?,
Smell the kettle Korn?,
Hear the friendly voices?..
Your next trip will be better.. You know it will..!!!
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Well I finally got to get to SDC yesterday and although it was kinda chilly we had a great time.
The Day started off kinda ruff because of one minor detail no one has yet to mention or i have failed to read yet. We parked right next to the second tram stop down the hill right after 1 (i think #4) and it is now closed so we had to walk quite a ways to #1 to get on a tram. Once on a tram i did notice something else new that i haven't seen mentioned yet the trams have new seats! In the back 2 cars they replaced the 4 across white molded seats with metal bench seats.
Once inside the park we headed to Wildfire to see if the 7 yo was tall enough to ride this year (he was crying because he didn't want to even though he loves riding powderkeg!) Lucky for him hes still to short. The line was long so we headed to PK which had about an hour wait so we went to FITH and rode that which was fun but the guy yelling "Fire in the hole!!!" didn't work :(
After that we walked up to the HDH and while its nice they put something new in they made one Huge mistake it is way way to small. Even on this slow day there were way to many parents and not enough places for strollers and everone to sit. On busy days it is going to be a nightmare! I did go through the tree house and it had its good and bad parts. One really bad part is it has a really steep ramp in it and i slipped trying to get up it. One really good part is the rope maze/bounce area was really fun!
We then headed over to FM and rode that (my favorite ride) then it was off to TNT which we rode front facing only but it was still good. after that is was around :30 so we headed out and back to the car. All in all it was a good trip. I took quite a few photos and am working on getting them up on a flickr acct.
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ok here are my pics
http://www.flickr.com/photos/61022590@N05/
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I know it's just been a few of you and it's still way early, but I wanted to go ahead and thank all of you who have posted trip reports and pics for the new season. You are our eyes for those of us who cant make it and you're doing a great job! ;) ;D
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Great pictures, SDC#1Fan. I forget to take pictures now that we have our youngest. I don't know how you do it! :) Maybe my DH and I can get in a grown-up trip this spring; then I can make more of an effort.
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great pics #1fan, Glad u had a good trip, i'm headed back the 23rd for a quickie!
Andy we do what we can to help you out!
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Hey SDC#1fan
That angle did you take those shots of the float trip from?
There was a kid sitting up above the stream, I havent seen where you can get close to the old ride before.
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Thanks for the shots of the float trip channel. Sorry to see time has taken it's toll on some of the "rocks" I hate that the public can see the area where the concrete is crumbling. I really expect the maintenance team to address that issue. I pray they will not let that situation go as is for the whole season. I do hope they repair the damaged areas ASAP. I think it's pretty bad to let the guests see that.
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Glad you all liked my photos! mhguy the channel is really easy to see just go to wildfire and right in front of the barn there is like a 5ft tall rock wall. That wall is the channel just look over it. The old channel even goes under the wildfire walkway. If you open the little gate and walk the wildfire overflow queue line u will see the rest. Some of it does go around out of view and i haven't had the guts to walk out there yet but maybe one day. Junior your right about the rocks it does look bad and to be honest it looks like they have been that way a while but because you can only see them from the overflow line (which is hardly ever used) i doubt they will fix it any time soon. Sand dune i try to go everyweekend so just let me know next time you are gonna be there. Id like to know who the people are on here that sill work in the park and where at so i can stop and say hi.
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If anyone has anything they want pics of just let me know!
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We were there on Thursday with the huge crowd. All the lines were longer than I've seen. The Happy frogs even had a wait. FitH was past the cemetery. Food lines were blocking major pathways. TNT was backed all the way to the gate. If this was their idea of "fast and friendly", they missed it by half. To their credit, trams were filling as fast as they could pull up to the stops.
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We, too, noticed the tram seats have been changed to bench seats. On the way to our vehicle, a Kawasaki Mule-type vehicle was coming toward us on a perpendicular path to our right. It didn't look like it was going to stop, and our tram driver hit the brakes. You'll be happy to know that the brakes work quite well, but in the process, we were thrown forward. Most of us caught ourselves with braced feet, but the little in front of us was only caught by her parents. She nearly went teeth-first into the front rail of the tram. The driver never looked back, and the announcer never acknowledged that he saw (Of course, he has a seat belt.). I'm certain, there were others who were thrown forward in similar fashion. If that girl's parents not caught her, she would have been a bloody mess, and the riders around her would have had to yell to stop the tram.
All that being said, it was not the tram driver's fault - it was the Kawasaki's fault for not yielding until the last second. Of course, both drivers were driving company vehicles for SDC.
BTW, we inquired about attendance and were told by several, "a lot". No one wanted to reveal actual numbers to us - as if they had been instructed not to. They were a little abrupt with us in their tone.
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HB, i also got the same type of answers when i asked about attendence.. Must of had 4 or 5 people told me "alot".
But i found one retired lady by the turnstiles, asked her if she would check the puter for numbers,, she looked at me kinda funny? I motioned toward the closet next to the turnstyles where there is a puter, at that point she caved in and looked up the numbers for me... I smiled , thanked her politely and went to the car.. It was a little humorus.
had not really thought about it until you mentioned it.
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Forgot to mention my 7yo daughter's quote to her friend: "You can never get too much Silver Dollar City!"
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I don't know about you guys but I am glad I didn't choose today to go to SDC. Its a little cold for a spring visit. The rides are probably not running.
I am betting they don't have much of a crowd.
You know you can call SDC and they will tell you that currant attendance.
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didn't know that mhguy. it is something we try to keep an eye on..
I saw a message somewhere that said the only place it was warm today was in the cave!
that would suck, after last weekend was in the 70-80's.....
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Thanks to everybody who have provided pictures of your 2011 visits...You're the best...Keep up the great work :)
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My wife and I went to SDC on Friday March 25. We were un-prepared for the cold weather, as we were in jeans and t-shirts! The first stop we made (of course) was the Hospitality House, where we purchased SDC hoodies. I could not notice a change in the floors, they looked the same to me, but, nevertheless the mural looked amazing. They have also changed/upgraded the lighting in that building; everything shows up beautifully! They have changed and/or painted a lot of the cabinetry in there as well, looks very upgraded and fresh. The lady that checked us out was extreamly friendy, and visted with us for a while, as we were the only ones at her register. The hoodies worked out great for us the rest of the day, as it continued to be cold.
We past through the square, and headed to the swinging bridge. As we crossed over, it seemed very strange and i got the feeling of day-za-vo (spellcheck). I had seen so many of the pictures everyone elese has taken of HDH, i felt like i had already been there! The swinging bridge still bounces and sways like always, and we enjoyed seeing the kids running around HDH. As we walked past the Carousel, I noticed that it did not have any music playing, I thought this was very odd as I remember it always having the music playing. The entrance to HDH is tight, and can become congested. The treehouses looked great, and everyone there seemed to be enjoying themselves. The sand play area was getting NO use and was very small.
We then headed to The Flooded Mine; there was a small line, but we got on in no time. The ride was great as always; seemed basically the same, no improvements, but everything in working order.
After the Flooded Mine, we headed for lunch at The Rib House next to Lost River of the Ozarks. Along the way we looked for the new Dugan store that Junior had pointed out, along with some of the old Dugan signage that he had posted pictures of. Lunch was good, I got a pulled pork sandwich and slaw, and my wife got chicken fingers and frys; we shared a Mr. Pibb in our SDC mug. We were cold while we ate in the covered dining area next to LROTO, but the food was hot and tasted great.
After lunch, we saw Pure Heart perform in The Boatworks Theatre, great trio, we always enjoy their show.
Headed through what is left of Tom Sawyers Landing (its not even noted on the park map anymore) to FITH. The line was inside the building (thank goodness, because we were cold). Like Flooded Mine, the ride seemed the same, no new improvements. However, like noted on another thread, the "Fire in the Hole!" voice that yells at the end of the ride before the final drop was not working.
I went to ride PK, but it was down; then headed to Wildfire, but the line was too long.
We then headed to the Wilderness Church, were they had a sing-a-long. It was great fun, and we enjoyed the gospel music in the warm Church! We walked around the square and the Homestead area, taking in the sights and sounds of our favorite place.
We ended our day by taking the Cave tour of Marvel Cave. Normally, you go into the Cave to cool off, this time it was to warm up!
We smelled our way through the Bakery, as we made our way to Ozark Marketplace, where we purchased Sweet Potato Butter and Pineapple Spread.
We had a wonderful trip, and after a long winter it was great to be back at Silver Dollar City.
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Great trip review, DollarCityBoy!
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Good for you! sounds like an excellent trip. Glad all went well. it will be warmer next time you go. ;D
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DollarCityBoy I hadn't noticed that the carousel didn't have music but you are right. That is strange, you would think they would have something. I also agree about the congestion in HDH, its bad enough I didn't go in to check it out and it wasn't a busy day when I was there. Maybe they intend to expand and swallow up the entire valley there, there is a little left but not much. I also contend that the new chip stand is going to exacerbate an already congested area in from of the saloon. I think they could have done that differently, its going to be a mess at Christmas time.
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I commented about there not being music, but then again, I don't think traditional carousel music could get in the way of the area and overcome the ambiance of the area - with the railroad being right across the street.
As for the crowd, the attendant standing right at the exit allowed people to park strollers along the boundaries at the entrance, blocking traffic in a big way. The stroller parking had three strollers, while the entrance area had at least 15! This must be resolved. At the Magic Kingdom, there are stroller parking attendants who actually valet park the strollers in order to make the most of a small space.
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Something I also noticed and failed to mention, But somebody brought it up.
When we got off the trams from stop #5!!, Nobody was greeting us?>!
No HOWDY!! No Wazzup?? Nothing, that is a first for me. No greeting?
of course once we headed in, there was somebody wanting to take out picture and sell it to us..
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of course once we headed in, there was somebody wanting to take out picture and sell it to us..
Are most of them left overs from the World Fest cause they are not American.
Why do they have so many Europeans working there, do they get a tax break for that?
I dont see that many working in other area of Branson.
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About the greeting of the tram: I imagine it only goes up until a certain time in the morning, because the people who greet the tram (Terry, et al) have to get into the park to play their various characters (Terry, his 5-odd charas!). Maybe they should hire someone to be an all-day greeter.
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tina! your right. All day greeter.? after all/..................
Even Wal-Mart has all day greeters.............LOL ;D
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Don't know what the policy is today...but in the old days, greeters would meet people on the ticket booth or town square side of the hospitality house in the early to mid morning hours from roughly 8:30am to about 10 or 10:30. Then the greeters, usually the street troupe and or some members of the bands that played on park, would go to their regular gigs. Us folks from the various attractions usually would be part of the group of greeters at the end of the day. Usually, the town marshall was on the town square side of things, deputizing kids ALL DAY LONG, and then about 3pm or 3:30pm, greeters would generally be on the ticket booth side of HH to say goodbye to folks. In the old days no characters or 1880's citizens would greet people at the area where the trams dropped you off or picked you up, as this was the "modern area of the park." In the early 80s, in order to draw people to the town square at the end of the day, we had a square dance, where many characters from around park would come and participate with guests. At the end of the dance, which lasted about 20 minutes, there would be a lowering of the flag and a cannon firing, and singing of America the Beautiful. While this went on, the shops and attractions would begin to close, forcing people at the end of the day to head to the parking lots.
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Usually, the town marshall was on the town square side of things, deputizing kids ALL DAY LONG,
I can't tell you how many of those gold stars I have! :)
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I have never been offered a star - and neither have my children.
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I have a silver star!!......................................
But i had to but it on ebay.. ::) ::) ::)
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mhguy as far as the europen people go i used to work in the hospitality business and i know in branson they bring in a lot of foreigners to work housekeeping. One of the big hotels would actually charter a flight to and from Jamaica to bring in workers and then let them stay in condos they own. I believe that due to some of the visa stuff they don't have to pay them as much as Americans.
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sounds right. no wait that doesnt sound right!
probably is accurate. Lets fly in strangers/foreigners to work, so we dont have to pay as much money. Do they think is Wal-mart?
Now my question is. Do they need the help? is their not enough locals to fill job demand? Or are they, whoever they are cheating local workers?
OK> deep breaths..
careful step off the soapbox.
Ok.. fine now.
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My brother has a restaurant/catering business in Branson. He says the foriegn workers have more to do with a shrinking local labor pool than anything else.
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As long as the local working people have work and the people being brought in are additional help. I can understand that,. But as we all know that in MOST cases that is not true.. As we know Branson is not most places.
I just get more than a little testy on the labor/cost topic. sorry guys!
On another note. junior, which restaraunt is your brothers? I dont beleive i have read you mention that before.
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Well i applied for a position last year at SDC and it only paid $7.50hr (min wage) so if u factor in that a lot of there employees have to drive a distance to get there it is probably hard to get locals to work there.
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My brother works with the timeshare places providing breakfasts for several resorts. He's behind the scenes, so to speak, and you won't see much of him or his family. They also cater, so they work with some of the area businesses for small to medium sized special events.
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SDC, true enough, but unless they have a "trade", can the locals hire anywhere for more than minumum wage? flipping hamburgers, working motels, cooking, working shows. basic working skills.
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OK went today during YCW and was prepared for the worst but got the best! When we pulled in around 12 i was surprised to see the first lot to the left completely empty still and them just starting on lot 5. we had to wait forever for a tram and then out of the blue 3 showed up so they could have worked on there timing spacing a little. Once in the park I was happy to see that the crowds weren't to bad. It was just me and the wife so we couldn't ride anythin but the train and the FM (the wife is pregnant). The train ride was good but it was amazing how much u can see with no leaves on the trees. Lots of power lines the park green house and a whole lot of cars parked out back. The robbers did a good job and got lots of laughs. The flooded mine was great as always (my favorite ride). I talked up the operator about the target points and he said the the targets that are 100,000 points are manually changed by maintenance daily so if u can find out which ones they are u can continually hit them every time u play that day. I'm not sure about this because everyone else says the comp changes it? At 3 we went to echo hollow and saw abandoned and sanctis real in concert which was great! after that we headed out of the park to get some dinner and go see a friend who is the lead guitar in a show on the strip. While we were eating we had a waitress from the Ukraine and she said that SDC goes to Europe and recruits people to come work at the park because they get huge tax breaks for employing people on work visa's. After the show we got some food at Denny's where we had the worst service ever but on our way out my buddy started the claw game trying to get a pink bunny for his little girl. By the time he got it there was about 30 people cheering him on and total strangers were giving him money to play. all in all it was a great day at the city and in branson! I will post some of the new pics i took on my flickr acct tomorrow.
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Oh and i forgot to say that there were plenty of BoUnCinG BaSkEt BaLlS!!!!!! Oh and they had a worker posted on each end of the swinging bridge and when i talked to one of the ladys she said it was only on YCW and because of the time that the kids broke the bridge!
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SDC#1: Just loved your previous post. Makes me laugh to think, all these years later (30 plus) they station employees on the bridge for YCW due to the bridge "incident." LOL ;D
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While we were eating we had a waitress from the Ukraine and she said that SDC goes to Europe and recruits people to come work at the park because they get huge tax breaks for employing people on work visa's.
I dont agree with this practice SDC or not.
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mhguy, agree with you 100%!!!
#1- glad you had a good trip, wiht low crowds, kinda make me wish i had made the road trip today(sunday). oh well i will be there in a couiple of weeks!
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Hmm. Unemployment is almost 10%, and there is an incentive to hire from foreign nations? Captain, this appears illogical.
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History u gotta love America!
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Hah! You don't see other countries rounding up Americans to work abroad!
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Sat April 2-Sun April 3 (Young Christians Weekend-but we were not part of the festivities)
Arrived at the park around 2 on Sat. and took the tram up from Lot 5 to the Park. First thing that we noticed was the outrageous number of "church" vans that were in the lot. Anyway, when walking through their turnstiles, we could hear the enticing sound of...distorted electric guitars? Well I expected no SDC music, and also expected praise music/ bands, and Christian music of which I am somewhat familiar from my and my wife's churches. The number of teens/ tweens was pretty high as would be expected, all of which moved in flocks or gaggles at will as if they were moved by the wind.
Most were conscious of the existence of others, but just as any festival some were rude, and running/ being obnoxious, But again, nothing I have not seen before at other festivals. The rides were packed, as were the theaters with some music, and some speakers on Christian teen topics.
The park itself was clean, and the workers, despite the masses of young’ns seemed to be alright. One worker commented to me that they were so “excited”(said with sarcasm) to be working that day. I was asked this trip, more than any other time, “where are you kids from?” and “Come and see us again” in nearly every store. I know my wife and I were lumped in with the masses being that I am 30, and she, 26, and we both look about 18-19! We did stop and talk to a gentleman working at the wagonworks grill while he was cleaning the grill late in the afternoon.
His name tag was not openly visible, otherwise I would have given his name because he was the most cordial, and genuine worker we met all day. He had relatives far off in the line of family from my neck of the woods (The Boone’s-yes Daniel Boone!), we talked about that, college, all the while as the rock music was 200yds away blasting , and upon our goodbyes to the gentleman, he gave the now typical saying “come see us again” and we said “oh we will, we have season tickets”. Upon this he stopped his cleaning, and thanked us for our visit, and for talking with him, and for coming again to the park for another year. In hundreds of visits to the park, I cannot remember being thanked. This was wonderful, and eased any ill feelings about the weekend.
We were able to utilize the Pickers shed (next to the petting zoo) for a quiet few minutes between bands to sit and sip a soda. The weather was perfect-mid 70’s.
Sunday was great also. At about 10, a line began to form around from Echo Hollow leading all the way down Brown’s candy for the upcoming music show. This was a bigger crowd than the 50th party in EH, and bigger than any Christmas parade I have ever seen.
(http://i649.photobucket.com/albums/uu218/rubedugans/IMG_2267.jpg)
(http://i649.photobucket.com/albums/uu218/rubedugans/IMG_2278.jpg)
When this began, the park was EMPTY! Every store was free to walk and shop, and most rides were line free…It did get up to around 90* and late in the day, the slushie stations (I think I counted 3-4 ) were packed, as well as the water rides were full. I needed a peaceful weekend away before my push towards summer break, and this worked well. My wife even said "Could we come back down in May?" so it looks like YCW didn't deter her either.
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Thanks for the great Trip Review Rube! I especially like the part about the gentleman at the Wagonworks Grill, people like him is what makes SDC such a memorable place.
Thanks for the photos of the crowds! WOW
That new cement infront of Browns sure does look strange, instead of the familiar blacktop that we all love. I am noticing more and more spots they are using cement, instead of asphalt.
Glad you and your wife had a good time!
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cement in front of Browns sure does look strange, instead of the familiar blacktop that we all love. I am noticing more and more spots they are using cement, instead of asphalt.
I am sure the concrete i easier to maintian long term than the asphalt, And i am sure they will never replace all the asphalt.. After asphalt is part of SDC!!!! and always will be.
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I'd be so upset if all the asphalt is gone. It's just part of all the great memories.
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I wouldn't say they never will. I would say that everytime they have to pull up asphalt it will be replaced with concrete because as stated before it lasts longer than and doesn't need to be sealed every year. as you walk around this year you will notice that there is a lot of concrete now. Also in the square it appears that they did some diamond grinding to try to smooth the asphalt and it looks really bad so i could see a lot of that being replaced soon.
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Finally got my trip report from opening weekend up on MiG.
http://www.midwestinfoguide.com/migcrew/2011/SDCspring/
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Nice job, Swoosh! Great pics, especially of HH.
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Nice job swoosh~! great pics as always! Great report. You always do a good job on your reports wiht pictures and info. keep up the good work!
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Friday April 1-
Arrived at 4:30 and it was a cold tram ride into the city. Walked over to GE at around 5. Area was pretty quiet. Decided to go ride FITH. got over there around 5:15. I went into FITH and there was not a soul waiting in line. I rode the ride all by myself. I then walked over to powderkeg and had to wait for one group to ride before I got on there too. So two rides, with around 5 minutes wait.
Sat April 2 -
Craziness prevails
There are teenagers everywhere.
Got there around 9 AM. Watched a show by a really good group called "Finding Bethel" under the gazebo. We went and got a tintype made. At noon, we ate at the big skillet place over by Echo Hollow. After that we went back and got our picture and some kettle corn and head back to the line for the 3 o'clock worship service. Waited for about 30 minutes before they let us in. I fell on the steps and re-injured by bad ankle and dropped my tintype with it's $50 frame in the process. Didn't hurt me too bad but messed up the corner of the frame.
Went to the worship service and just got straight up baked by the sun. Ugh, it was so hot I started falling asleep during the message. Got to see Sanctus Real and it was awesome
Sunday, April 3,
Went to church at the Wilderness Church at 10AM. Good message by Parson Lee. My fiance and I are still wanting to get married there. After church bought some taffy and souvenirs and left.
A good trip and I can't wait to go back.
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Had a great time yesterday and Saturday.
I was a little worried about it being Young Christians' weekend, but it was just fine. Of course, I have a 2 & 5 year old so we weren't doing the same things.
Things I took note of:
The weather was awesome.
My son who is 35 or 35.5 inches (the 2 year old) wasn't let on the elephant ride. He was okay though, and I told the guy running it he was only doing his job.
The folks they got policing the Half Dollar Holler are kind of nazis...they wanted no part of kids going up the "exit" stairs to get to the slide quicker. It forces them to go through the netting area first -- which isn't the easiest for the little guys. The end of the slide...it appears to be shredded tires (a cool idea and cool substance) but they're going to have to have someone over there w/ a broom at all times to keep that stuff in order. Not to mention kids are going to grab it and toss it in each other's faces. It's cool stuff, but I think they should (and probably eventually will) switch to a fixed rubbery substance instead.
Is the hanging scene in the Fire in the Hole different? Something seemed different about it to me. It certainly is better than the old hanging baldknobber.
I had long wanted to try a "Family Feud" and I finally did. I shall be purchasing one on every visit henceforth.
I liked that the Flooded Mine had the water spray at the end that magically shuts off again. We just happened to be in the front boat on our first trip through, which was nice.
Also SDC need to bring this place back!
http://yfrog.com/h88ntjwj (http://yfrog.com/h88ntjwj)
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Dear Mark,
It's me, Terry Wayne Sanders & I had to tell how wonderful it was to see you at SDC for the 2011 season! I saw Bill 'Moose' Hensley a couple of days ago & I mentioned your visit & he said to tell you "Howdy!" Yes, the park I(SDC) really looks great this year with the new 'Half Dollar Holler' which is GREAT by the way. Then a lot of little things to have enhanced the 'City'. I'm thrilled to be back for the beginning of my 32nd season & to work with the 'Image Characters' all over the 56 acre park. I hope to sit & visit more the next time you are at SDC! Always, Terry
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TERRY< welcome! so glad you joined us. We have never met, But i fully intend to remedy that situation the next time i am there!
I have read/heard so much about you and your time spent at the city, i feel like i almost know u already.
Until then. Thanks in advance for your hard work and contribution to kepping SDC what it is.!
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My son who is 35 or 35.5 inches (the 2 year old) wasn't let on the elephant ride. He was okay though, and I told the guy running it he was only doing his job.
The folks they got policing the Half Dollar Holler are kind of nazis...they wanted no part of kids going up the "exit" stairs to get to the slide quicker. It forces them to go through the netting area first -- which isn't the easiest for the little guys. The end of the slide...it appears to be shredded tires (a cool idea and cool substance) but they're going to have to have someone over there w/ a broom at all times to keep that stuff in order. Not to mention kids are going to grab it and toss it in each other's faces. It's cool stuff, but I think they should (and probably eventually will) switch to a fixed rubbery substance instead.
IF you hit the measuring station first thing it can relieve a lot of headaches about what they can/can't ride. Also I thought the slide landing was pea gravel, the day we were in HDH they swept it and the sand pit constantly. Also, you dont have to go through the nets to go to the slide, just go in the entrance and make a right instead ofgoing striaght to the nets. W
It didn't take long for me to relalize that we will be spending a lot of time in HDH
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IF you hit the measuring station first thing it can relieve a lot of headaches about what they can/can't ride. Also I thought the slide landing was pea gravel, the day we were in HDH they swept it and the sand pit constantly. Also, you dont have to go through the nets to go to the slide, just go in the entrance and make a right instead ofgoing striaght to the nets. W
It didn't take long for me to relalize that we will be spending a lot of time in HDH
RE: the slide - oh yeah. duh. I'll point the kids that way next time. It was kinda hectic...
And like I said, I wasn't mad at the guy for not letting the little guy on. Heck the way 2 year olds grow I suspect he'll be tall enough by the end of the summer, if not sooner.
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Our friend "Mr. Heha" (Terry Wayne Sanders) was very kind to send me a private...well, not so private message here today...Terry, I thank you, buddy! Nice to have seen you on opening day at SDC as well. The fellow he mentioned in his post, "Moose" Hensley was lead man at the diving bell in 1978 & 1979, and I had the pleasure of working with him on many occassions. Glad to hear he is doing well. Moose was one of the leaders in the Young Life Christian Program at SDC at the time, and everyone who knew him was his friend. I had intended to send Terry a message on his Website since opening day, but neglected to do so. I know Terry cruises our Website here every once in a while, and on rare occasions will make a short posting. (Ya know, he's a pretty busy guy, so I think we are fortunate to hear from him here from time to time.) Anyway, Terry...if you are checking back, THANKS AGAIN! Nice to have seen you, and I hope I will get to see more of your performances this year on park as I have a season pass, and hope to make several visits in 2011.
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I have pictures (ok, just a few for now)
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Im headed to the city today for World Fest. Trip #3 for the year! More pics and comments to come.
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Ok, take your time. enjoy your trip, BUT dont wait too long to post! My 3rd trip is next weekend.
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My 2 trip reports are in the World Fest thread.
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Had a chance to visit Worldfest this weekend! Was on park Friday and Saturday, April 8th & 9th. This was a "sudden" trip. My wife said Thursday night "Why don't we visit SDC tomorrow?" So we did! Here is my trip review:
Got to park Friday at 3pm. Went down to Red & Gold Hall to see the Mayorov Russian State Comedy Circus. It was very good. Pretty full house, too. Just walked around the park a bit. Had a sliced tater on a stick and a frozen lemonade. (Yum!) Since the idea for the trip came from my wife, I had to sacrifice valuable SDC time for a visit to the Red Roof Mall. Ate supper at Charlie's in Branson. Had a good steak. (Yum!) Stayed overnight at the "AmazINN & Suites" on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. It was a good place to stay, I would recommend it. (WANTED to stay at Eagle Lodge to take advantace of the SDCFans discount, but wife had other ideas.) On Saturday, had to sacrifice valuable SDC time for a visit to Tanger Outlets. Wife got some clothes, and purchased boots for some of the grandkids. On to SDC, Day #2: Wandered around park most of the day. Went through Fire in the Hole, and the "Fire in the Hole" effect WAS working. Saw the Saloon show. Good as always. Saw the Academic Band from Russia, nice Dixieland and Jazz from them at the Gazebo. Lunch at Wagonworks. Chicken wraps and taters (so-so, as they had been sitting on the serving line a while) Brief visit with Terry Sanders at the McHaffie Homestead, good to see him again. In my opening day trip report, I mentioned longtime SDC citizen Richard Young and his health problems. Saw his wife this trip, "Aunt Judy," and she said although the health problems continue, Richard was on duty working the line I think she said at the Opera House. I mentioned in my last report he had been "retired" by SDC but apparently I misunderstood Judy. Saw our good friend "Copper" at the cave, had a nice, but brief visit with him, good guy...good to see him again! Good weather both days, but a little warm. Light to moderate crowds, no lines ANYWHERE for anything. Good tram service in and out both days, and overall friendly and quick service everywhere my wife and I went. Overall review for this trip: A BIG THUMBS UP!!! :D Photos at the Flickr site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/juniordugan
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Oh, one special note. Someone was asking on a thread here if SDC sold pocket knives. I saw pocket knives in the Powderkeg Company Store next to the Lumbercamp. Powderkeg on one side, your name on the other. Also saw some very nice pocket knives on sale on the upper floor of the Woodcarvers Shop. No SDC logo on the handle, but the handle was made from some beautifully done stone or wood.
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I think that was andy. Our resident top ten expert!
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I went today sat the 9th and it was great! This is my third review so not much new. Wish i would have known junior was there (i would have said hi) Crowds were not bad we rode AP and got soaked, FITH (with working voice like junior said), then saw some friends and went on LROTO and GG. Then me and the Wife and kids went and watched the Russian comedy Circus at Red gold and it was great! the line was long so get there early if u see it. Then we went on FM and learned something new about the scores. After u hit 9900 points the guns skip to 100,000 instead of 10,000 and we rode twice just to confirm this. With only 30 min left we went to PK and my and my oldest rode that once. Now to the bad part... we got up to the gates at 6:05 and made it to the car in lot 5 at 6:45!!!!! all in all it was a great day but the trip out was a little long! Pics at Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/61022590@N05/
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Thanks for posting your pictures sdc#1fan! :)
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I wouldn't say they never will. I would say that everytime they have to pull up asphalt it will be replaced with concrete because as stated before it lasts longer than and doesn't need to be sealed every year. as you walk around this year you will notice that there is a lot of concrete now.
Brick pavers or cobblestones would be the best choice. A little more expensive for initial installation than poured concrete, but cheaper in the long run, plus they're period appropriate.
We have brick paved streets in Texarkana that date to that same era.
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MAN!! if you guys keep posting pictures i wont have to go next week.! yea right! I'm goin! just have to wait a few more days.
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SDC#1fan, Your kids are adorable!
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KB Pavers would look good but they would have to worry about pulling weeds that would eventually grow. StaceySue thank you for your comments i happen to think that they are the best! :)
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A little poison would take care of that. The real problem would be the uneven surface that would cause falls and lawsuits.
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I remember the days of the backwoods era when all up to and around it was just basically mulch or pine bark.
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Anybody see basketmaker Donnie Ellison at the park this year, or has basketmaking been another "cut" by management?
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Simple & sweet, had the BEST day, ever, at the City, today. Will take awhile before I get through the 400 pics I took! :)
p.s. the German food & Greek salad are the best :D
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I was thinking I missed it! I have been into baskets since my art coursework in college when I had to take "textiles" which allowed me to independantly explore baskets in all facets. I have continued to explore it, and I wish I could have more time for it! I have sat with Bob, one of the older basketmakers from a few years back, on several occasions, and even on one cold fall day, I took over weaving for him while he warmed his hands for a bit. I was sad to see the baskets leave the area near the square, and then I felt they were simply shoehorned into the woodcarving shop, now, I also think they might be gone for now.
The location in which I talked with Donnie last year (between the General Store and The Cowboy shop) is now a portrait artist station. Donnie last year was on the square completing baskets for the 50th anniversary specials. I would be very unhappy if in fact I do not find baskets in the park this year...if so, there goes one of my future career paths! 12 years weaving reeds down the drain!
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Hey everyone! Some good stuff in the trip reviews!
Thanks to Junior for the pocket knife notice! I had a feeling they had pocket knives somewhere!
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I talked to Mr. Ellison at the 2010 Ozarks Celebration Festival at MSU last fall, and if my memory serves me correctly (which it doesn't do very often these days), he said he was retiring from SDC.
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SDC #1 fan-
Where was that little swing observation area?? I didn't notice it at all! And the citizen working the ride didnt direct any of us parents packed in the line toward it. I feel bad ofr complaining about hte lack pf viewing area now!
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Donnie Ellison
"Retired from Silver Dollar City after 38 yrs as a Master Basket Maker. Married and have two daughters and one grandson. I like to fish, work on my farm, work with and train my border collie and of course visit my grand son Jack. "
March 05, 2011
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Andy, If you want i could pick up a knife for you and mail it to you. i ddint know when you would go down there again.
Seems to me you stated you dont get to vist the city very often.
You may want to check quality 1st?
SDC may have to remove them, I am a little surprised they are selling them anyway. (safety and all)?
I am going this weekend. 17-18-19.
let me know,
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Hey Rube, thanks for the update on Donnie. So, anybody replace him? Any basket weaving done on park now?
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Thanks loads, sanddunerider! Nah, you dont have to get me one. I am much obliged for the offer though. Maybe you can just scout a little further for me and check some of the quality you mentioned and see if they're very good if that's ok?!
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I will check them out sunday when i am there... will "try" to remember and get you pictures,. >:(
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This is the reply I got back from SDC yesterday.... "Thank you for taking the time to contact us and for your interest in the basket weaving. This special event is no longer offered."
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Hey all. Family and I enjoyed a wonderful day at the park on April 10th. Weather was wonderful. Got to the park at about 10 am parking was pretty easy going no problem there. Ran into Terry Sanders, in the warden character, at the tram drop off and pick up area and got a pic of him with my step son and also one with him and myself.( Thanks Terry). Line at the turnstiles was pretty light and we were in the park in no time. Hit Thunderation as our first ride, although the kids wanted to do River Blast first.Lines were light there as well took no time before we were on and done. Next was the Flooded Mine. Kids then convinced us to head down to the Grand Exposition area and rode several rides there before informing us it was time to get wet and we headed on down to The Lost River. Although I didn't ride with them due to having our new baby with us, it seemed as though lines we not long there either as after seeing the kids go by and thinking they should have been off the ride there they were going by again and again and again. LOL I think that they ended up going by about 5 times before we had to tell them it was time to move on. Next was lunch at the Rib House. Lunch was enjoyed by all. We also had some extended family that joined us on our trip and after luch we met up with them and watched them Hit the Giant Swing. Lines were getting a little bit longer at that point but still not to bad. After the swing we headed to the American Plunge. Lines not to bad here either. At that point we seperated for a bit with our extended family and we had our picture taken at the Tin Type store. Took a little while to get through that, as anyone that has had it done knows. Once finished with the pic we headed back down to the Lost River area ,and ran into Terry Sanders again dressed in as his Mr. M. Balmer character and we got another pic of him meanwhile the kids decided to finish of the day riding the Lost River. Although we didn't get the chance to catch any shows we still had a wonderful day. Believe that we left the park sometime around 5 PM and headed our way home to Kansas via Springfield and a quick stop at Lamberts for an awsome supper.
We had been in Branson for a three day vacation starting on Friday the 8th through the 10th. Due to the kids and a pretty good deal that we came upon we stayed at the Grand Country Inn. Kids enjoyed the indoor waterpark and the Amazing Animals show that they had going on there and they treated us very well. Didn't really do much else in town while we were there as we brought our newest addition to the family with us and due to his feeding schedule it made it difficult to really do anything like the go karts or miniture golf or catching some of the other shows, as i know how upsetting it is to have a screaming infant in the background while trying to watch a show. But all and all it was a very good and enjoyable trip for all involved.
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Saloongal the observation deck is to the left of the ride. U have to go up the exit to get to the platform.
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Great review, Bobber! Sounded like a quality family outing! ;D
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Just out of curiosity, why is the speed limit on Indian Point Road 16 MPH? Is there some significance for the number 16 and SDC?
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Kerrydale, I don't know why the speed limit is 16mph, but it sounds like somebody who makes the signs may just have an odd sense of humor. I seem to remember reading the Beatles once held a big party in London with arrival time of something like 8:16 just to be different, and display their quirky humor. I'm sure it was Fab, man!
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I had asked about that last year and was told that they did to catch you attention to the speed. It worked... lol
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your right OKLa. otherwise non of us would have lookeed at it twice..!!@ let alone every time we drive by! LOL
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okey dokey! just got into the room, Paige already had my room ready and my tickets for the todd oliver show tomorrow..
hit the city about 1:00, listened to the russian academic ban at the gazebo. pretty good music, decent lyrics. A little surprised at the LOWCUT top the lady singer had on. I actually thought i was going to get a real show!! ;)
After that that headed for the opera house to see the powerhouse.. lets see, what to say? how about 13 people all tap dancing in unison? or 12 fiddle players playing together? or 3 tap dancers and fiddling at 1 time? I think i can sum it up this show in about 5 words:
MUST SEE THIS SHOW! AMAZING!!!!!!!!
Got done there headed toward heritage hall for the circus, stopped and checked out HDH. they have made several mods to the entrance area (about4 times wider) added some seatin there, and added lost of stroller space. I like the way it lays better now. more open.
stopped and grabbed abite in the fricos barn. did the old faithful taco salad. large prtion and very good. i walked throuhg and looked at other plates. looked like everybody was serving large portions. nice price, 2 people and refills about 15.00. not bad.
Was also impressed with the circus at the heritage hall, but to get a good seatyou need to get in line 45 minutes ahead of time. But very entertainng, and great acrobatics.. make sure you see it if you can.
finsihed up with the GAC sgow in Echo Hollow. was disappointed , i had been told it would be all new. yes there were a few new songs, and looks to me like 5 or 6 new singers/dancers. but 80% was the same as last year.. IF you have not seen it, GO it is a great show, I went 4 times last year. So this year may be alittle boring for me.
All in ALL a GREAT afternoon. 75 degress, no wind, no rain. beeeutiful day at the city.
Pictures of WW to come tomorrow, i will drive by there in tha morning.
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hit the city about 1:00, listened to the russian academic ban at the gazebo. pretty good music, decent lyrics. A little surprised at the LOWCUT top the lady singer had on. I actually thought i was going to get a real show!! ;)
What, no pics? ;D
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Dropped in Sunday for a quick run around the city, the crowd was light and the weather was wonderful. I went to Springfield for the Elton John concert Sat might ate at Touch restaurant and drove down to the Eagles Lodge for the night. This was my first stay and Page checked me in made me really feel welcome. I will definitely be staying there again. The park is starting to green up but they don't have any of the plants out yet, that makes such a difference for me. Worldfest is a great time of the year as its not to hot. Short lines, perfect day.
A word about Access Branson for your tickets, I stopped in to get a gift certificate for the Bleu Olive and they were wonderful no pressure folks, gave me a handfull of buy on get one coupons and other stuff free. The best part was there was no ploy to get me to do a time share tour. Check this place out folks and please always let these businesses know where you heard about them, like the Eagles Lodge we end up helping ourselves.
Looking forward to a little Bluegrass and BBQ.
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sorry KB, i heard this was a "G" rated website... :o
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Hey all, new guy here. :D I've been reading these forums for a little while now, and thought I would jump in and post. Unlike some of you who have known the history of SDC and have been going for years, my wife and I are pretty new fans. I went several times growing up, but I was pretty little and don't remember alot. Then, my wife and I got married last summer and went to Eureka Springs for the honeymoon, spending one day up in Branson at SDC and the landing. We loved it and said we should come back, but didn't know when. Just a bit before SDC opening weekend I felt the urge to get out of town and do something (I like to travel and haven't been able to get away as much after college), and so I bought us a couple of SDC annual passes and we went to Branson for opening weekend. We spent just Saturday and part of Sunday in the park, but loved the freedom of knowing we've got an annual pass and can come back whenever. It really let us take it easy and enjoy the excellent theming and atmosphere of the park. The Saturday we were there was threatening rain, so it wasn't too busy, we avoided lines all day really. We had a blast. We also learned the trick of bringing in 99 cent wal-mart ponchos and taking on the water rides when nobody else wants to. We stayed dry, but enjoyed the thrill of them without the massive line. Last August when we were there, the Lost River had over an hour long wait. I enjoy rides as much as the next guy, but I'm not big on lines. So, I tend to try and avoid them by being smart about when we ride what.
We are probably in the young end of the SDC fans crowd (both in our early 20s), but we really like the park. I'm a big theme park fan (especially Disney, made my first trip to Walt Disney World in January), and I have to say SDC really impresses me. I know I've seen comments about breaks in theming and modern things coming in, but as far as theme parks go, SDC has some of the best theming I've seen. I doubt anyone could ever top Disney in my book, but to me SDC competes really well in the area of a solid theme and atmosphere. SDC is much closer to us and of course alot cheaper. It also competes extremely well in the food category. :) I think that is about our favorite part. We love the skillet food, the bakeries, etc... sometimes I think we like SDC just to eat. With that in mind we are gonna make it over to World Fest soon and check out some of that food... our second trip as annual passholders! We are excited to be able to just hop over there for weekends away occasionally and to get to experience more of what SDC offers in terms of festivals and seasonal events. Really looking forward to checking out Christmas time! I'll make my way back here about we check out World Fest and let you guys know what we think. Thanks for the info on these boards, I enjoy reading it!
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Welcome to our addiction, spgoad.
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welcome! glad u had a good trip
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Just got back from our trip to the city. We went Thursday and Friday (4/21-22). Thursday was cool and the crowds were light (only about 3,000 on park that day according to our very own Mr. HeHa). We arrived in time to see the opening ceremony. I had never seen it before. It really summarizes what a special place SDC is. Starting the day off with a flag raising, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the National Anthem, was a moving experience. Some of the bluegrass music they were piping in had gospel references. How many theme parks in the world can you find people reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and hear songs about the resurrection of Jesus? I'm guessing only one.
Thursday was a big day for my 7-year-old. Thanks to his cowboy boots he was wearing he was finally tall enough to ride Wildfire for the first time! And I rode Wildfire probably for the last time. I Like Wildfire, but the older I get the less it likes me. Now that my 7-year-old is tall enough to ride it, my 14-year-old has a new riding buddy. In addition to Wildfire, the kids rode Powderkeg, FITH, The Giant Swing, Flooded Mine, Thunderation, and Train along with a few rides in the Grand Exposition. HDH is a neat little addition that my 2-year-old really enjoyed. It is well done... Grandmother was with us and she and the kids rode Hugo and Mary's Carousel. It is so nice to have that back in operation. The wife and kids also saw the Russian Circus. They said it was really good. While they were watching the circus, my oldest son and I watched Ray Johnson do a knife demo. That was cool. He basically insulted us (in a funny way) the whole time he did the demo. Rains hit around 4:00pm, so we joined the mass exodus and went back to the hotel. We ordered pizza and relaxed until it was time to go see the "Noah" show at Sight and Sound. The show was very well done from a technical perspective, some scenes were very moving, while some seemed kind of cheesy. Grandma had always wanted to go, and since this was the last season, we went. As a pastor, I was impressed with the fact that they offered and Invitation at the end of the program. We went back on Friday. This day was a little more crowded (about a 20-minute wait to ride Fire-in-the-Hole with 3 trains running). The crowd was between 6,000 - 7,000 according to Mr. Heha. Still not bad. This time, the weather cooperated until closing time. Since it was warmer we hit the water rides today. As many have already pointed out...American Plunge is in desperate need of some TLC. The drowning man is now totally missing you just see the dog and the life preserver...and of course the tunnel....But I digress. We rode the train again and this time the woman chosen to be "MA" claimed the Bolin Boys as her own. This left the conductor a bit flabbergasted ("Lady, that's not in the script"). But it made the hold up that more funny, because they had to ad lib to finish the sketch. The kids wanted to watch the circus again (I'm not a big circus person), so they went and did that while I just walked around the park and absorbed as much of the SDC vibe I could get. We watched Canadian Powerhouse, that was a good show featuring step dancing (ie tap or clogging) along with some good fiddling. We satisfied our SDC fixes--apple dumplings, blackberry ice cream, and (for my son) a pound of Wildfire taffy. Finally we stopped off at Ozark marketplace and I completed my visit by playing a song on the dulcimer--"In the Sweet Bye and Bye" (it's the only one I know). Several years ago, I purchased a dulcimer kit there. My dad and I put it together. My dad was killed in an accident about 4 years ago. So every time I go to SDC I play a song on the dulcimer in his memory before I leave.
We stayed at Eagles Lodge and had a good visit. They have a decent breakfast with fresh waffles that you can make on the waffle iron. The rooms were clean and well kept, having a fridge and a microwave in each room is a real lifesaver when you have kids. My 7-year-old made friends with Paige, now he wants to go back there and work for her at the hotel when he is old enough. He even had me sign a "permission slip" and give it to Paige. We will probably stay there again. The stay was about $100.00 cheaper than it would have cost me at the other hotel we stay at in Branson. Thanks for getting us the discount there. All in all it was a good trip...it just went by too fast. I hope to go back in September. Until then....I'll have to get my fix at SDC Fans.
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Very nice & detailed trip review, sounds like ya had a great time. Thanks for postin'!!
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parsom, great review.. glad you had an uneventful trip,.
1 more thing, in case you didnt see the other postings, Paige at eagles lodge would like us all to go to trip advisor and "rate" her motel.. So if you have time.......... THANKS.
www.tripadvisor.com
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Sounds like you had a fun time, I remember when I was finally tall enough to ride the rides, it is a huge deal! I have thought of a great "job" title for your son - "Guest Relations" ;). Glad you enjoyed your stay and look forward to seeing you and your family again soon!
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parsom, great review.. glad you had an uneventful trip,.
1 more thing, in case you didnt see the other postings, Paige at eagles lodge would like us all to go to trip advisor and "rate" her motel.. So if you have time.......... THANKS.
www.tripadvisor.com
Just finished that.
Sounds like you had a fun time, I remember when I was finally tall enough to ride the rides, it is a huge deal! I have thought of a great "job" title for your son - "Guest Relations" ;). Glad you enjoyed your stay and look forward to seeing you and your family again soon!
You realize now that Caleb is going to want an official Name Tag next time we stay there!
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Hey parson! Paige can do the name tag thing. Last time I was there I go me a "official" Eagles lodge shirt!1 LOL
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Sounds good Parson, will get one "made" for Caleb! ;D
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;D
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my oldest son and I watched Ray Johnson do a knife demo. That was cool. He basically insulted us (in a funny way) the whole time he did the demo.
He's been doing that for 30+ years, funny or not, to anyone who understands actual bladesmithing versus what he does.
Sorry, just a pet peeve of mine. I've hung around a lot of ABS Master Smiths and upper-level Journeyman Smiths for a long time, and the community is almost universally humble. Ray has presented himself as the best and most unique long before he had any credibility as a "bladesmith".
Disclaimer: It's been several years since I've seen him work. Perhaps his skill and attitude have both changed. I'll give more latitude on his skill changing, than his attitude.
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I have stopped by and been playfully insulted by Ray on one or two occasions, and it has been one or two too many, I rarely stop anymore. I have found that his jokes often involve making someone the butt of one of his jokes about stupidity/ ignorance. I don't mind joking (I am a very fun/ and even sarcastic guy, but he (it seems) uses this tactic to make his stories/ himself look better. Imagine a cranky cocky late night talk show host.... He makes a good product, and they can sell from anywhere between $350-$2,000. But Shad Heller (Who I have childhood memories of watching and listening to) he is not. It is not just you!
In his defense- He does make a great product. I have talked with Ray outside of SDC-I ran into him in Jeff. City one afternoon a few years ago during the fall - he was at first a bit short with me/ and a bit sarcastic(very dry humor-dry as tha Sahara)- but he did have more of a humble quality as we talked, we talked about family, and jobs, and it was much better than the character "Ray" which he plays at SDC.
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Friday, April 22, 2011- We had 12 people in our group. We left Jefferson City around 6, made a few stops and parked at 9:40. We did season pass preferred parking and were very close to the beginning of that parking area. Went on into the park (which by the time I get the stroller out and all the other stuff together was already open) and headed directly to HDH. And let me say here, THANK YOU SDC FOR ALL OF THE CHANGES TO HDH! I don’t know if some of it was not completed (LS observation) at opening weekend or if it was modified since that time, but all of the changes are wonderful! The area is much friendlier now. No part was unchanged (unless it was the sand play area which we have not explored yet) and we kept pointing out ways it had been improved. While DS played there, DD went for her first ride on TNT. And she is in love. PK was out of operation all day because it had been struck by lightning. After a couple rounds on TNT and more than a couple rounds through HDH, then a train ride and FM we headed to GE for the measuring station and the Teacups. Then we did a round on the coaster and elephants. Took a break for a snack (and another reminder to be thankful that SDC allows coolers, snacks and drinks to be brought in), went back to TNT and HDH, then went over to FITH. This is the “biggest” ride the DS can do and we did it twice rather quickly. After total count we rode TNT 8 times! Lines were short, weather was great, everyone was friendly in the park. Everything is still clean and fresh. Not sure when we will be back but we try to go at least once a month. After leaving the park we went into town and ate at Landry’s. I thought it was just okay, several in our group really enjoyed it. Then we hit the road and pulled back into the driveway at 7:45. Not too bad of a day!
Kinda wish that the egg hunt had been on Friday as well because my kids loved it last year.
For the most part this was a wonderful trip.
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Great review!
On the other topic, I have wondered all that about ray, thought it was just me. And i would hate to jump to conclusions and bad mouth a honored and well loved citizen...... but if the shoe fits......? or in this case, if the knife is sharp ??? ???
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Regarding Ray....as a real life Parson, I have to learn to get a long with a lot of different personalities, so Ray didn't bother me. He was actually rather friendly with us. The next day my son and I were sitting down by the Frisco Barn eating an Apple Dumplin'. Ray walked by and said "Hey, I just saw two people that looked just like you." He didn't have to say anything to us. We were surprised that he remembered us.
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Oh, one more thing about Ray: the SDC website lists him as a "Master Bladesmith" (capitalized). I'm curious where that designation originates.
There is only one accrediting organization that awards that title, the American Bladesmith Society (despite the name, it's a worldwide organization, with extremely high standards for awarding both Journeyman and Master status).
There are currently 110 ABS Master Bladesmiths. Ray is not listed among them (http://www.americanbladesmith.com/index.php?section=users&subsection=list_user&fk_group_id=5).
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Well my wife and I made our trip over to visit World Fest this last weekend. We knew it probably wouldn't be ideal because of the one day weekend (SDC closed Easter), and the forecast (rain, rain, and more rain)... but it was the only weekend during World Fest we could get away so we headed over anyway. I wondered how it would go when we were driving into Springfield Friday night and our radio went nuts with Tornado warnings south of Ozark on 65. Thought I might have to delay our drive a bit for some storms, but thankfully they cleared and we drove straight through. Stayed with some friends in Branson Friday night, then got to SDC a bit after 9am on Saturday morning. It was of course raining, and it seemed we were among a few brave souls out in spite of the weather. Thankfully we got on a bus so we stayed nice and dry up to the gates. Even though it rained off and on all day, it really didn't bother us too much. It rained most of the morning (which of course closed all the outdoor rides), cleared up for a few hours in the afternoon (rides opened for about an hour), then rained till closing. We probably would have been disappointed if we were going to ride the rides, but we were there for the World Fest shows and good so it didn't bother us to have the major rides closed. First thing we did was notice the half dozen kids getting ready for the Easter Egg hunt... didn't seem to be too popular of an event on a rainy day. Then because the shows didn't start till 10:30 we stopped in a few shops, got some Peanut Brittle and watching the glassblowers for a while. Then we hit up one of our favorite rides, the Flooded Mine. We rode this basically anytime during the day when we didn't know what to do next. :-)
So, World Fest. The shows were awesome. We didn't get to see the Gazebo shows because they canceled most of the day due to rain, but we saw basically every other show. First was the Austrian Yodeler... very impressed with his talent to play Alp Horn and Zither. I was slightly disappointed the Austrian Yodeler was really from Wyoming, but still, his talent made for a very enjoyable show. I've spent about a year of my life in Austria and German speaking Europe, so that culture is special to me. It was fun to translate his German songs for my wife. :-) Also impressed with Irish Eyes are Smiling, very good show. I felt it wasn't described well in the schedule at all, I really wasn't expecting a show like that. The India show grated on our nerves because of the sound of the instruments, so we didn't stay very long. Trinidad Footprints was enjoyable, though I wish they had played more steel pan music to balance out all the drumming. Now then, most impressive show we saw, hands down, was Canadian Powerhouse. I was extremely impressed with their skill and their chemistry in working with each other. They looked like they were having a blast up there, which meant the audience was able to have a blast with them. Some very talented folks in there. Last show we saw was the Russian circus... very unusual. It was impressive, especially the gravity wheel, but of course some of it left you scratching your head wondering what just happened. So, in short, we really enjoyed the shows and they were definitely worth the trip and the little rain to walk from venue to venue. Now, the food was the downer part of our trip. This was a bummer for us, because like I mentioned before, I feel like we go just for the food. For lunch around 11:45 I got Irish Stew which was great, a good start. My wife tried to order Naples Nachos, but they were out of the pasta chips (which is what made the thing unique) so they offered her regular chips. She got it, but it was all cold and really not very good. Also I should note that the rain forced the outdoor booths (mexican food and potato twists) to close, so that eliminated some of my options right there. Later on we came back for dessert, ordered Spaghetti Ice Cream (my big food item I wanted that really first got me thinking about World Fest), and the lady told us they weren't delivered any ice cream that day. Not they had some and ran out, just that they never got any. This wasn't on a sign anywhere, in fact the ice cream sign was the big large one at the Dessert station. So we left disappointed, came back later to get an Apple Strudel/Dumpling, and they were out of them. Understandable, they were having to back more. So we said we'd come back. Came back later, now they had strudel, but they were out of the cinnamon ice cream and wouldn't be getting more. Plus, they were still charging the same price for the strudel as if it had the ice cream. And we aren't talking a tiny scoop here, we saw them serving it up earlier and it was good size chunks of ice cream. They were also out of gingerbread torte which would have been my next choice. So, we arrived thinking we'd eat tons of food and possible 3 desserts, and we left without eating one dessert and just two things for lunch. By park close we were fed up with the food service and so much of it being closed or out of food, so we left and ate dinner at Mel's Hard Luck diner in town instead of eating in the park. Mel's was great as always, if you've never been there, check it out sometime. My wife had an awesome bacon cheeseburger and I had their excellent chili, perfect for a rainy day. We topped it off with a old fashion Strawberry Soda. Mmm. :-) So, food was a bit disappointing for us. I don't know if it was because it was rainy they didn't stock up on food like they needed to or what, it was really weird to keep ordering things and keep hearing "we are out of that."
All in all, fun day at the park. It was worth the trip no matter the food issues. A bad day in the park is better than a day at home doing laundry anytime, and this was really a pretty good day in the park. :-) The crowds were light all day, which made it quiet and calm alot of the day. Different kind of atmosphere than you get in the park some days. On Sunday we went to church and then went to Famous Dave's at the Landing for lunch. It was pouring down rain Sunday and the landing was starting to flood when we were there (though it wasn't as bad as some of the video I've seen since then). Consequently, Famous Dave's was practically empty. It was us and about 3 other tables worth of people. The food was excellent as always. The drive home afterwards was tough, it rained basically the whole 5 hours... I was exhausted from concentrating so hard to see when we got home. Great weekend though, definitely enjoyed it and hope to check out World Fest again in the future!
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nice review, glad u had a good trip. perfect way to end up a weekend is dinner at the landing!
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We tried the Spaghetti Ice Cream while we were down there....IMHO...you didn't miss much. They put two scoops of plain (vanilla?), white Gelato in a small spaghetti press and it dispenses into your bowl where it looks like spaghetti. Then they put a thick strawberry syrup on it (this looks like spaghetti sauce) and grate some white chocolate (parmesan cheese) on top of it . It sounds delicious....but it tasted very generic. The Apple Dumplin' was much better. They were also out of Gingerbread Torte and Baked Alaska when we were there on Thursday. Mind you, there were only 3,000 people on park that day. It's sad to say but the food quality at SDC has become really hit-or-miss these past few years (especially during the festivals).
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Ok, good to know that I didn't miss much with the spaghetti ice cream. I've had it before in Europe and it was really good, but you've got to make it right. Bummed I missed out on the dumplin though. Any chance they'll bring it back for harvest fest?
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oh man! I love harvest festival! Great food..
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Ok, good to know that I didn't miss much with the spaghetti ice cream. I've had it before in Europe and it was really good, but you've got to make it right. Bummed I missed out on the dumplin though. Any chance they'll bring it back for harvest fest?
They have apple dumpling stands set up during Old Time Christmas. I was also told by a SDC citizen that the small refreshment stand next to the exit of FITH sell Apple Dumplins there YEAR-ROUND! So, I'd check there first the next time your in town.
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Drove down Friday night and stayed at Eagle's Lodge. Paige took wonderful care of us, even when I set off the car alarm at 1 AM. She brought us a rollaway bed in the middle of the night.
We got to SDC yesterday morning before the ropes dropped.
I rode powder keg and FITH wth my 14 yo son and 6 yo daughter (she's so brave)
Then rode the train and the mine ride
Next was GE. Rode electospin, the swings, Pirate ship and regatta
Went to go eat. tater patch for the kids, and spaghetti.
For dessert apple dumplings (which were amazing) and spaghetti ice cream (which was good but put too shame by the apple dumpling.) On to water rides, Lost river, THRB (twice), and the American Plunge. Took my poncho on all but AP, and of course got nailed by it right in the face. Had an awesome time as always. Look forward to being back very soon.
Lowlight of the trip was Sadie's on the strip. The kids had the buffet and it wasn't very good. The wife an I ordered sandwiches. The sandwiches were ok but the fries were gross.
My son picked up a plate to get a refil and there was food on the bottom of it. I will not be going back there ever.
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Glad you had a great time! Wasn't sure if you all had enough sleep....bless your hearts for driving back after a full day at SDC. Did you get some rest today at least? ;)
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Sadie's? OK i will put that on the "don't do" list... sounds like you a had a good weekend otherwise. good for you!
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It first opened in 1982, and I haven't been there in probably 25 years. With the wife being a vegetarian, I doubt we'd go for the fried foods anyway!
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what? never heard of fried ochra?
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Not that her avoiding meat ever stopped us from going to Famous Dave's or Cracker Barrel!
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Got into OKC at 2AM. Slept until 10AM and did church online. Relaxed pretty much all day. The drive home was pretty interesting as Joely doesn't drive right now because her license is expired. Energy drinks kept me awake until I got home.
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""Not that her avoiding meat ever stopped us from going to Famous Dave's or Cracker Barrel!""
Now thats having priorities.! ;D
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Usually we have certain places to frequent that have meatless choices. Italian and Mexican restaurants ALWAYS have choices for her. Most "American" places do not since they rely heavily upon animal proteins for their choices. BBQ, Fish , Burger Joints, Home Cookin' restaurants all have choices for her, but we tend to frequent places that we know have choices that are not just deep fried cheese, or veggies.
I am a flexitarian (a semi- or part time vegetarian), meaning that I will not eat meat many nights of the week when we eat together, but I will not avoid it if it is available. Things are just easier that way, we only have to make one meal, and not two...
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makes perfect sense rube..
veggies at home!
MEAT in branson.!! LOL..
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Headin' to Reeds Springs in the mornin' to get our motel room, & will meet up with my parents in the afternoon. Goin' to The City all day on Sunday. Will try to write up review on Monday when we get home, & have picture video on YouTube shortly after.
Have a good weekend ya all, & Happy Mothers Day to all you Moms!! ;)
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have a great visit, I will be there next weekend,.. :)
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Next weekend is not possible for us. Wish I could but we have my 7 year olds First Communion. She is so excited.. She gets to drink wine. I told her it is just a sip but she is still excited.
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17,000+ people at the park Sat. We didnt go that day, but we went on Sun. Not very busy till around 1'ish. Had a restless night Sat. night, just hard to sleep when out of town. Woke up Sun. 6:45a , parents got up at 9am. Had breakfast at the park. Parents had a hard time figureing out what shows they wanted to watch, so we parted ways. rode PK - FITH, & the GS. Watched alil' of one of the shows, some gal had 5-6 pots on her head while she danced & stood on some swords. Messed around some of the shops, watched the glass-blower. I went out to take some pics & ran into Terry. Talked with him for about 10 minutes, cool guy, talked to me like he knew me all my life. Had a bowl of strawberries & icecream, rode FM, then i started feeling bad.. Weather was great but i started feeling ache'y & nasal'y. Met up with the parents around 2p to go watch the Russian Comedy Circus but it was all full. So the parents rode Lost River while we slumbered along like a turtle crossing the hi-way. Met up with them on the square for the final show of the day, bought apple butter - coffee mug - hoodie, & a hat on the way out.
It was a great trip with my parents. They are almost 70 & dont go to City much anymore, i am glad i got to be part of what might be our alls last trip together. I have great pics of all of us having fun. Give me afew days to edit my video & i'll put it up. Even though i started feeling bad & had a restless night, i did realize something.... As you get older, the excitement of the thrill rides gets replaced by the pleasure of having a good time & satisfying your inner soul. Becuase there is no beauty like nature & watching others have a good time.
Oh yeah!! We gave my mom some flowers & a card on Sun. morning when she woke up. Made her Mothers Day just right. I really enjoy SDC, theres just somethin' about it.. Memories like these put a lump in ya'r throat & makes ya'r eyes all watery.... ::)
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well congrats how=do! glad all went well.. sounds like a big weekend for th park
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As you get older, the excitement of the thrill rides gets replaced by the pleasure of having a good time & satisfying your inner soul. Because there is no beauty like nature & watching others have a good time.
I could not have put it into words any better How-dofolks. When I was at the park in my teen's, 20's, and even 30's...it was all about the rides. But as the years go bye it is the beauty of the park, shows, and watching others have fun that keeps me satisfied.
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Thanks for the crowd info, How-Do. I was wondering what the count was for Saturday, after seeing the smaller parking lots being used, plus all the school buses, plus the tour buses. The crowds were insane due to all the teens. I felt like I was getting a preview of what YCW must be like, LOL.
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wiht the crowd that we have seen so far, I cant help but to think that it looks like SDC will have another very good year.
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Thank You Everybody! Here ya go.. excuse the music, i just borrow it from YouTube. and my woman likes it too. If ya cant hear it, its cuz its been downloaded right now.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80LPOGcVE1E
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Thanks How Do for a nice little SDC movie! By the way, the photographer did a wonderful job!
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nice set of pics! ;D
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Thanks. Sorry my review was a alil' stale but i still wasnt feelin' good, i figured the picture video would do more justice.
Have a good day ya all!
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you did great!
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I loved the you tube video How-doFolks!!! I really enjoy reading your trip reviews. I hope to get there in the fall -
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Thank you ya all, glad ya enjoyed it. I would'a pictured up more of the rides but we only rode 4-5 rides that day. I really like some of the ol' machineary they have layin' around the park.
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We went to SDC today and was riding the train when something happened that I was told has only happened twice in the last 7 years. The train broke down! It happened at the spot where they do the skit. We knew something was wrong because they kept going on and on with the skit and a lot of adlibbing. They finally told us what was going on and let the train roll down to the hobo area where they said it would be easiest to evacuate the train.
http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0177.jpg[/img]](http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0177.jpg) (http://[img width=800 height=535)
Went row by row with ladders to get everyone off the train.
http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0173.jpg[/img]](http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0173.jpg) (http://[img width=800 height=535)
Park peremedics were there in case someone was injured.
http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0180.jpg[/img]](http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0180.jpg) (http://[img width=800 height=535)
http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0182.jpg[/img]](http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0182.jpg) (http://[img width=800 height=535)
How many maintenance workers does it take to fix a train?
http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0188.jpg[/img]](http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0188.jpg) (http://[img width=800 height=535)
A lot of nice people from behind the scenes at SDC who were there to talk to us.
http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0190.jpg[/img]](http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0190.jpg) (http://[img width=800 height=535)
Two buses were brought in to take us out.
http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0006-1.jpg[/img]](http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0006-1.jpg) (http://[img width=800 height=535)
http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0003-1.jpg[/img]](http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0003-1.jpg) (http://[img width=800 height=535)
A complimentary ticket for our trouble valued at $20.00 for ice cream at Hanna's Ice Cream Parlor. Quite an experience for Friday the 13th.
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wow! bad break! " no pun intended", But that would make for an interesting expierence. the ice cream is a nice touch.
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This stuff with the train happens from time to time. I remember an incident or two in the early 80s when the train derailed. It did not turnover...it did not result in any injuries. It simply came off the track. The good neighbor policy thing was not available at the time. I seem to remember people were escorted along the tracks until they made it back to "civilization" (SDC) again.
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Your right Sanddunerider it would have been a bad break for someone with a one day pass and this was going to be the only day they could be there. Because we were probably out there for about an extra hour. But for us it was kind of like a behind the scenes tour, something we don't get to see or experience very often (We Loved It) and of course the citizens of SDC could not have been nicer.
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This stuff with the train happens from time to time. I remember an incident or two in the early 80s when the train derailed. It did not turnover...it did not result in any injuries. It simply came off the track. The good neighbor policy thing was not available at the time. I seem to remember people were escorted along the tracks until they made it back to "civilization" (SDC) again.
Ya Junior, just guessing I would have figured they break down at least a few times a year with all the miles they log. When one of the office workers told us she had worked there 7 years and this was the second time she could remember this happening I was pretty surprised. This seemed to me like such a minor thing but SDC went all out, maybe because of the trouble with Ride The Ducks and The Branson Belle.
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tru enough, But I am sure if somebody had a one day pass, and "expressed" there concerns the PTB would set them up for another day!. OR at least I would hope they would. :)
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Thanks for the pictures Pintrader! Disembarking the train by ladder in the middle of the route is definitely a unique experience. It’s nice to see how many Silver Dollar City Citizens sprung in to action to assist! Just from a quick glance, it looks like they have maintenance workers, medical technicians, security personnel, transportation drivers, management employees, and of course the character actors who stuck around to keep the spirits high.
Those train engines are true workhorses considering their age, and experience. It is a wonder this happens so infrequently! This is just another great example of Silver Dollar City coming through in the face of adversity.
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You're absolutely right Ozark BBQ! SDC is first rate and first class, like we didn't already know that ;).
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I got my first taste of modern music at the park Friday. I was all hyped up about the Bluegrass & Barbecue Festival because it's probably my favorite. Well as soon as we walked onto the square which was about 20 minutes before opening ceremonies, I saw young children dancing. They were dancing to a medley of Elvis then after that it was a medley of the Beatles, then Black Eyed Peas, Pink, Beyonce and a few other artists that I can't Remember. I love a lot of this music but I really was in the mood for Bluegrass. I was very surprised the first thing SDC wanted their visitors to hear for their festival would be that type of music. I guess so much for first impressions :).
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WHAT! Don't understand why the guests would hear this type of music at this time. Moonlight Madness, uh, yeah...I'd expect it. Not during bluegrass time. :P
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Really? I ddint notice that this morning (music), BUT will listen closely tomorrow, Now i did eat at mollys about 10:30 and they were playing johnny cash music that had been redone by somebody else? poor copiers!! but it was JC's music!
On another note the carosoul had music playing today, was glad to hear that.
Park looked pretty good today, slow crowd today because of the cooler weather i would guess, rode the train, FITH, TNT, no lines, we left by 12:30 or so. going back in tomorrow, hoping to see rhonda vincent..
no SDC pics today, maybe tomorrow.
I know mhguy was there today, so i am sure he will have a report also.
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The kids dance group could have been a one or two day thing, not sure how they set up a little entertainment skit that is not part of the regular entertainment. Just seemed odd on a Friday of the second day of BG&B you would enter the park listening to modern music.
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I hope your experience with the out of the theme music was an isolated incident! One of the things that makes Silver Dollar City so great is its unique atmosphere. Why Silver Dollar City feels it must change what works just to stay "cool," and "hip" is beyond my understanding. :-X
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i agree with pintrader, has to be an isolated thing. I will pay attention in the morning
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On another note the carosoul had music playing today, was glad to hear that.
YES!!!!
Don't know why that has been so important to me, but I am so excited that it has the music up and playing again! Do you know/remember if it is the same music that use to play?
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I would have no idea if it was new or original music..
I did NOT hear any modern music when passing through HH or in the courtyard this mornging. I was there 1st thing.
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I did NOT hear any modern music when passing through HH or in the courtyard this mornging. I was there 1st thing.
GOOD!
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I did NOT hear any modern music when passing through HH or in the courtyard this mornging. I was there 1st thing.
That's the best trip report I have read so far! Okay, I might be overly excited, but keeping bluegrass, or at least traditional music throughout the park is very important to me. ;D
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Agreed. It all seemed in theme this weekend.. :)
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Well here is my short trip report.
Headed out of Mountain Home on Saturday around noon made it to old town at 1:30. We made a few stops at some usual stores, walked the old antique stores downtown and Dicks 5 & 10.
Pulled up to the Eagles Lodge in the afternoon as I walked in and there was a couple standing in the lobby talking, the man turned to me and introduced himself as Sandunerider, a very nice guy and I found out we travel Branson much the same way. The seasons pass allows you to go for partial days without hurry. I am sure we will bump into each other again, I think he may be as hard core SDC as I am. After we discussed plans for the trip I drove to Springfield for dinner at a place called TOUCH http://www.touch-restaurant.com/ I highly recommend this restaurant, the food is great it is not much higher than eating at the Olive Garden but you sure feel like you have had a special night when you leave.
We drove back to the room and got a good nights rest for SDC on Sunday. In the morning the sun was shining but it was cool outside, but I am a trouper so off we went to the park. Parking was easy and it really was a sparsely crowded day. Powder Keg was down but everything else was running. We rode some rides, went to check out the huge apple pie they were selling at the BBQ section, we didn’t get any ( I regret this). The ride lines were short and we got in most before 2 when we went back into Branson. The flowers in the city are nice and really help to spruce things up. Crowds were great, music was nice although I think they should space the groups and stages out and have them playing more often. I did not here any music from the gazebo in the square during this trip.
Bluegrass is a favorite of mine and I think I may travel up again this weekend to listen a little more!
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I had gotten to the park around 8am on Friday the 13th. There was a dance squad that had unloaded off of a bus and went straight thru the season pass entrance prior to the park opening to get ready for their "routine". At 8:30 when they dropped the chain out front to enter the park, the squad was set up behind the gazebo. From there, they were playing the various tunes as stated above by pintrader and dancing?? to the music in what seemed to have been "choreographed". The kids were of preteen to teenagers ( I think). I did not care for it at all. It was loud enough that I could hear it while in the apple butter store. I would imagine it went on for about 15 minutes or so.
During the time our veterans were called up to help with the carrying of the flag, the kids all seemed to try to gather around and in the line of the walk they take to the flagpole. The character actors had a tough time trying to get them all to move out of the way. Our veterans finally made the walk while everyone clapped, flag was raised, the Pledge of Allegiance was spoken, park opened, chains were dropped, and SDC became an 1880's town once again.
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Posted a review of my 5/18 visit under the Bluegrass and BBQ thread.
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Just waking up in a BRanson apartment getting ready to shower and head on down to SDC for a little bluegrass. And some of that huge apple pie! I will report later.
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mh! your a dog!! cant believ your back there again! lucky dog!
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Sister in Law got an apartment for work in Branson so I got to use it this weekend. Nice little occasional perk.
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;D ;D SWEET!! :o :o
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My wife and I made our way over to SDC last weekend, joined by the rest of my family (parents and 3 younger siblings). This was the first time at SDC in years for my parents and sister, and my younger brothers had never been. In fact they had only experienced a theme park once before, Legoland in CA when they were probably 3 to 5 years old. All of us had a blast. We all enjoyed the Bluegrass groups (especially the Kruger Brothers), but my parents wound up watching the shows alot more than me, my wife, and siblings did. We hit up all the big rides lot and lots of times. :-) In two days we probably hit Powderkeg (our favorite) about 10 times, Wildfire twice, and Thunderation 7 or 8 times. It was a bit chilly Saturday, but much nicer Sunday. Definitely enjoyed ourselves and got lots of good food. The BBQ was just alright, I prefer Famous Dave's in town still. That said, the giant apple pie was amazing. As was the blasted onion over at Flossie's (first time having one of those). Also had Andy's Frozen Custard in town on 76 for the first time... amazing custard. Easily the best I've had anywhere. Highly recommend it.
I think this may be our last trip over for a while... the interesting festivals kind of die out for us till fall. Definitely planning on hitting up the harvest fest and old time christmas when they roll around though.
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great review, congrats on all the riding, that does not usually happen!
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We just got back from a couple of days at the City and I'm happy to say the only music we heard on the City Square at the opening ceremonies was the "You have a great past ahead of you at SDC" and the usual patriotic songs at flag raising. Speaking of music we got to catch 3 Bluegrass bands: IIIrd Generation Bluegrass, Monroeville (who did a very cool bluegrass version of "La Bamba"); and the Picking Chicks. All were very good. I didn't notice any downtime on any of the rides. A couple of times on Saturday my daughter and I rode Thunderation with only about 8 other riders. The lines for Thunderation were longer earlier Saturday and today but that's because they were only running one train. A fun weekend!
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I have a question for anyone that has been to the park say in the last couple of days how are the cicadas. Here at our house in St. Louis they are bad. Just wondering how they are at the park?
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I just returned from both a trip to Jefferson City, and SDC.
Jefferson City was worse than StL (where I live). It was as if every leaf on every tree in any given area had either a shell, or a cicada.
As for SDC, I saw one this morning on the square emerging from it's shell, but that was it. I am sure if I had been looking more closely they would have been evident. I cannot say I saw any others IN the park, but maybe others can say differently.
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Does anyone know why they have blocked people from walking into the cemetery in front of FITH? I am posting a couple of pictures from today showing boards that were put in front of the walkways. They have been up for a while because I noticed them back on a May 15th visit.
http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0019.jpg[/img]](http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0019.jpg) (http://[img width=800 height=535)
http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0018.jpg[/img]](http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0018.jpg) (http://[img width=800 height=535)
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I saw these yesterday as well. I was unsure if I had missed them back in April, but I don't like it! The cemetery needs new headstones (I will volunteer to hand paint the words on them again for free!) and new boots, but could easily be back to it's former glory with a very minimal amount of money and a bit of work.
ALSO I have no photos, but they are doing some construction on the outer edge of the square between the Homestead, and the Apple Butter Shop/ Taffy Shop. It had until this year held a small shack/ but now there are many stones, leading me to believe that they are fixing and /or constructing a wall.
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i noticed last time there the headstone were leaning and "loose" in the ground. i wondered if it was easier to block off the sidewalk than to fix them back up.
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ALSO I have no photos, but they are doing some construction on the outer edge of the square between the Homestead, and the Apple Butter Shop/ Taffy Shop. It had until this year held a small shack/ but now there are many stones, leading me to believe that they are fixing and /or constructing a wall.
Here are a couple of pictures of the new construction between the Homestead and the Apple Butter Shop. It could possibly be just a wall or it kind of looks like it might be a foundation for a building. I guess I should have asked the man that was working what he was building, but never thought to ask.
http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0220.jpg[/img]](http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0220.jpg) (http://[img width=800 height=535)
[url(http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0221.jpg)][/url]
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Interesting, looks like a low wall for a new outdoor demonstration. Maybe they're moving the apple butter demonstrations here. Definitely not for a building though.
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agreed shave. no concrete, no mortar.. NOT a foundation for building.. Possibly addition for petting zoo? O ras you stated demonstration area.?
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No one was working on it this Sat/ Sun, but the gentleman doesn't look to be in character/ costume...unless that Basball cap came from costume and is in fact design circa 1880....
No really I don't mind that at all, I just want to know what they are building!
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Trip Report-Monday May 30th
We got to the park around 10 and left around 1:15. We paid to park, because getting the wagon and 2 kids off or off the bus or tram is enough to make me crazy! We got there and I realized that I had no idea where my pass was. That's right! One day at White Water and I had already lost my pass. The Guest Services worker was great and they replaced my pass for free. The lines at the front gates moved quickly. Our only problem is that we couldn't move because people kept stopping just after the gates to decide where to go next.
We went to the BBQ tent first and bought 4 bottles of BBQ sauce. I love half price sales! Then down to the leather shop. There was only one person working and the lines were long, but the man working was great! Bought the kids each a little coin purse. My parents gave them each a dollar to put in it. They were so happy! Our next stop was the train. My kids haven't been on it since they were 3 months old. Every time we go, the line is sooo long. We walked into the depot, waited 5 minutes, and then we were on a train. They didn't seem quite comfortable with the script yet. It appeared that maybe they have rewritten it a bit since the beginning of the year. My kids loved it!
The Shootout was next. This was the kids' first time. Caleb loved "shooting the lights." Cate has told us that it is dark and scary and she never wants to ride it again. lol My parents got each child an animal at the new shop. We are now the proud parents of doggie the penguin and monkey the dinosaur. Gotta give it up for originality! They loved Half Dollar Hollar. The only problem I saw is that the exit only places are not well marked. If you aren't looking for it to say exit, you won't see it. They rode the swings and carousel. The carousel operator was AWESOME! He made the kids believe they were racing around. Each animal had a name. Too funny! We had to pull Caleb out of the tree house. He had a huge meltdown because we had to move on.
We went to the Exposition for lunch. The BBQ lines were so long. We ended up eating at the fair food place. It was pretty good. The chicken strips are way better than last year. We went to get icees, but another meltdown began so it was time to go. We'll be back again, I think in July. If someone will tell me how, I will get pictures posted!
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What sauce did you get Dianagail? We tried nearly all of them, I am just intereted in what others preferred!
My favorite from last year was not there- D L Jardine's Mesquite Flavor BBQ Sauce
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ALSO I had forgotten that the *ping* of the targets in The Great Shootout at the Flooded Mine is different this season. It is a more high pitched sound. The gun I had was not new, however, the trigger mechanism seemed to be new.
When/ if I get my video from this weekend uploaded, I will post it so all can hear the new sound...it is different, but I think pretty similar to the old sound.
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I forgot to post during my trip review of the weekend before Memorial Day weekend that we had something happen during the train robbery I've never seen before. When the conductor got back to find Alf and Ralph robbing the train the outhouse door flew open and a guy with a shaved head, straw hat, fancy blouse and bloomers and a gun and holster draped across his shoulder/chest came out in a hurry. When the suprised conducter asked "What are you supposed to be?" Ralph answered "That's no what that's our Ma!" The whole trainload busted out laughing. The conductor was laughing so hard he couldn't finish the script and ended up shooting "Ma". Hilarious! That was on Saturday and we rode the train again of Sunday to see if that was a regular part of the script but it didn't happen that day. Has anyone else had this happen during the train robbery?
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have not seeen that yet. i had noticed the outhouse, and the last time we rode there was a big bloodhound dog tied up to the tree.. that us new also.
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What sauce did you get Dianagail? We tried nearly all of them, I am just intereted in what others preferred!
My favorite from last year was not there- D L Jardine's Mesquite Flavor BBQ Sauce
I'm not Dianagail, but we got Corky's BBQ sauce... out of Memphis. I've only eaten there once, but it was the best Pork BBQ I've had anywhere. So I was super excited to find their sauce at SDC!
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I agree Rube. The mechanism did seem to be new. Mine stuck a lot and wasn't easy to shoot. Oh well. It will take awhile for them to get worn in.
We got SDC Honey Blackberry, Dr. Pepper BBQ (I have looked everywhere for this stuff!), Bethany Blue's BBQ Pit Papaya Grillin' Sauce, and Edward's Surrey Sloppin' Sauce. I wish I could find a watermelon BBQ. I hear grilling chicken with watermelon is spectacular! We tried the honey blackberry today. It is definitely sweet.
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You did pick up some sauce! I am a fan of spicy sauces, mesquite sauces, and vinegar based sauces...don't get any of that sweet stuff near my meat! Keep that much sugar and fruit for dessert pies!
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We made it to Branson for Memorial Day weekend but we didn't go to SDC. :( :(
It just costs too much money for us right now. However, it was great to get out of town for a couple days and just spend some time in Branson. Normally it is just SDC, SDC, hotel pool, maybe some go carts or mini golf, etc. It was actually nice to do something different for a change.
We will hopefully make it to SDC sometime this year. I'm busy all summer really, however, it is fall and Christmas whenever I really want to make it down to the park!!
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You bring up a good point Coaster! There is so much more to see, and do in Branson besides Silver Dollar City. A lot of people miss so much because they are so focused on Silver Dollar City.
I am glad you had a good trip, and I am sure your excitement for Silver Dollar City will be even greater next time since you didn’t get to go this trip. ;D
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agreed shave. no concrete, no mortar.. NOT a foundation for building.. Possibly addition for petting zoo? O ras you stated demonstration area.?
I asked the school teacher yesterday what was being built, and she said that is going to be walls for a new log hewing area and that the gentleman building the wall is going to be doing the demonstrating. She said he was one of the same gentlemen who helped assemble the school years ago and had done lots of work for the park since the 60s.
We just retuned from our trip last night. I'll post more in a but.
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I noticed last weekend also that the stairs on the side of the barn in the animal area had been removed. They used to lead to a break room above the barn. I asked ablout this and was told by someone in that area they were removed because the roof in the barn had leaked so long before it was replaced that the floor was weak and they were afraid someone would fall thru. So as he said they just removed the stairs instead of fixing the problem. Nice.....
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I noticed last weekend also that the stairs on the side of the barn in the animal area had been removed. They used to lead to a break room above the barn. I asked ablout this and was told by someone in that area they were removed because the roof in the barn had leaked so long before it was replaced that the floor was weak and they were afraid someone would fall thru. So as he said they just removed the stairs instead of fixing the problem. Nice.....
yet, another short cut that HFEC decided to take. ??? ??? ::) ::)
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Who knows, it may not be a shortcut? Perhaps it is just more practical, and financially sound to simply close the break room off.
Either way I am really excited about the new possible hewing area! I love that the demonstration booth is being built by hand.
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Yes, that's a step in the direction we want them to go! Bringing back a craft from the past days of Silver Dollar City- getting the theme back to what it was.
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well they had hewing the last couple of years during the fall festival. Last year it was by the taffy building.
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I wonder if that is Mark doing the hewing. He is the one that did some of the log cabins at the camp ground
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Does anyone know why they have blocked people from walking into the cemetery in front of FITH? I am posting a couple of pictures from today showing boards that were put in front of the walkways. They have been up for a while because I noticed them back on a May 15th visit.
http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0019.jpg[/img]](http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0019.jpg) (http://[img width=800 height=535)
http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0018.jpg[/img]](http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/DSC_0018.jpg) (http://[img width=800 height=535)
Spoke with one of the guys on FITH who said it was because of the walkway becoming unstable/unsafe to walk. I asked if it was a permanent closure or just until they fix it, and he mentioned that it probably wouldn't be until fall when they get around to fixing it as the park is now open 7 days per week and they don't have the time right now.
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Hopefully it will be reopened, that sounds like an easy fix..they just need the time i guess.
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Thanks for the info, Baldknobber. Like a lot of people I worry when they make something inaccessible that they're getting ready to get rid of it.
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Don't know if they have continued to do so, but the Fireman's Cemetery used to be part of the area folks would line up in to ride FITH. I always thought that was a unique way to wait in line...standing in a cemetery...but you could read the headstones and have a laugh, too.
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that would be different.. earlier this year they just had us lined up and zig zagged between main walkway and the cemetary,.
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Not in the line anymore. for the last few seasons it was the smoking area.. I thought that was fitting as well.
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there is still a smoking area in that area.
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So, they closed it because the walkway was becoming unstable, and unsafe to walk on? I mean sure, it’s not exactly wheelchair accessible, but is the average human no longer capable of walking on uneven terrain?
Plus, it doesn’t seem like it would be that difficult to repair even with the park open seven days a week. Just continue blocking that area off from guest, pour some concrete (or whatever), and presto!
I wonder if there is an alternative reason? Perhaps people (most likely unwatched children) were causing mischief with the props.
I’m just stirring the kettle a bit. ;)
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ok ozark, you went there first..
My thought is this. IF the walkway is "weak" now, already this year. Then it was probably "weak" last year... IF it was in good shape this year it would not be worn out yet this year..
So have ignored another "small" repair? And moved on?
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My photos from last year show barely legible tombstones (the ones that could be read at least...the rest were not even visible...so to reiterate, the epitaths were either barely there, or not there at all!) The only props other than the stones were a few pairs of boots that more than likely have been in the gorund since the 80s. so they were laying sideways, or missing alltogether.
I love the irony of the smoking area, AND the combination of the cemetary/ FITH
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Smoking area and cemetery...yeah, pretty funny. If I am not mistaken, the walkways through the cemetery have been the same ones in place since the ride was put in around '73, so they probably do need to be changed. For some reason I dimly remember pea gravel being along the pathway...but I could be wrong. Remember, a weakened concrete walk at Lost River collapsed and caused an injury in the early or mid '90s. None of us would like to ever see anything like that again.
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Ya know what Junior, I think you are right about the pea gravel, I seem to remember that as well.
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I wanted to give a recap of our trip to SDC on 06/09-06/10. We had an incredible time and I wanted to share.
We stayed at the Deer Run Motel, mainly because it is close to SDC and offers a free shuttle (I hate traffic). The hotel was fine. It was dated, but clean and the people were sooooooooooo nice. The owners made my girls promise to stop by the office each night after the park to tell them all about it. They really made them feel special.
We arrived at the park at 8:40 on Thursday. We just wandered around the open shops and waited for the opening ceremony. It was very nice. Anytime you can honor veterans, it is a good thing. Once the park opened, I took my 8yo daughter to flooded mine (she has never been on a roller coaster, so she was not ready yet). My wife and 10yo daughter went off to ride Wildfire and PowderKeg. I usually go on the coasters with her, but these looked out of my league. She was sure she wanted to ride them. She took one look at all the loops on WF and backed out. They did go on PK though, but it scared her to death. She would not ride any coasters the rest of the day. But, we still had a great day. We did the cave and saloon. I think they rode the swings and galeon about 20 times. I loved seeing them sprint to re-ride rides. Makes you feel like a kid again. We eventually found our way to Thunderation. The 10yo would not even think about it. The 8yo wanted to try it. She loved it. So did I. I think we road it 10 times. There were no lines at anything we rode (we did not do water rides this day). We closed the park and stayed for the show. We all loved it. Got back to the hotel about 9:30. Shower-BED!!!!!!
We arrived at the park at 8:40 again on Friday. We wore swimsuits this day to take advantage of the water rides. We started off with Thunderation, which the 10yo decided to try. She liked it so we rode it again. She still liked it, but she didn't ride it again. She was still pretty freaked out by PK. Anyway, we did the Lost River, Riverblast and plunge. My 8yo and I could have stayed at Riverblast all day shooting people (that did not sound right). The family didn't seem interested in the gulch or in re-riding any water rides, so we dried off and put our sneakers back on and hit the dry rides again. We spent a lot of time in the expo area riding the swings and galeon again. THE ONLY BAD EXPERIENCE WE HAD was on Friday afternoon. The had the trapeze artist in the helicopter. We were not very intersted so we decided to use that hour to ride our favorites before we left - only they closed Thunderation because of the helicopters. WHAT????? I did not take the family to SDC to see a freak show, I came to ride rides. Very disappointed. They finally re-opened it, but it was almost time to leave (5:00 shuttle). So we decided to stay until closing again and were able to get in all the rides we needed.
So, we spent 13 hours at the park on Thursday and 11 hours at the park on Friday. We had a great time. As I said, it was not real busy. I think people must have been waiting for Kids fest.
Thanks to all to offered tips. The "free ice water" tip was a lifesaver!!!!!
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Thanks for the awesome review husker92! ;D
It sounds like you, and your family had a great trip, and the kiddos got to experience lots of things that they have not tried before. It’s good to know that the motel was truly appreciative of having your family stay as guest, and the shuttle service is very convenient.
I remember as a kid there were rides at different theme parks that I would not ride because they looked too scary. Heck, even today there are rides at different theme parks that I will not ride because they look too scary. ;) Did your kids get a chance to try the small rollercoaster in the Grand Exposition? It is definitely less intimating than those big boy rollercoasters, especially Wildfire. Thunderation is a good starter, or family rollercoaster too, and I am glad your kids warmed up to it.
I can imagine being disappointed that Thunderation was closed during the helicopter acrobat show at the Echo Amphitheater. However, with both attractions being right next to each other, and with having two low hovering helicopters, with one having an unrestrained acrobat hanging from it, I am sure management had no choice but to close it. I totally agree that is was a bit out of theme, but that has because the accepted norm for Kids Fest.
Sounds like overall, it was a fantastic visit. Thanks for sharing! :)
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It was great you had such a good time husker92! I noticed in your review no Fire In The Hole! If you loved Thunderation I would just about guarantee you would have also liked FITH. Thanks for sharing! And I guess this means you will be back in the future :).
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husker, glad you had a good trip.! thats was a great review~
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Oh yes, we did Fire in the Hole. I was unaware that it ended in a bath :). Someone mentioned the "surprise" on this site, but I never questioned what it was. The girls really liked that one too. My wife and I don't really like to get wet, but we enjoyed the dark surprise!
They liked the expo coaster too, but there was a line on that one from time to time, so they only rode it about 6 or 7 times :). Besides not riding WF and The Giant Swing and not enjoying PK, I think we rode every other ride and liked them all. There was supposed to be some dinosaurs in a barn somewhere, but be forgot about it and never made it to them.
Since we live in KC and the drive is not bad at all, I think we will be venturing to SDC more often!!!!
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That’s the cool thing about Silver Dollar City. Just when you think you have seen it all, there is always more to see! ;D
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i think the dinosaurs were/are on the frisco barn.. you would have walked right past them going to the GE>!.. So you got "close"!!!!!
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Oh the irony! :D
Most people around here complain that there are too many “modern,” and out of theme elements at Silver Dollar City. Now it looks like the 1880’s are too modern for the dinosaur area.
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i think the dinosaurs were/are on the frisco barn.. you would have walked right past them going to the GE>!.. So you got "close"!!!!!
The mechanical dinosaur is in the Frisco Barn, however, the barn didn't open until the 11th which would have been 1 day after you left. Anyway, the dinosaur is very life like and neat to see.
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very cool. anxious to see it on sunday..
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Went to the park on Monday.
Was a little surprised that it was as crowded that it was, talking to one of the parking attendants that were surprised also.
Got to the park around 10am which was kinda later then planned but with a three year old and a 4 week old just seems harder to move on a timely schedule.
Had breakfast at the mill and as always very good was happy that they changed the pancakes back to silver dollar size. Last time I was there they were making them bigger I know this is not a big deal but something I have always been use to saying that and I did make a comment about it last time and the lady did say that she would pass it along.
After breakfast my son wanted to go on Fire in the Hole which makes me very proud. The line was just to the door of the building. Line went quick the only real holdup was when you had a couple of groups of more then 2 so that they could stay with their group, but it still went fast. Thought everthing looked fine during the ride and everything seem to be working from what I could tell.
After that went down and my son want to make a bear at the Bear Hollow, the citizens in there were great with him and made it a great experience for him I know he has been talking about the bear for two days now.
We then headed for the train and just missed it so headed over to the flooded mine got right on it another favorite for my son. Still disappointed that the scene with the saw blade does not say anything wish they would get that going again with the sound effects.
After that went on the train all good there though at the hold up they skipped the part of their mom on the train kinda though that was odd since the park was not that busy.Also have one question and maybe I am getting old but are there normally just three passenger cars for the train for some reason I kept thinking that there were 4 normally but it could be me.
After the did flooded mine a couple of times since my son really likes shooting the bad guys. Also the 4Th go around I actually noticed something the first time and maybe this has always been there but it has been awhile that I had been on that ride continuously like that. At the scene toward the end before you get to the room with the prisoner climbing up the rope up towards the left at the door there is a prisoner in the corner that pops up towards the ceiling. Have never noticed that before.
After that headed over toward GG and spent about an hour over there for my son to run around. Seemed all was working and in decent shape. My only gripe is parents with older kids that just let them run loose with no concern for the little ones. Had one issue my son was playing with one of the vacuum hoses and a older kid came over and tried to take it away. Maybe I am just being over protective put if you have a older kid just make sure they are not running over the smaller ones.
After convincing the little one that we had to eat went to Aunt Polly's and was very good. Though I cannot say that I have ever had a bad food experience there.
After lunch walked around a little bit and tried to convince my son to go on AP or Lost river but he had no desire to get wet, 3yr old are so funny sometimes.
We then went on Flooded mine one more time and then finally convinced him it was time to go.
On the way out bought some lye soap to have on hand which I think is always go to have a bar or two laying around.
On the way out my son told my that he worked hard today and that we need to come back tomorrow and then passed out before we got out of the parking lot and keep in mind we only have to travel about 5 minutes to get back to our condo.
My only other thought is Half Dollar Holler when we walk by had a couple of kids there and granted the park was not overly crowded but not sure it is getting the draw they hoped. I do not think there is enough to do to keep a child interested enough to stay there very long. Nathan my son was there in April did the carousel, the swing went through the netting and then was done and wanted to do something else. Just not enough to keep ones attention, I know they were limited with space but not enough to keep one busy since you have one entrance and one exit.
OK now that I am done with my book. Overall another great day at the park and will be back probably on Wensday or Thursday.
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sounds like a good day, and yes there are normally 4 passenger cars on the train..
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I wonder if they adjust the number of train cars based on crowd expectations. When we rode the train in April there were only 3 cars, but at Christmastime I believe they have 5.
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One thing I forgot and not sure if anyone else had mentioned it when we were leaving saw that they had put up the SDC population sign on the way out
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Great trip review jmc75!
I agree that silver dollar sized pancakes at Silver Dollar City just seems more appropriate. However, I am sure they could add say a “lumberjack size” pancakes too if they wanted to give their customers options.
I am glad to hear that Bear Hollow is a big success with the young ones. That store, and location have gone through many changes throughout the years, so it is nice to know the building is serving well.
The Flooded Mine is a great stop either before, or after the train ride. I have never noticed that prisoner you mentioned, but I will definitely keep my eye out for him.
It sounds like you, and your family had a terrific visit, and I know your three year old made some great memories.
Thanks for sharing!
Oh, and by the way I have only ever noticed the train using four cars. Not to say they don't use more, or less cars depending on the need.
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After that headed over toward GG and spent about an hour over there for my son to run around. Seemed all was working and in decent shape. My only gripe is parents with older kids that just let them run loose with no concern for the little ones. Had one issue my son was playing with one of the vacuum hoses and a older kid came over and tried to take it away. Maybe I am just being over protective put if you have a older kid just make sure they are not running over the smaller ones.
I agree that GG can become chaotic. My wife & I do not have children yet, but we have taken our 6 year old Niece to GG, it always makes us very nervous. She loves playing in there though!
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Headed to the City again today. Weather was very good looked like rain had missed us in the morning. As usually had breakfast at the mill was very happy that the fact taht we got there at 10:30 that the food was still hot and fresh and good amounts. Normally do not find that at buffets if they only have a half hour to serve.
Park was a little crowded was not to bad. Went down to see the dinasour was a little disappointed there was only one but the one was there was very cool with the movements and sounds.
After that went over to the measuring station a like how they do that now and put your phone number on the wrist band just in case.
After that rode the little roller coaster twice. I will mention one interesting incident. Had a couple of kids who went on it who were way to old to be on that ride after they got off they complained about that it needed to go faster. The ride operator mentioned that if they wanted to go faster they should go on something bigger the the kiddie rides. Just thought that was funny.
Then was heading to FIH but mad a quick stop at HDH which there were hardly any kids there but my son must have ran thru the cages a least a dozen times and really enjoyed it. Maybe it will do a little better then I thought. Saw Terry Sanders he was doing one of the story telling there unfortunately only one or two kids seemed interested.
After spending some time there made it to FIH, line was long but went quick, was once impressed how they work with you so well to get your whole group on the same train. Also as we were in the ride when we go to the Red Flanders scence probably have the car stared the dialouge at the same time and when we got done everyone cheered I just this was great. Granted my wife just thought I was nuts.
After that headed over to GG I kinda looked around a little more this time and to me it seemed that they have donesome touch up and other repairs that it does not looked as worn since I last saw it.
I tried to once again to convince my son to go onto Lost River but would not so I went ahead and rode it line was not very long got quick and got soaked it was great. Will have to keep working on him.
After that after pleading by him rode FM again this time I just started to look around more and see if I could spot anything new. I will add from my last post I mentioned a prisoner that popped up at the top Left corner before you go thru the entrance way into the scene with the prisoner climbing the rope. This time I noticed that his eyes light up not sure if this a target or just glowing eyes. Also found that you need to be in one of the first three cars to see him otherwise he is already down.
After convincing my son it was time to do something else we had heard they were shuting down the rides becuase of weather so we figured this was a good time to head back.
All and all I say it was a great day at the city and had lots of fun
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We had a great time in Branson June4-17. We spent every day at SDC. Most of the time we spent at the Homestead listening and visiting with the Pickers, Aunt Judy, Jack and John. We always bring a good supply of Wisconsin Cheese to the Homestead. I did catch Cedric and the Cajun Connection and they were good as always. Saw Nik Wallenda hang from the helicopter from the road to the city as we had to go to our motel (Eagles Lodge/Homestay Inn) to get our big cooler to transport pies from SDC to a benefit at the Hillbilly Bowl in Kimberling City for Charlie Bowden (who used to work inSDC). They had all traffic stopped while the copters were in the air.We didn't go an any rides, just lazed around and drank a lot of ice water. When we left home we had frost, so it was a shock to our systems to be in hot and humid weather.Can't wait to get back down to Branson in Sept.
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We just got home from our 2 week stint in Branson. We went to SDC everyday while we were there. We had a great time. We got to ride the rides as many times as we wanted, watched all the shows, watched the Nik Wallenda thing in Echo Hollow, and walked the park looking for "Where in the City?" possibilites. The Fabulous Wallendas were worth seeing and we watched the Stunt Dog show. The dog show was exactly the same as last year's show. Speaking of which, why can't these shows that are contracted for multiple years at SDC change up their shows from year to year? Also, while I love the Saloon Show and seeing the different actors do different parts, it would be nice if the show could also be changed from year to year. The GAC was basically the same also with a few different songs. Not trying to complain about our beloved SDC, but I'd also like to see the park go completely non-smoking or see some sort of requirement where people who do want to smoke have to go to outside the park boundaries maybe to the parking lot area. It gives me such a headache to smell the cigarette smoke. It seems especially bad down by the PowderKeg Area. I'm not a smoker and will never be one, and I mean no offense to people who do, but it is so offensive to go to the park and have to smell the smoke and get a headache from it. Anyway, our trip was great, the weather was nice, and we got our SDC fix for another year. It was nice meeting Sanddunerider, we got pictures with Terry Sanders and Whoopsey Daisey (Terry gave us some buy one get one free tickets to Sheperd of the Hills, and we convinced Roach (used to work at CC, then the Powder Keg, and this year the Lost River of the Ozarks) to ride the Lost River with us. Roach is one of our favorite employees at the park. He is a very funny person and has fun with his job. Anyway we had a great time.
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Josh, i agree with you on the shows. I think we all agree wiht you in fact. No reason why they could not have 2 or 3 skits per show and change every year.
the smoking thing? i have mixed emotions about. I am not a smoker, and in an enclosed area heavy smoke bothers me. However I think that the government has forced enough rules upon the smokers of this country. After all they have rights too. I think as long as they(smokers) are required to smoke outside of building in designated areas that should be acceptable to the general public. After all as a rule smoke will go up and dissipate in the air among the trees away from the general public. There is lots of room at the city to avoid those few areas without missing anything!
OK!! OK!!! I'm done now.. Stepping of soapbox..
JOSH!! glad you had a good trip, tell all of yours we said hi!! see ya this fall!
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I definitely agree on the shows thing. This is really our first year to visit SDC regularly, but I know it has already entered our discussion about whether we will return as much next year. World Fest was great because of the shows, but if the same things come back next year with the exactly same show, not sure it will have as much draw to keep us around. But, at least it is just once a year no matter how you look at it, so I'll probably have forgotten alot of the kits and gags by next year. :-) That said for the performers that stick around all the time... the same old songs do get tiring after a while. I bet I've heard "Mississippi Squirrel Revival" about 20 times now walking through the main square... :-)
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To those who listen to the same shows in the park....stop and hear the Homestead Pickers.....their performances are never the same unless they have song requests. As for the smoking areas....I do not smoke, but smokers are paying customers and should be able to smoke in the designated areas.
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Trip Review: June 24, 2011
Well, took my grandson Alex to SDC for the first time today! He really enjoyed it. Got to the parking lot about 9:45am, walked to the ticket booths, no lines, got to the turnstyles, no lines, and right on into the park with no hassle. Headed straight for Powderkeg, no lines, no waiting. Then, American Plunge, again, no lines, no waiting! Then it was over to Riverblast, which Alex really enjoyed. He had fun squirting the folks riding it first, and then riding it and squirting everyone watching us ride. I think Powderkeg shocked him a bit...he refused to ride Wildfire, Thunderation, Lost River, or even Flooded Mine after that! He enjoyed the games in Grand Exposition (Yeah, he LOVED the basketball shooting, and "won" a large basketball. All in all, a wonderful time, and out of the park about 4pm. Pictures posted at:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/juniordugan
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Junior...glad your grandson had fun...SDC is a great place for kids and adults alike...
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To those who listen to the same shows in the park....stop and hear the Homestead Pickers.....their performances are never the same unless they have song requests.
I love the Homestead Pickers. They are such fun to just sit back, relax, and enjoy listening to and interacting with. They are very informal, which is great, I think it makes them seem more genuine. Plus their music is very, very good.
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Great trip review Junior!
It looks like you, and your grandson Alex had a wonderful visit. I bet it was neat to show him the areas that you used to work at. The pictures taken look good! Silver Dollar City is so photogenic this time of year.
Although Wildfire can be a bit intimidating, hopefully he will eventually warm up to Thunderation, Lost River, and especially the Flooded Mine.
Sounds like you had a very special trip. Thanks for sharing! :)
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congrats on the trip with alex.. glad all went well..
On another note, by your pics i understand that the log hewing is going to be a full time demonstration now, as opposed to only at fall festival?
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Log hewing apparently will now be a regular feature next to McHaffie's Homestead. The guy doing the hewing has worked at SDC for 35 years and is the same one who worked on building all the cabins at The Wilderness Campground that SDC has. A very talented guy with a good sense of humor! I cannot remember his name, but his name is listed on the Wilderness website, I think. I do remember this guy from when I worked on the park. Just like me, his hair is now grey...not brown! LOL!
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I hope the poor old fellow don't get to carried away with his work. Chopping on logs in 95-100 degree SDC heat could get a little dangerous at a man of his age.
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I imagine he will do demos throughout the day, as the knifemaker, glassblower and other craftsman do. Had I mentioned how glad I am they brought in another craft.. Makes me think there may be some hope for our city yet!
OR maybe they will have him build cabins to sell, you know something to put the home made furniture in.. LOL.. ok, jst kdn ya now!
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To those who listen to the same shows in the park....stop and hear the Homestead Pickers.....their performances are never the same unless they have song requests.
I love the Homestead Pickers. They are such fun to just sit back, relax, and enjoy listening to and interacting with. They are very informal, which is great, I think it makes them seem more genuine. Plus their music is very, very good.
Are these the folks on the front porch by the school and Wilderness Church?
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Yes!
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Haven't made it to SDC yet but already having a great trip. Arrived at Eagles Lodge about 2. Went swimming, did go karts, mini golf, arcade games, dinner at Charlies and now back in the hotel snuggling down.
Highly recommend Charlies. Good meal good value.
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Charlies? not familar with that place. details please. where? what?
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Charlies is across the street from Presley's Theater just off the strip wedged next to a motel. Great steaks and BBQ. I highly reccomend it.
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Did someone say BBQ? ;D
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I will for sure look for them next trip! sounds yummy...
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It seems as though fireworks and a massive mountain of laundry has delayed my full trip report. This may get long...
As I mentioned before we stayed at the Eagles Lodge and arrived on Thursday afternoon. We spent our time Thursday doing little things around Branson and trying to do new things with the kids.
Friday morning we arrived in the SDC lot (we do preferred parking) and were one of only a handful of cars there at 8:30. We pretty much walked right in and found that the square was fairly quiet. Daughter and my dad played checkers while we wandered in and out of shops and read the did you know signs (which I love). After opening ceremonies, which brought a tear to my eye (a veteran my age was carrying his little girl with him as they presented the flag) [insert reminder that I love this part of SDC, we can all use the reminder to be thankful for what we have and for the servicemen and women who secure that], we headed straight to the measuring station. With one at 44 and one at 38 we had plan of action. First ride was the little coaster, then we split and daughter went with dad and granddad to Thunderation, while son was ready for HDH. After we all regrouped we did LROTO, and American Plunge. We had a light snack [Another huge THANK YOU for allowing food and drinks to be brought into the park] and daughter decided she was ready for her first ever ride on PK! She did it a few times while son went back to HDH. All of the lines in the park were short and moved quickly except AP. After that we headed back to the hotel for nap time. While the kids and I napped everyone else shopped. Went for dinner to Mr Gs. We almost always go there for at least one meal while in town, however the service was so incredibly BAD I don’t think we will go back. Back to the hotel for a swim and to rest up for the next day.
Saturday we arrived early again, had another great opening ceremony (and round of checkers). First stop was FITH, did that twice with both kids. PK was closed, FM was closed. So daughter hit TNT and son HDH. A few rounds of each there and we went to the Saloon show. It was fantastic. Then PK was rolling so we did that while son did train and FM. Then TNT, again! I did my little bit of shopping on site grabbed a loaf of cinnamon bread, went to Browns, and moved on up and out of the park. The lines were all very fast moving! Kids and dad took naps while I shopped. Then we all got ready for dinner. Went to the Landing for Texas Land and Cattle. Our server was wonderful, kind, attentive and he brought the kids meals first! We took a stroll down the Landing for a bit before heading back to the hotel for more swimming and fireworks (I have no idea where they came from).
Sunday we hit IHOP and headed out of town!
A great trip all the way around.
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WOW!! full trip. good for you.. Sounded like no problems and lots of naps!!LOL.
Sounds like motel worked out good for you. If you get the chance make sure to leave Paige a review on tripadvisor.com. we are trting to get her into the top ten. I think she and her staff deserve it..
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Great trip review saloonogal!
It sounds like you, and your family had a wonderful trip. I am surprised with it being a holiday weekend that the park wasn’t packed like sardines, and with long lines as far as the eyes could see. I am glad to hear that the crowds were not an issue, and that you were able to enjoy what you wanted without much fuss.
You mentioned that a round of checkers was played each morning. You might have a new family tradition there! Nothing like a relaxing game of checkers before beginning a fun filled day. The opening ceremonies are definitely on my don’t miss list! I just can’t start my day there without it.
What did the kids think about Half Dollar Holler? Was it a hit, or miss?
It is nice to know that the hotel accommodations worked well for you, and that everyone was so welcoming at the local restaurants.
Thanks sharing your trip with us! ;D
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HDH is an absolute hit with my youngest. He will be three in a few days and is over 36" but he can easily spend a couple hours at a time in there. My mom took him over to that while we rode bigger rides with daughter and mom sat at the entrance while he ran and ran through the nets, then he would occasionally walk over and grab her hand for the carousel. He doesnt really care for the swings or the sand play area and there wasnt a storytelling going on while he was there. Daughter is almost 5, and she will go through it a couple times with him but isnt entertained for long periods of time.
Another thing I wanted to mention about the rides. Some of the ride ops spend more time chatting with each other than engaging guests or moving things along. Just throwing that out there for the PTB.
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you know saloon, I have been there (HDH) a couple of times and that appeared to be true to me too. (talking). I dont have little ones anymore, so i thought maybe i was being critical (not in marys time), But you verified what i have been seeing.. too much talking, not enough (kids) time.
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I wish that the citizens in HDH were more engaged and a little "characterish", but I was actually meaning at PK.
FITH employess are wonderful and seem to know that they are part of the experience, TNT was fine the employees moved everyone quickly and efficiently they smiled and seemed to enjoy it. PK was just different, they were very much absorbed in talking and joking with each other and not engaging to the riders at all.
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We went to SDC yesterday the 5th figuring crowds would be light. They projected 9,000 which I don't think was hit. Small crowd with small lines at all rides. I talked to a couple of citizens who told me that they keep missing their projection numbers day after day (under). I guess the economy has a pretty good hold on the old city this year.
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PK was just different, they were very much absorbed in talking and joking with each other and not engaging to the riders at all.
I concur, I have felt this was the attitude for some time. They don't engage the guests in conversation, PK was also the worst offender of playing off theme music in the Q.
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It is the "kids" they are hiring, and obviously not training properly.. to The hired help it is just a summer job!
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Unfortunately, management probably hires the ride operators based on ability to secure a harness rather than interacting with guest.
Perhaps Silver Dollar City could work on this issue by assigning at least one experienced ride operator to also handle guest interactions, and character development.
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Unfortunately, management probably hires the ride operators based on ability to secure a harness
and they have started really being rough with people. never fails they always come back by after the harness is secure and smash it down on a few people. i understand why they do that but still..
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great review saloongal! very informative & kept me excited. :)
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Well, the attitudes of the young kids working on park mirrors society at large...I can say this honestly...when my generation worked on park we took pride in working at SDC and very much enjoyed the guest interactions and playing characters from the 1880s. We were excited about working for the best company in town and did our best each day to provide a good time at work for guests and employees.
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Now I can not speak for PK but the last couple times we have been to the park the ride operators have been great with interacting with us and my little one. I can account for the small rides at GE,FM,GG,FIH,LROFO,and most other. I wonder if sometimes it has to do with the amount of people they have in the line
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Also I am assuming that the park does hire extra ride operators for the summer months? I am just guessing, and perhaps my assumption is wrong. If that is the case however, then that is probably the major contributing factor. To them it's just a temporary summer job to pay a cell phone bill.
My last experience was probably neutral. None of the ride operators really captivated my attention, but they did their job effectively, and without much fuss.
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Now I can not speak for PK but the last couple times we have been to the park the ride operators have been great with interacting with us and my little one. I can account for the small rides at GE,FM,GG,FIH,LROFO,and most other. I wonder if sometimes it has to do with the amount of people they have in the line
Agree whole heartedly with you. The ride ops in the GE are outstanding. THe guy who does the "wee oo weee oo" sounds gets my kids rolling with laughter, the people back there know what their target audience is and they play to it. FITH has some of the best ride ops and the do a particularly good job of staying in character, FM same thing. I hope I didn't over generalize my statements, I should have been more direct about where I noticed the problem.
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AND if you think about it most of the operators at FITH, GE, FM are seasoned help. As well as the Train. And the saloon.
Seems like the younger crowd works at PK,WF,AP,TNT........ hmmm? maybe we are onto something here
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The ride ops in the GE are outstanding. THe guy who does the "wee oo weee oo" sounds gets my kids rolling with laughter,
Oh, I know who you're talking about! He was operating the elephant ride when I was last there. I was enjoying his banter to the kids on the ride while I was filming my friends on the regatta.
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The ride ops in the GE are outstanding. THe guy who does the "wee oo weee oo" sounds gets my kids rolling with laughter,
Oh, I know who you're talking about! He was operating the elephant ride when I was last there. I was enjoying his banter to the kids on the ride while I was filming my friends on the regatta.
I knew exactly who you're talking about too! Last time we were there he was running the carousel at HDH, first time I'd seen him outside of GG.
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I'll keep this short. We arrived at the park last Friday at 3:00, had a blast, rode a few rides with my daughter. I rode Fire In The Hole for the first time in thirty years! Fun. Came back the next day at opening, stayed all day. Boy, was it hot!! So hot that the blacktop was bubbling up!! We paced ourselves, riding for a while, shopping for a while. We went to see the dog show, it was great! The only bad experience we had was at the Lucky Sliver Mine Restaraunt, and it had nothing to do with the food or employees. Some kid was actually picking up pieces of chicken in the buffet line, tasting them THEN PUTTING THEM BACK!!! His Mother seemed ok with this, but it obviously grossed us out completely.
After we lost our appetites, it was back to fun time. We spent a lot of time in the woodcarving area. That's something I'd really love to get into. We bought just a few souvenirs this time. All in all, it was another wonderful trip.
One side note: We ran into the undertaker (Mr. M. Balmer) again. This man is a HOOT! Whatever he is being paid isn't enough. We saw him as another (speaking) character earlier in the day and he was the most talkative, upbeat, fun person I've met in a while. What a joy it was to run into him again and get my daughter's picture with him.
(http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff92/pintfull/SDC-FantasticCaverns2011727.jpg)
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Thanks for the trip review Tony!
It sounds like you, and your family had an awesome visit. Make no mistake about it, the temperature outside is hot! However, if you must be outside, you might as well be at Silver Dollar City.
I’m sorry to hear about the gross kid at the Silver Mine Restaurant, and I am especially disturbed to hear that the mother was completely condoning it.
It also looks like you met Terry Sanders, and you are right he is a hoot! By far the best character actor there in my humble opinion. He is always full of surprises, and you never know where he will pop up next, and which character he will be. Just a genuinely great guy.
Thanks for sharing your experiences with us! ;D
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congrats on your good trip! ;D thanks for the review!
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Sounds like you had a good trip...back to the help at the rides...we had good experiences during our two weeks at the park...The best though is "ROACH" at the Lost River...He is hilarious, always has a smile on his face, and loves his work...He's always singing some song or cracking some joke...He even worked it out to where he rode the Lost River with us upon our request...He used to work at the Powder Keg and did a great job there...I guess he was moved to the Lost River due to his personality to sprucen things up...He told us that he worked at Celebration City before it closed...He really liked that a lot because he said it was small enough that you knew every employee that worked there and they were all like family...He said that's not the case at SDC
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He really liked that a lot because he said it was small enough that you knew every employee that worked there and they were all like family...He said that's not the case at SDC
As much of a family as the Silver Dollar City employees are, there are so many varieties, and types of unique jobs there. It’s any wonder why there would be certain clics here, and there.
The ride operators work along each other all day long. The character actors work along each other all day long. The show performers work along each other all day long. The restaurant workers work along each other all day long, and so on.
So in a way, Silver Dollar City is more of a neighborhood family, rather than a household family.
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We went to SDC yesterday, July 13 for an adult trip. Thankfully, the showers really cooled down the temperatures. The only problem was that several rides were down due to weather related issues. I never did see PowderKeg running, but we arrived at opening and left at about 1:30. We did get a ride on Wildfire and FITH. The Fireman's Cemetery was open when we were there.
We visited several shops and had a hot dog and corn dog for lunch. I also tried a bloomin' onion. The flavor was good, but it was difficult to eat since they don't cut all the way through the onion like at Outback. I had to hold it on my lap at the time (avoiding a rain shower), so it was difficult. I don't think I would get another one.
The shows really weren't appealing. DH doesn't really like the saloon show, and I didn't want to sit through another dog show. The Wallendas also didn't seem worthwhile. We did stand outside the Cajun Connection for awhile. I guess I'm still working through the SDC humdrums, but it was relaxing and peaceful.
We hope to make an evening visit for Moonlight Madness soon--also kid-free. I may consider bringing the kids in October--lol.
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Thanks for the trip review StaceySue!
I am glad you had a good time. The regional rain has been a huge heat relief lately! Although the lower temperatures are nice, it has brought some thick humidity with it. Either way is still better than the one hundred plus degree weather!
I wonder if you had a fluke Bloomin' Onion, or if they are all made that way? If you are willing, you could always send Silver Dollar City a suggestion about how you like them made. Who knows, they may seriously consider a change.
A lot of the shows at Silver Dollar City are hit, and miss. Either they are appealing, or they are not.
We hope to make an evening visit for Moonlight Madness soon--also kid-free. I may consider bringing the kids in October--lol.
That's pretty funny! Kids are a blast, but every now, and then we all deserve some kid free fun! :D
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We attended SDC this past Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. I'll have to agree on the onion as well. Even sitting at a table by the waterfall, we had a hard time eating this thing because it is not cut through. By the time you pull it apart, the batter is gone. I think the big problem here is that they leave the core of the onion. It was really a mess and I'll not be getting another one. The temps were pretty hot but between all the shade and the shops, it was certainly do-able.
The saloon show seemed to be shorter for some reason. The dog show was pretty good and the kids enjoyed it. Plus, it was a feel good moment when you learn that the stunt dogs were all rescued from shelters. The Wallendas where alright. (Again, the kids liked it)
All the rides were going full blast and still say they refridgerate the water on the River Blast ride! LOL. My goodness that water is cold when you get shot in the back!!!! Crowd level was moderate. We never rode Lost River because the line was so long, but lines for the other rides were pretty short and not much of a wait.
The biggest problem we had was the trams. They really need to rethink the logistics because after a long day in the hot city, the last thing I want to do is stand in the sun waiting to board a tram! We left aroung 4pm and the three trams they were running were in a convoy back to back. If they would keep these things spaced out correctly, there would be much less waiting to board. I believe it was Monday, I ended up helping the staff move the fence around to handle the amount of people waiting to leave. Again, the trams were all in line and were loaded so we had to wait until they made the complete circuit so we could be picked up. They REALLY need to monitor this more closely to aviod the pile ups.
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You mentioned lots of interesting points Dewey. If more, and more people are not a fan of the onion preparations, perhaps Silver Dollar City will hear from those people, and consider an adjustment.
I wonder why the Saloon Show was shorter? Unless it was just such a great show that it seemed shorter. :) The other Kids Fest shows don’t do much for me either, but if the kids love them, and are happy, then that’s just fine.
I never knew that they refrigerate the water at River Blast. If that is the case, then that is probably the best way to cool off at Silver Dollar City. ;D
I hate to hear about the long wait times with the trams. Unfortunately, that is becoming a regular occurrence. In an ideal situation, management would be on top of the problem, but it could have been an oversight, or poor planning. If you are willing, you should contact Silver Dollar City, and voice your concerns. The squeaky wheel gets the grease!
Thanks for the trip review Dewey!
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Refrigerate the water at RiverBlast? I'm sure somebody was joking. That would be huge cost. If you are hot and dry...and the water hits you in the back, I'm sure it FEELS as if they refrigerate it. :)
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I know this kinda late but thought I would go over my visit from last Sunday the 10th. I will say this first there have been very few times that I have been disappointed with SDC but there were something things I saw and found out that I was a disappointed.
Sunday started off good got there around ten and parked in the preferred parking and was talking with the attendant a he was saying they were not estimating alot of people at the park that day which is nice sometimes when you are there. We had breakfast at the Mill which was very good what I thought was very nice was that they had the buckets with the quotes on it turned off and my son had mentioned to me and one of the ladies heard him came over and told she would use some magic and get it turned back on. When she turned it on he was thrilled and would not stop talking about it the rest of the time we were eating. When we left I was talking to the cashier and she was saying that so for this year attendance was down and that most of the estimates that they were making each day had been off.
We did run into the sheriff who after my son asked was deputized and joked around with him from a few minutes. The time these guys spend with the kids is just great it makes for a great experience.
After that we headed over to the flooded mine all was working very well but I wish the one seen where the miner says I am getting out of here no mater what would match up with the explosion and when he presses the detonator. All the rest seemed really good.
After the flooded mine went on the train. This is where I say my first disappoint went as we were traveling through the woods somehad set up some bright yellow flood lights. Granted these maybe needed for something but at least cover them up I believe the expression is NOT IN MISS MARY'S TIME. The hold up was good but for some reason lately the last couple of times they have cut short the entire skit. Which I do not understand since the station had not been that full when we came back anyway.
After that we had decided to get something to eat since it was so warm we headed to Big Jack's Sandwhich shop. Not it had been awhile since I had been in there but after I sat down I noticed something was different. Well before you would go up to the counter and they would make your sandwhich right there ,now I was told because people complained how slow it was(It's Silver Dollar City it suppose to be slow) they make all the sandwiches in the morning and they do not grill anything anymore also so no Philly cheese sandwiches. I was talking to one of the workers and she was telling me how disappointed they were of the change. I am sorry but they need to change that back. If I want a premade sandwhich I will go to quicktrip.
We also visited GG which looked good but there were a couple pieces of equipment that were not working. Again I know things break and maybe it just broke that day but was kinda disappointed in seeing that.
Last we visited GM again this is one thing I did not think that I would every say much about but was disappointed with a couple of things. First when you first enter you walk through a hallway that tilts back and forth that was not working. Next I noticed that they now have security cameras set up in the rooms. I am sorry but these things stick out like a sore thumb. If you need to have them that's fine but at least do a better job of hiding them.
I will say any day that I get to visit SDC is a good day but sometimes it is disappointed to see this stuff to where you wonder who is walking the parking looking for stuff like this.
I think a good idea would be to hire a couple of up to walk the park on occasion and report back about thing that need to be fixed or at least placed better.
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One last thing in GM I am pretty sure that the pool table ball never hit anything and made it perfectly into the corner pocket. Not so much anymore.
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all valid point jmc... I was GREATLY dissapointed with jacks shop also, will not eat there again. yes premade sandwhich... go to quick shop.... BUT I can tell you this the philly sandwich is now being made down by lake silver..... Oh man!! I think it is the dockside grill... great sandwich.
hopefully your next trip will be better..
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I am sure I will. Any day at SDC is a good day to me. Just kinda concerning at times the changes they make. They look at the big picture which I understand is important but it is the the little details that makes SDC what it is. Also when you hear the citizens unhappy with the changes you start to wonder who listens since some of these guys have been there a very long time.
Ok I will get off my soap box
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jmc....same here. I was there Sunday as well and noticed the same things you did. I just thought my post was too full of "gripes" so I cut them short. Yes GG has several items not working and I as sad to see GM's tilting room not tilting.
Folks I WAS joking about the water in RB. I tell my kids when we are waiting in line when the boats are being filled with water from the top that the water comes from ice machines. Then when they get hit with it on the ride they believe me!
I did forget to mention that RB was shut down Monday afternoon for a short time. Never did hear why it was shut down, but they were running the boats several times through without any people on them. Finally one of the operators got into a boat and made a pass, then they opened back up.
When we left Tuesday, we were in HH and I asked one of the ladies there if they sold the spread they put on Big Jacks Sandwiches and she acted like she didn't know what I was talking about. Strange........
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I assume you mean their specialty, the Big Jack. It is a classic New Orleans Muffuletta with salami, ham, mortadella( a cured Italian sausage/ salome), provolone cheese and a homemade olive spread.
Is this the "spread" you mean?
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That's it. Good stuff, but they don't see it in the HH. They should.....
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I am a big fan of Italian Giardiniera , but not a big fan of green olives. That is my only reason for avoiding the Muffuletta at Big Jacks...Otherwise I'd be all over it! Dewey is it very "olivey"?
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well....sort of. But whatever else is in it makes up for it. I'm not a big fan of olives either, but that stuff is tasty. I was just wondering what it would be like on a plain old ham and cheese sandwich.
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Hubby and I went to the city on 7/14. Got there just after opening. Used the coupon for the apple turnover. The nice lady in the shop cut it in half and put apple butter on it -- very tasty! Looked in some of the shops and ended up at FITH. Had to wait about 15 minutes to ride. Seemed like there was less music than usual during the ride.
Then went over to the Opera House for the Wallendas show. Show actually started 15 minutes early with a warm-up act by the emcee. The Dancing Gauchos were pretty good as was the hula hoop woman. The aerial artist on the hoop was okay. But the Wallendas were fantastic! From where we sat we could see their facial expressions and hear them talk to each other during the act. Was a very entertaining show and one of the best we've ever seen at KidsFest.
Ate some more using our coupons and went to the Boatworks for the Pure Heart show. The Dockside Theater and the Riverside Playhouse were both dark that day (guess there were less shows in order to pay for the Wallendas). Went to the Flooded Mine and it was my lucky day -- I hit several of the big point targets and set a personal record -- 409,500 points! My husband usually beats me substantially but he has never had a score higher than 250,000. I was so excited! ;D
After that we rode TNT and left about 1:30. Was starting to get really hot and we needed to go to Springfield to take care of some business. Enjoyed my visit but wish we could have stayed the rest of the day to ride the water rides.
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Thanks for the trip review biscuitcreek! :)
A part of the day at Silver Dollar City is always better than no day! It sounds like you, and your husband had a great time. I am glad to hear those coupons are really coming in handy. Just talking about apple turnovers makes my mouth water! :P
In reference to Fire in the Hole, are you saying that the theme music was less noticeable, or that the sound effects, and the music was not there as much? Perhaps they had a speaker, or two out. ???
I am glad to hear the Wallendas are really making a splash during Kids Fest this year. I have yet to hear an overwhelmingly negative review of their act.
Way to go on the high score at the Flooded Mine! I usually get too distracted to hit the really big numbers. All in all it sounds like a good day trip. 8)
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Hey all, With all the family has been through lately we decided to get out of town and try to have some fun, and were else to do that but SDC. Actually the quick day trip started out with my brother in law calling and asking if he and his girlfriend could take the kiddos down for the day on Sunday July 17th. My wife then decided that since both she and I were off from work that day that we would all just go as a group. We left our home in Columbus Ks. a little later than we expected which ended up putting us arriving at the City at 10:30 insted of 9:30. Crowds weren't tobad and we were able to get into the park pretty quickly even though we were parked near the stop #3 pick up location. Got in super quick with season passes in hand and were on our way to have some fun. First stop was Half Dollar Holler for the kids. All seemed to enjoy themselves and I was glad to see the carousel was back in operation. Next the kids and I took a quick stop in the wood carvers building and the glass blowing factory while my wife broke out the baby food to feed the baby. Then it was off to ride the River Blast. I stayed on dry land to take the family vacation pics and to watch the little one, but everyone else had a good time getting wet and drenching all the land lubbers. Then it was off to the Lost River. Being that it was already in the upper 90s the ride was a refreshing way to cool down. After the Lost River it was time to fed our faces, so to the Rib House we went. Loved the pulled pork sandwhich, as it was as good as always. Family then decided to break up into two groups and check out different parts of the park. The wife,and I and our kids headed down to the Gyser Gulch area and let the kids run wild while we had ourselves a sit down. Once the kids had there fill of GG we headed up to the Grand Exposition area, were the kids were able to get in on all the rides without much waiting time. We then decided to get out of the heat and went in to the Red Gold Heratige Hall to watch the Stunt Dog Show. Before the show they were playing some music and my nephew was jamming out in his chair so some one suggested that he get up and dance so he did. See the video herehttp://youtu.be/jaFIAbp3mWk (http://youtu.be/jaFIAbp3mWk)
We had a blast watching him, and a nice lady came down to him after it was over and asked if she could give him a dollar. She said to him" You know when you come to a show you expect to pay for good entertainment, and that was some good entertainment." He was very pleased with himself i can tell you.
We then met up with the rest of our group and hit the Lost River again before heading up to the American Plunge and Grand Fathers Mansion. This brought us to about 6:00 at night and we decided it was time to head out. After leaving the park we headed up to Springfield and hit Lamberts for supper. Took us about 20 minutes to get in but it was well worth the wait. After supper we headed home and arrived back at the house around 10:30. We definately filled up our day with fun and I think that it was a fun that we all were in need of with all of the uncertainty that has plauged us lately, and SILVER DOLLAR CITY is a great place to unwind.
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Great story, bobber! Sounds like a nice trip to forget your problems!
Hey, you might have a real star there! Chaplin performed when he was a wee one and people through coins at him. Maybe yours should dance in a chair more often! :o :D ;)
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Thanks for the trip review bobber!
It sounds like you, and your family had a fantastic day trip which is just what the doctor ordered so to speak. I’m not sure if it is the heat, or what, but the crowd levels seem down this summer. Which is great as a visitor, because you are not bumping shoulders all day long.
First Half Dollar Holler, then River Blast, then Geyser Gulch, then Grand Exposition, and finally topping it off with the dog show. What a great day for the kiddos!
Your nephew really knows how to jam out! I am sure lots of people got a kick out of his pre-show entertainment. I love the story about the lady giving him a dollar for his hard work.
Good choice on lunch! Pulled pork sandwiches are always a favorite of mine when I visit Silver Dollar City. Even better choice on dinner! Lambert’s is a great place to unwind after spending an entire day full of adventure.
Wonderful trip review, and cannot wait to here about more good times you, and your family have. :)
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Was it a silver dollar?
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No unfortunately it was just good ol' American green. Sure would have made it even more memorable had it been a silver dollar.
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Funny vid bobber.
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Last Friday, we hit the parking lot about 11:30 am and cleared the HH about Noon. Decided to try the Springhouse for Italian food to begin the weekend and were quite pleased with the quality and atmosphere.
Then it was down the hill to the Opera House to see the Wallendas (with a side trip for the boys to do FitH first--the music was loud and clear outside, and the cemetery was open). Everyone enjoyed the Wallendas although I don't think MY heart could have taken much more of the high-wire act. When the guy called out "Careful, Mom!" I almost fainted. "Mom!"?????
The boys then did LRotO while the wife shopped at Dugans Trading (bought a sundress).
We headed over to the RG Hall for the Stunt Dog show--a dog-loving family are we!--and then hit the Toy Shop. (Editorial: I really wish they'd ditch the Walmart quality toys, not to mention the noisy ones!)
We intended to do a Saloon show, but the a/c broke, and they cancelled the last one of the day.
Then we wandered back to the Rib House for a really good supper. By then we were about half an hour from closing, but we managed to catch the last train ride of the day. Because some local thunder had delayed things around 5 or so, the narrative was a bit abbreviated--Ma got left out of the skit, too--but the ride was still fun, and the citizens were very much trying to give a good last performance of the day.
We bought a couple of cookies at Eva & Delilahs’s on the way out, and then it was off the hotel for some rest!
On Saturday, we got to the Park about 8:15 and waited patiently about 12 feet from the head of the line at the entrance. First stop at 8:30 was Molly’s for a GREAT breakfast buffet. We caught the opening and then we headed down Homestead Ridge to listen to the Homestead Pickers. We talked to them after the show and bought a couple CDs. Turns out they know a group that our family does some period music with at Civil War and Living History events.
We stopped at Granny’s to pick up a supply of Lye Soap—we use it quite a bit; it works as advertised!—and then did the leather shop and Mountain Outfitters. My wife got a new belt, and my son ought a backpack.
Then it was down the hill for FitH again for the wife and the younger boy. When they were done, we caught the first Saloon show. We ended up buying the pics of the saloon girl embarrassing the boys. ;-)
We walked back up the hill—hey! We needed the exercise!—to go to the Pizza Buffet at the Reunion hall, but the line was about as long as the one for LRoTO, so we instead circled down to Aunt Polly’s—yeah, yeah, I know: by the time we got there, we’d probably have been eating pizza ;-)
Then it was HOT, so the younger boy did LRotO again, and both did the River Blast, one in a boat, the other on the shore, both very wet. My wife also browsed in the Mercantile.
Then it was time for the train (more complete narrative this time, but Ma was still left out) and the FM (decent sound quality) and a visit to love my country (where my older son bought some pins and stickers of the 82nd and 101st AB, for my dad fought in both units during WWII).
Back up top, we decided to try pizza again after watching the log hewing for a while, and there was no line at that point (The pizza was blah). Afterwards, we hit the General Store and Jepp’s, where my wife bought a light top to go with the sundress. The younger boy got a marionette, and it was then time to leave.
We got a box of cinnamon rolls at Eva & Delilah’s for Sunday morning breakfast at home, and left the lot for home a 7:00, getting home 2 hours and 15 minutes later.
Some general impressions: Friday was busy; Saturday was CROWDED. The heat made most folks just a bit crabby. We escaped just as the nighttime crowd was coming in for the beginning of Moonlight Madness and as the quality of the music was degenerating. The shows were all great! I tried to give my older son to Mr. M. Balmer for measuring, but the hard-headed teenager wouldn’t stand still long enough ;-) he was creeped out by Terry’s eyes—easy enough to believe! Most of the citizens were in good form, a few seemed harassed by the crowds and blunted by the heat, all perfectly understandable. A little bit of thunder shut things down both days, but no real hardship for us. The clouds brought some most welcome cooling. All in all, a great time! If the mechanic leaves us some cash after getting some car repairs this week, my wife and I are heading back down this Friday for a couple days at the city without the boys and a Jacuzzi in the hotel room ;-)
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WOW!!! now thats a trip review!!
sounds like all went well for you, congrats.
thats great about your son buying the pins. Too many americans forgetting about what our freedom really costs us all!! THANKS TO YOU VETS!!! ;D
I would like to know why they have dropped "mom" from the train robbery. Make the rider shorter? offended somebody? what?
Thanks for the great review! good luck this weekend with the jacuzzi!!! ;) ;)
Oh yea! and good luck with your trip back to the city too!! ;)
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I have been to SDC 10 times this season and have not written a review even once.. I am really bad at reviews. But I looked around on here today and noticed no one has mentioned that the Copper Artist is gone. He has taken ill and his wife had been doing it by herself. She said she was not able to do it on her own and has closed up shop. I was wondering what we here on the fan site think should go in that spot next. I personally think the dulcimer shop should move there.
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Made my first trip to SDC in three years on Monday. Having read some of the previous forum discussions on here I kinda knew what to look forward to. However once in the park that all went out the window because I was having too much fun just being there again. I loved it!! My five yr old son was finally old enough (or big enough) to ride most of the rides I like to ride (the big roller coasters are too much for me, give me headaches.) I thought he would be all about the big kid rides but it turns out he wasn't. lol He rode everything at least once (he can't ride ES, WF, and GS) couldn't get him on PK but I can't blame him I don't like that one either. Anyways FITH we rode twice and I noticed the changes...the music was loud and the new scenes looked pretty good but what I noticed the most was the amount of water they were using in the splash down. It was a lot and it was great....I do hope they can find a way to keep that fixture because I loved it! I have a slight gripe with AP, the ride was fun and I got wet but my kid was scared of the LOOONG dark tunnel. Can't we do something in there? I mean there used to be little scenes in there now there is nothing and I kept having the feeling that something was gonna jump out at me lol. There was also nasty brown foam and sudsy looking stuff circulating in the "whirlpool" scene and the guy's head was totally gone, it was a little gross and weird lol. They water was nice and cold though and felt good! My brother talked me in to riding the Giant Swing for the first time, I opted out the last time I was there. It was terrifying!! Yet it was fun, I screamed the entire time! I have to admit though that the best time the whole family had was on River Blast! We were drenched to the bone after that! A lot of fun on that ride. I got a lot more (I mean a ton more) wet on the River Blast than on LROTO. Kind of let down by the lost river, didn't get hardly wet at all. Still fun though!! We rode the train after that, that was one of the best trips on the train. The hold up scene was as I remembered it, nearly word for word. However the kid playing Alphie was GREAT, very cute job! He really interacted with the crowd and the conductor forgot what day it was and "lost it" and Alphie's "mom" claimed him and had the whole group doing impromptu, very funny! It was all they could do to hold it together to get through the scene. It was great! I did notice that the roof of the trains are showing their age, the wood is bowing and rotting in places under the red paint. But I easily looked past it and had fun. I was also a little dismayed by the Cajun Connection show, it was so short and no where near the production it used to be in the Riverfront Playhouse. It was still good and we bought 2 CD's. It's still the only show I will watch. It was almost 8pm when we finally made it out of the park and we got there just after opening ceremonies. I feel like I didn't get it all in. That's the trouble with only doing a one day trip this year. Didn't have that feeling when we had the passes. Maybe with the kids getting older (hopefully my 2 yr old can ride more next yr) we can buy passes next season. I knew I missed it but didn't realize how much. It's always been one of my fav places on earth. The drive up from Springdale, AR seemed much faster now with all the new roadways they have built. We didn't eat in the park, we brought sandwiches and went to the car for lunch (which is fine because they food is too expensive and there's not much flavor to it) but we did get some alligator jerky up by PK and it was good! I love the help yourself ICEE stations, Coke ICEE's are the best!! They shops should stay open late with the park because we all got so caught up in riding that we missed buying some stuff we wanted to buy. There's always next time! All in all I had a blast and my son fell in love with the park, he cried when we left. :-[ Maybe next time I will feel better taking my youngest down into the cave (didn't want to have to carry him through it) and we can make more time for Grandfather's Mansion. I can't wait to go back, hopefully we can afford season passes next yr. SDC....we loved you!!
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Great review! I didnt see any Flooded Mine visit in that report! :o :o :o
Shame! :'(
Just joking! Maybe next time! ;)
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here you go andy! dont want to wonder about it.
We got in the boats, they sent us on our way,
we floated around and around shooting targets.
The "dummies" could still use new clothing!
music was the same as always..
All in all a nice relaxing cool ride
;D
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My buddy (who wanted to head to the City before he headed to Qatar) arrived around 10am, redeemed the $15 bring a friend coupon (Thanks SDC!!!) and made it into the park about 10:45. We stopped by Brown's to sample the Pecan brittle, and scouted out his purchases for later in the day. We rode Thunderation (front car) which was pretty good, and then headed over to Wildfire (back car). There was a group of several hundred "Champion 11" church youth groupers in the park, so the line was out of the queue and down the sidewalk towards the Saloon. So we headed to the swing instead. After this vomit inducing swing we decided to have some fun on the Silos. We rode Lost River, and honestly stayed pretty dry despite the ride, coupled with the sweltering heat and spray fans in the 40 min line. Next we headed to the Flooded Mine, and unfortunately our guns did not reset upon entrance into the mine/ ride.
After a little basic math, he won. Thankfully he will be defending our nation, not me-he is a MUCH better shot.
We stopped for lunch, and he wanted to find what he had two years ago...and then he chose something else. He had the Chicken Fried Chicken from the Potato skillet location, and I deviated from my usual bowls for lunch. I...being a BBQ fan, went for a BBQ sandwich. I was able to order a 1/2 Brisket, 1/2 pulled pork sandwich with a side of baked beans. Pulled Pork was by far MUCH better. For dessert we hit up the Taffy shop and my friend proceeded to by 1 lb and by the end of the day...only had 1/2 lb left! We, being mature , right minded adults, HAD to sample the strawberry wildfire. WOW was it hot! They also had a new flavor "Tiger Mix" which was a mix of cherry, peach, and maybe strawberry?. It was pretty good.
We hit FITH and got pretty wet in the splash at the end, then rode Powderkeg, then the log flume, and got soaked, and that was it for the rides. We walked through several shops, and stopped by the lisen to the knifesmith. This was a new face for me, and he was GREAT. Great story teller, biggest crowd I can remember at the shop, and he was funny and nice, unfortunately I did not catch his name, but if you see a new face, stop by! this guy is a great addition to SDC.
After the browsing of shops, and the purchase of fudge we left for the day. Overall saw 2 former students, and a co worker from here in StLouis!
Modern country music was playing during the day on several of the rides-Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, Leann Rimes, etc
After a 4 hour drive, including a stop at the World's Largest Rocking Chair near St James, we were home. Much more tired than when we left in the morning, but very thankful to have had a day like today.
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Great review, Rube....glad you enjoyed the day.
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;D.
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just wanted to detail so a.) I don;t forget the happenings, and b.) in case anyone wanted to know more about something we saw/ did.
No shows were in session this day unfortunately, we more than likely would have hit up the dog show, or high wire act to cool off, and see some great entertainment...but nope!
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just wanted to detail so a.) I don;t forget the happenings, and b.) in case anyone wanted to know more about something we saw/ did.
No shows were in session this day unfortunately, we more than likely would have hit up the dog show, or high wire act to cool off, and see some great entertainment...but nope!
You'll have to try to go back and catch the Lumberjack Show in the fall. I know I'm looking forward to it! Glad you had a great time and (hopefully) got more pictures for "Where in the City"!
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Yah, I had to stock up since I will not be back to the park again for the longest duration I have gone in nearly 10 years....I will not be back for a scheduled visit until the beginning of next season....No Fall Fest, No Christmas.....sad day leaving yesterday knowing that, but with everything else we have planned, I might have the luck of getting away for a day somewhere but I doubt it. Being an artist, I would have liked to have seen the street artists.
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Well, if they HAVE to have modern music, at least it was country. Was there any music that *wasn't* country? And it was during the day? Before 6pm & Moonlight Madness "officially" starts for the day?
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Just country. I heard it so loudly at Powderkeg through their sound system. Other areas had bluegrass playing as usual, but this was aroungd 1:00pm...NOT the Moonlight whatsoever.
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glad you had a good visit. will for sure check out the knifesmith next weekend.
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I'd prefer them not to play modern music at the rides before 5pm during MM, but at least it's country. Anyone been to SDC after 5pm during MM this year? Is the music still oldies and stuff like that?
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This has been the one question that I have been waiting for all year long! What type of music is being played at Moonlight Madness? :D
Hopefully someone can chime in soon with the official answer.
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"My buddy (who wanted to head to the City before he headed to Qatar)"
Small world Rube. My wife's relatives just came in from Qatar for a visit. They have lived there for a year now and are on vacation back in the U.S.
Also, just made it back from SDC on Tuesday. We had a great time at MM. The park was great and the rides had two to three cars running. Although the swing was just running one side making for a semi-long wait. We were disappointed that most of the food shops were closed down rather quickly, but I guess that is because they are only leased spaces by the park. Seems like a missed opportunity for additional income though.
I like MM and hope they extend it for future seasons. It is the only way the family will brave the July heat and crowds. I guess MM makes for a pale replacement for Celebration City for our family. We used to love to jump in the car and head down on a moments notice during July for the night time coolness.
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The food is run by the park to my understanding, and only select vendors are ope during the MM festivities. I was looking foreward to riding at night, but after 8 straight hours of riding, I was ready to sit for a bit (I am no spring chicken anymore apparently!) Maybe next year!
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Next we headed to the Flooded Mine, and unfortunately our guns did not reset upon entrance into the mine/ ride.
Seems like I heard before there is a trick you can do to make your gun reset but I can't remember what it is. Does anyone else know?
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Bang it a few times on the side of the boat, or drop it in the water?
Teasing! Just teasing. :)
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It’s good to hear the Moonlight Madness reviews! I haven’t heard anything overwhelmingly negative which is a huge contrast from last year’s pop music fiasco. :P
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Two options...
Shoot it at the sensor on each boat....
The other one I know of raises your score...but I am not telling that one!
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Two options...
Shoot it at the sensor on each boat....
The other one I know of raises your score...but I am not telling that one!
Sounds like a new game: "What in the Mine?" :D
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i am glad this years sounds so much better than last year..
MM last year had a lot of BAD reviews.!
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Well, the wife and I had a great kidless visit this past weekend. My trip review for the previous weekend was pretty lengthy. I just want to make note of a few impressions and some peculiar events here.
First thing Friday (12:30), we went to the Culinary School to reserve my Sweetie a slot for 11:00 Saturday. The poor ladies there had to really struggle to make it happen. I don’t know whether the computer was not working right, they were inexperienced, or something had changed. They tried looking my wife up by her season pass, but it didn’t work, so they had to enter everything manually. It was no big deal (if a little time consuming), but it seemed an inordinate amount of trouble when a handwritten name on a paper schedule could have done the same thing. My wife was VERY pleased with the experience on Saturday, and I got to sample the pizza and the pasta-thingie they made. Quite good! Love the school house, BTW!! Great showcase for the local craftsmen!
Poke Salad Mary’s needs a sign helping folks to find it ;-)
Watched some guest crafters at the woodcarver’s shop. One will be at Wilson’s Creek in a couple weeks, so we’re looking forward to seeing her work again when we can get away from our unit.
We ate supper by the waterfall behind the Lumbercamp. The ambient air temp must have been at least 15 degrees cooler than on the other side of the building. Great place to eat on a hot day (or any day).
It’s just TOO easy to fill a bucket at Phoebe Snapps!
Ate the buffet again on Saturday morning. It is great food and economical.
Some of the music at the gazebo at various times during the day gave us heartburn (and, judging by the expressions of the faces of the people running the sound in the booth, them, too). I can’t stand hip-hop under any circumstances (horses for courses), but it is just plain WRONG at SDC. Clogging? Great Stuff! Hip-Hop Dancing? Not so much.
Hannah’s just makes the best ice cream in the world! I refuse to admit in public (or, at least to my kids) how many scoops I had!
We saw the Mad Scientist show. What a hoot! GREAT way to get kids interested in something more substantial than iPods and computer games. Talked to David Willie afterward and got his card. The boys will have science projects to do this year, and we have some exciting ideas!
Late Saturday, a thunder shower rolled in, and, just as we were 5 minutes or so from boarding the boat in TLRotO, they shut down the ride, giving us the option of hanging around. Five minutes later, however, we all had to evacuate. So we spent the time at Hannah’s, the candle shop, and the furniture store.
I asked the guy in the furniture store if I got a free bookcase for finding the secret compartment without help, but I didn’t come home with one. Darn!
Spent some time chatting with a new engineer on the Silver Dollar Line as we waited for the rides to start back up. Nice young man. Turns out we know some of the same trains ;-) We managed to get on the first train ride after the all-clear (not counting the test run without passengers). One lady was very unhappy about the walking stick hanging onto the underside of the station roof, was convinced it would fall on her and, oh, I don’t know, eat her or something. Kept going on and on about it. I almost wished it would have dropped on her, just for the entertainment (not a charitable attitude, I know, but some people just need to get a grip).
When I gave Alfie some pocket change, he yelled, “Hey, Ralphie! It’s working!” Whole train load got a kick out of it.
Not knowing exactly when we’re gonna get back, leaving the park Saturday evening was a great deal harder than it had been the previous Saturday. Bad case of post-SDC Blues.
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sounds like a great trip//, But you forgot to mention anything about the........
wait for it.....
here it comes.....
you know i have to ask......
Jacuzzi???? ;) ;) :o :o :o
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:D Ooops! Sorry: the report SHOULD be complete, after all.
Well, it didn't pan out. By the time we called to upgrade our reservations, some family doing a reunion had snapped up all the jacuzzi suites :-[ :'( :-[
There wasn't even room in the pool for us! >:(
Oh, well: the IMPORTANT part of the trip was very nice.
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LOL!!! tough break! well better luck next time!!
Thanks for the complete review...
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Had a great time at SDC this past weekend, but man, the park sure needs to work on their communcation issues and bad-weather procedures.
Got to Deer Run Hotel on Friday night so I could get up in the morning and catch the first shuttle of the day directly to the park. This may be one of the last times we stay at this hotel though. Nothing was too terrible about it, but for the price, it doesn't seem like the place is as up to snuff as it used to be. It was noisy, a bit dingy, and the rooms still look like they haven't been updated since the late seventies. It's not like being close to SDC helps that much anymore anyway since you can no longer really walk to the park from the hotel. Might have to try Eagles Lodge next time instead.
Anyway, onto the park: Saturday started out fantastic. Waited around in the main square for the hour before opening and headed down to PK at the gate drop. Got in a few rides before the crowds got there, then headed over to FITH for a ride there. I noticed that the Fireman's Cemetery is open again, and the graves look like they've been repainted. One of the old theming pieces nearby, a stagecoach, has also obviously been fixed up. Noticed more new props in FITH, but they might have been from last year's renovations that I didn't catch. The ride looks better than ever, but it is definitely very bumpy still. Hope they can work on that next somehow.
After that I wandered over to Half Dollar Holler to see it for the first time. Man, I'm impressed as usual. I know we all miss the quite hollow that used to be there, but you've got to admit the tree houses are really well done and fit the area cozily without making it too crowded. The architecture is playful, but not so much that it jars with the surrounding buildings and scenery like GG. I really appreciated the wood-shingle roofing. It's also a heck of a lot bigger than I expected. Looks like the kids really enjoy it.
Headed over to the Grand Expo next. The place keeps looking better every year as the trees continue to grow out and make a new canopy. I still shake my head when I reach the back though - a little more spacing between those back 4 rides would have gone a long way to reduce the "Six Flags" feel back there, but that's an old complaint...
Rode TNT. Still ticked about them doing away with the backwards cars, and I'm also disappointed at how rough its gotten again. At this rate I wouldn't be terribly surprised if they took it out for the new GCII. It holds a ton of nostalgia value for me, but it's quickly becoming less "special" in the park's line up of rides. I noticed they gave it it's own theme song though.
Spent a lot of time around the old homestead, watching the new log cabin craft, petting animals, and talking to the guy at the steam-powered lathe who told me all about how it worked. They had a really sweet old blood hound stationed there as well who just loved to be pet.
The train ride has gotten better than ever IMO. Seems like they're putting more effort into the skit, and the new sound system sure works a lot better. Had great performances both times I rode.
Don't have too many other notes that I can think of at the moment as far as specific rides are concerned. However, I do have a major bone to pick with the park concerning severe weather. The first storm of the day started at about 6pm when the clouds suddenly moved in and a massive storm developed out of nowhere with torrential rain and a short burst of hail. I rode it out in the second story of the lumbercamp eatery. My mother, however, was taking a bus back into the park at the time. The driver stopped at the entrance and everyone stayed on of course, as the hail was just getting started. He waited there a few minutes, then he simply started driving off again. My mom had to stand up and shout, "excuse me, but aren't you going to let us off?", apparently he was kind of rude and clueless and acted like he couldn't see why a bus load of people with little kids didn't want to step out in a hail storm. When it turned 7 and the shops started to close, there was apparently some confusion a bit of anger as shop-keepers had to boot hundreds of people out of the shops and into the rain. Luckily it tapered off pretty quick, but it took the park over an hour to open the rides and attractions back up.
Once the sun dropped, people POURED into the park to ride rides. Wildfire's queue stretched all the way to the entrance of the American Plunge. I don't know how much of the station they had open, but either way, that's a heck of a queue for that ride. Somehow the other rides weren't near as bad though. I got in a couple rides on PK in the dark which were amazing, especially with the backdrop of a huge line of lightning and thunder that was rolling in. Some of the best rides I've ever had on it.
About 9:45, the rides shut down again as a second line of storms moved in, this time much larger. This is where it really struck me how odd it is that SDC still has little more than dingy queue fences at the front tram-drop off and not any type of shelter at all. Hundreds of people had to stand there in line for the trams and buses in torrential rain and very close lightning strikes. I ended up waiting under the little employee awning with a few other guests - that's the only shelter in the entire area after you exit the marketplace! In 50 years, have they not thought to put in a little shelter at the main tram waiting areas? I would have hated to see what would have happened if it started hailing again right then, with all the little kids around. There was a whole lot of cursing directed toward the park that night...
Sunday was a lot less crowded. Not much else to say about it. Both days were crazily hot though, probably my hottest visit to SDC. I was grateful for Tom and Huck's Riverblast, and once again sorely missed Splash Harbor.
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Nice review!
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Nice! sounds like a good trip for you,
sorry i missed you sunday morning, But had a little trouble getting motivated sunday morngin after doing driving to branson, and then doing 2 shows Maybe next time.
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No problem sanddunerider, there's always next time.
I got my photos up here: http://sdcfans.com/photos/feat/19/
I had to be selective since I took so many this time, but there's still 3 pages worth.
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Awesome trip review shave! :)
It’s good to know that with the improvements last year, and the recent renovations at the cemetery, that Fire in the Hole is here to stay for several more generations! As time marches on, you never know when a theme park will rip out a classic.
You brought up some really great points about Half Dollar Holler. From the beginning, I asked myself will it keep with the theme, and will it fit into an already crowded area? You answered both of those questions spot on. It is nice to hear that Half Dollar Holler is such a welcomed addition to the park.
Thunderation is definitely a classic. I couldn’t imagine them removing it anytime soon. It works so well for the area. Although, it is for sure Thunderation’s turn for some updates, and improvements. No question about it. I’m indifferent when it comes to the backward faces cars as I never rode them anyway.
You mentioned the train ride was better than ever, and even included a new skit. Could you elaborate? Someone mentioned a week ago, or so that the “ma” part was left out, and the skit seemed rushed. What was your in depth take on it?
In regards to your mother’s tram ride, perhaps the driver wanted to take everyone back to their cars figuring they didn’t want to go into the park anymore? :P
Also, I can understand the confusion with the shops, especially if it is raining. Most people probably don’t realize that everything but the rides close during Moonlight Madness.
And too, I agree that the Marketplace exit area needs a better shelter area. I suppose Silver Dollar City just assumes guest will stay inside the Marketplace until the weather passes.
Overall, it sounds like you had a great trip despite the rain! You took some great pictures. My favorite was of the squirrel that plopped flat onto the ground. :D
Thanks for sharing! ;D
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You mentioned the train ride was better than ever, and even included a new skit. Could you elaborate? Someone mentioned a week ago, or so that the “ma” part was left out, and the skit seemed rushed. What was your in depth take on it?
Thanks Ozark
The skit is the same as always, but with minor ad lib changes as usual. It never seemed rushed to me, though I never heard them do the "ma" bit. They did do a few other bits that were new though, can't remember them specifically. Overall the whole thing felt like it went at a natural pace and was clear, friendly, and fun - exactly as it should be.
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I think the tram waiting area could be much better, too. It's also miserable in the heat of the summer when the temps are high and the sun is beating down (NO SHADE) and you have to wait 30 minutes for a tram.
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Sorry I know this is kinda late
Went to the park on the Aug 5th.
Got there about 9am was not very crowded started off by having breakfast at Molly's as usually very good and not lot of people which was kinda nice. After breakfast went to the square for the opening ceremony it is nice and not often any more to go some where and have so many people still recite the Pledge of Allegiance. After that went walked down and was able to get on wildfire pretty quick. I think this was the first time that I had ridden it at the very front , that is a new experience. After that visited a couple shops and just kinda walked around and enjoyed the park. I did go on the train and as usually was very good. The robbery did not contain anything about Ma being on the train and only had 3 cars. Afterward I did ask the conductor and he said their were a couple issues. First the cut the skit a little short because of the heat and was trying to keep people from sitting on the train and station for only so long. Second apparently the engine was having trouble holding pressure so they did not want to stop for to long and that was the reason for only three cars.
After the train had a late lunch at Wagon Works I always kinda forget about that place food was very good. Then again I do not think I have ever had bad food at the park.
By this time it was starting to get a very warm. I was talking to the blacksmith and he was telling me that they were saying the asphalt was at about 120 degrees , though he said on Wednesday it had gotten to about 140 and that they actually stopped the rides due to the heat.
One thing I have to mention is that I visited the pottery store and had asked about the chances since my 9th anniversary is coming up to do a special vase and have a small inscription put on the bottom. The lady told me she was not sure but to come back and talk to to Jeff Walker who is the Master Craftsman. So after about an hour came back and talked to Jeff very nice guy and told me no problem he would be happy to do it and that he would do it himself. I could pay for it when it was done and pick it up in Sept. when we would be down there for our anniversary. I thanked him very much. How many places can you get to do something like that for you that is hand made. I have said it before and say it again Silver Dollar City has no comparison when comes to the people that work there.
After that I had one more mission I was wanting to find one of the small cork pop guns for my son since he did not come with me this time. After going to every store that normally I though would carry it I just could not find it. Finally I asked someone at the toy store that had worked at SDC for awhile since I thought some might not know what I was talking about. Apparently the last shipment that they had gotten was very bad and were breaking and because of this they were not going to get anymore. My reply is that maybe it had something to do with WHERE they were getting them (CHINA). I actually still have one from when I was little and it was made here and it sill works. Also I noticed that the old pioneer guns that they have are not even made of real wood anymore some kind of cheap plastic crap, very disappointed in this. So ended up buying a flooded mine shirt since that is his favorite ride granted that was made elsewhere but the choice are few.
Headed back to the condo and called it a good day.
on Saturday when back for moonlight madness got there about 8 pm parked in the preferred lot the lot guys were going so that was free. I had decided it may be 6 dollars to park there but I rather walk to the park now then take the non green tram. Anyway walked around the park mostly since the lines were just so long did not try to go on the rides. The only ride I almost went on was the giant barn swing but when it was our turn the lighting started so they shut it down. At this point thought it might be better to head out but first had to stop at Hanna's for a shake and then headed out. As I walked out the area for the tram was packed due to the rain that was coming. Another reason I rather walk, did get to see an impressive lighting show as I walked back and got very luck because as soon as I got in my truck it just poured. So for my first moonlight madness it was not to exciting since I did not get to do to much but i was kinda different walking around the park that late. I will try again next year.
All and all good times
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Nice. Sounds like a positive trip.
though break on the cork guns. ( no pun intended)
It never fails to amaze me how different the city looks at nite during OTC.!
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Sounds like you all had fun!! Can't wait to head back down this Saturday ( August 20th). Not looking forward to the long lines and possible crowded conditions that are being expected for that day, but still ready to get back.
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Like your new avatar, Bobber!
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Thanks, We had it taken back in April when we visited after our newest was born. Wife hates having her pic taken, but decided we finally needed to get a family pic taken and so we decided to have it done while we were at the City.
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Nice review jmc75. We were at SDC as well that day. We were also at the park Thursday, August 4th.
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Jeff is a great addition and does great work. If yu would like to see more of his work visit him here
http://www.bestofmissourihands.com/jeffwalker.htm (http://www.bestofmissourihands.com/jeffwalker.htm)
http://www.woodenstonegallery.com/artists/JWC.html (http://www.woodenstonegallery.com/artists/JWC.html)
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Here is a link to my Flikr account. Pics are from our day trip to SDC back in July. Couldn't get them to load to the site photo albumn so here is the next best thing. After the SDC pic are some pics of Dog Patch and the old Hee Haw Theater in Branson. Enjoy.lhttp://www.flickr.com/photos/robertburton620/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/robertburton620/)
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Really enjoyed looking through your pics bobber620. Had a lot of good shots!
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Great photos
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That's exactly how I remember Mutton Hollow. Wish I had taken more pictures as a kid. I never got to go to Dogpatch
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Saturday August 13th we visited the park with about 10 friends. Had more company than I did BAF's but I did have my $15 coupon from the times. As we were waiting in line for the others to purchase tickets a lady comes up and asks if we want 2 BAF's, says she can't give them away. Score! Since I already have 6, plus the 2 we picked up, and one of our guests was under 4, plus the coupon, we got 9 friends into the park for $32! Not 5 minutes later someone else comes by asking if we have any extra tickets. That struck as a little rude to say the least. I have no problem giving them away if I don't need them, but I wouldn't go to an amusement park (or anywhere else for that matter) and trying to "hustle" some free passes from paying customers. Anyhoo, in we go, it's about 10:30 and about an hour later than I wanted it to be. We split up in to about 3 groups, the teens hitting the rides and we went to the homestead and milled around a bit. Got to see the log hewer for the first time. Didn't say much, or really even acknowledge that I was watching him, but maybe that's just the way he is. I didn't start conversation with him either, so I'm not going to pass judgement. Took the small people thru grandpa's mansion, half doller holler, flooded mine, then a couple of us rode TNT while the others hit the magic show. Lines were surprisingly short for what I was expecting for a Saturday with great weather, and considering the way the parking lot and trams looked. Then we headed over to GE for some more small rides, while there I noticed ES was shut down. Stayed there about 45 minutes or so and it still was not running when we left the area. Got a snack there at the GE area and met up with the rest of the group. My wife and I decided to take the 2 smallest ones back to the campground about 1:30 (great to be a passholder and come and go as you please isn't it?) and the rest of the bunch returned around 4:30. They said PK had one train down and the line got horrendous, then they closed the whole thing for some reason. Also RB was closed the entire time they were there, said a park attendant was riding in one boat by himself when they were getting ready to leave, so maybe it was getting ready to reopen. Not a good showing for the rides that day, but everyone had a blast anyway.
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Sounds like you had a pretty good trip. I am hoping everything will be up and running for our trip down this Saturday( Aug 20) I am afraid though that the place is going to be pretty well packed,as I have it on good authority that a very large group of people will be descending on the park that day. How do I know you may ask? LOL . Well the St. Johns Hospital in Springfield is holding it's employee type get together at the City on the 20th so you will have that group of people( minus those how are working that day), plus I understand that they have this year elected to also loop in the employees of the St. Johns Hospital in Joplin, and all of there subordinate offices, and rural outreaches as well ,so there is another large group of people, plus the employees are allowed to bring members of their immediate families as well, so that on top of a normal business day for the City may end up making for an especially crowded day at the Park. Still hoping for a good day at the park though.
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"""making for an especially crowded day at the Park. Still hoping for a good day at the park though."""
Come on Bobber, you know any day at SDC is a GREAT day!!
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That is very true!!! Sorry lost my mind there for a minute. What I ment to say was "Even though it may be a very busy day, as long as you have your health, your family , and Silver Dollar City it is going to be a great day. " ;D
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;D ;D
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bobber -- we'll be there saturday too. we will have a newbie with us, & since the park is only open from10 - 6, we'll be hittin' it pretty hard. if ya see 4 people wearin' racin' shirts, thats prob'ly us! :D motel & car rental are already reserved. we stay at shady acre in branson west cuz of all the trees surrounding the place, its close to SDC, the people are nice, & the frogs croaking at night is priceless.
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Well i'll keep my eyes open. We are only going to be down for the day and bringing a nephew that has never been before so we will probably be pretty busy, but I will still keep and eye out. Have a good and safe trip.
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ya all have a safe & fun trip too, bobber. just hope the weather favors us all....
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I'm a bit late in posting, but I had a GREAT time at the City on August 10th. My parents were just asking for me to bring the rain with me from Florida and just like that...it rained! It cooled things off pretty nicely and I was able to enjoy cooler temperatures at the City.
I got there right at Opening. Actually, I was the first person on the square that day and spent the entire day taking photos (see link below). Didn't ride one attraction all day long, and just took my camera with me to soak in every creaky board and railroad tie.
I spent about 2 hours with June in the basement of the Candy Factory catching up and visiting with the family there. Ate lunch with Brad Thomas in the cafeteria, which I hadn't eaten inside of since I worked there. Even though I mention this at my own peril, I followed lunch up with a sandwich at Big Jack's. This might be my only complaint of the entire day, but has anyone been there lately? The sandwiches are all pre-made and now contain less meat and olive spread. Also, there is just something about picking your sandwich out of a cooler case that just doesn't seem "right" about it. I suppose it's more efficient, but honestly, we waited on our cashier (who was slow as molasses) which washed out any benefit of having the sandwiches as a grab-and-go.
I stayed all day and really just had a leisurely day without any elbowing, pushing, rude kids, midnight madness, basketballs, etc....I was SOOOO excited!!!!!
Got to see Copper for a bit too (but sadly missed the lantern tour)
Here's the photos
http://www.flickr.com/photos/skinnytie/sets/72157627458352602/
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BetaMike: Glad you had a great trip. Thanks for posting those photos. You have a good camera and good eye, too! I could almost smell the candles in the candle shop and the funnel cakes and popcorn on the streets. :)
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Even though I mention this at my own peril, I followed lunch up with a sandwich at Big Jack's. This might be my only complaint of the entire day, but has anyone been there lately? The sandwiches are all pre-made and now contain less meat and olive spread. Also, there is just something about picking your sandwich out of a cooler case that just doesn't seem "right" about it. I suppose it's more efficient, but honestly, we waited on our cashier (who was slow as molasses) which washed out any benefit of having the sandwiches as a grab
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Yeah I noticed that also last trip down there. Apparently people were complaining about the wait. I personally do not think one should be in a hurry if your at SDC anyway but I guess the majority rules on this one. I kinda compared it to a quicktrip
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I've actually thought about starting a thread related to big jacks...
When I was a kid (80's & 90's) I remember getting huge deli style sandwiches from that place along with really good pie. We were bummed when they either removed or greatly decreased the pie selection. Our last time in there (Dec of 2010) it smelled so terribly of a fryer in use that we went somewhere else to eat (we wanted some place inside to get out of the cold). My family loves fresh food and a deli style place really fits our bill. Sad to hear that they've gone to pre-packaged sandwiches. I hate to post anything negative about SDC, but this is one place that really seems to have gone downhill compared to how I remember it.
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JMC75 - I think that is what happened. When I worked at the City I was techinically a "Craftsman" but fell under the Merchandise Line of Business. If anyone knows anything about Mdse or F&B (food and beverage), then you know that nothing makes you smile like a streamlined process and improved bottom line. I do think that this category would fit nicely under the "Not During Miss Mary's Time" for sure.
Kentucky Optimist - Don't feel bad at all for thinking this. When I was a kid starting out at the City, I had such an opinionated view of how Heritage within the City needed to be maintained. Instead of hiding these thoughts, Aunt June actually encouraged me to write to the Director at the time, and express my feelings about growing up and the sense of loss I was feeling regarding all the "progress." I got the nicest letter back expressing the same feelings that I had and was ensured that Mary's vision will always be followed. My views were actually welcomed! I think the people that love the City the most, have the most critical things to say about it!
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Well, we had a somewhat odd trip. The park was supposed to open at 10am, we got to the square at 9:50am & the ropes we already dropped. It was also St. Johns Day?? They had given out alot of free tickets & we saw alot of people with Joplin shirts on. I asked a guy at the gate when we left, how many guests they had. He said 20+!! So i guess that means 20,000 guests! Thats ok though, we made the best of it even though we didnt get to see & do everything we wanted. The park closed at 6pm.
Ok, here we go. ---- Left our house at 5am, got our motel room & at the park by 10am. Went to Powderkeg first & was standing in line & they decided to add a second train. So, we went & rode FITH real quick, & then went back to Powderkeg. Line was alil' longer but thats ok. Stopped & got some ham & beans at Aunt Pollys because we hadnt ate since 5'ish. My fiance' & my daughters boyfriend rode The Giant Swing by theirselves because i didnt wanna ride that just after i ate. Got some ice-cream & strawberrys to settle the stomache. Hit The Flooded Mine & Thunderation. Went to the leather shop & my daughters boyfriend got a wallet, & my fiance' & i got some braclets, i've always wanted one from SDC. Did the cave tour next. And as we was walking around the square afterwords, we ran into Terry Sanders & took a picture with him. Talked with him for just for second & i mentioned this site & he said -- " oh, shame on you!" I had told him that we knew who he was. We went & got my daughter a sundress that she wanted, & left the park about 5'ish because it was H O T, crowded, & we wanted to beat the crowd out even though we had preferred parking. We had been up since 5am, & after a 4 hour drive & all day at the park, we was hungry! Rode the slick track go-karts, got some Andys custard & showed Juan around Branson alil'. And it started RAINING!! So we drove back to the motel nice & easy & got there about 8, watched TV for about 1 hour & passed out.... Got up between 5 & 6 am & headed home, & in the driveway buy 11am.
All in all? For it being VERY crowded we had a great time. Didnt get to show Juan everything there was to offer, but he said it was real fun. He enjoyed the nostalgic way the park is themed, ( he is from Florida ) his favorite parts were the Giant Swing & the cave. FITH got his attention because he didnt know what to expect, i had told him that Baldknobbers try to reach out & grab you. He fell for it!! I am glad my duaghter & him both had a good time.
I made alil' video of pics from our trip, some pics may be fuzzy, & i didnt take too many pics because i was trying to be Mr. Tour Guide all at the same time. I didnt wanna be rude & have to stop all the time. But, Enjoy anyways!! If theres no music it is because i just borrowed music from YouTube & its still downloading, sometimes it takes awhile.
See ya all soon!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4T1wB6Yast0
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wow nice video and looks like ya had alot of fun,
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WoW!! nice trip, sounds like 1 of whirlwind trips~! glad all went well, and the weather was decent.
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Hey How-do, I saw you went to Pizza By The Chef after your SDC visit. When I lived there, the Candy Factory kids would all go there and eat quite a bit. Was it still pretty good?
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We stop by Pizza By The Chef when we take our annual family trip. Food is good, and service is always good, it is never too crowded.
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Good to know it's still good. That's the first place I ever had a margherita pizza
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Sounds like you all had a good trip, enjoyed the video. Sorry didn't run in to ya while we were there but as you could see with all the people we would have been lucky to be able to find our own feet at times.LOL
Now on to our review. We were actually part of the chaos of the extra people on the park Sat. Aug 20. My wife works for our local hospital and as it is owned and operated through the Mercy hospital group that also runs the St. Johns hospitals we were grouped into the St Johns co worker day. Anyway to explain the chains being down at 9:50 when the park didn't open until 10:00, apparently some type of deal was made between the Hospital Group and the City to open the park an hour earlier to the St Johns group( people running around with the green armbands on). Also the park was supposed to remain open until 10:00 pm for the St johns group while closing to the general public at 6:00 pm. But the unexpected Thunderstorm cut that short.
So anyhow we left our home at around 8:00 am for the 2 hr drive from southeast Kansas to the park. We had a few stops along the way as we were showing some friends of ours that had never been to the "City" the way we normally take down to the park and ended up getting to the park at around 11:00. We were then directed to the parking lot on the east side of the entrance road in the area of Tram Stop #5 (for those that are familiar) We were actually pretty happy with the short amount of time it took for a tram to show up to transport us to the park,actually two showed up at the same time so pretty much everyone that had been waiting got picked up and only a few stragglers were left standing at the pickup point. We arrived at the Main Gate Drop-off area and quickly regrouped and headed to the turnstiles. Again I was pleasantly surprised with how quickly the SDC employees managed to get people through the lines and into the park. We ran into our first real bottleneck promptly upon reaching the bakery area right after leaving the turnstiles, but were able to navigate through the area pretty quickly. Once through the HH we went straight to Grandfathers Mansion, and as I stated in another topic thread we found the attraction open and operating. Upon leaving GM we headed down to HDH for the kiddos and then over to the Flooded Mine. The Line for the mine was across the bridge and extended out to almost directly in front of entrance to the train ride. We went ahead and got in line and jumped out only briefly to get some pics of the kids in the stocks in front of the ride. Once again we were very happy at the way the SDC employees kept the line moving and what we thought would be at least an hour wait time ended up only being about 20 min. After the FM we headed down to the Lost River where we were told that they had a 40 min to an hour wait ahead of us as the Red Flag was out on the operator observation platform that sits down by the Rib House restaurant. We again braved the line and were on the ride within 10 to 15 minutes.
Kids then wanted to keep with the being soaked to the bone theme and our group headed up to the River Blast ride. Line at this ride was about the same as the others and we waited only about 10 to 15 min before we were out in the shooting gallery of ground and boat based assassins. LOL . We definitely left RB totally soaked. We then headed over to the American Plunge. At the plunge, we had our first of disappointment of the day. I did not ride and stayed with a few of the children in our group that also didn't ride, and as we stood on the observation platform awaiting the opportunity to get some pics of our group screaming their heads off, we couldn't help but notice that the ride operators here were not filling the boats to capacity. Several came down with only one or two people in them. The line extended well past the entrance area where the split for wildfire and plunge happens and extended all the way out to the area with the lathe demo. I would have thought that,that would have given the ride operators a reason top fill the boats up and move more people through, safely of course, but they did not and thus we spent our longest wait here waiting over an hour.
We then headed up Cardiac Hill and to the Mine Restaurant for some much needed sustenance. Again we had a small line to contend with but were quickly seated and eating some wonderful food.
Took the kids down to Geyser Gulch next to let them run around a bit while the adults took a little break and sat down. Kids enjoyed themselves as the always do. Of course we had to hit the funny hat stand that sits outside the entrance to GG on our way out had way too much fun there, got a lot of great pics of the kids.
Headed over to the Grand Exposition area next and the kids and the kids at heart all rode rides in the area. As the park started to close down for the general public at 6:00 we started to move out of the GE area and back to other parts of the park when the second of our disappointments occurred. As we were heading past the kiddie coaster one of our group saw the Icee concessions area and walked over to get his SDC refill cup filled with an Icee. Being new to the park and having misread the sign that was located behind the cashier and in a somewhat covered. our friend began to fill his cup and was promptly met with a verbal tongue lashing from the cashier in the form of" NO! NO!NO! NO! YOU CAN NOT FILL THOSE CUPS UP WITH THIS PRODUCT ONLY SOFT DRINKS". Our friend tried to reason with the employee by explaining that he must have misread the sign and made a mistake at which she retorted with " Well what ever but you must pay for what you have in your cup at the large Icee price" Which was around $5.00. Our friend ended up paying the lady so she would settle down but was visibly upset himself. My issue was in the way the employee handled the situation and then charging someone the full price of an approx 32 oz drink when the cup used only holds 24oz. We left somewhat disgusted from that area but not before hearing the same employee scolding two more customers for doing the exact same thing our friend had done. In all my years of coming to the "City" I have never come across an employee that acted as this one did.
Our friend regained his composure after a quick smoke break and we headed out to ride the Lost River again, determined not to let the incident ruin our trip. Once we arrived at the entrance of LR we were informed that all the rides were being shut down due to in coming weather. Thinking that it would be a short wait we headed back up top the River Blast area so that our friends could allow their kids the chance to make wax impressions of their hands,when the storm hit and pretty much ended our day as we then made the decision to go ahead and call it a day and head for the Ozark Mountain Market Place and some quick shopping and out to the Tram pickup and finally our cars. Made it home after a quick stop in Branson West for a quick McDonalds Break and some gasoline at about 11:00 pm. All in all not a bad trip minus the two incidents with the second one causing us the most concern.
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Thanks everyone! Yes, the pizza was good, as always. My parents introduced me to that place 3-4 years ago. The last few times we have been there, they have had 2 guys in there playing guitars, it was pretty cool. Not crowded either till we was ready to leave.
My only complaint about the entire trip, & it has nothing to do with SDC. People will not let you out in traffic anymore while in Branson. After our go-kart ride, we wanted to turn left, about 20 - 30 cars went by before a older couple finally let us out. It just really surprizes me, its not like anyone is going anywhere to fast!! Aw well, life goes on..
Great review bobber!
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Boober, great trip! sounds like u had your hands full.
Glad all went well.
I have no comments about rude vendor ;)
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I'm so freaking excited about heading down to SDC this weekend (the 27th & 28th). I haven't been since early June! This will be my 4th trip this year, though. Also went in April and May.
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Well, were all excited for you!
Be sure to come back with a trip review, and pictures if possible! ;D
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The train in the Marvel Cave was broken...those who wanted to do the tour would have to walk out. I may have tried it if it was just me and my wife, but with two little kids... :) no way! We'd each have to carry one of them. We just couldn't do it.
Sorry. Very tired. More tomorrow. Here's a pic, though
Me, my son Owen, and Mr. Parnell
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/coalesce99/IMG_0818.jpg)
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great pic, we are headed to the city in a little bit for breakfast and do a walk-a-bout..
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Awesome picture! It's cool to see that you are continuing the family tradition. :)
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Cool man! Dig the ol'-school hat too.
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My son (in the pic -- though my two year old knows the song too) sang the Flooded Mine song to the prisoner who was guarding the railroad track. He and another employee were tickled to hear a little kid singing that song. (Aside -- didn't the prisoner who was bending the bars in the ride sing different lyrics???)
Also, my son Owen LOVES the tram. He calls it a "ram" (he's 5 -- he know's it's actually called "tram"), and he insists that we call it "ram" too. He gets mad when we don't.
Anyway, on Saturday we parked in lot 6 I think (the one right by the road there) and had to take the bus.
On Sunday, we got to take the tram, and we sat right up front. The tram driver was the spittin' image of Santa, and he and the boys had a great conversation :)
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On Sunday, we got to take the tram, and we sat right up front. The tram driver was the spittin' image of Santa, and he and the boys had a great conversation :)
He has been mentioned around here a few times. Word has it, that driving the tram is his summer job, and then he dawns the red suit in the winter. :)
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My wife and I went over to Branson this last weekend and definitely enjoyed ourselves. We took a very relaxed pace to everything to just try and have a refreshing weekend. We stayed at HomeStay and enjoyed ourselves there (already posted a review). We woke up late and got a late start heading to SDC Saturday, at which point we hit crazy traffic about the time we hit the Inspiration Tower entrance. I've hadn't seen it backed up like that before, but then again we always get there at park opening (and this is the first holiday weekend we visited). It was odd because it was backed up until we got to SDC entrance, and then no lines driving into parking. Weird. Still, we enjoyed our time then went back to HomeStay to watch the OU vs. Tulsa game open up the college football season, with an Andy's Custard break at half time. We tried Molly Mill's breakfast for the first time Sunday morning, definitely enjoyed that (hot SDC apple butter and biscuits - amazing). I was disappointed in the Southern Gospel fest talent, never really saw anyone we liked, so we mostly just rode rides and enjoyed the atmosphere. We did Showboat Branson Belle Sunday night which was awesome. Dinner was great, and the performers were very good. We even got to watch a fireworks show over the lake during "intermission". Overall, fun and relaxing stay in Branson. Went by too quickly.
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Every trip I've ever taken to SDC (and the Branson area) has gone by too quickly. . . . :-[ I wished I still lived there!
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You and me both Palallin! I wish that everyday, even though there would be challenges, and monotony just as any place, but I would love it there.
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Got home last night from another trip to SDC. Stayed at Homestay Inn, the kids have adopted Paige into the family.
Visited the city on Saturday and Sunday. Saturday arrived in time for the opening ceremony, rode Thunderation (no wait), then Wildfire (no wait), Powderkeg (minimal wait) and the Giant Swing (minimal wait). The city and the weather were beautiful. I loved all the extra craft displays. The only bad thing about the craft festival is that all the extra booths really tend to make the park seem extra crowded. That afternoon we went and saw “Headin' West.” It was well produced and had some cool special effects, but it does seem to be a bit geographically challenged. When we finished watching the show, we were going to ride FITH but the line was all the way out past the Fireman’s Cemetery. The line for the FM was backed up pretty good by that time as well. Stayed that night for GAC show at Echo Hollow. It was very enjoyable two highlights of the show for us were, “Cletus, take the reel” (My oldest son is a big Tim Hawkins fan and he is not really big into Country music, so this number really pacified him for the rest of the evening); and Jae McFerron's introduction of the Gospel music segment by saying “Some people call this Gospel music. We just call it the truth.” The Gospel music segment was pretty good...their rendition of “How Great is our God” was awesome, but the line-dancing to “Standing on the Promises” was a bit much for this Parson!
Sunday when we arrived on the park, the first thing we noticed was they had two fire engines parked by the tram unload area. They had their ladders extended with a giant American flag hanging between the two. We attended the church service on the park (How many theme parks have their own church services?...incredible!). The service was a little different because of the 9/11 anniversary. The service consisted mainly of Scripture readings and special music, including a couple of really beautiful violin duets.
We were not on the square for the 9/11 ceremony, but they broadcast part of it over the loudspeakers throughout the park, this included a moment of silence, the tolling of the church bell, and the singing of the national anthem. No shops were selling or rides running during the moment of silence. The silence was noticeable throughout the park.
Some of the new craft exhibitions were really neat, a chalk artist drew a vibrant rendition of the SDC axe/log logo on the blacktop, and they were sculpting a giant log cabin out of sand in front of the general store. The lumberjack show was spread throughout the park. Pole climbing was by the Gazebo on the Square. Axe throwing was in front of Red Gold Heritage Hall, and the Log rolling was on Lake Silver between the entrance of Lost River and the Dockside Grill. The activity times were staggered so you could see them all if you wanted to walk around and make the circuit.
We discovered a new (for us) menu item at the Ribhouse grill. I can't remember what it was called, but it was brisket, onions, peppers, and cole slaw wrapped up in a corn tortilla. It was really good!
A couple other highlights:
My oldest son LOVES wildfire taffy, we went in to buy the taffy on Saturday and they were out. They said they would be making more on Sunday. So we went back on Sunday and go to watch them make
Wildfire. My son was given a sample right off the roll. They use a little over a half-cup of cinnamon oil in the batch. We left with 3 lbs of fresh Wildfire taffy.
The Sheriff, after giving the kids badges, spent about 5 minutes playing with the kids (they were trying to give him a “high five” and he kept moving his hand)--they had a blast with him. Every time they would see him on park that day and Sunday, he would stop and raise his hand up and they'd spend another five minutes trying to slap his hand.
Hope for Tinker Fans.
I talked to Shorty and he said that they were talking about bringing Tinker back, not this Christmas but in the near future. If there are any Tinker fans out there, keep sending in those letters and e-mails.
Only Disappointment.
Our only disappointment this trip was that we didn't get to see Terry Sanders. No trip to SDC is complete without interacting with one of Terry's characters. We were hoping we would finally get to see him as his Scarecrow character, but he was on vacation this weekend. And hey, everybody deserves a vacation so we don't begrudge him that.
All in all a great trip to the city.
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Sounds like a great visit parson.
I do like the GAC also.. planning on seeing it when we go in october..
we will be there next week to see ALL the booths, well anyway look at them.
The booths do "busy" up the park.. makes it a truly 3 or 4 day event..
probbaly will pass on headin west this year, saw it twice last year.
TINKER??!! YEA!!!
LOL, thanks parson
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Hey Parson,
Were you the one with the camcorder filming as they were making the taffy? If so, I was standing next to you. I remember someone wanting 3 pounds of taffy and they ran upstairs with a full bucket (for what, I don't know as I thought the person said they didn't need it in 1lb. bags). I only needed a pound of the stuff though.
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Hey Parson,
Were you the one with the camcorder filming as they were making the taffy? If so, I was standing next to you. I remember someone wanting 3 pounds of taffy and they ran upstairs with a full bucket (for what, I don't know as I thought the person said they didn't need it in 1lb. bags). I only needed a pound of the stuff though.
Yep, that was me. We bought three pounds--one for my son, one for a friend of ours, and one for.....let's just say surprises!!! ;D
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Wonderful trip review Parson! ;D
It sounds like you had an awesome weekend at the city. I thought it was funny when you mentioned that there was practically no wait for Thunderation, Wildfire, PowderKeg, and the Giant Swing, and yet the lines at the “older” Fire in the Hole, and the Flooded Mine were backed up. Perhaps it was simply a time difference between when you arrived at the park, and when you finished ‘Headin’ West.’
I saw a picture of the two fire engines holding the American Flag on Silver Dollar City’s Facebook page. It was definitely an unexpected sight to see at the entrance to Silver Dollar City, but it was certainly appropriate for the occasion. It must be something to stand in the middle of the park during a moment of silence. With nothing more than the sound of rustling tree leaves to perk the ears.
I am really excited to hear about the many different mini shows, and demonstrations that Silver Dollar City has to offer this Fall. You could just about turn each corner, and come across a new one. I am really anxious to see the Lumberjack Show, and Pole Climbing, among others.
Trying the Wildfire taffy is definitely on my to do list! It’s sort of the taffy right of passage. I know for practically purposes, Silver Dollar City must ship in lots of candy. However, nothing beats the homemade style candy made right there in the shop.
It’s good to know that the kids had such a great time with the Sheriff. Although a Silver Dollar City without Terry Sanders is just not a true Silver Dollar City experience. He works harder than most people in Branson, so you're right, I suppose we can’t hold it against him for enjoying a week off. :)
Thanks for sharing your trip with us! ;D
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My Wife & I were in Branson Sat/Sun 10-11. We stayed at Homestay Inn (the review for the hotel is under that thread). We went to SDC on Sunday Sept. 11th.
Like Parson said, the 2 fire trucks with their latters fully extended into the air with the American Flag in-between was an amazing sight to see; gave me a big lump in my throat. The 9/11 tribute on the square was absolutely amazing. There were several Branson Artist that sang songs regarding the spirit of America, such as, Battle Hymn of the Republic, I'm proud to be an American, The National Anthem & an original song called Under God. The moment of silence began with the Church bells ringing, and let me say...it.....was......silent. Huge, massive crowd around the square, absolutely silent. They opened up the Bible and read scripture, and then a gentleman led everyone in prayer. How many places can you go, especially public ones, where they will open up the Bible, read from it, then lead a prayer? It was very moving and powerful. The Herschends were behind us on the balcony of the Ice Cream Parlor, It made the moment even more special, knowing they were watching the ceremony.
My wife & I rode Lost River, then American Plunge. We ate at Molly's Mill for Lunch, and actually got to eat in the upstairs balcony, very cool! There seemed to be a lot more crafts than normal this year, which was a nice surprise, many talented Artist's. We toured Grandfathers Mansion, the rocking room was not rocking, but everything else seemed to be in working order. We then had a small wait for Flooded Mine, then made a purchase at the Blown Glass Factory, before boarding the train.
We had a wonderful, memorable day in the City, with extra special significance, because of the Herchends being on park and the 9/11 tribute.
Note: I also made comments about this trip on the Homestay Inn thread, Lumberjack 2011 thread & Water Erupting from Lake Silver thread. ;D
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Thanks for sharing your trip with us! ;D
LOL, thanks parson
Y'all are quite welcome! ;)
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Good trip review DollarCityBoy!
It’s interesting to hear about how much patriotism, and American pride Silver Dollar City demonstrated on September 11th. Silver Dollar City, and Branson truly is the heart of America!
Getting to catch the Herschends must have been pretty neat! It’s funny, because you never know when one will pop up. The fact that they were present for the occasion is definitely honorable.
Silver Dollar City is pushing the arts, and crafts this year, and I love it! The arts, and crafts are the bread, and butter of Silver Dollar City.
It’s a shame to hear that the rocking room in Grandfather’s Mansion is still out of service. However, having lunch on the upstairs balcony at Molly's Mill was pretty cool!
Sounds like you had a great trip, thanks for sharing! :)
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MAN!!! I'm getting all tingly inside,,
This time of year I always wonder why they are closed on mon tues ???, would prefer them open on monday, closed tues wed. seems like t-w is the middle of the week. oh well!!!
sure am ready for the fall festival 5 more days, should be a great sunday!!!!
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I guess thats just what they picked! At least they give the workers a "weekend" even if it is in the beginning of the traditional week for most of us.
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My guess is that it is based on attendance statistics. Over the years, they have determined that the park attendance is lower on Monday, and Tuesday versus any other day of the week.
Plus, for those regular citizens, I am sure they would prefer off days as close to a normal weekend as possible. For example, I am off on Sunday, and Monday. Interestingly, several holidays fall onto a Monday so I get to spend those days with my family.
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The days they are closed have EVERYTHING to do with attendance. The closed Mon-Tues thing was standard in the fall when I worked there. I have looked at how they now do things by viewing their schedule over the last few years. I personally am blown away by the fact that they are closed most of the third week in August! That was still summertime when I worked there. However, I know that they close that week because that is back to school time, and hardly anyone would be visiting park. If you will notice, many other businesses in Branson...Shepherd of the Hills, and the theaters follow a similar schedule nowadays. I remember long ago working on some fall days during the craft show when there were not but about 2000 people on park. That's nothing! We would sit around all day and get into pranks and mischief with each other at the diving bell. In the summer at the diving bell we would have eight to twelve Juniors working. In the fall, about four on a weekday. Even back then, the park staffed according to projected attendance figures. The park keeps a detailed calender showing how many people were on park each day in the previous year. They would schedule staff according to that. From a guests point of view, coming to park on a slow day means no lines for any rides or shows, and that is always pretty nice.
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WOW!! 2000, that doesnt like very many now. Sometime i wish there were only 10,000 there, cand imagine if there were only say 5,000.... mmmm? something to day dream about.
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Nothing better than my day with the wife when we were 2 of the 47 people that entered the park...and many did not stay!
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2 of 47? when was that rube?
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Spring 2010, it went from 70*-30* overnight, some areas had up to 16" of snow, SDC only had sleet and wintery mix. It was raining, and cold, but one of the best trips we have had. Several loads of people went to get candy and taffy and left again. We went everywhere, and every worker was so nice. We even had workers meeting us in doorways while walking by greeting us! We left the park and there were only 5 other cars in the place total (this was not at close either, it was around 3-4pm!!!) As you can see, it was wet, but no ice and snow was accumulating. Great day, even greater story!
(http://i649.photobucket.com/albums/uu218/rubedugans/Picture1p.jpg)
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that is a great story rube..
maybe next spring i will watch the weather reports and try the same thing.... :)
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Wow, talk about practically having the park to yourself! Did they keep any of the non-weather related rides going such as the Train, or Fire in the Hole, or even the Cave?
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Cave, FITH, FM, GM, RB, yes, train, coasters- no
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My brother went yesterday. He said no lines at all for the rides. Rode everything 3-4 times & did the cave. He was so early that when he went to preferred parking & no one was even at the shack. I texted & talked with him some of the day yesterday, we walked in FITH together & he got right on. And listened to the FM song. He took a gal he has been dating. First time she has ever been to a amusement park! What a great place to go for ya'r fist park, she loved it! He said it sprinkled off & on but never really rained hard. Glad they had a good time.
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great trip how do, glad your brother and lady had a good visit.
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First time she has ever been to a amusement park! What a great place to go for ya'r fist park, she loved it!
The funnest thing to do at SDC! Take someone that has never been before.
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First time she has ever been to a amusement park! What a great place to go for ya'r fist park, she loved it!
The funnest thing to do at SDC! Take someone that has never been before.
I agree...Over the last few years we have shown family members and friends around the park who drove all the way out from Colorado to see SDC...It's almost like it gave us purpose...Our family and friends told us that we should be SDC tour guides...The only suggestion...they told us to slow down...
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My grandson took a trip to SDC with a group from his school Wednesday, a reward for doing well in classes so far this year. When I took him to SDC for his first trip in June, he vowed to ride all the rollercoasters. I took him straight to Powderkeg, and told him if he could ride it, he would be able to ride anything on park. He loved it, but it scared the c--p out of him! Ha! That day in June, I could not get him to ride even Flooded Mine or Lost River! So on his school trip Wednesday, he got up the nerve to try out some of the other rides and did get on Flooded Mine and Lost River. He loved them both. So, this grandpa was glad to hear about him trying some of the old rides I used to work at. He is in middle school, and all the kids did all day was run from ride to ride. No arts and crafts...even with fall festival going on. No shows, because that would slow down getting on more rides. Oh well, at least he tried some different rides! The kids all had a great time! :)
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Junior, good for him!
Sounds like we have the makins for another loyal SDCFan!!
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ok! went tot he city sunday the 18th.
got there in time for the opening ceremony. had several older citizens. The bald eagle was there from the birds of prey demonstration. n ice touch!
watched the 1st lumberjack show on main street, only lasted 10 minutes ??? little disappointed with that.
walked around checked out the booths and headed for red gold, got our spot to watch the 2nd lumberjackshow at 11:30.. started thundering and sprinkling and we headed for cover!
went to dockside grill for a philly, but no roof over the eating area. I thought there was! so we headed for rib shack, NOW it is raining. we ate and sit there for a bit, decided to head across the way to listen to cajun connection.. Radar showed a big storm headed in. sit there for 20 minutes and listened to the LOUD cajun show. sorry not a fan of cajun connection ;D
that round blew through and we headed uphill! checked radar, decided to give up, went by knife shop, looking for a nice 4 inch fixed blade... still looking.
Hit the leather shop and picked up one of those 200.00 jackets opn sale for 40.00. NICE!! thanks to whoever mentioned that fact last week. love the coat.. Looked at full length heavy coats, BUT big tag sadi MADE IN CHINA, I put it back on the hanger, nice coat, decent price.....BUT.............
another lull in rain, we headed for car and went back to town, at that point it had been raining for over 2 hours!.
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Nice quick trip review Sanddunerider!
It’s good to hear that the rain didn’t “wash out” your day. Having the bald eagle at the opening ceremonies was definitely a nice touch! I wonder if the weather is what accounted for the short lumberjack show? Either way, it’s great to have these new shows around. I prefer sitting out in the open areas when dining, but I totally agree that raindrops will change those plans fast. I love the deals on those leather jackets! I hope they will continue those deals in time for my trip in October.
All in all, it sounds like you had a nice day trip. Thanks for the review! ;D
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you bet,. NO the rain had no affect on the 1st lumber jack show, they had 2 "races" and it was over in 10 minutes!
we had fun, 1st time we have been rained out in over 2 years, not bad for people who avcerage 1 trip per month all year long.....
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You're lucky you were there today instead of yesterday. It rained all day long yesterday and they canceled the Echo Hollow show at 4, two hours before show time. That's the first time I've seen them cancel that early.
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yes, i talked to some of the vendors, the knife maker on the square said very low attendance on saturday because of BAD weather.. said they quit counting people at about 3000, .. in the afternoon nobody could be seen unless they were headed into HH! going to the cars.
My trip was good, even with rain!
Its all good, i will be back 2nd weekend of october.!
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Just finsihed up a two day stay at the Park, Sept 15th and 16th. Had a wonderful time. Park is Fall Festival to the max. Many more crafts people than usual; as I remember anyway. This was a last minute trip with my 7 year old daughter as the rest of the fam was in school. So we burned it to Branson. Walked on FITH, FM, Thunderation, and the Grand Expo rides all day. Went in early to eat breakfast at the Mill on Friday, kids eat free and pass holders 20% off equals great deal. We were the first vehicle on the lot at about 8:15, never had that happen, but was kind of cool. Lumberjack show was amazing, never having seen anything like it before, especially the climbing part. Lots of personal attention from citizens with the low crowds. Got to the FM about 10 and were the first and only, rode twice and could have kept going as no one waiting. Very talented guest artist this year. The chalk art is amazing and the girl very friendly. Can't say the same for the sand castle dude, never acknowledged our greeting and another lady asked him a question and he kind of grunted a reply. Does not fit the profile...however his work was very impressive. Visited with Danny and the 2 Greg's at the homestead, always a joy. Sorghum press running, when the old mule would cooperate. Checked out the 2 sisters at the candy factory making Black walnut brittle, they are quite a pair. Enjoyed the Mine for a late lunch and back to Thunderation for 3 more turns. No line about 3 PM. Visited with Terry and called it a day. Can't wait for October will be there the week the 16th. Oh, btw, I have 2 tickets left that expire on the 9/26 if anybody wants them.
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Nice trip review Harp!
It sounds like you, and your daughter had a really good trip. That must have been something to show up first thing in the morning, and be the only car in the parking lot! Plus, most of your favorite rides had virtually no wait time which was nice.
You can’t go wrong with breakfast at the Mill, and the discounts are the icing on the cake. I keep hearing lots of good comments about the Lumberjack shows! I hope they will continue to impress.
The Harvest Festival is really one of the best times to go to Silver Dollar City in my opinion. I just love all of the arts, and crafts. Although, I am sorry to hear about the brute sandcastle artist. Thankfully, he is only temporary, and he does not reflect the true spirit of Silver Dollar City.
The Homestead, and Candy Shop are definitely don’t miss attractions!
Thanks for the review! ;D
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We had a great time in Branson Sept.10-16. We went to SDC for the opening day of Harvest festival. Saw the Lumberjacks and talked to them, since they were from WI. close to where we live. The sand sculpture guy was friendly to me, but not my hubby. talked to the lady doing chalk drawings....she was awesome.Most of the crafts were good especially watching Violet Hensley playing one of the fiddles she made......it's amazing how she came back after being ill quite a few years ago....hope to have her energy when I'm in my 90's.Showed her a picture of a log bird feeder my husband made out of birds eye pine......her daughter showed me a fiddle Violet made out of the same wood....it was great. We spent most of our days at theHomestead visiting and listening to the Pickers, Aunt Judy and Frisco Jack.Got some tips from Greg Bailey to help me learn to play my guitar (I think it's hopeless for a 60 some year old to learn). We went to the IMAX on Monday for The Ozark Legends Movie....it was good. Tuesday night we went to Shepherd of the Hills Drama and it was the best thing we ever saw in Branson ( talked to Terry Sanders after the show) always visit with him inSDC too. We attended the 9/11 tribute in SDC... it was moving......Nedra Culp sang an awesome Star Spangled Banner. (nice to have someone know all of the words). All in all we enjoyed our time in Branson.
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Thanks for the trip review Cheesehead57! Sorry we didn't get to meet you, we were there the 10-11 and stayed at HomeStay too.
Glad y'all had a fun time!
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Cheeseheads mentioned Violet Hensley in their trip review. Here is a STRONG reccomendation from me, if you visit SDC this year in the fall festival, visit Miss Violet. She is a fiddlemaker, and to my knowledge is the only person at the fall arts and crafts show that was at the first one they held in the 60s. With the exception of missing a few shows due to illness, she has been at every one of them. In Arkansas, her home state, she is considered a "living legend." She's in her 90s now, and won't be around much longer. Also...when you visit with her, get a picture with her. You will be glad you did someday. Her fiddles are rare, highly sought after pieces. You will want to take a close look at them when you visit. Please visit her. I had a chance to work an off day or two from the park with one of the crafters about 81, helping make apple butter for a few days at a demonstration booth. During break time, I got aquainted with Miss Violet. A wonderful woman. Go see her now, y'hear? :)
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Cheeseheads mentioned Violet Hensley in their trip review. Here is a STRONG reccomendation from me, if you visit SDC this year in the fall festival, visit Miss Violet. She is a fiddlemaker, and to my knowledge is the only person at the fall arts and crafts show that was at the first one they held in the 60s. With the exception of missing a few shows due to illness, she has been at every one of them. In Arkansas, her home state, she is considered a "living legend." She's in her 90s now.....
I'll back Junior up on this one (not that he needs me to). I first remember meeting Violet in the late 80's to early 90's...back when I was what is now know as a "tween". My dad is a musician and always loves to stop and meet new people and see new instruments. I remember being impressed with the fact that she built those violins herself...not an easy task for anyone, especially someone in her age bracket. It seems to me that she was well into her 80's back then so if she was in her mid to late 90's now I wouldn't be the least bit surprised. Glad to hear she's back for another wonderful fall in SDC, people like that add a flavor to the park that just can't be duplicated or replaced.
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Violet even did a little clog dance for us. She is so amazing and like me is visually impaired. I love that woman.
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My Wife & I were in Branson Sat/Sun 10-11. We stayed at Homestay Inn (the review for the hotel is under that thread). We went to SDC on Sunday Sept. 11th.
Like Parson said, the 2 fire trucks with their latters fully extended into the air with the American Flag in-between was an amazing sight to see; gave me a big lump in my throat. The 9/11 tribute on the square was absolutely amazing. There were several Branson Artist that sang songs regarding the spirit of America, such as, Battle Hymn of the Republic, I'm proud to be an American, The National Anthem & an original song called Under God. The moment of silence began with the Church bells ringing, and let me say...it.....was......silent. Huge, massive crowd around the square, absolutely silent. They opened up the Bible and read scripture, and then a gentleman led everyone in prayer. How many places can you go, especially public ones, where they will open up the Bible, read from it, then lead a prayer? It was very moving and powerful. The Herschends were behind us on the balcony of the Ice Cream Parlor, It made the moment even more special, knowing they were watching the ceremony.
My wife & I rode Lost River, then American Plunge. We ate at Molly's Mill for Lunch, and actually got to eat in the upstairs balcony, very cool! There seemed to be a lot more crafts than normal this year, which was a nice surprise, many talented Artist's. We toured Grandfathers Mansion, the rocking room was not rocking, but everything else seemed to be in working order. We then had a small wait for Flooded Mine, then made a purchase at the Blown Glass Factory, before boarding the train.
We had a wonderful, memorable day in the City, with extra special significance, because of the Herchends being on park and the 9/11 tribute.
Note: I also made comments about this trip on the Homestay Inn thread, Lumberjack 2011 thread & Water Erupting from Lake Silver thread. ;D
Here are some photos to go along with my trip report from Sept 10-11.
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Well, we were all speculating...and now I guess we all know what the platform in Lake Silver was for!
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YEP! great pics. we were rained out last weekend, hope to see it when we go back the 2nd weekend of Oct.. ::)
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That chalk drawing of the Silver Dollar City logo is amazing! Although I am curious, what happens when it rains? :P
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Ozark, they brought in those portable "tents", and covered up the drawings. worked pretty well.
And your right they are VERY impressive!
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As an artist I would have loved to see the drawings. Any photos?
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rube, sorry none here. I did watch her work for a while. quite amazing..
Another note. I wonder why SDC doesnt take a few pictures like that, ( drawings) Lumberjacks, knife makers and post them on a facebook album to entice visitors?
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Another fine trip this past weekend! The beginning was rough, however: my wife and I got down to Richland before I remembered that I hadn’t got our passes out of storage, so I turned around and headed back home to get them. Thus, we got to the hotel considerably later than I had hoped and a lot more tired than I wanted. Therefore we slept in a little later than planned.
The result was that we didn’t get to the city till about 10 AM. Not wanting to miss anything else (having already missed the opening ceremony), we ate at Eva and Delilah’s rather than Mollies. Cheese danish and cherry turnover, still warm from the ovens! Flaky, gooey: Yummy!
Having also forgot her hat, my wife picked up one of the black, straw (paper) hats at the HH, and we hit the square, almost overwhelmed by the number of craft booths! We spent over an hour seeing them all, including picking up a few cards for later contacts. I intend, for example, to get the cooper to make a water keg for me. Going was slow because my wife has a foot problem (due for a minor surgery this week), and we took frequent rests. We stopped at the leather shop and got one of those jackets mentioned here—great deal!—and laid in a supply of lye soap for the winter.
We walked down the Hill to grab lunch at the Lumbercamp Skillet, and then came back up to a pre-arranged meet with Duelist just before the 1:30 lumberjack show on the square. We actually ran into him and his family prior to the set time, so we chatted for a while. Great guy with a very nice family! While talking, we saw Terry walking up in his Scarecrow get-up heading to do his routine near the HH.
My wife got to watching the Sherrif and Sarie Ellen playing Backgammon and Acey-deucy. I tied to follow, but the rules made my head spin. The lumberjack show thrilled me. Our guy lost the springboard event, but he simply dominated the climb! He was up and back down that pole in about three seconds. Mighty impressive! My wife talked to him, and he said he took 5th in the world at that event recently. I have no trouble believing it!
After that, we headed down to the train and arrived just after one left; since my wife’s feet were hurting, we sat there till the next departure. On that trip, we got a BIG surprise: the wreck of ol’ 82 isn’t just the remains of an engine anymore: there is a car there! It is sitting at an angle on the hillside, off its trucks, somewhat toned down in color by smatterings of (I guess) black spray paint. (Of this development, more later.) The brakes on the train seemed to be VERY noisy.
After we got back, we just had to hit the FM. Duelist and his family got off the same boat we boarded ;-) Only one bit of disappointment here: the song wasn’t playing that I could hear. All the other sounds were clear, including the banjo-or-mandolin music.
We took the easy way up to the square and had some ice cream at Hannah’s—it may not be Heaven, but Hannah’s is the next best thing! We then caught the brittle-making show and bought candy for the boys.
After that, we went over to the Opera House for “Headin’ West!” Neither of us had seen it before, but we were both impressed by the quality of the singing and the staging/effects. We’re going to make sure our boys get to see it. They’ll really like the miners’ gags. After the show, we bought a stained glass nightlight as a present for one of the leaders in my Cub Scout pack; she is a lighthouse fan, and this one is very pretty.
We debated eating supper in the City or doing something else and then eating on the way home. The latter course won out, and we decided to take another train ride to get another look at that car on the hillside. After the ride (the last of the day), we asked one of the conductors what was up. He said that it had been there only a week or so, and that its replacement should be on the tracks by OTC. Instead of repairing them, they are replacing the cars one at a time from plans drawn from the current ones. He said it will take a couple years to get them all, but I think some of their development/maintenance $$$ are going into this worthy, if unspectacular, project.
Then it was up the hill, through the OM (and a stop for a dulcimer case at the music shop—great folks: they gave us the discount for the case even though the dulcimer purchase from them was 15 years ago!) and out to the lots for a trip home. It started to sprinkle just as we left, couldn’t beat the timing. We tried to get into Olive Garden in Springfield to eat, but they were full, so we hit HuHot (which I like better, anyway. Shh! Don’t tell my wife!).
General impressions: Everybody was just as friendly as could be. I wonder if the better weather—i.e. much less killing heat—is partly responsible for that. The RB was certainly NOT very busy, quite the contrast from our last trip! Crowded park till late in the afternoon. The trees are just starting to change: they ought to be gorgeous when we come back in October!
Wonderful crafters/artisans. Beautiful stuff to see and purchase.
Food quality was quite good. The bakery was marvelous (proximity to Marvel Cave, I guess), and the Lumbercamp Skillet was delicious. I have no more superlatives to use for Hannah’s: ice cream simply doesn’t get better.
Ma seems to be gone completely from the robbery skit: I haven’t heard of her but once this year. The woods joke was omitted both trips; don’t know if that is a change or just the conductor. Thus, the rattle-headed copper moccasin came earlier in the routine. The skit on the second ride (last of the day, remember) was a little loose but still within the bounds of reason. Both times, we gave them some change or a dollar—pardon me: “dawlr”—so they told us we were a pleasure to rob ;-)
This was the sort of one-day trip which refreshes the mind, exercises the body, warms the heart, and calms the soul.
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^ Enjoyed reading your trip review, thanks for posting! When we were there 9/11, we noticed the train off the side of the tracks too; i was just wondering if I had missed it all these years or if it was something new, thanks for clarifying. Glad you had a nice trip!
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sounds like a great day! congrats!
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Had a great time yesterday and today in SDC. The weather was wonderful and the City looked great. I just wanted to post a couple of quick tidbits. First, from the take it for what it's worth column, while I was in line for the Barn Swing one of the ride attendants told me I needed to come back next year. When I asked him why he responded "because they are building a new roller coaster for next year". I asked him what type of coaster but he said he didn't know yet, just that they were going to build one. He said it was going behind the Barn Swing and he was happy because they would no longer be the only ones there in Wilson's Farm. I rode the train to look over the area and I did notice a few marking stakes with purple flags in the area. I only could see three stakes and they looked very preliminary but they were in the area the ride op referenced. Maybe just a coincidence but the stakes did look fairly new and were spread out over a wide area. I wish I had gotten my camera out quicker. Who knows??? Later in the day, just for kicks, I asked a ride op in the Grand Expo if SDC was getting anything new next year. He said he heard a new roller coaster was going to be built. Again I asked what type and he said he did not know. I guess we shall see!
The second thing I wanted to mention was some new targets in the Flooded Mine. I thought I noticed some new things in the mine (since my last visit in late July), especially the targets that squirted water on me today. When I got off FM I asked the ride op if they had added some new targets and he said they had. I will try to post more on my trip later.
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You would think that kind of information coming from citizens would be pretty reliable, and considering it's coming from two different sources. If it is true then some sort of announcement should be made in the very near future. Thanks for the report U Smell Smoke!
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My Ma and Pa headed out, and gave us the play by play since we couldn't travel. The one thing that stood out was that it was really crowded this weekend. Wish I could have been there! Keep me up on what is happening.
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ok here is my play by play for today:
BAD traffic this morning, made me late getting to the city, sorry to all who may have been there to meet up>?? maybe next time.
I did notice new flags scattered out by the railroad tracks, made me wonder why ???
Also noticed on train ride the new car was NOT hooked up to either engine, and they have most of the cars rigged with christmas lights already
Watched all 3 of the lumberjack shows, the log rolling was for sure more entertaining than the other events.
Ate a philly sandwhich by lake silver while waiting for log rolling...... MMMMMMM!!! goood! love that sandwhich.
Went and watched the birds of prey, if you get the chance, watch it!!
Noticed at the wood carvers they have almost ALL christmas displays inside already!
lots and lots of lights hung up all over.
Out of theme: CO2 bottles, empty coke cases, Fans, saw several aluminum ladders(guessing from setting up christmas lights)., also noticed at almost every eating place large catsup,mustard dispensers, non themed just out in the open.
LOTS AND LOTS OF people, I guess it was christians weekend, talked to several people that drove in for the service at echo hollow this morning..
Park was very busy today, BUT very few "kids". HDH was never full or busy, went over to GE and barely anybody over there either.
ALL in all a great day, went back to town to watch the murder mystery show.
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Crowds were good and SDC was busy this past weekend. However, everything kept moving and lines for the rides and shows were not bad. Saturday we had lunch at the Lumbercamp and ate by the waterfall...very relaxing. Sunday ate at the Rib House and sat by the Lost River. With the great weather, water rides were still popular. We really enjoyed all the crafters and visiting with them. Lots of talented people there. Disappointed to discover the Big Wheel Lathe up on the square might actually be powered by electricity and not the big wheel. We always get to the park at least an hour before opening so traffic is never a problem for us. I must say I was very pleased with the parking lot tram service this weekend. Both days the trams were lined up one right after the other keeping things moving. Leaving of an evening, as soon as one tram pulled out there always seemed to be one or even two trams waiting right behind it.
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Dont beleive big wheel is electric, everytime i see it running there is a citizen cranking on the wheel, and yestarday when the stopped the demo, the citizen was holding against the wheel to stop it. AND straining to do so. just what i saw.. ???
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Sanddunerider, you are correct, a citizen is always cranking the big wheel when the lathe is running. I watched the demo several times and each time the craftsman wanted to start working he would turn to the citizen and say let's go. The citizen would then start turning the wheel and the craftsman would reach under the lathe and push a button and the lathe would fire right up to speed. When the craftsman was done, he would turn to the citizen and say let's shut it down. The citizen would then work to stop the wheel and the craftsman would reach under the lathe and push another button. Of course the citizen would work to stop the wheel because it was in motion and they had to make it look as if it was stopping the lathe. I looked around behind the display and saw the electric cord plugged in that was going to the lathe. I didn't want to believe it so I had my dad watch the demo and he said the same thing. I think they crank the wheel to demonstrate how it was done in the old days, but I think when it comes down to it they run the lathe off electricity to get a more even and consistent turn. Ultimately, I don't think the rope contraption is actually connected to the lathe even though it appears to be. I could be wrong but that's how I saw it. I wish I just would have asked one of the citizens or the craftsman.
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My wife and I did make a run to Branson today for a family gathering. We approached from Reeds Spring and Branson West and drove down the 76 strip all the way to downtown and the Taneycomo lakefront. It appeared to us that traffic was moderately heavy today. The work continues on the old Taneycomo bridge and it was completely closed to traffic today. We had our first journey across the lake on the new bridge, and lanes are uneven, we had to move slow. The roundabout on the Hollister side is still being worked on, too, and I suppose it must be the age my wife and I are at, but we both think a traffic light there would have been an easier fix. The roundabouts are a bit confusing to us. Again, it's because we are not used to them. Visited with my brother who is in the catering/restaurant business in Branson and he said don't be fooled by the traffic, business is not too hot in town right now. He said people are looking for free things to do, and are just not spending money. He said if a hotel offers a free breakfast, people load up and go very light on lunch if they have any at all, and then go to the moderately priced places for supper. He said people spend a lot of time at Branson Landing window shopping and looking around, but not buying much. He believes it is the way the economy is now. By the time people pay for gas to get to town and find lodging, not much is left over to spend on shopping or the shows. It was a day of scattered showers, with fog in the area all day. Low elevation areas had fog steaming up throughout the day, beautiful though. We stopped at Charlies for a New York strip and baked potato and salad before leaving town and got to see the lady singer perform there. She was good at working the crowd, and autographed her picture for us...then gave it to us for free. Pretty lady, and very nice. Good singer, too! On our way out of town we ran into a heavy thunderstorm west of Reeds Spring and pea sized hail. My wife was driving and had to pull over for a few minutes. Although we did not have time today to get to SDC or visit any of the main attractions in Branson, we enjoyed being in town and seeing how things have changed since we were there in late spring. Any getaway to Branson is nice and pleasant, and that is the way it went today for both of us.
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sounds like a good day to me junior,
you're right about people trying to save some money outright.
we typically eat at motel, lunch at the city, we also bring sandwhich fixins a lot of times. sometimes frozen dinners since the rooms at homestay have fridges in them.
I know it is a big expense up front, but we do buy season tickets at:
silver dollar city
grand country
haygoods
pierce arrow,
there are lots of bonuses and discounts with some of these tickets.
Anyway, sorry about the rambling, glad you had a good day!
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Quick Trip Review- We headed down 10/8, let the kids choose the agenda for the day so we didn’t even go to a lot of areas of the park. Beautiful weather. Got there not too long after the chains dropped, went to FITH, very little wait time. Daughter and I headed to PK, no line, as in none! We got in the front row, a first for both of us and it was amazing. Then to HDH after several rounds there, to GE, got measured, Son and I went on FM, then to HDH, while Hub and Daughter rode TNT. We all hit HDH together for a while. Went to the barnyard, the leather shop, mulled about main street for a bit, then walked to PK to find it closed, hit HDH, the bakery, candle shop, and headed to the car. It was a quick little trip and was a nice day. I know a lot of you were unsure about HDH, but for my kids, it is awesome. I imagine they see it the same way I saw Tom Sawyers when I was little.
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I think HDH is a great idea saloongal, I just didnt like there choice of location..
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We took the kids down for a day on Saturday. My wife just had foot surgery, so we had to rent one of the carts so she could keep her foot elevated 45 minutes of every hour. Still we had a great day! I won't do a detailed review, jsut a few notes.
Weather could not have been better.
Trees are changing colors a little more slowly than back up here in the northern Ozarks around Rolla.
Park seem very crowded, an impression magnified by all the craft booths.
Warm weather meant that GG was quite busy.
We stocked up on lye soap for the winter--I hope it lasts till spring!
The Leather Shop still has a few dozen of those leather jackets on sale for $40.
We heard the "You're int he woods" joke on both train rides and the "Ladies, put your foot down" on one. The Ma joke made no appearance. I guess she really can RIP.
We could not hear the FN theme song.
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Wow, where do I start? How about at the beginning. :)
Wednesday October 12th.
I started off from Little Rock, and took old Highway 65 all the way into Branson. It was raining most of the day, which made for some white knuckled driving. At any rate, I finally made it to Homestay Inn, my home away from home for the next few days. After arriving, the sun had peaked through the clouds just enough for a nice walk, and lunch at the Branson Landing.
Thursday October 13th.
First day at Silver Dollar City! The sky was clear, and blue, and the temperature was cool. As tradition, I started my day with a big cinnamon roll from Eva and Delilah’s Bakery. The autumn decorations were spectacular, and talented artists filled the town square. I made my way into the park via the Swinging Bridge. This was my first glimpse at Half Dollar Holler. I originally had low expectations, but I felt they did a good job with the attraction overall. After stopping by the Culinary School, and The Grand Exposition, I made my way into the Red Gold Heritage Hall, and watched as some guest danced two-step. I must admit, it was genuinely sweet to watch the older couples on the dance floor having the time of their lives! Later, I stopped by Hillcreek Pottery, and watched Master Potter Jeff Walker build clay pots before my eyes. Afterwards, I made my way down to the Riverfront, and noticed a large wooden wall erected near the toy store which prohibited all access to Geyser Gulch. I overheard a citizen state they were simply doing renovations, which turned out to be true as the area was back open a couple of days later. After making a stop at River Blast, I returned to the Riverfront to have a hamburger at the Dockside Grill. While enjoying lunch I got to see the Lumberjack Show on Lake Silver. It was a Lumberjack versus a Lumberjill, and of course the girl always won. I continued my meandering for the remainder of the day until I found myself in the Taffy Shop. I got to try the famous Wildfire Taffy! With a pleasurably burnt tongue, I decided to call it a day, and returned back to Branson.
Friday October 14th.
Started the day off once again with a big cinnamon roll from Eva and Delilah’s Bakery. Afterwards, I made a stop at the Post Office, and sent a postcard to a relative. Before the opening ceremonies, I spent sometime enjoying the Homestead Pickers plucking out a song. Boy, are they talented! Once the ropes dropped, I made a mad dash straight to PowederKeg. There is no better way to start your morning than to get blasted into the crisp Ozark air. For the remainder of the morning, I wandered to practically every store, and shop in the park. By this time, I had worked up a big appetite, and tried Mary’s Springhouse for the very first time. The food was good, but the hard working ladies in the kitchen seemed a bit overwhelmed. After lunch, I watched a glass making demonstration at Hazel’s Blown, and Cut Glass Factory. I also had Master Glass Cutter George Stiverson cut a design into a mug for me. I then made my way back up to the town square, and watched the Lumberjacks scale the forty foot poles in just a mere few seconds. Wow, are they fast! I finished the day off by watching the magician perform a few tricks at the magic shop, and taking a ride on Thunderation.
Saturday October 15th.
Wow, was the park crowded, and packed! I started the day off once again with a big cinnamon roll from Eva and Delilah’s Bakery. Afterwards I made a stop in the Woodcarvers Shop, and picked up a small wooden handled multi tool for my grandfather. Throughout the day I made it a point to take pictures, and video of the steam driven Frisco whenever possible. I eventually made my way to the Flooded Mine, and Wilson’s Farm. Afterwards I stopped in the Carousel Barn, and watched as this lovely 94 year old lady was busy making violins. I loved her hard working spirit! I then purchased some lye soap, and visited the Leather Shop, and the Gun and Knife Shop. I was disappointed though, that Master Bladesmith Ray Johnson was not there. After watching the peanut brittle demonstration in the Candy Factory, I finished my weekend off with a delicious funnel cake.
I have created a YouTube channel which features several short clips of PowderKeg, Wildfire, the Train, and other attractions that I filmed.
http://www.youtube.com/ozarknavigator (http://www.youtube.com/ozarknavigator)
I also took over 400 pictures! I have made my Silver Dollar City photo albums public on Facebook, and you are welcome to check them out.
http://www.facebook.com/people/Jonathan-Smith/1046755101 (http://www.facebook.com/people/Jonathan-Smith/1046755101)
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WOW!!! ozark! all that in 2 or 3 days!! Bet you went home to rest?
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Sounds like a perfect couple of days Ozark! Thanks for sharing
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Great review Ozark! I was just lookin' at your youtube videos today, but didnt put 2&2 together thinking it was you. Good job!
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Glad to hear from a fellow Little Rock'r! Sounds like you had a really pleasant visit!
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We're in Branson right now. We spent today (Sat.,Oct. 22) in the city. Boy, was it busy. Made it in for opening ceremonies. We enjoyed the addition of the bald eagle to the festivities. We also saw the eagle at the birds of prey show later that afternoon.
We had a pretty good time even though we were lugging a two-year-old around. I didn't have breakfast, so I had a cheeseburger at about 10:00 a.m.--lol. We saw Headin' West without too much toddler drama. We shopped and rode some toddler-friendly rides. My two-year-old got stuck in the slide at Half Dollar Hollar again, though. She gets scared or something and some other kid has to shove her out.
It felt pretty busy today. I would be curious to see the numbers today. Still, we had a pretty good time.
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I'm jealous that you are there, wish i was have fun!!
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Nice mini trip review StaceySue!
The park was also extra crowded when I attended last Saturday. It’s getting pretty close to peak foliage time in Branson. However, I hope the hot, cold, rainy, and sunny weather this week hasn’t put a damper on that.
I look forwarded to hearing more! ;D
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We were there on the 16th, and the weather could not have been more perfect. We had planned to spend the entire day, but fly fishing was calling my name so...Yikes! Don't hurt me - we stayed only a few hours. Had a fine cinnamon roll at Eve and Delilah's, couldn't find a pumpkin funnel cake anywhere (who mentioned that in another thread? It's all I can think about!), tomato basil soup wasn't on the menus yet (try it!), had lunch at the Mine Restaurant (pretty tasty and included the chocolate raspberry cake), cinnamon bread was out - 30 min. wait and a line for it -, and a frozen lemonade (ooh! aah!) I was hoping we would hit the peak for color, but it sounds like we were early. Mr. Wildlife Biologist/Wetlands Specialist husband says it isn't going to be a banner year for color (don't ask him to explain unless you have time for at least a pot of coffee or two). All in all, we had a great, but short - er visit to the park than originally planned. I did notice that Main Street held most of the fall decorations. It was pretty, but in the past it has been "over the top beautiful", so I was slightly disappointed. I compared it to some old pics when I got home, and there's no comparison to what it looked like even a couple of years ago. P.S. Fly fishing was great, but I caught "nary a fish". Any visit to the city is a good one.
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hey Gilligan, any visit too the city and any day fishing fly fishing or just fishing is better than any day at work or at home preparing the yard and house for winter. lol so you wont get a tongue lashing from me. just hope what ever you did was fun for you and your family.
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gilligan, odd you should mention the square was not up to par in decorations.. I thought the same thing, But thought i was being too critical..
After all the square has
the lumberjack thing going on,
the big sand sculpture,
the lady doing street painting,
the pumpkin display for photos,
the old stagecoach in front of molly's,
and several craft booths.
Actually the square is pretty busy with all the events this year. So i still wonder about the decorations??
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Interesting observation about the decorations, or lack there of.
I noticed it too! Last year, the Red Gold Heritage Hall had decorations all over the entryway, but this year they were noticeably missing. In fact, outside the Town Square, the Humana banners are about the only mention of the Harvest Festival in the park.
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We are just about through with the "regular" season at SDC for the 51st year. I just want to thank everyone for their great reviews of the trips they have made. Those reports keep us all up to date on what is going on around the park. Grandfather's Mansion fire/fireworks issue, weird platform in Lake Silver, new log hewing exhibit, new Dugan's shop, those are all things I heard about for the first time right here. These things are too little to make the news or be discussed in press releases issued by the park. It's the true fans that report here that keep us up to date between our own visits. THANKS!
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We arrived at the park last Saturday morning about 11:00, after the 4 hour drive from Little Rock. We ended up in Parking Lot 6 which I don't think we've ever parked at before but they filled it up before Parking Lot 5 in anticipation of a large crowd. My daughter was celebrating her 8th birthday so she wore her "birthday hat" which is a pink cake with candles on top and a tiara across the front with Birthday Princess. Needless to say she got lots of well wishes for her birthday. We rode the Flooded Mine twice in a row (always our first ride unless it's shut down). Then went over to the GE for a couple of rides. None of these had very long lines despite the fact the park ended up with over 14,000 in attendance! We ended up riding Fire in the Hole 4 times on Saturday. The lines were pretty long for that. We rode Thunderation twice and the lines were short for that but they were running 2 trains. What amazed me was how long the lines were for the train. Everytime we went to ride it the line was backed up to where the Build a Bear house is now (formerly Becca's Weaving). They were just running the engine and 3 cars so that could explain the line. I don't think I ever saw it run only 3 cars before. At 1pm we went to the bakery to pick up the birthday cake we had ordered in Sept. We had cake and drinks at the bakery then took pieces of cake to citizens of the City that had wished my daughter a Happy Birthday. We started this tradition 3 years ago. Ramone at the Flooded Mine is always very nice and sings Happy Birthday to her so he and his fellow mine workers always get cake.
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duelist,,,that sounds like a great trip..
love the cake idea.. tell the daughter Happy Birthday from kansas...
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Thanks Sanddunerider! We've been doing the cake thing for 3 years. A pretty good sized cake that I believe cost us around 14.50 after the Season Pass discount. Not a bad deal.
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actually thats cheap considering.......
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Saturday the 22nd review continued: After taking the pieces of cake to citizens my wife and daughter went to the Build a Bear to get a pink poodle and outfits for my daughter's birthday present. My son and I rode the Giant Swing and I asked one of the operators if they were building a new coaster in that area and he said yes they're supposed to start work on it in the winter. I asked if he knew what kind and he said no. So maybe we will get some kind of announcement in the coming months. After the swing my son and I went to ride Powder Keg which had a fairly long line but moved very quickly. We didn't hear any music playing including the theme song. We did hear the theme song playing on our September trip. After Powder keg I took my daughter on FITH again (her favorite ride) while my wife and son went to help Wildfire set it's record for a million riders in one year. Then we went to look at the Best of Missouri Hands exhibit and ate supper at the Rib House. After riding some more rides we went to the Hotel. The rides ended up staying open until 6:30 because of the large crowd. Sunday review to follow...
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Tell your daughter Happy Birthday (a little belated) from me again. It sounds like she had a great time!
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Thanks Palallin. A few years ago she decided she'd rather go to SDC than have a kid's party at our house. That means another trip to SDC so I'm all for it!
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I know this is off topic but did you order the cake at some point when you were down there in Sept. or do you call. I did not know that they did that.
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I know this is off topic but did you order the cake at some point when you were down there in Sept. or do you call. I did not know that they did that.
Yes, we ordered and paid for the cake in September. We haven't tried ordering one over the phone but I'm sure they'd let you pay with a credit card like that. I think they may require 24 hours adance notice to prepare the cake. Well worth the price!
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So I emailed customer service about the cake and they said yes and gave the number to call. Called today and was told they would not be able to do it and that they did not have the man power. I then asked how much in advanced they would need since I was hoping for the weekend coming up but will be down there thanksgiving weekend also. Again was told they could not do. I brought the fact that some had just picked one up and could not give an answer to that.
Did send another email to customer service needless to say was very disappointed by phone conversation.
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didja ask for names? or manager? i believe i would have asked for i.d. information and passed it on to PTB's,,
Thats Just Wrong!!
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1.that is terrible you didnt get a cake. Its not hard to do and I dont see why they wouldnt have the "manpower" to do it as I can make a cake solo. Its not that difficult to do and doesnt take much time. They have giant ovens so it wouldnt take much space either.......
2. did wildfire get the million riders or does it go thru christmas??
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So I emailed customer service about the cake and they said yes and gave the number to call. Called today and was told they would not be able to do it and that they did not have the man power. I then asked how much in advanced they would need since I was hoping for the weekend coming up but will be down there thanksgiving weekend also. Again was told they could not do. I brought the fact that some had just picked one up and could not give an answer to that.
Did send another email to customer service needless to say was very disappointed by phone conversation.
Wow! We've got one the last 3 years with no problem. It was a standard sized round birthday cake. We did order in person each time but they were very happy to take our order. IIRC the way we knew they did this was from an ad in the Pathfinder. Sorry to hear you're having problems jmc75. I'm sure someone at the park can solve it and get it done.
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I dont see why they wouldnt have the "manpower" to do it
They are cutting hours at SDC.
Also I would bet that showing up in person and ordering the cake makes it a lot harder to say no.
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Alright so here is my review for going to the park today the 5Th and my birthday cake issues.
So after I called last week for the cake and was told no I emailed customer service just to let them know. We I received a email back from customer service with a letter from the food manager. Basically saying she thought there was a misunderstanding and they thought I wanted that next day. I know that is not what I said but either way she told me to call her and she will make it happen. So after we talked she promised me a cake for Sat. and before we left we had a cake and everyone kept apologizing to me for the missunderstanding. So all worked out I think they even tried to overcompensate with the pound of icing but it was very good. This is why I love SDC they seem to me at least fix what ever issue you have.
OK now to the trip to the park.
Got to the park about 1:30. The main parking lot was pretty full and talking with the parking attendant he was saying so for they were meeting expectations for the day. Got in the park and headed over to get a our 2012 season I was a little surprised was not to busy and after talking to the lady she was saying it was very busy earlier. Also she was saying that SDC was doing tickets different this year so they have to reenter all your info. Also the BAF tickets have completely changed as you might have read. You now get a a voucher that you have to take the voucher with your pass to the ticket window so they can compare the numbers on your voucher with your pass. The reason for this is because of all the people that are selling the BAF. Apparently she was saying they do not worry about the people giving the BAF away for free but its the selling of them is the problem. Also with that I did get a parking pass which was $18.00 apparently they are selling only 1000 of them and people had been buying them she said. They give you a ticket and then next year when you go the first time you will get a sticker for your car.Also did get a ornament for 2011.
The BAF in case anyone wants to know are these dates 12/1-12/30,8/6-9/16 except 9/1&9/2,7/21-8/5 after 6pm,6/2-6/10 and last 3/15-6/1 except 3/31,5/26,5/27.
After the season pass headed over to HDH for a little bit so my Son could run around a little bit. I have to say originally I did not think that place was big enough to keep ones attention for awhile but I have to take that back because we spent probably an hour there with Nathan was running around.
Left there for the flooded mine they had all the people with Santa hats on. Was kinda hoping for a little more but was still good.
After the flooded mine went to the riverside ribhouse for lunch food was very good and they also after my son told them it was his birthday some free cookies he was very excited. Just another reason why I like SDC. After a very filling lunch headed over to GG for the little one to use up some energy. After that headed over to Boatworks theater for the frosty show. Which turned very well, we were sitting towards the front and one of the performers came down to talk to the kids and started talking to Nathan well he mentioned how it was his birthday today and they told him when they call hem to come up and help put Frosty together. He loved it had the best time when he got done he turned around and gave the crowd a thumbs up which just cracked the crowd up.
After that headed toward the train but after seeing the line decided to try that next time we come down. So we headed up to the square to wait wait for the lights and the parade. We did stop in grandfathers mansion everything was working but one odd thing they had the heat on and it felt like it was 100 degrees on the main floor was very hot.
The tree lighting was very good as was the parade, we did see some people watching from the balcony of the hotel not sure who they were but how awesome would it be to watch from that spot.
After the parade headed to get the cake and then headed out ,all and all a great day at SDC.
Only had two issues I was standing in line for about 10mins in front of the popcorn stand by the square granted the lady seemed in no hurry not that , that was a big deal the issue I had was she never announced that the CO2 canister was out. You would think that maybe she would have mentioned that on occasion so the people that wanted a soda or something else did not have wait that long for nothing. The second is more of a parenting thing if you are there with a older child and see them just run over a smaller child please say something. We were getting off the carousel and exiting and some kid forearmed my sun to move him out of the way and the mom just stood there and smiled that just drives me nuts.
Anyway I know I rambled on in this one but we had a very good time as always.
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Did forget to mention that with the season pass you get a coupon for 20% on one purchase over 20 dollars
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great review jmc75. thanks for the info on the parking pass.
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NIce JMC,, headed ther today.. anxious to see mainn strret and the lights tonite.. after all, it has been 10 months since OTC 2011!! LOL
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One last thing I did forget to mention and thought this was interesting. I had with me my 50th annv. refill mug with me and as I was going to get a soda one of the citizens asked if I would like to trade it in for a 2011 OTC mug. I said no but come to find out she was hoping I would so she could have it. Apparently after last year all the extra mugs were gathered up and taken away so the chances of seeing any extra are very slim. Apparently some had taken hers. So keep that in mind for those who have one.
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When I was an employee, I asked a guest if I could buy an old souvenier map they had from '73 (this was in '79) and since it had some places on it that were torn, they just gave it to me! It is one of the prized collectables I have today because it is a map that shows the entire Lake Silver area completely undeveloped. Also when I was an employee, I had a nice pewter mug with a glass bottom that I had purchased at the Hospitality House with a nice SDC logo on it stolen from me when I sat it down at the diving bell one day about 1981. That really bummed me out, 'cause back then you could actually leave a fancy camera bag or an expensive video camera unit with a stroller in front of a ride and no one would touch them...everything would still be there when you got back.
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Junior that's because the video cameras were the size of cinder blocks back then...no one could get away with them without making a scene!
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This past Saturday the hubby and I were able to sneak off to the park childless with the sole purpose of riding every ride. Can you believe I've never ridden Powder Keg before? Wow - I give that ride two thumbs and two big toes up. 'Twas awesome, folks! Unfortunately, I ended up busing a tendon on my arm that's marked in a rainbow of colors from my forearm to my wrist. Hurts like crazy and it looks pretty scary. I think it's when put my arm down and held on to the side of cart while going around a corner. Dang... now I know better.
Snack: Hot apple cider and an apple dumpling. Pretty good overall and the price was just fine. My hubby thought the cider was a little watered down.
I am annoyed with Christmas so early, but I wasn't there to soak up the atmosphere. I wanted my rides and my park food, and we were outta there. We didn't even stay late enough for the lights to come on. lol It trips me out seeing elves so close to Halloween. Kinda like they forgot to take off their costume.
For being the first day of the Christmas bonanza, I didn't think it was super crowded. A big crowd yes, but not bothersome.
I look forward to going AFTER Thanksgiving when I'm ready for the Christmas atmosphere.
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We visited Silver Dollar City's Old Time Christmas Saturday November 5th (Opening Day). We arrived at the park around 3:00, we parked in parking lot #5 and took the tram in. There was one tram after another, as there seemed to be a lot of people entering the park around this time. Hardly no wait at all, because the trams moved along great. Cold enough weather to feel like Christmas, but not bitter cold to annoy you.
We visited specifically to see the christmas lights, mainly because this might be our last trip for the year. OTC is my favorite of all the Fesivals, and it takes my breath away year after year. We first rode The Flooded Mine, everything seemed to be working, and we could hear the music, the santa hats were on as usual, we didn't use the guns, just sat and enjoyed the ride. We had the succatash for dinner, and enjoyed the large lighted raindeer as we sat at our picknic table. This was the first year (in 9 seasons) that we missed "A Christmas Carol." We stood in a LONG line on the square to get "The works" before the Tree Lighting Ceremony. "The Works" is always worth the long wait, and just as we got our drinks, we were able to turn around and enjoy "Christmas on Main Street." The blue tree, that is traditionally in front of the General Store, had long LED Icesickles hanging from it this year as well; was a nice added touch. We did get a special treat to see the Mo. State Band march at the begining of the parade! I believe this was just because it was the first parade of the Christmas season. After the parade, we headed in to see "The Living Nativity." After that we stood in a long line to wait for the train (only 1 was running that night). We ended up being on the last train of the day...the park....breathtaking.....Grandpa telling of the TRUE reason for the season, perfect; THIS SHOULD NEVER CHANGE! EVER. We had a truly wonderful time, OTC is a MUST see for all SDCFans. Thank you also, Paige & Cherie, for another great stay at HomeStay Inn! Pictures to come, I promise! :)
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That is it! After reading all of these trip reviews I am officially taking up the Poor Student Foundation for those who are Economically Down to aid in Trip to the City.......or the PSFEDTC. I have a year to go on my Masters and then two on my Doctorates and then foundation! lol
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That's why my doctorate is on hold...so I have some spending money (even though I am paying off my recent Masters! My wife does have 2 bachelors and no masters, maybe I'll let her catch up to me before I move ahead.
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Just returned from our first trip back to The City in a year and our first ever visit during the OTC festival. We visited almost all day Friday 11/11 and Saturday 11/12. Here were my impressions:
- It definitely is a bit bizarre seeing the park decked out in all its Christmas glory well before we've even celebrated Thanksgiving. However, I'm glad they offer OTC this early, as we elected to go down in hopes of having a little more favorable weather, which we did both days.
- All of the OTC festival touches lived up to, or exceeded, all of the hype I've been reading and hearing about for years. The lights are truly a sight to behold. We've vowed to make an annual return visit a new holiday tradition.
- Once again, I was truly amazed and impressed at the number of employees who went out of their way to not only help us, but make casual, friendly conversation. And it never felt obligatory. Just seemed like good people, who loved being in the park, and appreciated us being there with them.
- The crowds were lighter during the daylight hours and noticeably heavier during the evening, but still nothing oppressive. TNT and Wildfire never had lines at all. You could simply ride, then jump right back into the station and ride again. We've been so spoiled with scenarios like this every October (and now November) when we go down, that I just can't imagine waiting for hours to ride these coasters. Only one train running on PK Friday so it took about 20 minutes or so to ride. They ran two Saturday, which helped the flow significantly, but there was still a bit of a wait. All three coasters never cease to amaze and bring a smile to my face. Three very different rides, and each one is special in its own right. We are so lucky to have them. This was my first experience riding all three of them at night. Wow. Never expected them to get any better, but all of them did, in my opinion.
- We didn't feel like waiting in line for "A Christmas Carol", as the line for each show was very long. We will next time.
- We were a bit disappointed to see that some of the craftsmen areas were closed due to the cold season. Understand, but it did seem to take away from the overall experience just a bit. We noticed a similar trend with the shopping. It seemed like several of the shops had noticeably less inventory, which bummed us out. We guessed perhaps that's just the parks way of tying to liquidate goods for the season. Maybe not. We were also a bit disappointed that the shops didn't seem heavier on holiday related items for their particular niche. Could be we just weren't interested in some of the things that were. Maybe it's still a bit too early in the festival. Not a big deal. I think we just assumed that the park would be brimming with holiday merchandise that could take days to go through, and we didn't leave with that impression.
- Didn't try the Wassail like I wanted to, or The Works, but did have a hot chocolate with whipped cream and an apple dumpling with cinnamon ice cream. A little taste of heaven no doubt.
- The lines for the train were extremely long and Saturday evening we found out why. We got on just after the sun dipped and I'm so glad we took the time to do it. It's amazing how something so simple can leave you with such a good feeling, and impression of a place. Bravo, SDC. And the view of Sliver Lake at night during OTC is something everyone should see at least once. Just spectacular.
- I would advise anyone wanting to watch the parade (especially with children), to simply wait and grab a spot along the route when you see the parade coming. We stood around "holding a spot" for over 30 minutes, not knowing the parade itself doesn't even last 10 minutes. It's cute and well done, but it's lack of length definitely doesn't warrant waiting around for it, when you could be enjoying other things in the park.
So, here's my trip report card for SDC OTC.
Parking: A
Crowds: A-
Hospitality: A+
Light Display: A+
Food: A
Lines: A-
Shopping: B+
Night rides : A+
General atmosphere: A
Festival detail: A
Overall grade: A
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great report. glad you had "A" good time!
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Sounds like you had a great time!!
I know what you mean about the merchandise. It seems that it was around 2001-2003 somewhere in there that SDC had a load of Christmas merchandise. They also had a terrible year as far as Christmas was concerned because of rain or bitter cold. The weekends were pretty bad all that OTC. I was there one evening in had rained and the lights had shorted out ( many of them). The following years you saw the same merchandise as they were clearing it out. Seemed like it instigated conservative buying of holiday merchandise. I have never again seen the selection like they had back then.
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Some impressions from our "surprise" trip this past weekend. Traffic was HEAVY Friday on I-44 and US 65 (and in Springfield). We got to the city about 7:00 Friday night, so we only had 2 hours before we had to go to the hotel. We got to the City about 11:30 Saturday AM (we grabbed breakfast at Donnie's Diner in Branson West, a little place in a strip mall that I recommend highly) but had to leave at 6:00, just as it was getting really dark.
Very busy, probably at least partly a function of the very good weather.
The trees in the park are still more colorful than most back here around Rolla.
The new train car is in use. We didn't get to ride in it either time--heck, we weren't even on the same train--but I saw it a couple times. Looks like it will have more headroom. While I prefer the older roof style, this new one IS period correct. Not sure whether I like the tan interior, though.
I really appreciate the fact that most of the lights are still incandescent. I do not like LEDs for Christmas lights—they seem garish and cold. For that reason, I’m afraid, I have to say that the big tree simply doesn’t do anything for me. The vast majority of the rest, however, are very, very nice. I cannot imagine their power requirements, however!
“A Christmas Carol” was a great deal of fun, though I think the ghost of Christmas Present rather hammed it up too much (she’s not supposed to be a Bolin) and I have to wonder why they reversed the appearance of the first two ghosts. GREAT sets and costumes. As one who has to wear wool in the heat of the summer, I could sympathize with the folks on stage in all those layers.
Enjoyed the Living nativity. I understand it will be reverting to a simpler format next year, and I think that will actually be an improvement.
My boys recognized one of the tram drivers as a Ralphie Bolin and enjoyed talking with him. Then they practically assaulted one of the conductors doing line crowd control with “Hey, hey, hey!” when they realized he, too, had been Ralphie.
This trip was only the second time I’d been to OTC, and one thing that I find interesting is that, despite Grandpa’s story and the Living Nativity, most Christmas representations and all the sing-a-long music on the train are Santa. Got nothing against Santa! But why not some real carols in the mix, too?
Getting out of the park Friday night was a bit chaotic. The route through OM was closed off—I can see why!—and so we had to guess how to get into the right line for our tram. Very crowed and somewhat rushed. Too few signs. Not sure how it could be fixed without several more people or many more signs.
Well, all the nits aside, it was a great time. The whole family had a blast, and we hope to hit the City one last time in December. The food was great, and the hot chocolate was very welcome. The City was over-run with strollers, which tells me that yet another generation of SDC Fans is in the making!
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I've been to SDC 10 times this year, and maybe it's just me but Saturday Nov. 12th seemed like the most crowded. Even more so than the christian youth fest.
Sunday had better weather though, and maybe half the people.
Just observations...
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We were there Saturday Nov. 12th also, but only stayed until about 4:30. We were pretty tired by that time because SDC had their annual Pin Trading event and we had already had been there since 8:00 a.m. I didn't think the crowds were too bad considering it was nice weather and on a Saturday. Last year we went to OTC and you had to get in line and wait to just use the bathroom. The line to the train last year was backed up to where Becca's is now and the Flooded Mine line was backed to the train depot. The longest I saw the train line Sat was back to Bears In The Hollow and Flooded Mine you could just walk right on. Maybe later in the day the lines became worse.
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Okay, what is "The Works" that people have mentioned as snacks?
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When you buy hot chocolate during the OTC festival, they offer it with various garnishes. If I'm not mistaken, The Works is simply topping your beverage with everything (whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate chips and candy cane bits).
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When you buy hot chocolate during the OTC festival, they offer it with various garnishes. If I'm not mistaken, The Works is simply topping your beverage with everything (whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate chips and candy cane bits).
Exactly! except, they are actual candy cane's.
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Ah! Yum! We will be trying that!
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Yep, the works is the way to go! It's takes yummy to a whole new level!
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OK? never tried that... but may this weekend, supposed to be perfect hot chocolate weather,, ;D
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Go for the works...you won't regret it! And if you do, well at least you tried it, and you will have no regrets!
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Went on Friday 11/18 and Sunday 11/20. Crowd level seemed to be the same both days. If you ever wondered if the cast sings live during Dickens, well, yes they do. There were a couple of noticeable clunkers during the show we went to on Friday. (I'm a singer and I know that all singers have a bad day occasionally). None of the shows we went to on Friday were full (Dickens, the Living Nativity, Pure Heart/Tracey Heaston, and the Saloon show).
Got our season passes and ornaments but nothing was said to us about purchasing the parking pass. The SDC citizen made sure to go over the new BAF policy. We had to ignore the Welk people trying to get our attention on the way in and out.
Word of warning -- the refreshment stand across from Riverfront Playhouse (the one that sells pretzels and drinks) charged us full price to get our mugs refilled with hot cider on Friday. Husband didn't argue because it was time for the Pure Heart/Tracey Heaston show at the Playhouse. Don't know if the person running the stand was new or what the problem was.
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Thanks for the mini trip review biscuitcreek!
It sounds like you were able to make the rounds. That is some really good information for anyone wanting to visit during the Old Time Christmas.
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Yeah thanks biscuitcreek. Those Welk folks are surely ones to be avoided. I feel that smaller crowds during live shows sometimes makes for a more intimate experience. It can be good or bad.
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The Welk people should have giant scarlet Ws sewn onto their clothing.
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I have another thought for the "welk" people, BUT i am not sure it is legal in all 50 states ;D
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Sorry kids, no trip this weekend. My big plans all fell thru. Parents canceled, wifes brother has guttering people showing up Sat. when we was gunna be leaving, 1 of our cars has a rear main seal & power steering leak that needs to be fixed. 45 degree weather, we aint good in the cold. We could go by ourselves, but the wife says " i'll leave that decision up to you.." I know what THAT means.... I could go by myself, but what fun would that be?
Sometimes i just dont like being responsible.... :D
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tough break how-do... BUT as we all know...........
some things just aint supposed to happen!
better luck next time.
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Silver Dollar City is the town that never grows old. There will still be plenty of other opportunities to go. :)
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Went today 11/25 and turned out to be not to bad of a day. We did not get there until about 12:30 did not have to much of the desire to do the black Friday thing. Did get some conflicting reports on that. Talk to the parking guy and he sad not very many people had come, but when talking to one of the citizens inside the park she said that they were very busy. So got into the park and headed down to the measuring station in the GE very crowded for all the rides. So we got my son measured and then decided to just go ahead and grab some lunch. Headed to Wagon works for lunch very good had the Ozark chili I highly recommend. I do want to mention the good kindness of the people that come to the park. My wife was pushing around the double stroller and looking for a table for the rest of us, when a guy who was already sitting down got up offered the table to my wife and then even got a extra chair for her at least there are still some who care. Anyway after lunch headed around the park and headed toward half dollar holler and hung there for awhile. Noticed that they were running two trains and that the line for the flooded mine was all the way across the bridge, do not see that very often. After HDH went over to GG for a little bit to let my son get out some energy all looked pretty good. I do think lake silver looks kinda sad these time of year since they drain the water which I guess they have to that for freezing issues. After that we though we would head toward the train. Decided we would do the FM first wait was not very bad at all maybe 15-20 mins. at best. I do have two question for all you silver dollar city experts. First question as you waiting you go past the wardon room that has the picture that talks at one point weren't you able to hearhim talk. Second on the scene that the one prisoner says "I am getting out of her no matter what" is that not activated by the one gun sensor?
After FM we headed for the train, I figured we were in good shape since theyhad both trains going. So we are moving along and get to be about 1 train away. so one train come and drops off the passengers and leave with no passengers find out it has some engine issues. Figure no big deal still have another train and we would be the next round anyway. So next train come around and they load everyone up. We did not get on but figured that was fine we were first at the gate to get next ride. So just kinda standing there and next thing we know the conductor is telling everyone on the train to stay sitting that they were have a communication problem, but they were working on it. They seemed pretty confident it was going to get fixed. Well after about 15 mins. they started to remove people from the train, could not fixed the problem. What are the chance of two trains having issues almost one after another. It did very much suck especially for standing in line for so long I was just happy my son handled it so well since the train is his second favorite ride. Well after that we headed over to GM and a short stop at the mill for some fresh out of the oven cinnamon bread to eat there always an excellent choice I think. We then headed to the pottery store for me to get a mug and then watched the frosty show. I did hear the train go by at least once. We decided to skip the train and good watch the tree in the square so I can only assume it was fixed. Then headed out it was kinda nice to head out before the parade just due to the amount of people that leave at the same time after the parade is over. We did stop at E&D for some take home cinnamon rolls and a loaf of cinnamon raisin bread. I was told everything made in SDC was fat free so I figured it was ok.
As we left i did notice the preferred lot was full and the other over flow lots had cars in them and people were still heading in around 6:30pm. So I would think it was a good crowd over all.
So all and all another good day especially with the weather could not have asked for a nicer day. Only draw back was the trains but things happen so well just have to force ourselves to go back to the park, that won't be hard.
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I was also there today. I'll probably write more later when I actually get home, but here are a few notes:
The new train car looks a lot better than I was expecting based on the first reviews. It sticks out a little, and it seems a little less quaint than the old style, but it's not bad at all.
The park was packed to the gills today around 5-6, lines were so bad I spent most of that time just wandering around. However, it really petered out after the first light parade and by 8 the lines were getting fairly short on everything.
Man, the prices keep rising. A bottle of sasparilla is now $2.60 for some reason. I don't know why they felt they needed and extra 10 cents halfway through the season. All the other prices were noticeably higher too...
I didn't ride the train till dark, and I couldn't see much from TGS or from the gate nearby, but I did spot one marker that was almost directly on the train tracks on the other side from the old cabin. I'll ride the train tomorrow in the daylight and try to spot more and get some photos.
Pretty good day all around, headed back for more tomorrow.
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Awesome trip review jmc75! ;D
It sounds like the park was either packed, or roomy depending on which section of the park you were in at any given time. The gentlemen near the Wagon Works Grill is what Silver Dollar City is all about! You can’t help but to show love, and concern for your fellow man at a place like that. I’m glad to hear they were running two trains today. It seems like the train is absolutely one of the most popular, if not the most popular attraction at Old Time Christmas. However, I am bummed to hear that you were not able to catch it later on in the day. What are the odds that both would fail?
In reference to your question about “I’m getting out of here no matter what!” at the Flooded Mine, no that is automated, and is not controlled by the gun sensor. It goes off each, and every time regardless if you hit anything, or not. :P
Cinnamon rolls are definitely a perfect way to end your day! It sounds like you, and your family had an amazing, and wonderful trip overall. Thanks for sharing! :)
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The new train car looks a lot better than I was expecting based on the first reviews. It sticks out a little, and it seems a little less quaint than the old style, but it's not bad at all.
Pictures! We need pictures! ;D
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Yeah jmc75, that sounded like a pretty cool trip. Thanks for the review. I hope HDH and GG weren't too awful crowded for you and yours. The Gulch and the Holler are 2 of my favorites.
Joe
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sounds like a typical black friday crowd, glad you 2 were able to get around,
anxious to here from shave about the flags and hios thoughts on that topic,
Good luck today, !
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Had an AWESOME day today. Great food, great shows, and the rides were all running great and with short lines. It was wet, cold, and windy all day so the crowds were a fraction of what they were yesterday.
I've got a ton of photos, but it'll take a while to process them and get them up here, so it might be Tuesday night until I get around to it. Until then, here's some notes:
Riding Wildfire today made me realize how awesome Wild Eagle is going to be. The ride is so solid and provides a great all-around experience with the views, awesome drop, and oversized inversions. I was a little let down when I saw that WE wasn't utilizing some of the newer elements, but now I see that they are sticking to the Wildfire formula that has proven itself so well.
The Mine restaurant below the mill is still probably the best place to eat on park. It was like a second thanksgiving meal tonight. Only slight complaint is that they could probably do more to help out people with food allergies. My father has developed a severe gluten allergy, and it's always a pill trying to figure out what he can eat. If they would just put allergen labels on their labels it would help everyone out a lot.
I rode the train twice today and spotted a couple more markers, but I wasn't able to grab any photos in time. The markers are located on the side of the cabin facing away from TGS and they are pretty far back there in the woods and hard to spot until the train is already rounding the next bend. I saw one purple marker and one stake in addition to the stake from yesterday, and who knows what else is back up in there. I'll post more on that in the 2013 thread.
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Sounds like you really did have an awesome time shave! :D
I prefer going to the city during beautiful weather, but you really can’t beat the fun of going on a really cold, windy, or rainy day. It’s like a kid getting a park playground all to themselves.
Wildfire truly is a great ride! Powderkeg, and Thunderation both serve their unique roles, but Wildfire is the roller coaster at Silver Dollar City. B&M truly make world class roller coasters!
In all of my years of going to Silver Dollar City, I have never once ate at the Mine restrurant. It is now officially on my to do list!
I can’t wait to see all of the pictures you took! Thanks for the review! ;D
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I arrived last ngiht at 7 to a easy parking lot and a crowd of 6000. ( trusted citizen info) They said the weather was keeping the large crowds away but yesterday they had 5000 more than they expected at 21000. GLad I skipped Friday!!.
Because of the cold weather I did a quick walk through had an apple dumpling and the mills cinamon bread . It was a nice quick trip. I recomend a cold evening walk through every once in a while.!!!
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MH, we will be there next sunday afternoon/evening,, going to dress warm!!
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My family just got back from OTC on Friday and had a great time! They visited Aunt June in the candy basement and on the way down, they passed the Herschend's who were apparently there on Friday as well. Black Friday must have been a great day to be in the park!
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Wow, talk about the “Hollywood” of Silver Dollar City! Aunt Jude, and the Herschends all in the same spot, and in the same evening ;D
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Here's my take: Arrived at the park about 3:00 Thanksgiving afternoon prepared to enjoy the Thanksgiving buffet at Mollys. There was absolutely no line at all for the prime rib/turkey buffet so we skipped over there instead. It was just a few dollars more. The buffet was great (the prime rib was a bit overdone), but that isn't what I really wanted so I didn't care too much. The park was not crowded at all, and the weather was beautiful. We had about a 15 min. wait in line to see the Christmas Carol - it was good as always. We did have a slight glitch here - I was told that if I wanted to sit w/my husband I had to leave my wheelchair. Otherwise, I could sit in front, and he could sit behind me. So weird!! I elected to walk to a seat, and as I did so, husband took my wheelchair out and parked it where he was directed. After the show, he left to get my chair and it was missing. It took him awhile to find it as it had been moved and was buried in amongst the strollers. In the meantime, I was told that I must leave so they could start letting in guests for the next show. I explained that I was waiting for my wheelchair. Husband couldn't get back in because the doors were locked. They let guests in and he was finally able to get back to me. Then, the employees were not happy because they had to let us out. It was CRAZY!! In spite of all that, the weather was beautiful and it was not crowded at all. Perfect night for walking around and enjoying the park. It was so perfect, we skipped rides and shows. We were going to ride the train, but it happened to be the only ride that had quite a wait so we skipped it. We hated leaving since it was such a nice night.
We returned the next morning for Black Friday shopping expecting a crowd. Very few people were there at 7:30 a.m. We had E&D's bakery to ourselves. After rolls and coffee, we started shopping to avoid the crowd that we expected any moment. Still, no crowd! We bought a few gifts and walked around the park feeling like we owned the place. Real bargains were few and far between, but we did purchase a good supply of taffy to last thru the winter! :) We left by 10:30. It's amazing what you notice when it isn't crowded. It was a fun morning!! I have no complaints whatsoever, but I heard some families grumbling about having to walk all the back to Main Street to purchase refreshments. I think it would have been a good idea to have a food vendor or two open near the back of the park. I think the only restaurants opened were E&D and Molly's. Sullivans was selling bread. Wagon Works was firing up their grill as we left. All in all, I wouldn't return for the sale, but I would go back just to walk thru the park with very few people around.
Oh, and Sasparilla is $2.50 in some areas of the park, but it's $2.60 at Hospitality House.
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Sometimes just walking around and soaking in the ambience is good enough. I can only imagine SDC at night with thin crowds. I toured the House on the Rock a few years back on a cool rainy day at the very tail end of their season and had a similar experience. Very cool indeed.
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My photos are now live on the site! Check em out: http://sdcfans.com/photos/feat/21
Included are some shots of the new train car and some glorious food shots.
So many photos, and I was being selective since I took over 200.
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those are some great pictures shave,
even though i have been to OTC twice already, the pics bring it back to life!
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Those photos are great shavethewhatles. Thank you kindly. I kind of wish you didn't remind me of the impending closure of Grandfather's Mansion. But it does remind me of something I meant to do.
The Christmas lights look fantastic. One of these seasons I'm gonna find myself at an OTC, if for no other reason than to ride some rides in the dark and gaze at the lights.
(http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee402/IJSDC1/xmasvac.jpg)
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why would they do something silly like close grandfathers mansion?? that place is a staple.
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Trams.. the only reason they would close it if the "law" required it to be 100% handicap accessable.
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Well, this is just a slight bit off topic, but I'd like to extend a bittersweet thank you to everyone who has posted a trip review for this season. My parents took me to SDC for the first time in approx 1984 and they have gone every single season since then. We go at least every fall and for the past 10 or 15 years we've been going in the winter as well. Some years as few as one 3 day trip, other years as many as two week long trips and a few weekend trips as well...but I almost always make it for at least one trip a year. I've made it with them every year except for one year when I was in college AND this year. Due to the birth of our first child and other factors I'm out of vacation time and won't be able to make it to SDC for my annual trip. That's right, out of the last 27 or so years I've been to SDC for 25 of them. I've been able to remotely experience SDC this year through all of the trip reviews and posted pictures...I feel like I've been there even though I haven't. If it wasn't for all of you taking time to post trip reviews my life would have been "SDC-free" this year. My wife has already promised me that we will make it next fall- It will be a great experience to get to take my son for the first time. Thanks again for everyone who's taken the time to post the details of their trip this year, I've enjoyed the chance to experience SDC, even if it wasn't in person.
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we do what we can kentucky,
glad to help you with your "virtual" SDC visit!
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Trip review for Friday Dec 2 and Sat Dec 3
Friday was just a quick run over to the park with my mom and sister to look around for a bit without the kids and to renew season passes. It was fairly easy to park as it was after 6:30 and quite a few people were leaving. Got to the gate and they had 2 turnstiles open resulting in long lines and quite a wait to get in. Season pass renewal wasn’t too bad got through as quickly as could be expected. Walked through a relatively empty park and saw all the lights, grabbed a cocoa and a wassail and were back out of the park.
Saturday we parked about noon and had no delays getting in and since the park was already open were able to head straight to all our favorite rides. Powderkeg for the big kids and FM and HDH for the younger ones. PK had no line and we went through about 3 times before I had to tag in someone else to ride with the kids. FITH looked good and had very little line. About that time the rain really settled in. We rode the flooded mine again, TNT a couple times. Went back to HDH to find it closed for weather. Rode the little swings and the carousel. Went to see Frosty, which was wonderful and all the kids LOVED. Had a snack, glanced at the radar and decided we needed to call it a day. Got soaked on the walk out but still glad we left when we did because the rain did not stop until Sunday morning. Didn’t get to see Santa (that line was crazy long). So we hit the landing and saw the big man at bass pro. Had dinner at Mr Gs and back to the room.
Another great stay at Homestay Inn and all around positive trip to SDC.
Side note: Season parking passes are no longer available.
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Walked through a relatively empty park and saw all the lights, grabbed a cocoa and a wassail and were back out of the park.
I do this very thing most of the time. A walk through is a great little break even if time is short. I have seen all the crafters and the shows and ridden all the rides plenty of times so now i enjoy the atmosphere. Although I still do ride and all its not as dire each trip. I guess I am getting old because I enjoy wandering and hanging out as much as anything.
Living close, having a seasons pass is really a nice thing.
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Was at the city sunday, VERY low attendence because of rain in the morning and very coll weather, but afternoon was nice with no moisture,,
All of the big coasters were apparantly shut down, (i dont ride, but could not hear or see them moving).
Took monster in law to opera ouse 1st thing,, @nd time for me this yearm that iis really a great productioin and could hold its own agains ANY branson show!
Rode the train, twice! Looked for markers, but did not see any "new" ones.
RB looks bad, they ignored that are this year.
went through GM of course,
Lights all looked nice, I still think they skimped on the trees by the lake over toward the rib house area
GG looked GREAT!
Had a good trip..
Planning on going back Friday the 30th.. LAST DAY!
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Trip Review...December 3-4
Left home Saturday morning at 7:00 am arrived at SDC about 2:00pm (We had to stop and pick up Grandma along the way and we checked in at Homestay Inn first). First ride was TNT. It had about a 20 minute wait, they were only running one train. Went over to Wildfire next. The line was so long, the kids opted not to ride it. Again...only one train running. Next, went to Powderkeg, but a light rain had started and Powderkeg was closed. (I had heard that rain adversely impacts PK's sensors) Stopped by FITH next, the line was out the doors. So we skipped that. (My family is extremely spoiled when it comes to ride times. We have been incredibly fortunate that most the time when we go to SDC ride times are minimal.) I was perplexed at how many rides only had 1 train running. By evening time, the park had a pretty good crowd, but it was raining pretty steady. Given the fact that I was pretty tired from driving that morning, and the weather was rainy. I was ready to go (and so was grandma) but I couldn't pry my wife and kids away from the place (they took naps in the van on the way down.) I later found out that attendance was around 13,500 that day. Not as much as they had expected, but still a pretty good crowd considering the weather.
Sunday morning. The weathermen were predicting rain and cold temperatures all day. I thought seriously about packing it up and heading home. But the little voice inside my head told me it was going to be a good day. We were going to wait a while to see what the weather was going to do. But the kids were bouncing off the walls in the hotel room, and the weather was dry. So I decided that we would head out early. It turned out to be a really good day. It was cold, but dry. And the crowds were lite. We arrived at SDC around noon. The park wasn't open yet, except for the HH and the square but we puttered around. (The kids running around SDC was a lot better than them running around the hotel room.) We went to church at 1:00pm and enjoyed a nice service, and a really good sermon, so much so, that my church will here a modified version of it this Sunday! As Sanddune said, WF and PK were closed on Sunday, but TNT, FITH and the Flooded Mine were all open. The family attended various shows..the saloon, Dickens, Pure Heart, and Frosty and we rode the aforementioned rides. We enjoyed multiple cups of hot chocolate with "the works" and several apple dumplins. My children tricked me into riding TNT with them at night when I couldn't see, in 38 degree weather! We visited Santa, and Clarence Peabody. Watched the parade (the parade was canceled on Saturday night due to the weather).
I didn't see many shows or ride many rides. My greatest thrill at SDC these days is just walking around, soaking up the atmosphere, and occasionally watch a craftsman. Sunday was a perfect day for doing that. We concluded our day at SDC in the traditional manner..a visit to the dulcimer shop in the Ozark Marketplace. Several years ago I bought a dulcimer kit there and my dad and I put it together. My dad passed away almost 5 years ago. So every time I leave SDC I play a song on the Dulcimer there in memory of him. All in all it was a good day at SDC.
As always, we had a good visit with Paige at Homestay Inn. My son Caleb has adopted her into the family, and he still wants to work there when he gets bigger. Thanks Sanddune for setting this up. We would have never met Paige, without your arrangement.
I bought an engraved mug at the glass-cutting shop. It has the wilderness church on one side and DAD on the other. I now have my own cup at home. I'm so proud. (In a family of seven, “Is this your cup?” is a frequent question throughout the day. Now everyone knows which one is mine!). We also made a family portrait at the tintype shop.
A note about the “Frosty the Snowman” show. They have a different voice for Frosty this year. In the past, the voice was a recording. This year it's a live person. They changed it to create more interaction between the actors and the snowman. The new voice takes a little getting used to since its a woman's voice.
Misc. information I learned from staff—Wildfire is about 13,000 people away from reaching its goal of 1,000,000 riders this year. So far SDC is about 50,000 people below their attendance goal this year.
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Parson, wish i had known you were in the area,,,,, :'(
did u get and input about the new "woodie" for 2013? ;)
I talked to the guys at the railroad and people greeting at the OH. and nobody is saying anything,,,
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That's okay Sanddune. I'm sure we'll meet up again some time. Paige pointed you out to me Saturday night. Well, there was a person outside running around in the rain, and she said that was you! I was with the my kids in the lobby, they were in their PJ's but they wanted to say "hi" to Paige before they went to bed.
I didn't even think to ask anybody about what new attractions are coming up! It didn't dawn on me till after I got home...."You should have asked about the roller coaster!"
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So I was at the city on the 9th and finally got a chance to ride in one of the new train cars. I had one issue and maybe its just me but it seems as the back of the seat were alittle lower then the original cars. To me this was a little less comfortable.
Also I I took an idea from a past poster and at 8:55 went on the FM and asked if they could turn on the house light and they did. Was very excited that is such a completely different perspective when you get to ride it like it.
Once again why the citizens at SDC are the friendliest people around.
And with out question it was a great day at SDC, granted I do not think it is possible to have a bad day. Since any day I am at the park is a good day.
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thats right jmc, every trip is a good trip!!
BUT only 10 days left to enjoy it this year :'( :'( :'(
AND after that, we have to wait 72 days to go back!! ;D ;D ;D
Going to be a loooonnnggg winter.
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We have 89 days 20 hours 21 minutes till the opening season next year!!!! :o
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not that anybody is keeping track yet..... ;) right trams!?
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no.....I cant imagine ANYONE here keeping track or making a countdown timer for that matter. Thats preposterous! ;)
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I know shave is already a very busy person but it would be kinda cool to have a timer on the web site for some of us anxious people.
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oh man jmc??!! what a great idea!!
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I made one like a month ago and plopped it on my facebook. I need to see if I can plop it on here....
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My husband and I went to the City on Thursday. We got in the park right at 2:00, so we didn't miss much of the day. Our first impression was just how quiet the park was. No rushing water anywhere, plus the winter crowds (epically that early in the day) are smaller I assume. It was quite peaceful. The weather was perfect. In the 40s when we got there and dropped all afternoon.
Our first stop was Wildfire. There was no wait. Next we went down to FITH. Always a classic. Not much of a wait here. There were two trains running. Next we lined up for Dickens' Christmas Carol for the 3:15 showing. Waiting wasn't too bad, plus we ran into one of our Professors! Dear Hubby had never seen the show, and I hadn't in years. It did not disappoint. I'm sad to find out next year will be the last season for it. We picked a good time for it. Many of the actors I remembered from years past. I was surprised to see Tiny Tim played by a boy. DH really enjoyed the show. Afterwards he understood why I wanted to see it so badly. Next we rode FITH again, this time sitting in the back seat. It's almost a whole 'nother ride from the back! We took a stroll along the Riverfront. Lake Silver looks so sad when it's been drained. We made a stop at the Toy Store and each decorated a sugar cookie. A cookie, icing, and sprinkles for $1 ? Yes please! Who cares if we're 20. :D
We rode through the Flooded Mine and did Thunderation before getting in line for the train. The train ride is a Christmas classic, but I was a bit disappointed. I always love hearing the Christmas story. "Grandpa" does a great job at story-telling, and the accompanying lights and music were beautiful. I appreciate the Christian stance the park takes. It was the rest of the ride that I didn't like. The sing-along concept is great, but I wasn't a fan of the songs chosen. Perhaps I'm a bit too grown up, but I wasn't impressed by the lights either. Oh well.
Then we visited the glassblowers, probably our favorite place in the park. It's fascinating anyway, and DH is a chemist, so we spent a very long time in here. There was almost no one else watching (they have the big door closed--for temperature reasons I'm sure--which I think may have caused people to think they were closed) so we talked for quite a while. We visited Browns, but I was strong and didn't come home with any candy. We took what I call the "back-way" behind Mid-town to cut across town. It was very dark by now and the lights and empty back-streets were just beautiful. We rode Wildfire one last time. Wow! It was totally dark and so much fun. Convinced us to try to make it to Moonlight Madness next year. (We had planned to this year, but it was 100* every day that week, and I ended up spending the week with my grandma in Skaggs.)
We finished the night with dinner at Mary's Springhouse. I can't believe in all my years I had never eaten there. The food was pretty good: chicken alfredo for me and chicken Parmesan for DH. We got to listen to the tree-lighting while we ate. We heard our two favorite Christmas songs: Carol of the Bells and my favorite arrangement of Sleigh-ride. We watched the next light-show. Last stop was the Hospitality House so I could get a copy of the Beverly Hillbillies. We made it to the car right at 8 pm.
The crowd seemed really small. That may be due to the fact that it was a Thursday. Most schools are still in session, and adults are still at work. But it really was a fantastic trip!
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http://apps.facebook.com/tndcountdown/ is what I used.....dumb doris here doesnt get how to transfer.....
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Made my final trip to SDC on Saturday, 12-16-11 for the Christmas Festival! Four trips this year on my season pass. I did purchase my 2012 season pass before leaving...my plans are to visit EVEN MORE next year. The park really looked great. Christmas Carolers on Main Street did a fine job, saw the tree lighting ceremony, very nice, and caught the tail end of Cajun Connection Christmas. Did a lot of walking around and looking at shops. Enjoyed the wassel, Christmas Holler Shop, and visiting other shops. Did get to visit with a former Junior Dugan who still works on park, Alan Beiswenger was my area manager when I played Junior, he is now in the Security Department as a manager. Had a nice chat and caught up a bit with him. Saw another two former Junior Dugans on TV at the hotel...Terry Sanders as "Terry the Tour Guide" on the Vacation Channel, and Bob Nichols interviewing Branson stars on his TV program on the Vacation Channel, too. Had a chance to meet briefly with Rick Hord, who spends most of his time either at the train or Flooded Mine, caught him at the RR crossing behind the mine. He was my lead man at the Flooded Mine when I moonlighted as a prisoner there. Rode the train, and for the first time saw Grandpa to his Christmas story, and it was very nice. My wife and I enjoyed our trip, just taking our time looking at lights and the weather cooperated. We were glad to go Friday, because as we left town Saturday afternoon, the park was so full they were parking guests in the employee parking lot across from Highway 76. They also parked people at an open field across from the old Wooden Nickel Restaurant at Notch and bussed them back to the park! We heard someone talking Friday night at the park, and she said they expected about 23,000 for Saturday! THAT IS PACKED, my friends! Photos of the SDC Christmas lights at the Flickr site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/juniordugan
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yay for a packed house! thats awesome!!! Thanks for the pics Jr!!
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That is busy,, I think the number from black friday was 21,000.
THATS a bunch of people ya'll!.
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Aslo should mention from my trip Friday 12-16-11 I noticed the markers along the RR tracks during my train ride. We shall see what develops.
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I had family there Friday night. They parked out at Indian Point and were told there were 24,000 in attendance. :o
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:o :o :o
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In excess of 23,000 Saturday. We arrived about 2:15 (after lunch at Lamberts on the way) and had to park at Stop 7. Waitaminit!! Stop 7??? South of the park and on the other side of IP Road. Grass-and-gravel hill by an eletrical sub-station. (When we left, we found busses running to "JD" and "The Bank," whatever/wherever they are.)
The park was jammed, busiest I've ever seen it. The word was they were staying open till 10:30 to accommodate everyone!
We went with our younger son and an older couple who are friends of ours (our retired Pastor and therefore my wife's ex-boss, to be exact). We got them in for $15/each and splurged on the Showlover's Pass for Christmas Carol (to save an aging knee in the party).
First place we went to was the Leather shop. We had to get my son a belt, and Pastor’s wife bought one of the leather coats. While I was checking out, a fella on a personal (not park) electric cart tried to go up the little hill there and his cart quit, got sideways, and fell over, hitting another guest. The Citizen at the shop rushed out in the middle of my sale (NO complaints, mind you, but my card was lying out, so I stayed there and couldn’t help). He called for help, but the gentleman insisted on getting up and leaving before First Aid could arrive. Several people had to help push him up the hill. I was gratified to see that there was a procedure in place but a bit concerned to see that the phone number to call wasn’t really handy. That probably indicates the use of it is rare, which is a good thing!
The Ladies wanted to spend some time in Becca’s, so my son and I took Pastor through GM. He got a kick out of it. We hit the Springhouse for some drinks and spent some time at Sullivan’s Mill, where the ladies further depleted the checking accounts ;-) While there, we ran into Duelist and his delightful family and chatted a few minutes. We also hit Christmas Hollow, but nobody bought anything there.
We walked down the Hill and took in the sights heading up toward the Opera House. We spent a few minutes in a short Showlovers line and were taken directly to the front row. Packed house; very good show. NOTE: the “snow” is heavier in the center, first couple/three rows ;-) Interacted a fair bit with the actors.
After the show, we couldn’t get back up Hill Street because off the impending parade (one bit of OTC we really have no interest in), so we ducked under the RR bridge and headed along the riverfront, stopping in the Toy Store so my son could buy a classmate a present for their Christmas party. After that, it was up around the S-curve to the train depot; the end of the line was halfway down the corkscrew, so it was a longer walk than we had anticipated. The line shrank fast, however. Two trains, one of three and one of four cars. One of the conductor’s said they were moving almost 1500 people an hour through there, about 500/cycle! The ride was its usual fine self, and Grandpa did an exceptional job. The only pothole of the day was getting on the train, however. Some people get awfully pushy. I understand that they want to sit together—I would like to sit with my family, too, but I decided that better approach to take was just to give in and let my wife, son, and friends have a seat while I sat further back. At least we were in the same car.
After the train, we hit a couple shops on the way back up top, including the candy shop so that I could pick up a special request from my older son (who couldn’t come this weekend). Then we stopped in at Molly’s for the Holiday Buffet. It had been a long day for the Citizens there!
A bit of last minute shopping at the HH (my wife was getting something for me, don’t know what yet) and then out the CM—which was nearly impassable because of the crowd. We had to wait on the east side of the ticket building for our ride to Stop 7 (and JD), the folks going to “The Bank” were actually lined up on the tree line. Busses and trams pirouetted and dosey-doed to get us all out, and the ride to the lot was shorter (in time) than the one to get us to the gate had been because we didn’t’ have to go ‘round the loop.
We were all pretty pooped at that point—good thing the hotel (Best Western) was close! We checked in and got into our rooms to the delightful music of the train whistle (till well past 10).
Two notes about the next day: we started off by attending Sunday services at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Kimberling City and were blessed by performances of their Handbell Choir and their Church Coir doing their Christmas Cantata. If you are looking for a place to worship while there, I can’t recommend this friendly church highly enough (only about 12 minutes from the city).
Pastor’s wife needed to do a bit of serious Christmas clothes shopping, so we went to Tanger before heading home. Although my wife found a great suit coat for me marked ‘WAY down, I will never again go there a week before Christmas. What a crowd!
All, in all, a great trip, a marvelous close to the 2011 year at the city. Can’t wait till Bluegrass and BBQ next year!
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Nice report, palallin. sounds like all went well.
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What a great time! Thanks for letting us know how your time went, I enjoyed reading it!
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Yeah, that sounds like a great time, despite the crowds. I remember parking at Stop 7 over across the road and down the hill once. I can't seem to recollect the circumstances of that visit but I know it was fun (despite the apparent crowds), because it's been a a good day in the City for me every time. Thanks for the report!
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Wanted to relate a humourous incident during our visit to the City last Saturday night. My son and I sat in the seats for the Giant Swing and after the ride operator told us to put our arms up so he could put the safety bar in place, someone behind us, in a perfect imitation of Randy from the movie "A Christmas Story" said " I can't put my arms down!" Everyone, including the ride operator, thought that was hilarious. :D
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duelist, it is things like that , that make our "city" what it is.!! you know things like that does not happen at WOF or Six Flags!!!!
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duelist, it is things like that , that make our "city" what it is.!! you know things like that does not happen at WOF or Six Flags!!!!
Yes, that does make it a magical place!
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You hope they are parking at Stop 7 when you stay at Deer Run so you can return to Deer Run whenever you want ;)
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I am hearing that have been and are very busy the last couple of days.. anybody been there?.
Also hoping they have a great week next week, and next friday they have "low" attendence,,, yep you guessed it, I am going next friday..
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S- Good luck on the "low" attendence deal......have a great time no matter what!!
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Thanks trams, we will have a good visit no matter what,,,,
I saw on facebook today there were about 6,000 people there last nite.
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...Next we lined up for Dickens' Christmas Carol for the 3:15 showing. Waiting wasn't too bad, plus we ran into one of our Professors! Dear Hubby had never seen the show, and I hadn't in years. It did not disappoint. I'm sad to find out next year will be the last season for it....
Just wanted to let you know...rumors of the death of DCC are greatly exaggerated. Dickens' Christmas Carol will continue to be produced for the foreseeable future.
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Well zephon that is good new, what a great show!
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Made a sudden and unexpected trip to Branson Friday 12/23/11 and stayed over until 12/24/11. Did the Shepherd of the Hills Homestead Trail of Lights, and I can highly reccomend it to all! Did some shopping at Tanger Mall and Grand Village. Many 50 to 70 percent off sales on merchandise, especially Christmas related stuff. Crowds light to moderate throughout the area. SDC closed 12/24 and 12/25. Seems as if most folks have had their vacation, done their shopping, and headed home for the holidays. A few Trail of Lights photos at the Flickr site:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/juniordugan
Merry Christmas to all!
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...Next we lined up for Dickens' Christmas Carol for the 3:15 showing. Waiting wasn't too bad, plus we ran into one of our Professors! Dear Hubby had never seen the show, and I hadn't in years. It did not disappoint. I'm sad to find out next year will be the last season for it....
Just wanted to let you know...rumors of the death of DCC are greatly exaggerated. Dickens' Christmas Carol will continue to be produced for the foreseeable future.
Thanks! Such good news. ;D
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I am thankful for all that posted pictures this year. This year has been tough and I was not able to make it to SDC at all this year. I am going to get season passes for next year and take my girls and grandbabies!!!
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I had never gotten a season pass before this year. I wound up going to the park 4 times. It was not as much as I wanted to go. However, I did get the 2012 season pass, and intend to go out of my way to go at least once each festival if possible. Worldfest...BBQ/Bluegrass...summertime...gospel...
fall festival...and Christmas again. We shall see what happens. I've got mugs to take with me for discounts on drinks. It is worth it to get the season pass if you can go several times in a year.
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well we set down tonite to "schedule" our branson trips this year. We do see some of the shows in town and like to get our reservations in for seating.. we have 12 trips planned to branson starting in feburary, and of course SDC opens in march.. Got 7 festivals planned, SOOOO>>>> here we goooooooooooooo!!! LOL..
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I have 3 planned! The first one being the weekend of march 15! Opening weekend!!! yay!!
;D
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My wife & I received one of the best Christmas presents you can get..........
SILVER DOLLAR CITY SEASON PASSES!!!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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trams, i was going to go 1st weekend, but my b-day is the 24th..soooooooo
Now if i can just figure out a decent motel to stay until paige opens up, because we are going to branson in feb also....
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I still like best western west! or if ya feel up to it get the basic bare bones cabin at the wilderness!! thats always fun! :D
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So, I just want to highlight the amazing actor playing Scrooge this year.... He was Fabian in the Saloon Show the rest of the year, and he's AMAZING. He's got the most beautiful voice, and he's a wonderful actor. I wish I knew his name. SDC is lucky to have him, because that man has the talent to make it big on Broadway.
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stand by Joy,, somebody here probably knows "scrooges" name....
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His name is Dave Wallace :)
And yes, he is VERY talented! I'm a huge fan!
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way to go tiff! I knew someone could help Joy with the name!
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No problem! If you need to know any other performer's names, just ask! I'll do my best!!
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Thanks for the name! I think all the performers should be credited somewhere, maybe in the Pathfinder. They are all such wonderful performers and while we get to learn the names of those in, say, Pure Heart and Cajun Connection, what about the people who are in the Saloon Show all day? And those in the Opera House productions? They deserve some credit!
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Most of the folks who play a role in the saloon or the street troupe play as though they were a "citizen" of SDC. When I played Junior at the diving bell, I was Junior to everyone who I met on the streets that day, fellow employee or guests. I agree some sort of playbill could be done for those performers in the productions at Echo Hollow, the Opera House, Red/Gold Hall, and so on. Those folks are performers, actors, more than the "citizens" from the old days.
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I also want to add that in my recent trips to Branson we stayed at the Clarion/Grand Palace. It has Internet and computers for guest use in a lounge area, and I was able to come to this Website and see what the latest postings were. Very convinient. I don't have a laptop so I couldn't post anything...I keep logged on full time on the home computer and didn't want to worry with doing so at the hotel.
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Thanks for the name! I think all the performers should be credited somewhere, maybe in the Pathfinder. They are all such wonderful performers and while we get to learn the names of those in, say, Pure Heart and Cajun Connection, what about the people who are in the Saloon Show all day? And those in the Opera House productions? They deserve some credit!
I agree. I wrote to SDC a couple of years ago about this but didn't get a response.
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I know most of the names of the performers who were in GAC Nights in Echo Hollow this past year because they each have a solo that is introduced with their name and hometown. I saw that show countless amount of times during the past year and I'm pretty good with names. And I know a few of the people from the saloon show because I usually talk to some of them after the show and kinda got to know a few of them. Same with GAC Nights, I talk to the performers during intermission and after the show, a few started recognizing me ;) Its mostly the same people in the GAC Nights that are in the Opera House productions.
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Arrived yesterday, December 30 about 1:45. Traffic was backed up past 465 intersection, but moved steadily. We were parked in lot 7, which I have never been to before, and really isn't a lot more like a field next to a substation on Indian Point Rd. I'm guessing this is the "Deer Run" lot as it was within walking distance. As an aside, on the way back the bus said he was going to lot 7 and JD. Where is JD and why do they call it that?
It was about 70 degrees when we entered the park but there was a pretty good wind so a hooded sweatshirt actually felt pretty good. Turnstyle lines were short and moving quickly, there was a good crowd inside but not overwhelming, nothing like what I expected from the traffic coming in, yet each area in the park was "busy", but not to an extreme. It was a great feeling. I normally don't like large crowds and getting stepped on, ran over, backed into, etc. but everyone seemed to be in a great mood, polite and there was enough room to avoid physical contact with the other guests.
Our 3 teens and one bf split off as soon as we entered which is the norm. Wife, 5yo and myself first took some pics in front of the tree, then wandered about the square a bit, is was strangely devoid of people but all the shops and surrounding buildings were bustling. First stop was GM and I have to say this was the first time I've actually noticed the moving floor working. Not saying it's always broke down, but I could really tell it was doing something this time. Then down to HDH for a merry go round ride and a trip through the tree houses. While there I noticed Terry Sanders drawing lines on the street to mark the wait times and line for the train. Found it odd that he would be doing that, but I guess all the citizens seem to be jack of all trades to an extent. From there off to the FM, pretty good line for that, but it moved fairly quickly. They were doubling up groups in boats to keep the line moving quickly. I think there's only been one other time I've seen them do this. I didn't mind, just an observation. Then off to GE to ride the elephants, line was almost all the way out to the street. There was a group of about 6 mildly obnoxious teenagers in front of us, I wasn't really sure why they were wanting to ride that and figured that each would want to ride their own elephant which was probably going to add one cycle to our wait time. It was really hard for me to keep from laughing out loud when the ride op made them double up so she could get more people on! ;D
After that back up top for some ice cream from Hannah's for Max while the wife and I got a burger from next door. Then down to the train. It was about 4:45 pm and the line was up to the 50 minute mark, but they were loading so we decided to see how far it moved after they loaded and that put us up almost to the station, so we decided to stick it out. They were running two trains however I think it takes a bit longer for the Christmas story and for some reason they have to stop behind FITH to make sure they "see each other" before either can move. I guess I understand the safety aspect here, but we sat for close to 5 minutes after we could clearly see the other train and they could obviously see us. At any rate, Terry was now running crowd control for the train line and announced that the park would stay open until 9:30 instead of 9. There was a rope line setup outside of the station to form the que line and I wondered if it they couldn't leave that up all year, there's been several times I've seen just a flood of people trying to enter the station at once. One thing I did find a bit annoying is how many people kept coming up to Terry with the "I'm with them" excuse so they could get into the line. And yes, he left every one of them in. I really have an issue with "saving me a place" when you've got an hour long line. A child or maybe a spouse I can see, but there were groups of 6 or 7 people doing this and getting in line with one person that had been waiting. We got on the train about 5:15 or so and I was really hoping it would be dark by the time we got to Grandpa but it wasn't so. The ride was still great however and I could see some activity for the new coaster which I posted about in the 2013 development thread. By the time we got around to Lake Silver it was dark and the City looked absolutely amazing. It's really hard to capture either in words or pictures how it looks with all those lights and the surrounding woods. Just breathtaking.
After debarking the train I set off to reunite with the aforementioned teens who weren't answering cell call or texts while the wife and young 'un when up to get ready for the parade. I made a complete clockwise circle around the park and noticed the show lines were extremely long, the rides moderate and the shops very busy. I also noticed the line to get into the store to buy season passes was backed up almost to the bridge. This year it's in a building across from the magic shop/TNT for reference. About the time I was passing LR I finally made contact and they claimed they didn't "have any service" and were in line for WF. I continued around and back up to the square where the three of us watched the parade which I thought was pretty neat although not very long. I guess it really didn't need to be since it was only going around the park and if it was too long it would catch up to itself. ;D Listened to some music while watching the tree lights, went into HH and milled around a bit then finally met up with the rest of our group and headed out to the tram stop. It was about 7:00 now and there were still people coming through the turnstyles. Not many, mind you, but I was still surprised to see anyone. Made a quick stop at the bakery for a cupcake then into the tram line. We go on the bus that was waiting there, but did have to stand which we did not mind. Another guest asked why we were being parked so far away, driver said that "we filled every lot yesterday and today". So it sounds like a good closing weekend for the park as well as for us.
Here's a link to some pics: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2299716344140.2100055.1586105200&type=3&l=84af349e37 (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2299716344140.2100055.1586105200&type=3&l=84af349e37) I made this album public so you don't need a facebook account to see the pics.
A couple of side notes:
sanddunerider, I kept my eyes open for ya, but never did positively see you. You weren't wearing a blue jacket and Navy hat were you?
tiffanylynnt, I hope you enjoyed the "realtime" updates as much as I've found I enjoy our new friendship. Thanks for accepting my request. :)
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^ Thanks for such a detailed trip review, really enjoyed reading it. Enjoyed looking through the pictures as well.
thelarsonsix & tiffanylynnt, do y'all mind if I had you as friends on Facebook?
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Yeah, that's an awesome trip review and pics. Thanks for sharing. Little Super Mario there looks a lot like a cousin of mine. Appears you all had a great day. It was great to read about it and see it. Thanks again.
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^ Thanks for such a detailed trip review, really enjoyed reading it. Enjoyed looking through the pictures as well.
thelarsonsix & tiffanylynnt, do y'all mind if I had you as friends on Facebook?
Not at all. Think I just confirmed you.
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what a delight. I loved your pics! Thanks for sharing.
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^ Thanks for such a detailed trip review, really enjoyed reading it. Enjoyed looking through the pictures as well.
thelarsonsix & tiffanylynnt, do y'all mind if I had you as friends on Facebook?
No problem! I'll add anybody from this site as long as you let me know you're from this site! On my profile for the forum, there is a link to my Facebook where it says "website".
tiffanylynnt, I hope you enjoyed the "realtime" updates as much as I've found I enjoy our new friendship. Thanks for accepting my request. :)
I enjoy our new friendship too! I have a facebook app on my phone so I was sorta living vicariously through you yesterday :)
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I figured as much ;D I have the app for my phone as well, it's great for doing thing just like that.
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Sweet post larson6! really like the pics of the traffic on 465 & the SDC sign!
thanks for sharin'!
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Larson, thanks for the thought, But i didnt make it to the city friday afternoon, we were running late getting away from home, and with a couple of delas on the hiway. It just wasnt meant to be, ut you and tiff really helped with all the info and pics,
we had reservations in town friday nite and sat nite for 5 different shows, they were all great as usual. getting ready now, (sunday morning) to pack the car and head home until march :'(
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2012 Countdown Timer (http://www.timeanddate.com/counters/customcounter.html?msg=Silver+Dollar+City+2012+Opening&month=03&day=15&year=2012&hour=08&min=30&sec=00&p0=895)
Only 64 days, 17 hours, and 21 minutes until the park opens for 2012!! I can hardly wait! ;D
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thanks ozark,
today was almost 60 degrees
sunnny
NO wind
And i was thinking about how LOOONNNGGG we had to wait...
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Ive been watching the train ride on youtube. with the windows open or sitting outside. its been a pleasent winter!! Lets just hope it doesnt come late!!!
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Our winter is coming Thur. night, so says the weather man. I knew it would show up sooner or later. Happy Winter everyone!
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I live in Olathe Ks and we got maybe .5 inch last night with lots of wind. It looks as though the weather people are calling for a big storm for eastern Missouri and northern plains. Not complaining about this little bit we got. The mellow weather in Branson for the end of the season was nice. I was there for Tuesday and Wednesday after Christmas and there was a pretty good crowd. I got to see and experience all that I came for though. As an aside, I noticed that the Homestead Pickers appear to have groupies-people that were there every time they sang at the cabin. Interesting.
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mbrown, hey! good moring! we are pretty close to each other. i live 25 miles straight west of ottawa.
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Im in Neosho and got about the same amount of snow. Its not enough to spit at (which in my book is good) I am hoping this winter stuff is outta mother natures system and goes back to being spring. ;D
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Sanddune-yup, I know where Ottawa is anyway, my girls go there for the Suzuki violin camps there every year. This weather however is rather strange-we got buried the last two years and this one is like and extended fall. Not complaining too much, I like not having to go out every half hour and clean the drive.
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I am with you, Brown, i like NOT pushing snow so far this year.. last 2 winters have been brutal in our area..aAnd so far out temps have been above average.
let the east coast and JOSH keep it!