Normally we'd wait until after the fanfare of the 2010 project has died down to start talking about 2011, but the new River Battle attraction brings up a lot of interesting talk about the possible dismantlement of Splash Harbor to make way for something bigger.
As Swoosh pointed out in the other thread, it's a great location back there for SDC's G-Fighter: being in a back corner means they'll only have to theme the front, and the back will have easy access to the maintainence area. Plus it's not a huge area, but big enough to house a G-fighter similar to DW's that loops out behind the waterboggin and stretches over the train tracks. There were some pretty strong rumors about a Gerstauler project a couple of years ago before all this talk of shelving projects started.
Then again, what about all the CC leftovers? It would be cheaper to just recycle some of them. Roaring Falls just missed being put in RB's place, if the rumors were true earlier this year.
Either way, it looks like 2011 will be a really good year for the park.
I think that what they put in for 2011 may depend on the economy and if THRB drives up attendance next year. If it remains relatively flat and the economy doesn't improve much that may cause them to push any capital projects back. Granted, the $7 million for THRB doesn't compare to the $14 million for Wildfire or the $10 million for PK (again, helped out by using 30% of BuzzSaw Falls' track), but it's still a major investment that they'd like to see some immediate return on in the way of increased attendance in 2010.
I agree with most on here that the area where SH is now is a perfect location for a G-Fighter if the train tracks are pushed back and it is extended behind WW Waterboggan. I'd rather not see them use it for a new area, especially not for recycled CC rides. Why? Because I think the Grand Expo can be improved. Reinforce some theming out there and expand it west toward the highway. Look at all of the room they have to add some recycled (and rethemed) CC rides.
(http://x59.xanga.com/5d6f57e377230258006823/o205355926.jpg)
It would be very cool if everything worked out and we got a new G-Fighter and an expanded and improved Grand Expo in 2011! ;D
^Why would the train tracks need to be pushed back?
I'm guessing profits will likely remain flat. This doesn't seem to be one of those "destination" projects, but of course, there is history of this ride at DW and other parks. Someone must like it. My family will more likely be the ones in the distance who are trying to stay out of the way.
Think they'll make a lot of cash from rented lockers and family dryers?
The $5 dryers alone will probably float this attraction. I seriously think a lot of these splash battles are built just for that purpose.
I wonder what will go on in the space formerly occupied by the ropes/coaster? I was hoping for some dry additions with this project as well. I hope the old fort will have some elements to it that aren't tied to water so that it can stay open in the off-season.
Quote from: Swoosh on November 04, 2009, 05:57:00 PM
^Why would the train tracks need to be pushed back?
My bad. I got confused. They wouldn't have to be pushed back, although with all of the secrecy used for new projects they might have to get a little creative with the train going back there. :)
Quote from: History Buff on November 04, 2009, 06:03:15 PM
I'm guessing profits will likely remain flat. This doesn't seem to be one of those "destination" projects, but of course, there is history of this ride at DW and other parks. Someone must like it. My family will more likely be the ones in the distance who are trying to stay out of the way.
Think they'll make a lot of cash from rented lockers and family dryers?
Profits will probably remain flat, but hopefully attendance spikes a little next year. As for a lot of cash from rented lockers and family dryers, probably as long as they're themed well. ;) In all seriousness, I agree with Steve, the dryers will be pretty profitable, especially if they're in an easily accessible location from both THRB and LRotO.
QuoteProfits will probably remain flat, but hopefully attendance spikes a little next year. As for a lot of cash from rented lockers and family dryers, probably as long as they're themed well. Wink In all seriousness, I agree with Steve, the dryers will be pretty profitable, especially if they're in an easily accessible location from both THRB and LRotO.
That's probably the exact reason for the location of the RB - to include LR in the dryer scheme.
^^Yeah, there'll probably be a great revamping around the attraction. Let us all PRAY there are NO MORE CARNIVAL GAMES!!! Appropriate and creative attractions are not that hard to come up with, especially for this theme. While we're at it, how 'bout a really good book store including classic literature from the Twain man himself. You know, Twain was at the park for the Missouri Sons and Daughters display, but I'd rather see his fictional characters in this area. I don't think Terry can pull them all out of his bag of tricks though.
Twain was at the park? Dang, I had a feeling he would be, and I missed it... :(
Joy
Time for an attraction that is not water based.
"think the Grand Expo can be improved. Reinforce some theming out there and expand it west toward the highway. Look at all of the room they have to add some recycled (and rethemed) CC rides."
At the very back of the Great Exposition there is a lovely peice of flat land being used for employee parking. Now personally I would love to see them relocate The Ozark Wildcat to that spot with the right retheaming it would be the perfect addition to that area of the park. The entire look of the ride with its beautiful sweeping curves and old world charm would blend and fit into the area perfectly!
^You do realize how hard it is to relocated a wooden coaster, right?
If anything goes there it will probably be Roaring Falls, but with a more turn-of-the-century theme that goes along with the GE
If they (and the people that complain the Grand Exposition doesn't fit SDC) were to research the Expositions of the 1800's, they'd see the area needs a giant Ferris wheel, one that looks like iron, not plastic, a merry-go-round, and many of CC's rides could be transformed to that era, such as converting the Roaring Falls into a Chute-the-Chutes... and add characters, like magicians, clowns, medicine men...
Quote from: Swoosh on November 06, 2009, 09:34:35 PM
^You do realize how hard it is to relocated a wooden coaster, right?
If anything goes there it will probably be Roaring Falls, but with a more turn-of-the-century theme that goes along with the GE
Probably, but we can dream. I wouldn't be let down at all if they went that route for some reason. You can't get much better than OzCat.
^I would love all of that though. They could steam-punk the electric star. ;)
"You do realize how hard it is to relocated a wooden coaster, right?"
This is true but its still cheaper than building one from scratch especially considering its already so close to SDC.
Quote from: Grapeslie on November 08, 2009, 02:38:37 PM
"You do realize how hard it is to relocated a wooden coaster, right?"
This is true but its still cheaper than building one from scratch especially considering its already so close to SDC.
Actually probably not. You'd have both deconstruction and reconstruction costs, not to mention transporting costs. It would actually be cheaper to buy new materials and just use the same blue prints again.
With the recent SB delays- I'm not hopeful we will get something in 2011.
I just remembered that the Balloon Chase is still out there somewhere. I'm sure that they're wanting to set that up again, if indeed they still have it on hand.
I asked my cousin that works at the park. She said she was told that there was no plans to bring the baloons back.
If that's true, that is one major mistake SDC is making. The Balloon Chase was a favorite amongst kids, and even at my age, I still like(d) to ride it, especially to take my little nephew on it. I hate the idea that I'd never get to introduce the ride to my niece.... :(
Joy
I was told long ago that they planned to bring it back, but I guess it could be that they just have too many homeless rides on their hands right now and they don't need to deal with refurbishing it too. Plus, it doesn't blend in too well anywhere in the park, even GE. I always did enjoy it though.
I was browsing through Screamscape's coverage of SDC, and it looks like a few years ago he noted that Gerstauler's name was dropped in connection with the park, with the mention of a new spinning coaster concept. Lance does have a lot of weird sources, but every now and then... I still think they'd spring for the full-on G-Fighter today. I wouldn't be surprised if they looked at spinning coaster options though.
Why the recycle idea makes financial sense- I appreciate something new to build more anticipation.
I think they should integrate the balloons back in with the new ride. There is a need for smaller children rides on that side of the park and they would provide a ride in that area open for the holiday season.
Well Copper... You Work there. Make it happen!
Did hot air balloons ever really fit with the Sawyer/Finn theme? I don't remember. I'm afraid they would need to order some new vehicles and repaint the thing to fit the GE colors, but that would be minimal expense. I'd really rather see a carousel in GE though - easily moved from CC! It would fit in with very little problems, but I think they have a bigger picture in mind for CC - we just don't have a clue what it might be.
The great CC plan- Sell off/relocate/redistribute.
Quote from: themeparkguy on November 10, 2009, 04:42:55 PM
The great CC plan- Sell off/relocate/redistribute... and make room for the White Water relocation.
FIXED ;)
Quote from: History Buff on November 10, 2009, 03:25:17 PM
Did hot air balloons ever really fit with the Sawyer/Finn theme? I don't remember.
Yes, they did fit in with the theme, but the ride was inspired by "Tom Sawyer Abroad," which is a later book of Twain's that isn't as well-known to the general populace.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Sawyer_Abroad
I only know the connection because I grew up watching the 1985 "Adventures of Mark Twain" claymation movie, and they used "Tom Sawyer Abroad" as the framing story for the movie. And I finally got around to reading the book a couple years ago; if you liked Tom and Huck's "Adventures of" books, you'd enjoy this one as a bit of a palate-cleanser; it's rather more light-hearted than, say, "Adventures of Huck Finn."
Granted, however, the balloon was actually more like a "steampunk" Zeppelin than a hot air balloon as seen on the ride at SDC...
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f201/masterdaz22/Comet_Quest.jpg
(apparently "Comet Quest" was the UK name for the movie, according to IMDb)
If they don't bring back the Balloon Chase, maybe later they could base a ride on the way the balloon was actually described in the book? (with flaps and wings and what-not; really, the design in the movie was fairly spot on) I think that'd be pretty cool.
Joy
^I knew that they were themed to Tom Sawyer, but I never really knew the connection. Thanks for the info!
I have been campaigning for CC to become WW for a long time and I wish they did listen to everything I say, wouldn't it be a better place?!?!?!
A new white water on the cc prooerty would be great. The could keep Ozcat and the tidal wave ride and the fountain in front of ozcat and bulid a wave pool on the great lawn
put in new flumes and slides. A water coaster with the uphill runs would add a new element to the park as well.
A great Idea!! Reconfigure CC into a White Water. It appears CC has more fixed structures of size (buildings) and could offer entertainment options for those who don't want to stay wet all day (parents). I would thick demolition costs would be less to raze WW then to raze CC. WW may have a better location on the strip, but more room for expansion at CC location. Has anyone, anyone.....with decisions making authority thought of this? Really a great idea!
Quote from: oldsdcer on November 12, 2009, 07:55:41 AM
A new white water on the cc prooerty would be great. The could keep Ozcat and the tidal wave ride and the fountain in front of ozcat and bulid a wave pool on the great lawn
put in new flumes and slides. A water coaster with the uphill runs would add a new element to the park as well.
Wavepool on the great lawn would be AWESOME
Rename the OzCatfish for your new waterpark?
I like it.
The Ozark Wild Catfish
I've always thought a waterpark with some "dry" rides mixed in would be a great idea. There certainly are a lot of possibilities. How many times would you love to ride a lost river or watertoboggan type ride but don't want to get completely drenched with your clothes on? I know the older I get the less appealing wet, smelly clothes are. But if I were in my swimming trunks I would love it. The splash battle ride would be perfect in a water park--you would certainly have a lot more people (read adults) who would like to ride. Move the watertoboggan ride from SDC to CC. You've got Roaring Falls and Shoot the Chutes already. Build a huge wavepool with large waves, water features and plenty of lounging and sunning area. Put up a water coaster and some really great waterslides and a funnel or bowl type ride. Add a lazy river and kids area to some of the leftover rides at CC and you've got quite a place. You could keep the games and restaurants at CC and move the best stuff over from WW. It really wouldn't take a mega huge investment to make that a fun place.
A random stranger was talking to his friend as if he knew all the plans of the park (Maybe it was even one of you.). He was talking about how all of Geyser Gulch was going to be removed - the ball pits, everything - to make room for the Celebration City rides. "The wooden roller coaster," he said, "will be the first ride to be moved, since it's the easiest one to move." ;D Yeah, I thought that was funny, too. I mean most of the CC rides just fold up, attach to a hitch and are pulled to a new location within a week, aren't they?
As I understand it, only Splash Harbor is going bye-bye, and probably to clear the way for something grander and more pleasing-to-the-eye than carnival rides. Hopefully this guy was just blowing smoke and didn't have any legitimate information. Was he one of you? Well, was he?
It wasn't me. :)
Not me, either, however, I was told by a park manager earlier this year they had plans on connecting the Giant Swing area to Geyser Gulch. Who knows, rumors always fly. The Lost River area looks bare & sad with all the water guns gone...
I can confirm that Splash Harbor is officially a goner. However, none of the guns that were over there will be making their way to the River Blast.
Quote from: History Buff on December 06, 2009, 02:22:23 PM
A random stranger was talking to his friend as if he knew all the plans of the park (Maybe it was even one of you.). He was talking about how all of Geyser Gulch was going to be removed - the ball pits, everything - to make room for the Celebration City rides. "The wooden roller coaster," he said, "will be the first ride to be moved, since it's the easiest one to move." ;D Yeah, I thought that was funny, too. I mean most of the CC rides just fold up, attach to a hitch and are pulled to a new location within a week, aren't they?
As I understand it, only Splash Harbor is going bye-bye, and probably to clear the way for something grander and more pleasing-to-the-eye than carnival rides. Hopefully this guy was just blowing smoke and didn't have any legitimate information. Was he one of you? Well, was he?
Ha ha, not me either. I still say I wouldn't be too disappointed if we somehow end up with OzCat. I'd miss getting to watch a brand new creation be made custom for SDC, but there's always more time in the future for that. Still don't see it happening though.
I kinda wish there was gonna be a surprise ride for the 50th anniversary: a new Rube Dugan's where Splash Harbor is now...
A girl can dream, can't she? :D
LOL
Joy
Rumor has it, that you might not even recognized the area over by Boatworks Theater next year. No further details right now, except that I'll say that one or two more things might be missing next season from over there, I'm still checking into this, but thought I'd give you a heads up... :o
I've also heard scattered rumors that the waterboggin may come down. Of course, that's been a pretty frequent rumor, but hey: who saw Splash Harbor leaving? Looks like they might re-do that entire back section of the park. Sure smells like a coaster project might be headed this direction.
Personally, I wouldn't mind if they get rid of the Waterboggan, but that's just me. I haven't been on the thing in probably almost ten years.
Joy
Yes but they just rehabbed it not that long ago putting in all new slides and what not. Seems like a waste to take it out -- but that's indeed what is going to happen
Interesting. Sounds like a long process, which means we'll probably be seeing a large fence in that area of the park next year.
Hole v2.0? ;) ;D
Hard to believe those slides have been there in one form or another since 1987. They were probably the most offensive ride to the SDC theme that the park ever built before the flying elephants came along. I mean, at least the coasters are kind of hidden and themed. I can't imagine what all the 'purists' thought about it back then.
So overall, it's no loss to the park, but it will sure feel strange having such a big piece of the park missing. I mean, what will they hang 3+ stories of christmas lights off of?
This frees up a huge area though. Definitely enough room for a g-fighter. Let's just hope it doesn't turn out to be another adventure mountain.
I accepted the Boggan with the old boats - at least they looked like wood - but rubber rafts?
No Adventure Mountain!!!
The Waterboggan tower was (and still is to some point) the only visible structure of the park from Hwy 76. I think the removal of it will be quite shocking next season, but it really will not be that big of a loss. It had a terrible pph, not to mention it was not handicap accessible and very obtrusive to the landscape of the park.
==
Now regarding Adventure Mountain. I highly doubt that concept will come to our park mainly because the visitors to our park are a lot different that Dollywood. While Dollywood's visitors are more of the type you'd see at any ol' amusement park, SDC still relies heavily on the older "motorcoach" visitors who have no interest in nets and other stuff....
... I say that, but then I keep hearing that the whole structure of Geyser Gulch is coming out too, so who knows at this point. Adventure Mountain could very well be the next thing to take residence in this area of the park.... but I personally am hoping for a G-fighter.
^I'd be VERY surprised if they took out Geyser Gulch. I mean, there's the possibility that they've got some plan to turn that entire side of the park into some type of massive play attraction with ropes courses and other gimmicks, but I think the most likely thing is that they're going to wrap a G-fighter around Geyser Gulch. I can see the tower being a bit behind where SH was, with loops and a queue line extending up the area vacated by WW. Sure, Geyser Gulch will probably be in the way of the new coaster, but I wouldn't think they'd tear out one of the park's most popular attractions for the photogenic benefit of the new ride.
^It does seen that GG is a maintenance problem - always having to be repainted (since it's not plastic). The whole color scheme is very 80s with the pastels and the whole thing is so NOT A TREE HOUSE. I really don't like the guns in the ball area - they didn't even try to theme them - and the noise in the area intrudes on other areas. It sounds as if we may be on the cusp of a new area being developed and themed. I like the idea, depending on the theme (Of course, I can think of a few that could be really awesome.). You make a great point about the skyline and visibility from the road. Zephon told me that they limited the height of the Opera House because of the look of it from the top of Cardiac Hill; it's almost like they did not consider the same for WW. I would not miss GG or WW - I haven't been able to convince my daughter to ride WW yet, and don't fancy walking around soaked. I always wondered about the SH and the no swim suit policy that is broken all the time in that area. I'm hopeful for a newly-themed area for that space. Swoosh, did you imply that the theater would be affected? A new, larger indoor venue would be great!
Does anyone think a connected water park may be in the works for this side of SDC? I wouldn't like that, but if HEAVILY THEMED it could work. Is there space for such an idea? How about a resort property? What happened to the crafts survey that came out this year amidst all the questions about which attractions we would least/most want to lose?
I'm really not rambling - now you know how my brain works.
I've never been a huge fan of GG's impact on the lake atmosphere myself, but you've got to admit: it's a really fun place for the kids. It was built when I was still a kid, and I LOVED running around scooping up the balls, running upstairs, and loading them into cannons. It's such a huge, noisy, crazy place - I can't think of any other play area quite like it. With it AND the landing gone, what are the tykes going to do? GE has only small handful of rides, and you have to wait in line for those. If they're really planning on taking GG down, I'm sure they're planning on building something similar to it on a grander/easier to maintain scale.
If they're doing that though, it's doubtful we're getting a coaster though. Which audience do you think the park is shooting for? We haven't had anything to get the media excited in a long time, but the park has been trying so hard in the last few years to bring back young families...
I wonder if they'd spring for a coaster besides a new woodie or a G-fighter. Wasn't there some rumor back a long time ago about a spinner at SDC?
Here is my opinion on all of this...
I think Geyser Gulch is in need of a major overhaul. The guns there do not fire like they used to and a lot of gimicks in the area need to be fixed. Personally I say move all of that to Tom Sawyer's Landing. There is already some rope towers there, expand the offering and put in a new foam ball area over there with the new gimmicks and better guns that are out there.
Where Geyser Gulch is can become the new Mystery Mine area.
Where the current tower for Waterboggan is can be the tallest point of the Adventure Mountain area.
I think both of these additions would be less intrusive then the current WB tower.
^Perfect thinking, IMHO. It accommodates all possibilities in terms of attractions without getting completely rid of anything.
Joy
^^I like your ideas, except for the Adventure Mountain. I don't want an AM at SDC. I just can't get excited about an attraction like that.
I think it's pretty much a given that it will eventually come to SDC
We can still base some hope on the theory that SDC's crowd is too different to warrant an AM. I mean, I don't see it being a hit at DW either, really. It might be semi-popular the first year, but in 5 it'll probably be deserted.
Man, I wonder if they'll build back into the parking lot on the other side of the tracks. I know there was a concept in 2007 about expanding the expo with a huss frisbee back there.
^Well they have a KMG Afterburner that needs a home... and a shoot'd chutes, and a wooden coaster, and a lazer light show, and....
^^I also think there is a different demographic at SDC than DW, and that's why I feel an AM won't work at SDC. If they are considering it (which I'm sure they are) I hope they wait three or four years to see how well an AM works at DW before greenlighting one for SDC. Because, I agree, it will probably be basically deserted after the first couple of years.
It sounds like there are exciting changes in store for 2011 and beyond. Perhaps the beginnings of that new area of the park that will be connected by the train that we've heard rumblings about? :) It's so fun to speculate about these things! :D
It could work with a deeply themed Rube Dugan fort in the trees. I proposed it in another thread, but can't figure out where it is. Rube has to hide in the trees from claim jumpers. The whole tree house is huge with all sorts of gags and gimmicks - including all the things that make Adventure Mountain, only themed to the concept instead of just another ropes course.
Remember, AM is an extra charge beyond admission - I don't fancy paying to watch other people pay to play.
I like the idea of keeping Rube Dugan as a theme in that area. The treehouse concept is cool, too. Maybe it could be made to replace the Hideaway, and maybe bring back the "The Infinity Room."
I would have no qualms losing Geyser Gulch if its replacement was a whole new area featuring a Mystery Mine-type ride, a cool new treehouse/fort that rivals the Hideaway, and if dreams really do come true, a return of the Diving Bell.
Well could the Diving Bell be used to find underwater treasure or do underwater mining?
Ooo... great idea!
Quote from: Swoosh on December 22, 2009, 07:48:07 PM
Well could the Diving Bell be used to find underwater treasure or do underwater mining?
That's what the diving bell was always used for.
Then I guess it would fit in well with the new mining area theme and they should bring it back ;D
I'll know most will disagree, and I've kept quiet for a long time, but I didn't think the Diving Bell was all that great. It scared the heck out of me. I really thought I was about to die. Now I know as an adult it would probably be great fun, but I don't know if I could bring my children on this ride unless it was done differently. Ok--go back to your dreams of reviving the Bell. :)
It scared you??? I thought it was so cool when I was a kid. Just make sure you sit near the back otherwise you'd get wet.
Quote from: Swoosh on December 24, 2009, 09:34:32 AM
Then I guess it would fit in well with the new mining area theme and they should bring it back ;D
You holding info back on us? Has someone confirmed a new mining area, or are you just pontificating?
Quote from: History Buff on December 24, 2009, 05:20:57 PM
Quote from: Swoosh on December 24, 2009, 09:34:32 AM
Then I guess it would fit in well with the new mining area theme and they should bring it back ;D
You holding info back on us? Has someone confirmed a new mining area, or are you just pontificating?
To quote Sgt. Schultz from Hogan's Heroes
"I Know Nothing..."
Quote from: Swoosh on December 24, 2009, 04:00:13 PM
It scared you??? I thought it was so cool when I was a kid. Just make sure you sit near the back otherwise you'd get wet.
Yes, I was about four years old, I think, and I left the ride in hysterics. My mom was desperately trying to calm me down. I guess I was really in the moment, and the ride was that convincing--lol.
Quote from: Swoosh on December 24, 2009, 05:35:32 PM
Quote from: History Buff on December 24, 2009, 05:20:57 PM
Quote from: Swoosh on December 24, 2009, 09:34:32 AM
Then I guess it would fit in well with the new mining area theme and they should bring it back ;D
You holding info back on us? Has someone confirmed a new mining area, or are you just pontificating?
To quote Sgt. Schultz from Hogan's Heroes
"I Know Nothing..."
Hmmmm. Anyone want to press him on this?
I asked to take pictures, tonight, since the whole area was closed off & covered in snow, and did a quick walk-thru with management, and they said Geyser Gulch was NOT leaving, only everything between it & Silver Lake, and Lost River is safe, as well.
Ah, so does that mean the actual geyser is leaving? I actually forgot about that thing until now, but it used to be somewhat neat to watch. All the other stuff is pretty cluttery though, so it'll be nice to see the lake cleaned up. I think some kids will miss being able to shoot water cannons without getting drenched though. I hope they bring some more kid's activities back to the area eventually, even if they put in a G-fighter.
I think the mine theme is kind of assumed if this is a G-fighter. I mean, it's a good theme to hide a big ride behind.
For those of us who are wondering.... what is a g-fighter?
It's the type of coaster that the Mystery Mine at Dollywood is.
To be a bit more specific, a g-fighter is short for Gerstlauer (the name of the ride company) Euro-Fighter. A g-fighter features various track elements (diving loops, barrel rolls, vertical loops, etc) and are generally custom designed. The trademark feature of all g-fighters is a "beyond vertical" drop--meaning the drop reaches an angle greater than 90 degrees.
Ah, thanks.
I found my old idea. 'Turns out it wasn't as old as I thought. I think this could incorporate the current Geyser Gulch better into the miner theme, give SDC the Adventure Mountain they may be wanting, bring back a nostalgic theme (Rube Dugan), AND anchor a new mining area complete with coaster, a 4D theater that tells a romanticized, Marmaros story, and a cool new themed sit-down restaurant that could be open even when the park is closed (accessed from inside the park and from outside along the highway).
QuoteRube Dugan's Treehouse OR Miners' Treehouse:
Huck's Treehouse is revisioned and repositioned. The miners have taken to the trees to throw claim jumpers off their tracks. The new treehouse is complete with spy gear and defensive capabilities (built from items available in the 1800s). Visitors who trespass in the treehouse will see their living quarters, kitchen, and even restroom facilities (outhouse in the sky, placed above a sidewalk in the populous Silver Dollar City).
Miners are working their mines during the day, but a may return at any time for a snack or a nap.
A room laden with special effects gimmicks will serve as the Silver Room, where each miner has stashed his findings.
This concept could pay tribute to the defunct Diving Bell as parts of the facility would be built to resemble the bell, now salvaged from the depths of Lake Silver.
This concept could also take advantage of some of the recent additions to other Herschend parks and could include a zip line and ropes course elements.
Of course, my preference would be not to salvage the Bell, but to actually fit it into the Splash Harbor area!
I like your grandiose ideas, except for the Adventure Mountain aspect. Take that out, and I'm all for it! :)
I wonder what the new Ride is going to be.Anybody know?
^You mean for next year? MIG has a good summary of all the info on that here: http://www.midwestinfoguide.com/new/riverblast/
There's another thread for that ride in this forum, we've been watching it for 2 years now.
I'm going to take a wild guess that a wooden coaster is coming...
That is a wild guess, but you might have nailed it. Now what will the theme be? If it is indeed a new mine train, what does that mean for TNT? If this is going to be a new mining area, could TNT be rethemed to better fit its area? I know that's unlikely, but it does seem that SDC is trying to move into themed areas like some other parks. Would the train go under or through a new woodie? Is anything already being done in that area now that the big freeze has ended for the time being?
Whoops, I was editing my last post when you posted. OK, do you know where, and if so...where? If it's not the Waterboggan area, would it be around the waterfall?
Quick - everyone pin Swoosh down and make him spill the beans.
I'm surprised they'd let something this slip so early. I mean, I guess it is 2010 already, but you'd think they'd wait till summer. I guess maybe after Coaster Con, they've started to treat the enthusiasts a little differently.
I'm REALLY glad to hear this though. The only question is, will it be new or are they actually going to move OzCat? Either way, it's good for the park, but I hope they try something new and let OzCat fade into history.
^I'm glad to hear about it too. I enjoy wooden coasters more than metal/steel, in general. Plus wooden coasters are easier to theme to the 1880s.
As for OzCat, I hope they sell it instead of move it. If they are thinking of moving it to SDC, then it was an odd decision to ship the trains to WA. ???
As for locations, an obvious one is over by Geyser Gulch and the Waterboggan, especially since Splash Harbor is a goner. If they do put it over there then I think the rumors about the 'Boggan being taken out are probably true.
Another possible location is by the Grand Expo and the craft school.
The reason I mentioned the waterfall is that it could be themed to the lumberjacking area very easily (like Thunderhead at Dollywood) That area is already partially cleared, with Buzzsaw Falls gone there is an opening for a lumberjack ride (other than AP), the area is underutilized (with a dead waterfall), and it keeps the teenagers busy on that side of the park with other thrills located nearby. It may even be more level, which would make is easier for a coaster like OzCat to be located there with minimal modifications. I'm not sure what the traffic flow would be like.
That being said, obviously something may be going on at the Waterboggan, and with SH removed, the rumors seem to be pointing in that direction. I'm not a fan of the roughness of the old woodies, but I do like the way they look - as long as they are left looking natural.
I don't think TnT needs to be rethemed at all. I can't imagine a steel coaster that could possibly fit the theme better.
And FWIW, FITH is also a steel coaster. No one ever seems to question its nostalgia or theme.
I've been looking forward to a big wooden coaster at SDC. I've always thought it would fit the theme better than most of the more recent rides, TnT excluded. It will beat the heck out of Watterboggan and Geyser Gulch.
TNT isn't going anywhere and it is not being rethemed either so we can kill that rumor right now.
Hmmm, I can't think of anything else in the amusement industry that's wooden, so if it's not a GCII, it must be something unique.
It's hard to say if I'd be more excited about a new wooden coaster or a new set of craftsmen exhibits. It'd be even better if they went Knoebels on us and built something completely unique. I'd really like to see HFEC go back to building their own rides.
Quote from: Swoosh on January 17, 2010, 04:13:14 PM
Quote from: History Buff on January 17, 2010, 02:16:44 PM
I'm not a fan of the roughness of the old woodies, but I do like the way they look - as long as they are left looking natural.
GCI wooden coasters are FAR from being rough, if it is in fact what it is going to be.
That's why I used the term "old woodies". OzCat was quite smooth.
I still don't see any answers specifying the location of this great mystery...
Yeah I'm a little surprised how little there is on any boards about what all was announced at No Coaster Con. You'd think there would be more buzz about B&M's 2011 projects, the 5th NEW coaster in the US for next year among other things, but yet there's nothing. We'll see if Lance says anything tomorrow on Screamscape.
I haven't heard a word mentioned about the event anywhere on the net. I guess Lance will probably be all over it though, so we'll see what he decides to reveal. Did they tell people to keep hush about any of it?
According to Screamscape (January 18, 2010):
Screamscape has been informed that Splash Harbor at Geyser Gulch and Waterworks Waterboggan will both be removed from Silver Dollar City this winter.
Yep, not much on Screamscape about No Coaster Con. They must be keeping things under wraps right now.
Ok, I got some things cleared up.
1. No representive from Herschend was at No Coaster Con
2. Those who saw the post before it was removed, Merry Christmas, you now have info not yet released to public.
3. It has been confirmed that OzCat is not going anywhere (for now)
4. It has been confirmed by WA that Cheetah will NOT run OzCats trains this year.
I do not know when info on 2011 will be made public, but I gurantee that it will be quite down the line this season and definitely not before the birthday party.
However, now you know, let's keep it our little secret.
^My lips are sealed! :)
What post? ;)
Ha ha, I guess we'll have to wait until summer to find out what's going on after all. It'd be kind of a let down to know for sure this early anyway. We do know that 2011 is going to be huge though, no matter what it is, at least.
I love to speculate about what may be comming, SDC has done a decent job in years past with the rides.
I recieved a survey in email a few years back and one of the " choices" was a ride called The Icehouse, it was a ride that took you through the old ice house and probably into a holding area or cave. The images shown sure did look like a roller coaster although heavly themed.That sounds interesting and a great fit down near the lake, kind of a natural fit if you ask me.
Does anyone else remember this?
Also when is the treehouse comming down? or repair it, it was the Skyscraper at SDC when I was a child, will miss not seeing it but they need to do something with it.
The Icehouse is described (and pictured) under the Lost Ride Concepts page: http://sdcfans.com/page.php?id=14
Well,
"The drawing you have is his and hung in his office for years. It to was scrapped in favor of Rube Dugans. In the Mid 80's I barrowed the concept and turned it into a suspended coaster with ice block cars slung from big tongs to sit on the back side of lake silver. This along with a dozen or more concepts (including another big coaster which I'll talk about another time) were taken to a school in St. Louis where we asked the kids and there mothers which concepts the liked. Where as coasters were the kid faves "
Sounds like great family fun and also sounds like another themed fire in the hole type classic possibility, I would love the prospect if this were done right.
The only thing is it would take a miracle to complete this for this summer although it would be a wonderfull "Gift" even if it didn't open till later in the year.
I guess I can dream.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa109/Dustijn/sdcarea.jpg)
red area is the construction site and where attractions have been removed already
blue line is the railroad tracks
Hmmm... That was certainly fast work! Wow.
Are they removing the Waterboggan tower, too, or will they utilize it in whatever is going over there?
*poof* be gone
Wow. That'll definitely be interesting come March, to see that part of the skyline gone.
I can't wait to find out what's going there, though. The suspense is so exciting! *jumps up and down*
We might not have to wait until March to see what it looks like without waterboggan.
There might be pics posted this weekend if the weather holds out (and no not by me)
I hope pics are posted this weekend! ;D
Well my friend told me that the road conditions down there are just too bad for her to drive by the park to get photos of how much of WB has already come down. I guess we'll just have to until later. Sorry folks.
That's fine. Your friend's safety is far more important than pics of an empty skyline.
Rumors & speculation are always fun, so here's the latest talk about what's going in where the Waterboganan USED to be: first, a coaster; and second, 2 or 3 of the rides from CC, the simple water ride we all agree they don't need, and the launch tower, which I think could fit right in with the mining theme. Sadly, the kids play area is gone, few knew it was leaving, too.
Why not put the popular Balloon Chase there?
I could see them adding several new rides and old CC rides there, though that would be depressing unless they really did it right. I'd hate to see them try to go for a Grand Expo 2 so to speak, where they cram a bunch of rides in under a loose theme that gives them an excuse. It's been OK with Grand Expo since it was a new area and is away from the "real" SDC, but this area is much closer to the heart of the city.
Other than the S&S double shot, the only non-fair rides at CC are the flying carpet and Roaring Falls. Roaring Falls, IMO, is not up to SDC's standards unless they make it look like this: http://www.puderluder.com/Rollercoaster3/bilder/USA_2005/kennywood2.jpg
I can't see how the Flying Carpet could be re-themed that well, though it was a very popular ride at CC. The S&S double shot would be great though - that can be themed well and was/would be extremely popular.
Given the size and shape of the area being cleared though, I'd be surprised if it's not for a coaster.
Quote from: tinmann620 on January 30, 2010, 02:07:04 PM
Sadly, the kids play area is gone, few knew it was leaving, too.
Wait, what? Can someone get us some confirmation on this? If this is true it's going to be a rough year for the park, and it changes my thoughts on the 2011 project completely. This is a park that absolutely has to have a large kids area to survive. River Blast is not going to be enough to cover a hole left by WW, SH
and GG.
I didn't say GG, the play area that had the little stuff for the kids to climb on. I'm hoping the new ride incorporates Tom's Fort, that has been vacant for 2 years.
^Ah, my bad, I'm still reeling from the sheer amount of stuff that's leaving the park all at once.
If I heard right from Swoosh's coverage, they are fixing up Tom's Fort, though I don't know how much they're going to do. It'd be great to see a lot of dry play things added back to that area to go along with the river blast, but they haven't made much of a note about it.
I'm not going to confirm or renig any of the rumors that were stated above, I'm only going to throw out some things here.
I think Balloon Chase and the Flying Carpet (from CC) would fit just fine in the Transportation area of GE. There are some areas there that could accomodate those rides. One being where over by Galleon where the games that never get used are located, and the other could be over by the parade gate near the coaster.
I think with a nice re-paint of creams and golds, Balloon Chase would fit perfectly in Grand Exposition.
I'm still holding out for the BC in Marvel Cave, right on top of the debris pile!
LOL, that'd be so awesome.
:-\ um, how 'bout not.
Wow, so much has happened in a month's time since I've been able to get on here. I'm very excited about the possibility of SDC FINALLY getting that great wooden coaster we've all been dreaming of. And if SDC keeps GG, then I think with the new RiverBlast, SDC will have enough kid's play areas.
And this will be great for the park. We'll get some more media attention, which is something SDC hasn't had since Powderkeg in '05. But that's if we get the coaster. ;)
wait, who said anything about a wooden coaster?
Quote from: Swoosh on January 31, 2010, 06:24:45 PM
wait, who said anything about a wooden coaster?
Pretty much everyone who is speculating? ;)
Just dreamin Swoosh. ::)
Quote from: KBCraig on February 01, 2010, 05:13:44 PM
Quote from: Swoosh on January 31, 2010, 06:24:45 PM
wait, who said anything about a wooden coaster?
Pretty much everyone who is speculating? ;)
Wait, do you know something that I don't? ;) ;D
So we should probably revive this topic, as the 2010 thread is getting a little cluttered and I'd like to keep it more focused on current updates.
The GCII project we were looking at earlier continues to be revealed. Newest photo here: http://greatcoastersinterns.com/?page_id=125.
I gotta say, while I entertained a small hope earlier that it could be something for SDC, I don't really see the point of hoping for that anymore. The terrain sort of looks like one of the valleys near PK, but not really. There's no evidence to suggest this is a real project even, and not just a concept or a training exercise. It does look like a kick-ass coaster, but it just looks like an intern practice project to me.
I'm still hoping for a coaster next year in stead of the CC leftovers, but the more I think about it the more I think the more obvious plan would be to build back the back of the park with Roaring falls and a couple of CC rides.
Quote from: shavethewhales on February 12, 2010, 08:11:03 PM
but the more I think about it the more I think the more obvious plan would be to build back the back of the park with Roaring falls and a couple of one of the more popular CC rides.
Fixed. I haven't heard anything about "a couple" but I have heard of one going back there.
Still waiting for construction to start on what is replacing Waterboggan before we start discussing what is going to go there. I'm curious if they'll use the tower that's already there or if they'll build a completely new one. One thing is for sure, that area of the park will become quite the area of interest later on this season if indeed they go through with this project. It's too bad it had to get delayed a year due to RB getting delayed a year because it sure would have been an awesome addition for the 50th.... and if eveything goes to plan it is going to make Dollywood quite jealous
Hey Guys,
This is a rendering that can be found on the Great Coasters International website. It shows individual sections of track and terrain of a possible new ride that they are working on. I noticed that the terrain is very similar to Silver Dollar City on the East side of the park where Thunderation is located. I added the orange areas as accurately as I could to show where Thunderation and Echo Hollow are located.
Let me know what you think of it.
Does it make sense placing it in this location?
I could also be way wrong on this.
Happy Valentines Day!
Matt Hamm
(http://i932.photobucket.com/albums/ad169/matthamm/FutureSDCGCI.jpg)
Just playing around with paintshop...
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa109/Dustijn/random/untitled-1.jpg)
I wonder how far/close from the truth this might be though ???
Could be what the map for opening day 2012 looks like...
If they do put Roaring Falls back there it would certainly make sense to integrate it into the lake like that.
Quote from: MHOrange on February 14, 2010, 12:02:31 AM
Hey Guys,
This is a rendering that can be found on the Great Coasters International website. It shows individual sections of track and terrain of a possible new ride that they are working on. I noticed that the terrain is very similar to Silver Dollar City on the East side of the park where Thunderation is located. I added the orange areas as accurately as I could to show where Thunderation and Echo Hollow are located.
Let me know what you think of it.
Does it make sense placing it in this location?
I could also be way wrong on this.
Happy Valentines Day!
Matt Hamm
(http://i932.photobucket.com/albums/ad169/matthamm/FutureSDCGCI.jpg)
Welcome MHOrange
Yeah, we've talked about this some (see the 2009/2010 project thread), but I'm skeptical that this rendering is a real project, or at least a real project for north america. I'm also skeptical that they would take out TNT for this. There's no reason to loose a coaster for another - it'd just piss off the traditionalists who have grown attached to TNT.
I think they're going to work on the gaping hole on the back side of the park before they go demolishing anything else.
In Matts Picture I do not think he shows TNT being removed. I think it shows that they both could be there at the same time.
Oooo... Kinda like a dueling woodie? Now *that* would be cool.
But didn't someone say the terrain also kinda matched the west side?
Swoosh, I LOVE that speculative rendering. I would love, love, LOVE it if that's what the 2012 map gave us. :D
Joy
Quote from: tinaalsgirl on February 14, 2010, 01:20:01 PM
Quote from: Swoosh on February 14, 2010, 12:02:52 AM
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa109/Dustijn/random/untitled-1.jpg)
Swoosh, I LOVE that speculative rendering. I would love, love, LOVE it if that's what the 2012 map gave us. :D
Joy
Well I've been talking to some of the other forum members and I personally do not feel that this is too far of a stretch from what it will look like. I'm still convinced that RF will go back there where SH was -- and I'm almost 100% confident that a MM ride will go where WB was. It just makes too much sense to put it there.
You left off the Accelerator, while you're at it...lol...Of course, that might be sitting on the old Apple Butter spot! :(
^Oh thanks. I knew I was forgetting something else to add to the map ;D
Yeah, a Mystery Mine works *perfectly* in that spot. And I like the idea of having Roaring Falls out there on the back part of the lake; that works really well.
Since I never had the chance to visit CC, I had to do a quick Google search to see which ride Accelerator is... That would be SOOO cool to have! I love the Detonator at Worlds of Fun, so having a similar ride at SDC would be awesome. And it can easily be themed to fit in at SDC properly.
Now, by what name would RF go by at SDC?
Quoteand if eveything goes to plan it is going to make Dollywood quite jealous
Why would a MM make Dollywood jealous if they already have one? Are they giving us theirs?
I believe that both parks have big things up their sleeves.
You never know, a Mystery Mine type coaster at SDC would be nice and maybe an Ozark Mountain Adventure. (Adventure Mountain) might be possible.
Quote from: History Buff on February 14, 2010, 03:31:26 PM
Now, by what name would RF go by at SDC?
Quoteand if eveything goes to plan it is going to make Dollywood quite jealous
Why would a MM make Dollywood jealous if they already have one? Are they giving us theirs?
No, don't be silly. Just sit back and enjoy the ride.
I have answered all questions about CC, WW, and SDC with my big-thinking, out-of-the-box ideas.
Read it carefully here:
http://sdcfans.com/forums/index.php?topic=130.msg11509#new (http://sdcfans.com/forums/index.php?topic=130.msg11509#new).
Wow. Swoosh's drawing might be TOO accurate. I too love the idea of Roaring Falls going back there, properly themed. And the idea of our own MM type ride just makes me want to jump up and down with excitement.
;D The only thing that I am missing (as Steve pointed out) is I forgot to add Accelorator
The only problem I see with the drawing is crowd movement. It is going to be very crowded down their when the park is full. Several narrow pathways lead to that part of the park.
They'll probably connect Wilson's Farm with that area to make another loop
Has anyone been by to take any more photos of the WaterBoggin demo..... Just wanted to know it if was all gone yet.
I'd be interested in seeing a mock up of a SDC map with a pathway connection from Wilson's Farm to the back of the lake...with the old CC rides in place. Any takers?
Quote from: oklaSDCfan on February 23, 2010, 09:09:52 AM
Has anyone been by to take any more photos of the WaterBoggin demo..... Just wanted to know it if was all gone yet.
I don't have any pics, but it is all gone except for the tower.
^Isn't the building at the bottom still there too? :-\
Do you mean the the end of the ride? I'm pretty sure it's gone because I noticed that now there are panoramic views of the train from the lost river to the crossing I don't remember anything obstructing the view of the track except whats left of GG. But I could be wrong I wasn't really looking for it.
That would have been hid behind GG and would have involved actually going over to GG to actually see it. You wouldn't have been able to see it from Lost River
^I'm not sure that's what he meant. SF, maybe you can clarify...
No, it wasn't, I meant that from the end of the lost river to the crossing, the guests view of the tracks are now un-obstructed. I guess my mind doesn't work the same as everyone else's I think in terms of where you can see the train and when lol. But for you picture-takers there's going to be great chances this year to get some new shots of the updated look of the Frisco, I think you'll be surprised with the shiny new paint job.
^IF they don't build some kind of fence to block it...
^I hope they passed on the pink and purple polka dots! Tell us about this "updated look" if you dare. Have there been radical new changes?
There will be a fence around the WB location, so IDK what "unobstructed views" you are going to get this year that you didn't last year. I'd think your views would have been better last season
I didn't think about that. You're probably right.
I have been missing for a while...but I am back!
And although GG does not "fit", it is a great addition. I have little kids, and few things beat the joy of a slide!
And believe me I would not be at all upset if they got rid of the stinky rose dipping and put a ball pit back in there, and put the big tube slides in that you could race down. (Just like when I was a kid).
I am just saying a new coaster is great if you are over 42inches in height. But for those of us who have to explain 200 times a day all of the things that they *can't* do, I would like to see more things that they *can* do. Including more crafts. Dipping candles are about the only hands on thing left.
Which reminds me how irritated I was last summer that the "kid crafts" area was really just a big sales arena.
The GE needs a few characters. But I would rather see a truly kid oriented area around the new water battle thing and give me tom and huck and twain.
^Do what my parents did when I was little - have the height marks on a wall at home and have the kid measure themselves before they go so they know exactly which ones they can and cannot ride (Mom made them, just a little bit taller then the actual height, just in case the measurements at the park were "off" compared to at home -- better safe then sorry). This prevented a lot of complaining from us kids because we already knew if we were tall enough to ride certain rides before we got to the park.
Does anyone have a small morsels of info about the next attraction?
There must be some murmur but there hasn't been any posts in some time.
Quote from: mhguy77 on May 16, 2010, 10:13:38 AM
Does anyone have a small morsels of info about the next attraction?
Yes. ;D
Oh did you want a hint? ;)
Yes, Swoosh, please give us a hint! :)
The only rides NOT for sale at Celebration City are Wildcat, Electric Star Wheel, Carousel, Accelerator, & Roaring Falls. The last 3 are rumored to be coming to SDC. Watch for, I mean, notice, the markers where Waterboggan used to be, when riding by on the Frisco! :)
We're just saying.... ;)
They didn't just build the berm of trees there by the fence for no reason
Meh, here's hoping for something a little more original. A bunch of additional rides in that area would just be another big nail in the coffin for the park's remaining atmosphere. All three rides would be good for the park though, as long as they're meshed in properly and not just thrown in. Accelerator would be worth looking forward to at least.
Quote from: shavethewhales on May 16, 2010, 09:40:18 PM
A bunch of additional rides in that area would just be another big nail in the coffin for the park's remaining atmosphere.
Completely disagree. I don't see why the park would stop "plussing" the atmosphere regardless of what they add
Quote from: tinmann620 on May 16, 2010, 09:05:09 PM
Watch for, I mean, notice, the markers where Waterboggan used to be, when riding by on the Frisco! :)
You want to post the pictures or do I have to?
Come on! Somebody post the pictures...please. ;D
I am dismayed that these are the improvements, the accelerator is a fair ride cut and dry, the water ride is well, another "get you wet" water ride.
The carousel is ok, but is there not a carousel in the GE?
Where is the new coaster?
I guess I should be happy that they are adding something, why they didn't do this for the anniversary year I don't know
Accelorator is NOT a fair ride. Are you confusing it with Fireball?
Accelorator is a park model S&S Double Shot Ride... and could very easily be themed to fit into the park.
The Carousel can easily go into the Grand Expo (and hopefully the Balloon Chase will reappear back there as well).
Roaring Falls will be a good fit for the park if themed correctly and hidden from the main midways.
It can work. Is it ideal, no, but it adds capacity to the park and that is always a good thing.
^Accelerator somewhere near PK?
^^The Wave Carousel is in GE, but the CC Carousel would be a beautiful addition to the area.
Shoot, Acelorator could be one of Doc's inventions and could go over by Wildfire.
Just took the survey in regards to a large play area for under 6, that all ages could enjoy. I'm thinking, judging by the concept art, the top of the hill where Waterboggan used to be. (Roaring Falls no doubt be located at the bottom of the hill)
^Did you C/P the artwork? or have a link to the survey? (PM works)
Something like this:
^Having a hard time placing that at the top of hill for WWB.
It looks interesting, doesn't appeal to me, but it is something that is probably needed.
I would imagine (hope) that this would be added along with the 2 thrill rides that are being relocated from CC
I would love, love, love to see the Accelerator over by PK. That area is practically dying for a shot tower!! And it might help with Powderkeg's long lines. Roaring Falls would look okay over where Splash Harbor used to be, like you drew in the map. I just don't want to be able to see it from the main pathways.
Nah I'd rather them hide it (Roaring Falls) back behind GG.
I saw the kid's area concept too. Looks like a good idea to me, many have pointed out that there's not much to do at SDC for young kids other than the two rides in GE. This would make up for the loss of the old Landing. We'll see how the new furry characters work out though.
Okay...I am way behind, as usual. But I never went to CC, so I have no idea what those rides are. But I really want to see the balloon chase back and the SDC carousel. The same carousel that there are pictures of me and now pictures of my kids on.
And I would LOVE to see the half dollar holler come to fruition. But maybe without the weird animals
The balloons will be back, but they need major refurbishment. The carousal is gone and will never return, but a new one may some day! I saw some of the animals from the carousel in the paint shop the other day, they may be planning on using them for décor someplace.
Can someone post the concept art (or whatever) in a format that I can see? For some reason we did not get this survey. :-\
Does it look anything like something at Dollywood?
QuoteLooks like a good idea to me, many have pointed out that there's not much to do at SDC for young kids other than the two rides in GE.
Actually, our daughter did not have to wait very long to be able to ride every ride in GE with the exception of Electrospin.
QuoteAnd I would LOVE to see the half dollar holler come to fruition. But maybe without the weird animals
Is that the name? I love it.
It's interesting that in the photo montage they stuck a picture of Ed Harris as City Marshall Virgil Cole from the movie "Appaloosa"...
Perhaps I just don't know how to do this...but is there a way someone could blow up the plans in the middle of the board for Half Dollar Holler. I'd like to get a better idea of what it is they are planning, and where it would be positioned on park. I'm also wondering, why rip out Tom Sawyer's Landing and replace it with RiverBlast when maybe all they should have done is seriously upgrade and rehab the landing, and put RiverBlast back where the Half Dollar Holler might go?
If they put the Half Dollar Holler in where the water boggin is it will make that entire area of the park " Kid" oriented. Maybe they will do away with the Geyser Gulch to open up more room for rides. I am surprised at this latest development for the area.
Is this too much real estate for this demographic?
The advertisement on the poster says is " Fun for the entire family" but they also played the river battle out the be for the entire family.
Thoughts?
Quote from: Swoosh on May 18, 2010, 10:58:24 PM
Nah I'd rather them hide it (Roaring Falls) back behind GG.
I just hope they find a way to have it splash to where it looks like it is landing in the lake, I think that would be awesome.
Here is the photo that was included in Tinmann's post 2 pages back for those of you behind network blocks:
(http://www.sdcfans.com/galleries/339154.jpg)
^Thank you, thank you, thank you!
This looks like it could easily fit in the old Land of Lost Crafts; that's where I would locate it. That would put something for the little ones at both ends of the park, give them an area to play in while the adults switch off on the thrill rides, and force parents to cross the park (thus passing by concessions and shopping) to get from one area to another.
I can't read the map in the center to see exactly what is labeled in there, but I think this harkens back to the days when there was another puppet show. Some of those stories existed in coloring books, didn't they Rube?
It's also interesting, now that the Roy Rogers/Dale Evans museum is defunct, that SDC is touting a list of virtues. RR had a list of such virtues in his cowboy club.
And it appears this may be the new home of the sheriff.
Now, again I ask, does this look like anything we see at Dollywood? Where were these photos taken?
And what questions were asked about this attraction?
Guys, this might just be my eyes deceiving me -- but if you look at that concept art map you're going to see several things. First of all that little tree house that all the photos are of surrounding the map is just a very small portion of the map. In fact it is just the upper right hand part of the near area.
So now you're asking, "Well Swoosh, what's the rest of that structure then?"
Take a good look at it -- doesn't it strike you as odd that it looks like the artwork for this year's addition to Dollywood's Adventure Mountain? Multiple towers with very narrow "paths or perhaps 'obstacles'" in between them -- I'm sure it cannot be too much of a coincidence that DW's Adventure Mountain also has a kiddie area nearby.
Also add in the fact that there were LOTS of rumors that WWB's area was going to be used for an Adventure Mountain... things seem to be falling into place.
...and just throwing this out there... do you think that circle thing could be a carousel?
Um, no, that was me that posted the pic....and yes, there ARE markers in the middle behind the trees, towards the top of the hill...
Ah, sorry Tinmann, I didn't look closely enough.
Yeah, the back stretch does look exactly like a ropes course, with Half-Dollar Holler being the small square area inside. The square at the top could be some sort of re-use of the old Waterboggin tower.
Anyone going soon who can grab some shots of the markers?
But this was just a survey, right? They were gathering information about public interest, right? Hopefully they will get the message that a ropes course would have to be heavily themed not to detract from the mood of the park.
I think it was more of a "this is what we are going to do next year, will you like it?" survey.
They did the same thing with the Culinary School
It suprises me that they would do a adventure mountain with as many older people that go to SDC.
I really wish they would do something else for the big boys like me.
Maybe I am theme park selfish but I have no kids and I am interested in something an adult can enjoy.
Climbing a rope trail is low on my scale of fun, that I feel caters to kids but I will see as I am going to Dollywood on the 23rd, I am interested in what I find when I get there.
Pardon me for bringing anyone down or anything but I really hope that they ditch this whole "Half dollar holler" ride. I hope that whatever they decide to put in SDC in the 2011 season represents the park or has a story line behind it. Fire in the hole, Powder Keg, and Wildfire are all perfect examples of story lines. I guess what makes me nervous about this ride coming is that it will just be one more thing that causes SDC to loose it's theme. It's a theme park with a ton of history in its background. Not a circus.
^Hey, Maddi..., you're one of us! I'm still not convinced an Adventure Mountain is on its way though. With the zipline attractions in Branson now, it would see redundant. One of the ziplines is even done by the same company that did the one at Dollywood. That doesn't mean they won't do it though, and I (like you) want to voice my distinct opposition to such an addition.
I can't help but think the Half Dollar Holler may be a replacement for Geyser Gulch (which seems to require constant maintenance). Painting GG every year must be a pain in the neck. It appears that Half Dollar Holler is a kiddie attraction with a single entrance/exit so parents can allow the kids to run freer with less worries of losing them. I am excited to dream that GG may be on its way out, since the best of GG can be included in the new stuff, and it could be kept fresher with newer technology and building materials. (I am so tired of the color schemes on GG.)
Then, picture a Mystery Mine attraction area in the place of the remaining portion of the Waterboggan and spilling down to the shore of Lake Silver. SDC would theme the area of the MM to fit and anchor that corner of the park. Plus it would make for a great skyline/shoreline.
Amen to the colors of GG. Your idea may be a good one, if they redid and relocated the GG idea to the old boggin area they could even connect to the Exposition area.
It would take a little adjusting but completely possible.
That would make everyone happy... :)
^^EXCEPT... Adventure Mountain is NOT at ZipLine Course -- it's a ROPES course.
Two completely different concepts.
Is Adventure mountain basically another version of Tom & Hucks fort?
^^Duly noted, Swoosh.
^You need to go to Dollywood's website to get a clearer view of AM.
QuoteEXCEPT... Adventure Mountain is NOT at ZipLine Course -- it's a ROPES course.
Two completely different concepts
I am in Pigeon Forge on a trip and I will share with you that AM is much more than a ropes course, its a rope, beam, rocks, water, an obstacle course that is very very extensive and a really people eater. You are climbing between 4-6 towers on different levels reaching some towers more than 1-2 times on switchbacks.
You " bored" this attraction buy strapping on a harness and feeding your wire and peg into a track that is above your head, this assures you stay on the course the entire time.
Its cool, bit not at all for older folks, it was 95% kids. What I did notice is that it demands several employees to watch the entire thing, something that SDC would want to stay away from.
It was very well done and really something to look at but a big commitment when you put your line into the track you are in for 20-25 min worth of track.
It was a very cool attraction but not something that I would utilise, I am 40 in decent health.
While this sounds cool I'd like to see a Mystery Mine type of ride...Some sort of thrill ride...Swoosh, do you think this is a possibility or is Adventure Mountain a sure thing? Thanks :)
^ I can't even begin to count on one hand the amount of times that a MM type ride has been put on the front burner only to be move to the back burner again. The most recent of those was that it (MM clone) was to open for the 50th anniversary -- only that didn't happen because RB got pushed back a year.
I think that putting in a MM type ride is a better concept than the Half Dollar Holler or an Adventure mountain.
I have never visited Dollywood and never heard of Mystery Mine until just now, but after checking it out on line I'm two thumbs up for that ride or something like it coming to SDC. It looks like a GREAT thrill and theme ride.
It does look pretty good on the video. But I don't know if I've got the guts to ride it!
I really just don't see an Adventure Mountain coming to SDC. And if one does, I think it'd be much smaller than the one at Dollywood. Besides the summer months, lots of older people come to SDC to experience the music, shows, etc. An Adventure Mountain wouldn't be of much use to them, or families with smaller children.
And Adventure Mountain, like Geyser Gulch, would just be a sore thumb in an otherwise beautiful park. If you're reading this you fine people in Georgia, WE DON'T WANT AN OBSTACLE COURSE! We want a highly themed, very fun, Mystery Mine style roller coaster. ;D
Amen! ;D
Quote from: Coaster on June 27, 2010, 08:21:50 PM
WE DON'T WANT AN OBSTACLE COURSE! We want a highly themed, very fun, Mystery Mine style roller coaster. ;D
Hate to use your logic against you, but how is this any different?QuoteBesides lots of older people come to SDC to experience the music, shows, etc. An Adventure Mountain MYSTERY MINE wouldn't be of much use to them, or families with smaller children.
I am in Dollywood this weekend, I would recommend you read the post
" DO we really want a Mystery Mine" I have ridden the ride a cpl times and its not a " repeat" ride, meaning that you can go on the SDC coasters more than once in a row but MM is jarring on the neck. We found that you needed some real recoup time before you wanted to do it again.
Granted this was a first for the company but I think they added a little too much " fun" into a short section of track.
Great concept high dollar first class ride and honestly would look fantastic next to lake silver, but it defiantly needs some tweaking.
^^They billed Powderkeg as a family roller coaster and this wouldn't be any different.
^I've never been to Dollywood, so I'll just agree that MM is maybe a little too rough. But, it seems that Dollywood is kind of the testing site for all the new attractions that SDC gets. Dollywood got a river battle before we did, and from everything I've heard and expericienced on River Blast, the Herschend's worked out all the negatives for SDC, and made River Blast better than its Dollywood counterpart. So, I'd think that SDC's version would get some tweaking to be the best that it can be for everyone.
Maybe if they put it where Geyser Gulch is they can have it dive into Lake Silver like Albert has suggested.
You can't do too much to the Lake Silver area since the cave is right underneath it.
Quote from: Coaster on June 28, 2010, 09:54:30 AM
^^They billed Powderkeg as a family roller coaster and this wouldn't be any different.
Don't take my post out of context. I want a MM coaster just like everyone else, I was just showing the poster how silly their logic was on why an Adventure Mountain wouldn't work yet they wanted a MM.
^I appreciate the logic, but some folks don't want to sweat that much. AM requires physical dexterity; MM requires you to be tall enough.
how hard is it to walk across a balance beam when tethered?
For me? Piece o' cake; I do it twice every day. I'm just sayin', some folks...
Quote from: History Buff on June 28, 2010, 01:13:06 PM
^I appreciate the logic, but some folks don't want to sweat that much. AM requires physical dexterity; MM requires you to be tall enough.
If they don't want to sweat, they're in the WRONG part of the country during the summer.
I also think there would be a slight backlash against an AM at SDC at first, simply due to a local cultural repulsion against anything requiring exerting physical effort at a theme park. However, just like at DW, I'm sure it would become a hit as it is tried out. Since they've already got the concept for it and they apparently aren't pushing any other options around I'm sure we'll find out soon enough. Hopefully we get a smaller version with a few sides.
As far as the next coaster goes though, I think a G-fighter is off the table. As was mentioned before, an MM would be prohibitively expensive in the current light of things, has relatively low through-put, and isn't turning out to be quite as good in the long term as was hoped. A woodie at SDC, however, has everything going for it: cheap, reliable, family-friendly, and a sure hit with crowds. I think they'll come to this realization soon, but I don't expect them to build it anytime terribly soon.
Does anyone else besides me with they would just make an announcement already... If they don't do it soon they will not have time to build it for 2011.
I agree. I think what everyone wants is just to know whats going to be put in SDC.
My guess is they are focusing on the anniversary season right now...probably would not make a big announcement before fall or winter.
^ Then how will they have time to finish the project. Oh.. Let me guess. It will be 2012 and we will be looking at a fence all year long next year.
Isn't it not 'til autumn that next-year projects are usually announced publicly for theme parks?
^Yes, normally SDC announces next years plan in October or November I've always thought.
Most attractions like River Blast are announced just before season passes go on sale in early November. Larger attractions such as coasters are usually announced sooner. I have a feeling we'll be waiting this year.
I was looking at the area that contained the water boggin and noticed how temporarily the trees were planted. When you walk buy look how the rootballs ride so high above the ground. I think they may actually still be in the burlap.
They were planted knowing they would be removed soon.
LOL. Clues are there if you know where to look. ;)
Yes they are but I still wish they would go ahead and make an announcement. I really am no good at waiting........
QuoteYes they are but I still wish they would go ahead and make an announcement. I really am no good at waiting........
AMEN!!! ;D
QuoteLOL. Clues are there if you know where to look.
Ok,
I am calling your hand, either you have a idea or you are bluffing.
C'mon Swoosh, give us something to look at,
point something out to us we arent seeing
Throw us a bone
I am officially calling your bluff
Quote from: mhguy77 on July 15, 2010, 07:10:17 PM
I am officially calling your bluff
Your loss then.
I've been around the industry long enough to know that you don't spill the beans before the park is ready to announce.
You "calling my bluff" won't phase me anymore than the countless others before you that have "called my bluff"
Like I said, there are clues if you know where to look, and that's all you are getting right now.
QuoteI've been around the industry long enough to know that you don't spill the beans before the park is ready to announce.
As much as I want to know what the 2011 project is, in some ways I kinda agree with you swoosh. See, my family owns a local restaurant that's being relocated in a brand new building. Even though it's going to open pretty soon, dad has been telling me not to tell anyone what the new building is going to look like because it would spoil it. It would probably be the same situation with SDC.
I compare it to peeking at your gifts before Christmas.
Why ruin the surprise before it is time? It ruins the magic.
I'm goin ALL in!!! ;D
Swoosh,
I know you do want to say too much, and I completely understand. However, can you tell us if it is going to be a thrill ride, something that you would enjoy, etc. Will it be a good replacement for the waterboggin and splash harbor? The waterboggin was becoming one of our favorite rides. I hated to see it go. My 4 boys loved splash harbor. Again, we hated to see it go. It will all be worth it however if there is a new thrill ride of some sort like the mystery mine.
^I will direct those question to Copper. He is a little more intune with what is going on with the park right now then I am. Things change quite often in the amusement world, and IDK if my information is the most current
Your MIG site has some good insight and snapshots of the "possibilities" as well as Screamscape.
^darn you. Now you spilled the beans on my comment earlier about "if you know where to look" :P
Hehehehe, I picked up on it for sure. I thought it was a game!
LET THE GAMES BEGIN
(http://www.spirithalloween.com/images/spirit/products/processed/07017593.detail.a.jpg)
Oooookay, creepy! :o
Hey Mike! Give us some help. I went to the MIG website and couldn't find any hints or rumors of upcoming SDC projects. What do I click to get the lowdown?
This is what they are talking about.. It is on ScreamScape..
2011/2012 - New Coaster - Rumor - (4/2/10) New construction pictures from Silver Dollar City can be found at MidWestInfoGuide. They show off a good bit of footage about what's been removed to make room for the 2011 project.
(3/2/10) In addition to the older rumors about a possible Gerstlauer Euro-Fighter coming to SDC, I'm told that the park has also been looking at GCI wooden coaster designs. This is thought to be a brand new GCI coaster, custom designed to take advantage of the park's terrain and not a relocation of the Ozark Wildat from Celebration City.
I actually just googles Midwest Info Guide and 2010 Silver Dollar City. Some cool up close pics and the above Screamscape link as well is hyperlinked in the article.
I'd be extremely surprised if they build a coaster this off-season, and I'd be doubly surprised to see them go back to Gerstauler for another Euro-fighter. MM was expensive and is now having issues with roughness according to not just a few people. I expect and hope they go back to GCI for a wood coaster sometime soon, though they are probably still trying to figure out what the future of OzCat will be before they go and build another one.
I think the fact that they left WW's tower means that they plan to do something with it. I can see it being used for a zip line that goes down to an Adventure Mountain/Half Dollar Hollar area. I wouldn't be terribly excited for it, but it definitely seems like something the chain would be planning.
As much as I would like to see something more than a zip line/Adventure Mtn, I can totally see that too.
MM was expensive and is now having issues with roughness according to not just a few people-shavethewhales.
Actually they mentioned that on thrillnetwork boards, so an employee rode it and told maintenance it was having problems. That was just a couple days ago. Apparantly they have since corrected the problem. So Shavethewhales I think they might want a G-fighter now.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D42Sc43HCi8
Watch the vid, notice when they slow the ride the riders throw forward, It is rough and rough on your neck.
I was there a few weeks ago and if we got one in SDC I might ride it once. IT would end up being a ride like the Lost River, I only ride that when there are guests with that want to go. I am not interested in getting soaking wet, nor am I interested in having my neck slung back and forth.
Powderkeg and Wildfire are great, so it the Ten. Tornado in Dollywood, I didn't care for the way MM suddenly decelerated and stressed your neck.
Honestly except for the section between the 2 lift hills the ride is extremely smooth and a lot of fun. The special effects and the dark ride portion before the first lift are really cool. It has already been said that the SDC version would different with the outside portion. The DW had to be made the way it was due to the topography and space they had to work with keeping mind future expansions. The SDC one would have a very long narrow area to work with so I would imagine that it would be stretched out more.
Now I am not saying we are getting one, nor am I saying we are not, but it is high up on SDC's wish list to get one. Originally we were supposed to have our version of MM this year for the 50th, but when RB got pushed back a year, MM got sort of moved to the back burner. We'll see if the heat has been turned back on or not very shortly. IF MM is coming next year, construction and dirt moving should begin by the end of this month as this will be a MAJOR project.
Quoteexcept for the section between the 2 lift hills the ride is extremely smooth and a lot of fun
I agree, unfortunately that part is the " Joiner" to the start and end of the ride, the effects of the ride are great, the upside down is smooth as silk. The second drop was also smooth as it could be but that middle part.
I still do believe that the way they did some of the track that slowing down that particular coaster car or quickly giving it speed it jerks at your neck.
Even the first little drop out of the station is a neck bender.
I think that when that ride works it really works, it is a good format but needs to be less acrobatic.
I do wish they would have done another heart line roll.
If this coaster had a longer area and they had not tried to fit so many tricks in a short area it would have been a winner.
Swoosh I am sure you have been on more of this type of coaster than I have. I do believe the shortness of the cars and the height you sit off the track gives it more of an opportunity to be physically demanding ride if they are not carefull.
Whatever they do I am sure they will learn from there first lesson.
So is everybody thinking that a new coaster would go in somewhere near the old Splash Harbor area? Or would it be closer to the old Waterboggan?
Quote from: mhguy77 on July 22, 2010, 11:00:24 PM
Swoosh I am sure you have been on more of this type of coaster than I have. I do believe the shortness of the cars and the height you sit off the track gives it more of an opportunity to be physically demanding ride if they are not carefull.
Whatever they do I am sure they will learn from there first lesson.
Well Sponge Bob at Mall of America is the same type of coaster and proves that this style of coaster CAN be very successful and a lot of fun without the snappy movements.
I think they need to decide if they want it more THRILL or DARK RIDE. Personally some fast sections there between the two lifts without the sudden severe directional changes would make the ride a lot more fun.
Quote from: PastorDon on July 22, 2010, 11:05:06 PM
So is everybody thinking that a new coaster would go in somewhere near the old Splash Harbor area? Or would it be closer to the old Waterboggan?
Splash Harbor is too close to the lake and the lake is basically right on top of the cave so it makes it hard to have the type of supports you would need for a coaster in that area. Now as far as Waterboggan... that sure is a nice open tract of land right there.
Quotethis style of coaster CAN be very successful and a lot of fun without the snappy movements.
You nailed it, " snappy" yes that's it.
I agree the speed is great, upside down is great, hairpin turns and sudden drops are bad....
Quote from: Swoosh on July 22, 2010, 11:33:05 PM
Now as far as Waterboggan... that sure is a nice open tract of land right there.
Nicely worded! Ever think about going into politics, Swoosh?
Being part of the media...Swoosh walks the razor's edge...I know, I've been there and done that, too.
whatever are you two talking about ;D
Well, it looks like the popular rumor at the park is still that Roaring Falls will make it's way over here. After seeing River Blast though, I can't say I'll mind too much. If they do as good a job with Roaring Falls it'll be OK.
I half-expected DW's announcement to include some former CC rides as well, but now that we know they won't be getting any, that leaves about a half dozen more older flats that could make it to SDC in the future as well. If the S&S double shot is included with Roaring Falls and both are themed as well as usually I'll be pretty darn happy.
I just hope they don't use Roaring Falls as an excuse to take out AP. I mean, it looks like they tore down SH just so that it didn't overlap RB's glory, and AP is not exactly built to the chain's modern standards...
I also find it hard to believe they'd throw that Half-Dollar holler concept out there and not be planning to use it at some point, though maybe the survey results didn't favor it, who knows.
So Swoosh...do you think a ride like Roaring Falls would fit in that "nice open tract of land" where the old Waterboggan was?
^I think about anything could fit in that "nice tract of land"
I'm still waiting for something to emerge from the "craft" survey that came out earlier, too.
It will annoy me / not surprise me if all the stuff I have been "fed" this year turns out for naught and we get CC leftovers and some new crafty things instead.
Well, a new craft would be nice for a huge change, and I'm not counting the C&C School in that category.
I'm not thrilled about a "bunch" of CC rides. That may be a tipping point if they are not themed - a point of no return for becoming an amusement- and not a theme-park. I believe that was part of the problem with CC, as many of the rides they boasted were little more than parking lot rides and running it as a one-price park may have been a stretch.
Anyway, since that's not what we're really talking about, I have some amount of confidence that SDC will work at theming the appropriate recycled rides and do something else with the others.
SDC did such a good job theming RiverBlast...there is hope they would do so for any CC rides that make it to the park...but, just like History Buff says, if they ain't themed, whooooooo...I sure hope the management has better sense than that.
I'm not worried anymore about the company not doing a good job theming new attractions at the park. The last few additions have shown a heavy dedication to atmosphere even if they do bring in a lot of changes. Other than the backside of Grand Expo, everything that has been added since I can recall following the park has been a pleasant surprise. It's not going to be difficult for them to theme a Mack SuperSplash or a S&S Double Shot. I'm not sure about the flying carpet or KMG Afterburner, but I think they might end up somewhere else anyway. I just want the double shot. ;)
I still wonder what they're doing with the Afterburner though. That was the only actual trailer-mounted ride they kept at CC to my knowledge. I'm not sure they can re-theme that one. Come to think of it, the Wisdom Tornado wasn't put up for sale either, was it? Hmmm... maybe they just sold them already...
I rode the double shot and although it could be a fun addition to an area ( swing/silos) by no means is this a feature ride. LINK : http://www.s-spower.com/download/double.pdf 360-480 Riders per hour.
Not something I would like to see coming to SDC or DW for that matter. SDC does not need any more 52 inch height requirement rides, and my DW better NOT get one!
I would LOVE to get a Double Shot! The Detonator is one of the few rides at Worlds of Fun that I absolutely adore. I can just imagine soaring to the top of a shot tower at the top of Roarke Mountain... *sigh*
Have you guys ridden the double shot at Celebration City?
It isn't that high.
^Little more than an express elevator to me.
Now that the announcement has been made as to what is being added at Dollywood, when will we hear an announcement about SDC's new ride...Also, in an earlier response, somebody had made a comment about Roaring Falls being brought to SDC from CC...hopefully not to replace American Plunge...Surely there is no way American Plunge would be replaced...It's been there forever....
Quote from: joshblakebran on August 07, 2010, 05:52:58 PM...Also, in an earlier response, somebody had made a comment about Roaring Falls being brought to SDC from CC...hopefully not to replace American Plunge...Surely there is no way American Plunge would be replaced...It's been there forever....
I predict something will happen to the American Plunge in the not too distant future. Either they will revitalize it, or they will completely replace it, or they will simply remove it.
They should move Roaring Falls to White Water. A similar ride was installed at Noah's Ark in the Dells and it is very popular there AND White Water could use a new ride.
You would think that they would announce something soon as the summer is closing.
When in the season did they make the announcement about Wildfire?
Or PowderKeg?
You'll have to wait until Harvest Fest when the season pass sales start.
I'm pretty sure both River Blast and TGS were announced around Nov. 1 when season passes go on sale. Wildfire and PK were announced much earlier.
If we get Roaring Falls, I'm wondering where exactly they will put it. It can't go into the lake for various reasons, it will need it's own pool. There's an expansion point behind GE, but that would put it kind of out of the way. I don't think it will fit in WW's spot without some modifications either... Hmm, seems like if we are getting it, they'll have to make a new themed area in the parking lot, or expand GE.
Why can't it go behind GG?
Honestly I think I would welcome a Adventure Mountain over that common water ride.
I was told a couple weeks ago Roaring Falls was for sale :) , leaving only the shot tower & Wildcat left NOT for sale
Wildcat would be wonderful, but it sure seems expensive to move that.
It could run 3 trains if it was retooled the correct way.
@swoosh:
I may be wrong, but it doesn't feel like there's enough room back there. I never actually made it to CC in 2008, so I'm not sure how wide the space needed is. It'd have be pretty sandwiched between GG and the tracks, and might look weird, at the very least...
Quote from: tinmann620 on August 07, 2010, 10:13:56 PM
I was told a couple weeks ago Roaring Falls was for sale :) , leaving only the shot tower & Wildcat left NOT for sale
That's good to hear, I hope it's correct. I wouldn't be
disappointed with Roaring Falls, but it wouldn't be much incentive to hurry back to the park... Was the flying carpet sold too? I enjoyed that one too, even though it would be harder to come up with an apt theme for it. You don't see many of those around anymore.
They definitely won't move OzCat though. They'll take the hardware I'm sure, but there's no need to go through the effort to move it when they can build a new, better wooden coaster. I don't think SDC has a big enough flat space anyway.
Quote from: tinmann620 on August 07, 2010, 10:13:56 PM
I was told a couple weeks ago Roaring Falls was for sale :)
This is good news.
Do any of you think we'll be watching something being built next year. I don't think we necessarily get something new every year. I really think we will see the old Still New for '11! campaign.
Dollywood gets something every year. Why shouldn't the flag ship park get something every year as well?
QuoteStill New for '11!
I love the truth in that......
Quote from: History Buff on August 07, 2010, 11:21:45 PM
Do any of you think we'll be watching something being built next year. I don't think we necessarily get something new every year. I really think we will see the old Still New for '11! campaign.
I actually would not mind if they did not build anything new for 2011, so long as they use the time, and money to refurbish older parts of the park, and to plant more trees, and to spruce up the area.
New for 2011, an even BETTER looking park! :o
But, Roaring falls is a waste of space, all it does is take you up a lift turn and go down a drop, it's pointless when you already have American Plunge just like when DW got Daredevil Falls, Country Fair falls was removed. I would say one of these will go if you do get roaring falls.
If they were about to retrofit roaring falls to the plunge area using the old plunge track then swap them out. I am afraid that would be cost prohibitive though.
although it would allow a large increase in people per hour.
I'm a little bitter here, but I will say a little something. Why should SDC get recycled rides when DW gets new things all the time? I think some of the rides from CC should be moved to SDC finish the loop that connects Wildfire and Powder Keg and install some of these rides inside. The theme would be Doc Harris' other inventions. That would add more rides, yes, but more indoor rides even better. I think they should sell some of the CC rides and put that money towards a new taller Double Shot ride to be located next to Powder Keg, themed as a fireworks shop or something like that. Hmmm...
As for the Waterboggan area I hope they save that area for what they originally had planned for the park this season.
Yeah, if they connected Wildfire with Powederkeg, they essentially would be developing the last leg of the old stagecoach trail for purposes today. As I have reported on other threads, I used to enjoy walking the stagecoach trail from FITH through the woods to the back of the float trip when I worked there. It is a pretty area of the park...and now would be a good time to develop it. My memory fails me, so I cannot remember if cutting down a few trees would expose that back part of the park to sights of development along Table Rock. If they were selective in what they did, and they are pretty good at doing that, they could connect the two with a pathway and put some attractions back in there that might really work well. Maybe they could call that area Butterfield Trail or something like that to pay homage to the stagecoach. Whatever they do, if they use their heads, it could be a nice little addtion that perhaps would not cost too much to do. Whatever they do they need to remember to theme well as apparently they have done this year with RiverBlast.
Maybe they could build our indoor Stagecoach ride there too!
Several people on this thread have referred to SDC as being the flag ship park of the HFE chain....and I agree with that. However, it has also been mentioned several times that Dollywood gets all the love as far as new rides and investments. Just wondering out loud here, has anyone given any thought at all to the possibility that HFE is slowly transitioning to a point where Dollywood becomes the main cog in the chain? It is located near the entrance to the most visited national park in the country. Another question, if HFE is moving that direction how much thought have they given to the future of Dollywood after Dolly is no longer around? I'm not saying this is the direction they are going....I'm simply throwing it out for discussion. It's hard not to notice all the improvements made at Dollywood over the past several years.
Quote from: dwfan on August 08, 2010, 12:22:14 PM
But, Roaring falls is a waste of space, all it does is take you up a lift turn and go down a drop, it's pointless when you already have American Plunge just like when DW got Daredevil Falls, Country Fair falls was removed. I would say one of these will go if you do get roaring falls.
I agree that Roaring Falls is a waste. I was disappointed that they spent so much money on it for CC. I didn't ride it there. I'd already ridden several in other parks. Also, what is so exciting about it? There are no surprises. I can get just as wet shooting people riding RiverBlast
I hope they refurb AP. I'd ride this over Roaring Falls any day.
^They got RF because that type of a ride fit the theme they were going for with the park... now the theme they gave it, no idea where that came from.
I think it would be wonderful if they could revitalize the American Plunge! Silver Dollar City used to be famous for their quirky gags along the Jim Owens' float trip, and to some extent the American Plunge. They could really add so much more theming, and make it more than just an uninspiring float.
As already mentioned, I believe Roaring Falls would fit better (albeit awkwardly) at White Water.
QuoteI think it would be wonderful if they could revitalize the American Plunge! Silver Dollar City used to be famous for their quirky gags along the Jim Owens' float trip,
Absolutely, if they could utilise more of the old track and legthen the ride they could fit more boats in per cycle.
I do think however if the modify AP they could add the loading system from Dollywoods flume, far superior faster load and unload.
It would be great to revitalize an older ride.0
I, too like the idea of Roaring Falls at Whitewater. They could add a few other features from CC and maybe have multiple themes at Whitewater...the beach within reach...you could have a boardwalk area there too, couldn't you? The original theme of WW back in 1980 was "all the fun of the old swimmin' hole."
Maybe a section of WW could go back to that.
has anyone given any thought at all to the possibility that HFE is slowly transitioning to a point where Dollywood becomes the main cog in the chain? It is located near the entrance to the most visited national park in the country.
But Branson is one of the most popular vacationing spots in the US...Surely HFE would never consider letting SDC slip to mediocrity...I am also a fan of refurbishing AP and sprucing up the ride with some alternate paths...
I think it is a possibility that HFE doesn't have a choice if Dollywood becomes the main cog in the chain. What are they going to do, try to hold back one of their attractions because it is becoming to popular or successful. I would think the Hershend's sentimental feelings would be toward SDC. I don't think anyone really knows what kind of business arrangement there is between Dolly and HFE. When Dolly puts money into Dollywood, does HFE match the money she puts in, or visa versa. Maybe Dolly never puts money into Dollywood and HFE just pays her to use her name. It would be interesting to know the business arrangement. In one of the threads someone mentioned that it looked like DW had more money to spend than SDC, maybe this is the reason why. I also agree that AP needs a refurbishment. Hopefully by next year they can find some money in the budget to spruce it up. I always thought it would be nice to get some new boats to ride in. The ones now are pretty uncomfortable.
While visiting DW last month, several employees said attendance & $ were way down; HFE was putting most of their $ into DW to keep it afloat. For every single SDC 50th anniversary item, there was a bunch more of DW 25th (which actually is NOT until next year, FYI)
Quote from: joshblakebran on August 14, 2010, 10:42:53 AM
has anyone given any thought at all to the possibility that HFE is slowly transitioning to a point where Dollywood becomes the main cog in the chain? It is located near the entrance to the most visited national park in the country.
But Branson is one of the most popular vacationing spots in the US...Surely HFE would never consider letting SDC slip to mediocrity...I am also a fan of refurbishing AP and sprucing up the ride with some alternate paths...
I don't think the execs are exactly putting labels on the parks as to which one is the "flagship" or not. I assume each park receives funding based on the circumstances driving it's business. In DW's case, if I recall correctly, the park is controlled by a joint ownership between HFEC and the Dollywood company, a company set up to serve Dolly Parton's interests in HFEC. The DW company may or may not receive more funding due to Dolly's efforts to continue her "brand" and prominence. Plus, DW is in a more populous area and is competing with other major parks.
Don't worry, SDC is in no danger of slipping into mediocrity either way anytime soon.
CEO Joel Manby mentioned on Undercover Boss that Silver Dollar City was the flagship park. Although Dollywood is definitely a major player, I do not believe it is "top dog" just yet. A "younger sister" is probably a better description of Dollywood.
The problem with Silver Dollar City is that the management there seems to be slipping out of touch with some of the theme elements. This may cause the illusion that Silver Dollar City is not considered as much of a valuable gem as it once did. However, even with Sponge Bob, and Lady Gaga, I am sure they intend on keeping Silver Dollar City as prime real estate.
I agree that Rolling Falls should go to WW and the Merry-go-round should go to GE and be accompanied with the Balloon Chase.
Hello all. I'm new to the board, but not to the city. Seem's like this thread has been way too quiet for a while. I was just getting my quick fix on YouTube with a few city videos and stumbled across this one.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v97swBcTcNo&feature=related
Seems like there was a lot of early discussion and speculation about what may or may not fill this void, but I haven't heard a whole lot lately.
This was shot in March. Can anyone comment on whether or not anything more has been done in this area? Seems there's much more real estate here than I was envisioning. I pray this valuable piece of land isn't gobbled up by some lame zipline, climbing area, "adventure" experience. That would be a gigantic waste in my opinion. Especially considering the multi-million dollar investment that was just dropped into RB, which obviously caters to kid/family friendly patrons.
Allow me to officially add my name to the list of those petitioning for a true wooden coaster to be added to the park. Given the theme central to what we all love about SDC, I still can't fathom how a wooden coaster is still absent from this park. And for the record, I would welcome a Mystery Mine type ride, but would rather see an authentic wooden design instead. Even a smaller coaster like Evil Knieval at Six Flags St. Louis would be a huge plus. That ride brilliantly utilizes a small footprint within the park, but offers speeds over 50 mph while crossing over itself 14 times. I would love nothing more than to hop on a wooden coaster at SDC that embodies the park's theme and blends into the beautiful natural wooded landscape.
With GE now a fixture at the park, there are now plenty of kid-friendly attractions. I've heard good things about RB, but it's time once again to bring in a large attraction that's sure to keep the turn styles cranking.
If for nothing other than fun conversation, please indulge me and respond to anything you may have heard about a pending 2011/2012 project.
At this point, I fully believe an Adventure Mountain style concept is on the way to the park next year. Since the loss of the Treehouse, Tom Sawyer's Landing, and Splash Harbor, the park is seriously down on areas for kids to run around and be adventurous. Those kids of attractions used to be the life-blood of the park for young families, and as much as I like rides and coasters, I'd love to see them get back to that with a re-envisioned AM concept.
It doesn't have to look anything like DW's. Image if they made it all look like a real tree house, or a giant fort... The possibilities are endless, and it would be a totally unique feature to the park, setting it apart once again from all the rides-based parks out there. The more I think about it the more I think it would be one of the best additions the park could make.
As for a wooden coaster, it doesn't look like it'll be this year, but any time now...
I am not sure what will be coming down the pipeline in 2011, or 2012, but I have a strong feeling that it will be big. I am hoping that they will reuse the old Waterboggan tower for a high flying rollercoaster, or attraction.
I was told that an announcement will be coming in a couple of weeks. ;D
Quote from: Swoosh on August 16, 2010, 04:07:29 PM
I was told that an announcement will be coming in a couple of weeks. ;D
I hope your right! That would be great! ;D
^I am, it came directly from the park.
Wow, thanks for that info! We'll be watching for the news release.
Well its about time, we need something to talk about here. The season is getting short and there isn't much action up on these boards right now.
Heck, after midnight madness ended that left a big hole in my constructive criticism heart. :o
Seriously I do look forward to some exciting news, the river battle is great but its not up my alley, I hope this is a cold friendly ride. ( If its a ride at all )
Fantastic news, Swoosh. Thanks for the update.
I may be way off base here as I'm not a park designer, but has anyone considered this:
Let's hypothetically say that an AM-esque experience is being considered for 2011 and the now vacant WB area. From a proximity standpoint, why would HFE want to sandwich this type of attraction right between Geyser Gulch and Grand Exposition? Both of these areas are already the most kid-friendly area in the park offering both thrills and adventure. As I said, I'm not a park designer, but just looking at the park map, I can't understand why they would want to throw another kid-focused attraction in an area already brimming with things just for them. From an overall park standpoint, would it not make more sense to put a larger, more adult geared thrill ride in this location to add balance to that end of the park? Seems like common sense to me. Look at most other park maps and you'll see a variety of rides throughout to encourage exploration and even distribution over the entire park.
As a parent, putting something larger in the WB area would give families even more of a reason and an opportunity to spend time on that side of the park. There would truly be something for everyone there. Proximity aside, I also don't think an AM attraction would be the right move for 2011 given this year's addition of RB was totally aimed at bringing in another family-friendly attraction.
It's been almost 10 year's since we were blessed with Wildfire, five since PK exploded onto the scene, and three years since a thrill-type ride was added (Barn Swing). It goes without saying that I'm hoping for an announcement of something big and thrilling in the next couple of weeks. And for the record, I wouldn't mind if they unveiled a new coaster that wouldn't even open until the 2012 season. It would be well worth the wait.
Can anyone verify whether or not anything has changed at all in the area around the Waterboggan since that video was shot in March?
QuoteI wouldn't mind if they unveiled a new coaster that wouldn't even open until the 2012 season.
I would find it suprizing if they announced something commming in 2 years. The RB was pushed back because of funds and expectation. From all the reports I am reading theme parks and water parks are fairing well this season.
I look for the addition to open in 2011.
I know it's been talked about at length, but look closely at the track configuration in this video, as well as the tower-like structures incorporated into MM at Dollywood. Maybe it's not coming to SDC, but from what I can tell, the WB space and remnants look awfully similar. MM looks to have a rectangular shaped footprint...just like the vacant WB area. And how ironic would it be to see Dollywood getting their version of our Giant Swing and SDC getting our version of their MM in 2011. If something on this scale was going in next season, my guess is we would have seen some distinct markers for footings and the like by now, but what do I know. Looking at the park map, I just can't help but think a coaster of some sort will be filling the WB void. That would give you a coaster at each corner of the park.
I love to keep thinking about the possibilities. Just hope we're not talking about some play land on steroids weeks from now.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OStk0c4uCFo&feature=related
Here's a video taken on MM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUIzdKGcRZY&feature=fvw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUIzdKGcRZY&feature=fvw)
There doesn't seem to be anything new going on in that area. When I visited late last September, there was already considerable progress being made on RB despite the official ride announcement not coming until November 7, 2009. Would it even be possible to construct a major coaster attraction in less than six months?
Swoosh, how were the specifics about the announcement worded to you? Was it couched rather nonchalantly, or indicative of something big behind the proverbial curtain?
^ A lot of work had already been done on RB by then because it was temporarily delayed a year and was supposed to be open by then. Plus, they had to move a tremendous amount of earth to fit it in. It's entirely possible for them to build something fairly sizeable in the space of a few months, it all depends on the factors involved.
That aside though, I have serious doubts that the area could fit a reasonable-sized coaster, unless they do indeed go the G-fighter route. It would look awesome if they used the old tower for a MM-style G-fighter since it looms over that entire half of the park, and the layout would have to be pretty interesting. I'd be a little reserved about it though; I mean, even in the video above there are multiple comments about having to visit the chiropractor afterward and such. It seems like every POV video I've watched people are constantly asking each other if they're still alive from all the jarrs and knocks. :-\ Fluch von Novregod looks so good though...
They'll have to make the tower more handicap accessible if they want to have a major ride connected to it. I think it'll end up coming down as it was built for Waterboggan. Then again, it could always remain a random mysterious tower, much like the towers in the Tom and Huck area.
I really wouldn't mind and expansion of the Grand Exposition area. Given that Waterboggan sat right next to Red Gold Heritage Hall, which is part of the exposition, they could easily expand the land as well as add a second entrance into the area. Rides from CC could also be moved over including the carousel, possibly a rethemed Flying Carpet and Accelerator. I also want the balloon ride back.
Quote from: CJR on August 17, 2010, 09:41:23 PM
They'll have to make the tower more handicap accessible if they want to have a major ride connected to it. I think it'll end up coming down as it was built for Waterboggan. Then again, it could always remain a random mysterious tower, much like the towers in the Tom and Huck area.
I always imagined that if they did build a new ride using the old Waterboggan tower that they would not use the original flights of stairs. I always pictured them somehow modeling the ride around, or thru the entire structure itself.
I am not sure why I always imagined it that way? ??? :)
Im just wondered about this question lately. How do we even know that the new ride is going over in that area?... i mean yea there has been work over there and they have more room. But why is what ever "it" is going over where WB used to be.
Whatever they put in the WB area needs to be an all-seasons ride. With all the water rides in that area, that part of the park doesn't have a lot to do in the cooler times of the year.
Quote from: U Smell Smoke on August 18, 2010, 07:44:41 PM
Whatever they put in the WB area needs to be an all-seasons ride. With all the water rides in that area, that part of the park doesn't have a lot to do in the cooler times of the year.
Indeed. Who says that THIS attraction is going there?
However most people will point out the fact "they didn't remove WB for nothing"
I don't think anyone assumes it's a virtual certainty that the next attraction will replace WB. It's just logical to assume that HFEC might start here if they went through the trouble of dismantling WB in the first place. If an existing ride isn't presenting real issues, why would it be removed unless the park had plans to replace it with something else?
I have a very deep affection for SDC, despite the fact that I've only been fortunate enough to visit a handful of times. Although, I have been going annually for a few years now. Does anyone know how much land HFEC owns outside the footprint of the existing park map? Also, are there any other less developed areas in the current park other than the WB location that might be under consideration for a new attraction? Any room for extending the area behind TGS?
At one time the company claimed to have a 2000 acre Marvel Cave Park. But the company has always been active in obtaining more land. I have no idea how much they now own. They rent or own warehouse space in Hollister...at various times they owned or leased property at many Branson area sites like Grand Palace, Grand Village, CC, WW, Ride the Ducks, Branson Landing, the Wilderness/campground area and much land between it and the park, and, I think a lot of the property between Shepherd of the Hills and SDC, including much of that Stonebridge Village area. They do have pockets of areas around the park that could be developed. I must admit in my trip to SDC last Sunday I was surprised at how much territory around the train tracks had been developed over the years. It used to be wilderness out there once you got past FITH. If a theme park owner/developer is paying attention they will learn from Walt Disney's experience with the original Disneyland. If you don't buy plenty of property, cheap crap will be developed around your park, cheapening what it is you have done. That's why the Orlando property is over 20,000 acres.
That's interesting, but seems to make sense. Taking a closer look at the park map would lead you to believe that they must own a decent chunk of undeveloped land around the existing park. Just look at the three biggest rides/attractions. WF, PK and TNT were all built around the perimeter of the park. Kind of makes you wonder if they will continue to do this at any point to accommodate another large-scale attraction. And if so, in what area of the park? I still think there needs to be a major thrills attraction on or very near the now vacant WB site. There is really nothing in that category on that side of the park and adding one could create an anchor for that area. Take a look at this satellite image (probably four or more years old). The arrows indicate vacant areas within or around the existing park that might be under consideration for future development. This picture doesn't include the huge chunk of undeveloped land that runs adjacent from the parking lots all the way to WF.
(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs188.ash2/45144_418812152772_542587772_4884255_16770_n.jpg)
Quote from: Junior on August 19, 2010, 06:55:47 AMI must admit in my trip to SDC last Sunday I was surprised at how much territory around the train tracks had been developed over the years. It used to be wilderness out there once you got past FITH.
I hope whatever they do, that they stay clear away from the train tracks! That is the one area of the park that will definitely lose its charm without the loop into the woods.
I think we can all agree that something will probably be built in the footprints of the Waterboggan. Whether it will be the next attraction on the list, or not sure is a mystery. :)
Thanks for the map BackInTime9! I think the major hot spots for a new ride will either be the Waterboggan's old site, or the area between Wildfire, and PowderKeg. The area between Wildfire, and the square is usable, but sure is hilly! However, that is something Silver Dollar City is famous for. ;)
Completely agree about leaving the loop in the woods alone, but I wouldn't mind seeing the area well before the loop (but still between the lines) developed more.
Here's an image I did up a while ago using information on a website I can't remember now concerning what parcels of land are owned by SDC/HFEC. Everything within the red is owned by SDC/HFEC; the blue outlines the Wilderness. Note the small red box near the top; the land within is owned by a church located there.
(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd129/sdc_joy/Satellite/Land01.jpg)
Oh the possibilities. Thanks for sharing, tinaalsgirl. That's a lot of land. Very smart on their part to gobble up plenty around the park for their own use, as well as keeping surrounding developments from compromising the SDC experience. Hope they continue to expand the park, regardless of direction.
Thanks for the map! Kind of neat to see things this way!
I was reading through the "New coaster" thread at the bottom of this topics section last night. Much the same as we are today, it's pretty interesting to see what people were talking about and speculating for a new attraction two seasons ago. The coaster chatter was flying off the proverbial rails at that time and look what we got - a family themed water attraction. Just goes to show you how little we all seem to know. I must say though, the consensus with that discussion reiterated the fact that SDC needs a woodie. it's hard to believe there have been so many cries from fans for one, for such a long time and HFEC hasn't acted on it. Not to mention given how simple it would be to theme that style of coaster to the park.
Honestly, just having another major coaster of any kind in the park would benefit everyone. Whether you like thrill rides or not, their mere presence really helps distribute patrons throughout the park. That's why at this point, I'm hoping the next ride announcement is for a coaster of some kind around the WB area. We need a bigger attraction on that side of the park. The only thing that worries me is the lack of space in that spot. Maybe there's more than I realize, but if they do moved forward with a coaster project on that site, I hope they figure out a way to make it special despite a relatively limited area to work with. Of course, I would welcome seeing them put one anywhere on property at this point.
Not sure the date on the thread you are talking about, but RB was to open last year and MM was to open this year for the 50th.
Quote from: Swoosh on August 20, 2010, 03:56:38 PM
Not sure the date on the thread you are talking about, but RB was to open last year and MM was to open this year for the 50th.
Last thread under Construction/Rumors section. October 23, 2008 was the last post on that thread.
@backintime: I'm giddy with excitement. I posted that video on YouTube and figured no one would ever see it. Sweeeeeet.
Quote from: joecorn on August 20, 2010, 06:53:37 PM
@backintime: I'm giddy with excitement. I posted that video on YouTube and figured no one would ever see it. Sweeeeeet.
Thanks for posting it. I like checking out as many videos as I can taken at SDC. It makes me feel a little closer to the park, albeit from from far away.
Wish someone could catch some updated video of some construction on a new attraction beginning in the park.
Quote from: BackInTime9 on August 20, 2010, 04:15:07 PM
Quote from: Swoosh on August 20, 2010, 03:56:38 PM
Not sure the date on the thread you are talking about, but RB was to open last year and MM was to open this year for the 50th.
Last thread under Construction/Rumors section. October 23, 2008 was the last post on that thread.
Well that would put it about right. RB was supposed to be a 2009 addition and MM was supposed to be a 2010 addition.
I have looked at several maps of SDC and two things stand out. First is just how much land they own and the possibilities that they have.
Second it is interesting to see how the park expanded. With all the land that they own they built towards 76. I would have thought they would have been concerned with keeping the park hidden. Thus keeping up some of the mystic
Quote from: Firstvisit1967 on August 21, 2010, 09:58:26 AMWith all the land that they own they built towards 76.
Not entirely. Certainly GE and TGS would indicate that, but the park's two biggest attractions (WF & PK) resulted in expansion in the opposite direction of Highway 76, tapping into that plethora of open land owned by HFEC.
Wish we would hear something...anything...even a tiny hint about what's to come.
The interesting thing about the Grand Exposition is that the space it was built upon was originally a backside parking lot for employees, and crew, and so forth.
So instead of cutting down even more trees, say westward for example, they chose to covert the old parking lot into the Grand Exposition area.
QuoteWith all the land that they own they built towards 76. I would have thought they would have been concerned with keeping the park hidden.
The only expansion that became visable from 76 is the GE. They were heading twords the fire department and not away, I think that alone makes sense. The land beyond Wildfire and below Powder Keg are very steep. if you consider the land behind FITH its fairly flat, I believe they will utilise some of the employee parking lot at some time in the future, they are going to have to make some adjustment for the employee parking anyway. I think they park employees in 3 spots right now.
The fascinating thing about Silver Dollar City is that they have a reputation of removing older attractions, and replacing them with newer attractions in the same location.
For example...
The Diving Bell was replaced by The Lost River of the Ozarks
The Jim Owens Float Trip was replaced by The American Plunge
Tom Sawyer's Landing was replaced by River Blast.
The Waterworks Waterboggan was replaced by... Well we'll just have to wait, and see. ;)
Either way, I am glad Silver Dollar City chooses to "refresh" their park rather than bulldoze down more trees. :)
The topography is a huge issue. Hugo's hill is enough to make most visitors gripe, and the land on the other side of WF is much steeper and goes farther down. The caves and geography of the area make things difficult too. I've been hoping they would expand on the other side of the main square by the homestead, but it sounds like much of the land there is not suitable for building. I think there's an outlet of the cave buried somewhere in those woods that a rare species of bat uses.
The terrain around WF and PK definitely point to the issues they face with topography. I hope the fact that they were able to make both of those rides work in those locations is indicative of their willingness to continue expanding in that direction. As far as coasters are concerned, I think hilly terrain also provides a unique opportunity to utilize what nature gave us to accentuate the ride itself. No doubt it poses some construction challenges, but they proved those could be overcome with WE, PK and even TNT.
What if a new area of the park was developed below and beyond WF and/or PK with some sort of uniquely themed lift/transport system to access that area of the park without having to scale steep hills?
Pipe dream? Maybe...Maybe not.
Over the years they have done innovative things as they have added to the park. I have faith they will still use their imaginations as growth continues.
Quotesome sort of uniquely themed lift/transport system to access that area of the park without having to scale steep hills
I am gonna call in the citizen son this point.
I believe I was told that this was something they were thinking about at one time.
Some sort or people moving " contraption" I am not sure if I saw this is a survey or was told about it from a friend who was in management a few years back.
any info on this idea out there?
It seems like it was discussed on SDCFans.com somewhere...I don't know if it was "official" or some chatter someone on the Website here came up with, but it did sound interesting. Might try looking on threads that have something to do with "lost" concepts.
That's cool to know it's either already been brought up here and/or at HFEC. Whether it meandered through the beautiful wooded Ozark terrain, whisked guests above the trees for a birds eye view between sections of the park, or offered a connection via some sort of themed tunnel, I think a well done people moving system could be a very cool addition in its own right. But I'm getting way ahead of myself.
It's probably safe to say an entire new section of the park won't become a reality at once. If it happens at all, I envision a new area evolving around a new major ride/attraction.
In true SDC fashion, I think the major additions to the park this decade (WF, PK, TGS, GE & RB) have all been done with impeccable attention to detail so I too am confident that whatever major addition comes next will not disappoint.
Just wish we had an inkling what the heck it's going to be, where it's going and when we can expect to start enjoying it.
Well i am getting ready to head out to the "city" today with the family. Im gonna take lots of photos around the old WB area and maybe we will be able to fig out if they are doing anything there and if so what??
We went yesterday and it sure didn't look like anything at all was going on in that area.
Quote from: Pintrader on August 22, 2010, 01:14:55 PM
We went yesterday and it sure didn't look like anything at all was going on in that area.
Perhaps they are saving most of their construction, and excitement for the off season months? Such a shame too. Don't they realize that we are passionate about this place, and want to watch when something new gets built? ;)
Our luck we are all getting worked up and excited and then they will do nothing this off season.
I'm sure there will be something added for 2011. Most years construction on any new additions won't start till later in the fall. Heck, I seem to recall it taking until November for major ground work to be visible for TGS, and that was big attraction. Since most additions are largely pre-fabricated, they usually don't take but a few months to set up.
Still though, any time now something will start happening. By September or October we'll have a pretty good idea of what's most likely going on and where, even if the announcement isn't made until November.
We have a scheduled trip to the city the first week of October. I'll be sure to take plenty of photos. Of course, let's hope there's already been an announcement well in advance so we have something confirmed to talk about and look forward to.
Well we just back from sdc and I noticed while riding the train that there are orange marker flags in the woods where WB used to be.
Quote from: SDC#1fan on August 22, 2010, 08:22:31 PM
Well we just back from sdc and I noticed while riding the train that there are orange marker flags in the woods where WB used to be.
Oh my goodness! Oh my goodness! ;D
Sorry, I know that they are
just marker flags, but they are the start of things to come!
I just got back as well but didnt see any flag, we didnt however ride the train.
Excitement....
Well I looked all around the WB area from GG and didn't see anything but on the train u can see some stakes and a few trees with orange marker flags on them. Also someone mentioned something about the new trees they planted still being in burlap sacks so I checked them out and it looks like they planted most of them on top of the old WB exit path and then spread mulch out. I guess they didn't want to go through the trouble last off season to break up the old concrete.
Quote from: Ozark BBQ on August 22, 2010, 09:23:00 PM
Quote from: SDC#1fan on August 22, 2010, 08:22:31 PM
Well we just back from sdc and I noticed while riding the train that there are orange marker flags in the woods where WB used to be.
Oh my goodness! Oh my goodness! ;D
Sorry, I know that they are just marker flags, but they are the start of things to come!
I told you guys, if you knew where to look there were clues.
Oh and on a side note the park was really slow today and I rode the flooded mine and got the to turn the house lights on. It was pretty cool.
It was slow today but even yet the line for Powder Keg was 30-40 min.
They are rarely running 2 trains when I am there.
Restaurants and several snack stands were closed today.
Oh and on a side note the park was really slow today and I rode the flooded mine and got the to turn the house lights on. It was pretty cool.
how did you get them to do that.
I asked nicely :)
Quote from: SDC#1fan on August 22, 2010, 10:25:41 PM
Oh and on a side note the park was really slow today and I rode the flooded mine and got the to turn the house lights on. It was pretty cool.
Quote from: jmc75 on August 22, 2010, 11:18:14 PM
how did you get them to do that.
Quote from: SDC#1fan on August 23, 2010, 07:44:24 AM
I asked nicely :)
All right now, you cannot open a can of works, and not fish with them! ;)
Surely there is more to this story? Maybe I am just misunderstanding what the "house lights" are. :)
The lights they use when they are working on the ride. They are in all of the tunnel and some flood lights in the areas with scenes. It was pretty cool and all I did was nicely ask the dispatcher is "if I come back at closing will u let me ride through with the house lights on?" And he said sure.
When I worked there, we called those lights "work lights" because they were turned on only when someone entered scenes of the ride or behind them or above them, to do some kind of repair work. Usually, the work lights are on in the early morning prior to park opening so the work crews can fix things up for the day. The lights are turned off when guests come through so they can have that interesting "dark ride" effect. In my opinion, the ride was presented better to guests when the lights were off...but to the hard core fan who just wants something a bit different going through with lights on would offer that. I have heard folks say here they have gone through FITH with the work lights on and enjoyed it...but it too is meant to be a dark ride, and for the first time through, I hope everyone can enjoy it the way it was meant to be presented. I doubt if the powers that be would do it, but it might be interesting to have an organized SDC fans tour of all the rides someday with work lights on, and someone either a ride op or maintenance guy, leading us through to point out things of interest.
Quote from: SDC#1fan on August 23, 2010, 03:20:25 PM
The lights they use when they are working on the ride. They are in all of the tunnel and some flood lights in the areas with scenes. It was pretty cool and all I did was nicely ask the dispatcher is "if I come back at closing will u let me ride through with the house lights on?" And he said sure.
I guess what caught me off guard is that I did not know you could just ask to ride through with the work lights on; albeit it with special arrangements made prior to. Interesting! ;)
:o Jealous :o
Quote from: Ozark BBQ on August 23, 2010, 05:53:45 PM
I guess what caught me off guard is that I did not know you could just ask to ride through with the work lights on; albeit it with special arrangements made prior to. Interesting! ;)
This is byfar the "exception" and should not be considered the "norm".
I myself have been able to get "closing time" rides on FitH with the lights completely off, but I have a pretty good repoire with the crew so that's why I was able to do that.
Again, please do not go asking the crews for this type of ride, because like I state this is the "exception"
Y the heck not? The worst that could happen is they say no then u say ok thanks and move on. If u never ask u will never receive and I wouldn't want to miss out only to find out later all I had to do was ask.
Quote from: SDC#1fan on August 23, 2010, 09:52:06 PM
Y the heck not? The worst that could happen is they say no then u say ok thanks and move on. If u never ask u will never receive and I wouldn't want to miss out only to find out later all I had to do was ask.
Well if EVERYONE asked then that would disrupt the normal flow of operations, and possibly jeopardize the space-time continuum, or something like that. :)
Anyone going to the park this week who might be able to get some shots of the stake locations seen in the WB area?
I am going fri sat and sun. I will try to get some pics of them.
I was trying to find where the Half Dollar Holler/ "Adventure Mountain" concept would be located in the park by using the blueprint of the attraction from the survey. I enlarged the picture by 400% and highlighted in blue the surrounding structures around the new attraction. I looked at it for a long time and it just did not fit into the Waterboggan/ Splash Harbor area. After searching around the entire park, it seems to fit the other side of the park very similarly. Right across from PowderKeg. Take a look at the park map and compare the two.
What do you guys think?
Enjoy
(http://i932.photobucket.com/albums/ad169/matthamm/HalfDollarHoller.jpg)
God Bless
Hmm, that's an interesting thought. I don't know much about that area, but looking on Google Maps it looks like there's some room there.
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=silver+dollar+city&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=31.784549,86.572266&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Silver+Dollar+City,+Indian+Point,+Stone,+Missouri&ll=36.668995,-93.341571&spn=0.001962,0.005284&t=h&z=18 (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=silver+dollar+city&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=31.784549,86.572266&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Silver+Dollar+City,+Indian+Point,+Stone,+Missouri&ll=36.668995,-93.341571&spn=0.001962,0.005284&t=h&z=18)
It would certainly help balance out the park to put it there.
that is def a posibility. I will check it out tomorrow when i head down there. If you have anything you want pictures of let me know.
2 thoughts on that diagram.
If they did that & its possible. They would probably open up the walkway near Wildfire as it would really not be possible to have the shows at the Operah house that close without some other traffic relief. Its too much of a bottleneck as it is.
The other thing is the water fall would need some work done to the backside as it is pretty raw back there.
The land would probably also need to be sculpted on that bank. But if you consider the views of the water fall and the ability to see the activity from the restaurant it will either benefit the area or take away the sereneness.
Personally I think the area there is possible but what will they do for the people waiting for the theater, its such a mess now.
I actually see something like this coming to SDC next year.
OMG IT'S MY 40th POST!
I had forgotten how detailed the plans are for Half-Dollar Holler. Surely they didn't have those drawn up just to ask people's opinion about the project? Considering the amount of people bemoaning the loss of various kid's attractions at the park and complaining that the happy frogs are the only thing their small child can do, this looks like just the thing for the park.
I feel the need to point out this though: http://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?pid=4799585&id=23030364094&comments ;D
I wonder if it's a HFEC project? The only park that needs a wooden coaster is SDC though, so unless someone can spot this at the park it's probably an independent park project.
EDIT: Nope, it's just a new building for GCII. There goes that far-fetched hope.
Quote from: shavethewhales on August 27, 2010, 05:41:03 PM
Considering the amount of people bemoaning the loss of various kid's attractions at the park and complaining that the happy frogs are the only thing their small child can do, this looks like just the thing for the park.
I respectfully disagree. And I'm curious how anyone with children could argue that there's nothing for their kids to do in the park. On the contrary, I feel SDC's attractions are already too heavily geared toward a younger target audience. We brought our two year old with us last September and he was able to go on everything in the park except the electrospin, TNT, PK, WF and TGS. That's five rides folks. Five. And had RB been open he would have been able to go on that as well.
An Adventure Mountain type attraction may have it's place at SDC, but NOT NOW. I appreciate the fact that HFEC has built the park to cater to the entire family, but they must continue to add thrill rides if they're going to be able to keep the park thriving. Sure, SDC is somewhat of a niche destination given the theme and craftsmen angle, but alienating guests who also want to visit for big rides would not be a wise or popular move. And they've already proven that fact. Just look at the park 10 years ago
compared to today. In the year 2000, SDC operated without WF, PK, TGS, GE and RB. Virtually all of the major attractions at the park we love today weren't there a decade ago. That's good news that HFEC is in-tune with not only what guests crave, but what they need to add to remain competitive as well.
That said, bring on more thrills. It's time.
Quote from: BackInTime9 on August 28, 2010, 09:13:00 PM
they must continue to add thrill rides if they're going to be able to keep the park thriving.
People who are "looking for thrills" really only visit during June-August. The rest of the year, March-May. Sept-Dec, that is really not the case. Thrills are pretty under control right now... in all honesty, the park doesn't "need" anything. It is very well rounded as is.
QuotePeople who are "looking for thrills" really only visit during June-August. The rest of the year, March-May. Sept-Dec, that is really not the case. Thrills are pretty under control right now... in all honesty, the park doesn't "need" anything. It is very well rounded as is.
That may be, but I would be very curious to see what the average and seasonal attendance numbers looked like 10 years ago compared to now. Sure, people were coming to the park before SDC featured the thrills offered there today, but HFEC added those attractions for a reason.
If you look at any amusement/theme park in the country you'll see the same trend. From Cedar Point to Six Flags St. Louis, everyone is adding bigger, better rides to stay competitive and sustain their numbers.
Had it not been for a lousy economy, I would argue that we would already be riding a new coaster at SDC. After all, RB was originally supposed to open in 2008 or 2009, was it not?
Quote from: BackInTime9 on August 29, 2010, 07:39:26 AM
If you look at any amusement/theme park in the country...
See there is the problem with the way you are thinking, SDC is NOT just "any amusement/theme park in the country" -- you would be better off comparing it to a Disney park. You'll notice that those parks don't go crazy adding thrill ride after thrill ride every year as well, and they are doing quite well. SDC is Disney of the midwest and they need to stick true to who they are and not just plop in a thrill ride because "that's what the thrillseekers want"
Quote from: BackInTime9 on August 29, 2010, 07:39:26 AM
Had it not been for a lousy economy, I would argue that we would already be riding a new coaster at SDC. After all, RB was originally supposed to open in 2008 or 2009, was it not?
Speaking of that, what really amazes me is how Silver Dollar City has been pumping out a new attraction every single year in the last five years! First there was PowderKeg in 2005, The Grand Exposition in 2006, The Giant Swing in 2007, the Culinary School in 2008, and originally River Blast in 2009.
Silver Dollar City has been expanding like Wildfire! No pun intended. ;) They certainly didn't pump out new attractions at this rate years ago.
Silver Dollar City seems to be broadening their appeal with all of these new attractions. For example you have PowderKeg, and the Giant Swing geared towards the thrill seekers, then you have The Grand Exposition, and River Blast devoted to children, and then there is the Culinary School for the folks who want to take it slow for a while. There's truly something for everyone at Silver Dollar City! :D
I think they try to do "something" new every year- be it a ride, festival, show- that will give the average vistor a reason to get excited and return to the park. By "average visitor" I'm not talking about those on this site who are fanatical and buy Season Passes year after year and go as many times as we can! But I think the reasoning for adding something new is for the visitor that says "we can go to SDC but it's the exact same thing as last year. Let's go somewhere else". It gets guests "fired up" and antcipating the new thing. Just my opinion...
QuoteSee there is the problem with the way you are thinking, SDC is NOT just "any amusement/theme park in the country" -- you would be better off comparing it to a Disney park. You'll notice that those parks don't go crazy adding thrill ride after thrill ride every year as well, and they are doing quite well. SDC is Disney of the midwest and they need to stick true to who they are and not just plop in a thrill ride because "that's what the thrillseekers want"
No disrespect, Swoosh, but SDC and the Disney Corporation shouldn't even be mentioned in the same breath. Disney is and always will be in an entertainment stratosphere no other amusement/entertainment company can touch. And they "don't go crazy adding thrill ride after thrill ride every year" because they don't have to. They have more equity in their brand than anyone in the world of entertainment. Not to mention multiple parks and experiences within all of those parks in multiple locales. They're in the enviable position of not having to chase anyone. They continue to set the theme park standard. Has anyone every seen a famous celebrity or athlete celebrate a magical moment by saying, "I'm going to Silver Dollar City"? I would be shocked if half of the population outside of the greater midwest has even heard of our beloved SDC. But that's okay. I have no problem at all with it being our diamond in the rough.
As I said in an earlier post, HFEC has proven they're listening by significantly adding to and upgrading the entire park experience at SDC over the last 10 years. And I think we all agree they've done a marvelous job balancing those additions over the last decade.
Based on those additions and that 10 year window, I would think another more thrill-oriented addition is next.
Quote from: BackInTime9 on August 29, 2010, 04:21:03 PM
No disrespect, Swoosh, but SDC and the Disney Corporation shouldn't even be mentioned in the same breath. Disney is and always will be in an entertainment stratosphere no other amusement/entertainment company can touch. And they "don't go crazy adding thrill ride after thrill ride every year" because they don't have to. They have more equity in their brand than anyone in the world of entertainment. Not to mention multiple parks and experiences within all of those parks in multiple locales. They're in the enviable position of not having to chase anyone. They continue to set the theme park standard.
I think the point that so many try to make here is that SDC used to set their own standards and create an entertainment experience entirely of it's own. I mean, even before any roller coasters were added (well, excluding FITH) the park was entirely capable of brining in tens of thousands of people in a single day. These days they're more and more in a position where they HAVE to keep adding big rides to keep that up because that is the expectation they are cultivating. This is further pushing them to compete with other parks, rather than keep the successful process they had in the beginning.
There's an entire world out there besides thrill rides, but the single-track mindset of the industry today is keeping too many developers from seeing that, including HFEC. Everyone just wants to hock ride hardware... /rant
Getting past all that though, if rides are the direction they're going, 2012 looks like it could be a coaster year for us at last, but the chances of anything other than Half-Dollar Holler or something similar coming in 2011 seem like slim to none. I just hope they revised the concept to reach into a larger age range. Imagine an AM attraction themed to the Ozarkan League of Daredevilry (sic) from AP, with Half-Dollar Holler below it. That would really fit in pretty well. The more I think about the AM concept, the more I come up with much better ways to integrate it that what was done at DW.
Quote from: BackInTime9 on August 29, 2010, 04:21:03 PM
I would be shocked if half of the population outside of the greater midwest has even heard of our beloved SDC. But that's okay. I have no problem at all with it being our diamond in the rough.
Be shocked then, since there was a huge list of current country star celebrities that paid "birthday wishes" to SDC (with almost all of them reliving a memory or two of visiting the park when they were younger) at the 50th celebration earlier this year.
Quote from: Swoosh on August 29, 2010, 04:49:09 PM
Quote from: BackInTime9 on August 29, 2010, 04:21:03 PM
I would be shocked if half of the population outside of the greater midwest has even heard of our beloved SDC. But that's okay. I have no problem at all with it being our diamond in the rough.
Be shocked then, since there was a huge list of current country star celebrities that paid "birthday wishes" to SDC (with almost all of them reliving a memory or two of visiting the park when they were younger) at the 50th celebration earlier this year.
That wasn't meant to be a knock against SDC. I love it like all of us here do.
Back to the original question at hand, did anyone get any pics over the weekend of anything marked or happening in the WB area or anywhere else within the park?
Anyone else tired of speculating? It's fun to a degree, but something a little more definitive would be refreshing.
Quote from: BackInTime9 on August 29, 2010, 07:46:23 PM
Something a little more definitive would be refreshing.
The "answer" is already definite. Just those who "know" aren't talking.... yet.
Anyone have any insight into why HFEC chooses to announce new attractions for DW and SDC at different times? I would assume it's simply to give each their due as they are different parks altogether. Just wonder why we've known for quite a while now that DW is getting a swing and we're still waiting for word on SDC's next addition.
I would think that the earlier the better. I know funding can come into joepardy, but what better way to pre-sell season passes than to announce the "coming attractions"? To me that would be a great way to get the $ now for next years attendees AND it would generate funds needed for the new additions during the off season.
Quote from: rubedugans on August 30, 2010, 08:04:06 AM
I would think that the earlier the better. I know funding can come into joepardy, but what better way to pre-sell season passes than to announce the "coming attractions"? To me that would be a great way to get the $ now for next years attendees AND it would generate funds needed for the new additions during the off season.
Yeah, but what if the coming attraction won't open until the 2012 season? Maybe that's why they are in no hurry to announce anything just yet. I'm just speculating, and trying to fill in the blanks. I really don't know. :P
Season passes for next year don't go on sale until November, so announcing anything too long before that just wastes a good media opportunity to sell something. With the exception of a few projects, SDC always announces late in the year.
Makes sense. But does that mean DW starts selling their season passes in August?
No. However they (DW) seem to always announce their plans rather "early" in the season
As much as Silver Dollar City, and Dollywood are similar, and even though they both operate under the same umbrella corporation, they are still managed by two different teams of people.
So it's very difficult to predict what Silver Dollar City will do based on what Dollywood does. Unfortunately, we will just have to wait, and see. ;D
One smart thing about Dollywood announcing in August is that it gives people time to save up if they need to that way they can buy a season pass. When SDC announces in November that gives people a limited amount of time to save up, then it would earlier in the season.
Everyone keeps banking on November, but according to Swoosh we should know something this week, or so. :)
Quote from: Swoosh on August 16, 2010, 04:07:29 PM
I was told that an announcement will be coming in a couple of weeks. ;D
Quote from: Ozark BBQ on August 30, 2010, 06:14:43 PM
Everyone keeps banking on November, but according to Swoosh we should know something this week, or so. :)
Quote from: Swoosh on August 16, 2010, 04:07:29 PM
I was told that an announcement will be coming in a couple of weeks. ;D
Remember that a "couple of weeks" is "relative" to a park.
Makes total sense that SDC would want to leverage the announcement of a new attraction around the time season tickets go on sale. Just seems silly to wait for both. Of course, that could just be the impatient fan in me talking.
Now that I went back and read my post, I realized that I sounded like a total Idiot just rambling on! LOL! But, DW said in June that they would make an annoucement in a couple weeks, and it was August before we got our, so you guys are probably looking at October.
Anticipation! that's fine with me. I look forward to seeing what it is that they have up their sleeve for the 2011 (51st) year of operation.
If we have to wait until October, at least it's already September. There was some earlier talk about a few folks claiming to have seen some markers in and/or around the WB area not long ago. Can anyone confirm seeing anything in that area recently. I'll be there in about five weeks and will be sure to keep my eyes peeled for any signs pointing to future plans. That is, of course, if there still hasn't been any official announcement.
There are markers on the WB site. However no one is saying that they are for a new attraction. They could be for utilities or the removal of any left over remnants from WB.
Hey, any activity is good activity. Any idea how long the markers have been there? Did they show up recently, or have they been there since the major demolition/removal of WB happened over the winter?
Upon scanning the Construction/Rumors section, I thought this was a pretty interesting find under the "Possible Huss Ride Coming" thread. Particularly the quote "standing behind the Red Gold Exposition Hall" within the description that was apparently included in a 2007 ride concept survey. That would also be the old WB site, is it not? Thoughts? I personally hope they don't go in this direction. Truth be told, I'm probably not going to be too excited until we get another coaster, particularly a woodie. But that's just me.
Quote from: shavethewhales on July 28, 2007, 10:27:48 PM
During the 2007 new ride survey, a Huss Frisbee concept was featured alongside a topple tower similar to TT and the Screamin Swing which ended up as the chosen ride for 2007. Here's how the Frisbee was described:
Quote
Silver Dollar City's new Grand Exposition has just gotten bigger. Standing behind the Red Gold Exposition Hall is the Exposition's newest ride, one of the most exciting rides ever built at Silver Dollar City, The Amazing Pendulum Swing. This new ride is the featured attraction at the Grand Exposition of 1882, standing nearly 75 feet tall, with a giant pendulum arm that swings riders back in forth while rotating over 110 degrees. This unique attraction is not for the faint-of-heart as it reaches speeds of nearly 60 miles per hour as it swings back and forth, high above the grounds of Silver Dollar City's new Grand Exposition. The ride soars out over cascading water and shooting fountains that spray bursts of water onto some of the riders, adding yet another element of thrill and suspense to the attraction.
So it seems like it could be a strong possibility that SDC will go back to this concept, as it was definitely an attractive one. I personally hope they do, as Huss Frisbees are excellent rides, and are usually regarded as favorites among enthusiasts. The only problem standing in the way of such a ride would be the Herschends distrust of Huss. If it came down to it, the Herschends could always go to Intamin for a similar ride, but they don't make frisbees as well as Huss. Really, Huss has only ever had major problems with their topple towers, and they do have a good reputation, especially for their frisbees, but will the Herschends see this?
I don't think the chain is ever going back to HUSS for any new attraction after the issues with Timber Tower, which to this day is still an $8 million lawn ornament. I haven't seen HUSS do much of anything lately. Besides that less-than-impressive Kong ride concept, they haven't installed much in the last few years. All the rides they do have out there have lots of mechanical issues and take forever to fix due to how long it takes to get in parts.
That's a shame too, because I love their frisbees and Top Spins'.
I don't think we're going to be looking at a new flat ride anyway, though I could be wrong.
From what I understand they were talking about aroung behind the red gold to the left of the Elephant march...
Gotcha. We should start a friendly wager/poll to see how many (if any) of us correctly predict the next new attraction. Not what we would necessarily want, but what each of us thinks HFEC will ultimately do/add next.
Weigh in with your vote:
1. An Adventure Mountain type attraction suited for multiple age groups
2. A new play area exclusively for kids
3. Improvements to an existing attraction (e.g., AP, GG, etc.)
4. The long anticipated woodie coaster
5. A Euro-Fighter type coaster similar to DW's Mystery Mine
6. Another water ride
7. Expansion of GE with leftovers from CC
8. Shot Tower
9. <Your other option here>
I predict an improved Euro-Fighter experience that will ultimately top DW's MM.
I'm going with the Shot Tower because they could use the Waterboggan tower with it.
Speaking from my own opinion only, I think it's time for a new coaster! It has already been five years since the last brand new coaster was erected upon these Ozark hills, and it will be even longer before a new one is finally built, and operational.
Family rides are great, and I believe with the River Blast, and especially with The Grand Exposition, the needs for a new family ride have been met for a while.
Additionally, I think the park's quota for new thrill seeking stationary ride has already been met with The Giant Swing.
So here is my vote for a new coaster! ;D
However, I am actually not picky about the type of coaster. It can been an indoor, or outdoor coaster. A wooden coaster would be nice, but that too is not a requirement in my book. As long as the theme is adequately there, then I am all for it. Sorry, this is more of a want rather than a prediction. :P
QuoteSorry, this is more of a want rather than a prediction.
So what's your prediction then?
The terrain, the surrounding buildings and the presence of the old tower from WB lead me to believe it's the ideal location and footprint for a ride similar to MM. And as I've said many times. HFEC seems to have a real handle on keeping the park balanced with the types of rides and their positioning within SDC. Having some sort of coaster in that area of the park just seems logical to me. That's why I'm sticking with my prediction for a Euro-Fighter on the abandoned WB site.
Remember that a great deal more people live within six hours of DW as compare to SDC. DW also has to compete against some very good parks and attractions I am not sure that SDC has any real competition they are the king of the hill.
I just hope it's not a freakin Zip Line. But looking at the area and terrain and the fact the bogin tower would make a good launch point.
Branson already has too many of these, I just hope it's not a Zip line.
Quote from: mike_kelly87 on September 02, 2010, 07:22:27 PM
I just hope it's not a freakin Zip Line. But looking at the area and terrain and the fact the bogin tower would make a good launch point.
Branson already has too many of these, I just hope it's not a Zip line.
It's not a zip line. Now it
might be a ropes course, but it
will not be a zip line
I don't think they would do a Zipline.
While I was in DW there wasn't anyone using there ziplines at all.
Mistake they will not repeat.
The Ziplines at DW are operated by an outside company and not the park... FWIW
I'm just playing with bogus ideas in my head, but if they were to install some type of rappel, or ropes attraction onto the Waterboggan Tower then at least it would be cheap to build! ;)
If they add a zip line it would probably be one small part of an AM/HDH complex at the bottom. The overall package would be a unique, family-friendly, and crowd eating experience, so I wouldn't be let down at all. I'm not going to hold out hope for anything else at this point. We might not be getting anything at all at this point. The last several years have been pretty strange.
A new flat would be a nice surprise though, but I just don't see anything the park would add besides the S&S double shot from CC. A HUSS ride that actually works would be pretty sweet, if only the circumstances with the manufacturer were different. Something like Talocan in a mine pit... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3CcnACD0os
All this talk about zip lines is funny to me! They look like a lot of fun, and if I was younger and thinner, I'd try one out. When Tom Sawyer's Landing was built in 1980, sometimes the guys from the diving bell would go on up there to assist the other attendants. There was a cable slide...(what I would call a very low to the ground, kid friendly zip line)...and it was removed after a couple of seasons because some kid did not listen to instructions given to him by an attendant, and went crashing down to the board wall at the opposite end. Rumor I heard was someone threatened to sue, so, guess what? Goodbye cable slide! Same thing with a fireman's pole that was in the Tom Sawyer's landing playground area. It left after part of only one season, if I remember correctly. Now, all these years later, we've got cable slides (zip lines) way up high in the air for adults and kids? Are people signing disclaimers prior to riding, saying they won't sue if they screw up and get themselves hurt? Oh well, life goes on... ;)
In my opinion, SDC does not need an AM type area at all. I personally don't think anyone over the age of 12 is going to have much interest in spending time in or on a glorified playground.
They may well be planning on bringing something similar to the park, but I don't believe HFEC would immediately follow a family-friendly ride like RB with another addition specifically geared toward a younger audience or families. Their track record of park additions/improvements has proven there's a better chance of that not happening next.
I am tired of waiting for an announcement myself.
I watch this thread but see notihng new.
Has anyone asked at the park while they were there?
I was in Dollywood this summer and was told that the swing was coming next year, before this was announced publicly just a few weeks ago.
Maybe they need to be asked.
Supposedly there are people around here who claim that they know, but they are not peeping a word. :-X
Quote from: mhguy77 on September 03, 2010, 10:24:54 PM
I am tired of waiting for an announcement myself.
I watch this thread but see notihng new.
Has anyone asked at the park while they were there?
I was in Dollywood this summer and was told that the swing was coming next year, before this was announced publicly just a few weeks ago.
Maybe they need to be asked.
A-freaking-men. I keep re-hashing the same thoughts as if it's offering some sort of therapy for this ridiculous wait. If we do not hear anything definitive this month, I will be certain to ask every SDC employee I see the first week of October when I visit the city.
It's really silly that we've heard nothing official. Even if they simply released a statement about the type of ride or an annoucement regarding when and where the next attraction would be opening at SDC. Anything.
Are we even sure that there is going to be a major addition for 2011? Have we got any indication from Atlanta that they have something planned? It seems like a major capital outlay to do something major at DW and SDC. There might be something, but it might not be something to get all worked up over....Half-dollar Hollow wouldnt be such a big deal.
Of course there is something planed! Haven't you seen all of the flag markers by the old Waterboggan Tower? ;)
I'm just teasing, but I believe the general consensus is that there will at least be the groundbreaking of a new attraction sometime this year.
I am starting to think we might not get anything big this next year. If it was just something small or a ride thay brought back what would you like to see? I say the Baloons and the Carasel.... But that's just for my girls...
The Balloon Ride! ;D
Always being fascinated by air travel, the Balloon ride was my childhood favorite. Sure I am a bit sentimental, but it is a dream of mine to have the Balloon Ride back up, and "flying" again. :)
I was never a big fan of the balloon ride myself. Though I rode it plenty, I was not a big fan of the round and round motion as I became older. I thought at one point when it was removed that it would resurface in the park at a later time.
Thats what they told us. They said it and the Carousel would be back at a later time. I do hope if they do bring back a Carousel it will be the nice big one from Celebration city. It was a relly nice one.
Ah yes, I had almost forgot about the balloon ride. They did imply that it would make a return someday, but those plans may or may not have changed. This would be a good year for it to come back though. The carousel was pretty much worn out, but I think they saved the horses since they were hand-carved by SDC craftsmen.
Like I keep saying, SDC usually doesn't announce till much later...
^There's a beautiful carousel at CC that is not being used right now ;D
ohhh... something will be returning next season, but I don't want to give anything away.
Quote from: Copper on September 06, 2010, 07:04:28 PM
ohhh... something will be returning next season, but I don't want to give anything away.
shhhhh!!! ;)
Gasp! You've said too much. It's all a big government conspiracy, and cover up. New ride? At Silver Dollar City? There‘s no such thing as Silver Dollar City. Who are you? Who am I? I am nothing more than the figment of your imagination. :-X
Hmm...lets narrow it down for fun from the pat rides/ attractions...I am pretty sure thay are not adding a Water Boggan, or The diving bell...
Sounds more like we're returning to the theory of CC rides coming to the park. Still a very valid possibility. Any news on Roaring Falls? If it were sold, I'd expect it to be off site by now.
The carousel, double shot, and flying carpet would be a nice package.
Do you think they sold the Wisdom Tornado they refurbished? I didn't see that one on the sell list either, now that I think about it. I had forgotten that they even did that. CC was sure full of some strange ride choices for HFEC...
I'll definitely be interested in seeing how they fit any former CC rides into the park. I think GE is pretty much as big as it needs to be.
Quote from: Ozark BBQ on September 06, 2010, 09:23:43 PM
Gasp! You've said too much. It's all a big government conspiracy, and cover up. New ride? At Silver Dollar City? There's no such thing as Silver Dollar City. Who are you? Who am I? I am nothing more than the figment of your imagination. :-X
So do I take the red pill or the blue pill? ???
Quote from: Swoosh on September 06, 2010, 10:55:07 PM
Quote from: Ozark BBQ on September 06, 2010, 09:23:43 PM
Gasp! You've said too much. It's all a big government conspiracy, and cover up. New ride? At Silver Dollar City? There's no such thing as Silver Dollar City. Who are you? Who am I? I am nothing more than the figment of your imagination. :-X
So do I take the red pill or the blue pill? ???
I take the red, and blue pill combination! It makes me feel "good." :D
I'm just teasing. However, it seems like there are quite a handful of people around here who claim proudly to be "in the know," but won't even peep a good hint, or clue. Oh well, at least there is fun in guessing! :)
Quote from: rubedugans on September 06, 2010, 12:23:05 PM
I was never a big fan of the balloon ride myself. Though I rode it plenty, I was not a big fan of the round and round motion as I became older. I thought at one point when it was removed that it would resurface in the park at a later time.
Yeah, I couldn't ride backwards on that thing. But my daughter loved it.
My father cannot handle motion sickness. One time while visiting Thunderation he thought he could tough it out, and ride it backwards. Needless to say that one ride messed him up for the whole day! :D
Has anybody heard anything new on the construction project for next year? Since an announcement was made for Wild Adventures, I didn't know if anything had been leaked about SDC....
Nothing official at least. There are folks around here who claim to be in the know, but no leads, or leaks. It's all in hiatus for the moment at least.
Quote from: Ozark BBQ on September 10, 2010, 09:47:53 PM
Nothing official at least. There are folks around here who claim to be in the know, but no leads, or leaks. It's all in hiatus for the moment at least.
Thanks for the response...I guess I just need to learn to be patient...but it so hard...I dream about the new attraction...Hopefully we'll see a mystery mine type of ride someday..I was sad to see the waterboggin' go, but it was broken down a lot when my family was there...
So do we have any idea where the old ride that is returning is going to be placed. I think a ******** would look nice in GE in between the Teacups and the Wave Carousel where the gazebo is located.
Think of other places in the park, maybe places that haven't been discussed!
I hope if they do return the balloon ride that they nestle it amongst some heavy trees somewhere. The Grand Exposition is nice, but it is hardly a forested area.
One of my fondest memories as a kid was flying near the tree tops on the balloon ride! :D
Quote from: Copper on September 18, 2010, 09:38:15 PM
Think of other places in the park, maybe places that haven't been discussed!
THIS ;D
My girls are happy about whats going to return. I just can not think of a place it could go. I am sure they are not planning on putting it in the Carousel Barn? I can not see it in GG, Maybe it could go out in front of Red Gold.
I know what the secret project is!!!! Everyone lean close *whispery voice* It is an escalator on Hugos Hill!!!!
Lord yes...........................
Quote from: Copper on September 18, 2010, 09:38:15 PM
Think of other places in the park, maybe places that haven't been discussed!
Hmm, all I can think of is the old treehouse. They're going to have to take it down one of these days. The balloons or carousel would fit there, though I think they would ruin the mid-town atmosphere. Not many other places I can think of other than the obvious vacancies.
Only one more month or so till we find out for sure. Hopefully something will turn up any day now at the park though. Anyone going to be stopping by next month?
I am there every few weeks.
If there is anything to see I will post photos.
I have still lost faith and hope that they will have more to announce than the return of a kiddie ride.
I guess I don't get excited about going around in circles.
Please SDC give us more...
Planning on going for several days next week. Not counting on seeing anything new. I've grown very skeptical that there is going to be anything of any consequence for us next year. Especially with all the huge capital outlays already announced for other parks. I sure hope I'm wrong. What if it's not a ride or park addition, but a feature attraction for a festival like they did 4 years back with the change from the original Christmas tree to the current tree. Wasnt that a several million dollar expense the addition that year? Just thinking of some options.
^That's possible, they've certainly been trying to branch out more with shows and festivals. Considering DW did that for 2009, maybe we're due for the same treatment.
On the other hand, The Giant Swing wasn't announced until October 18, and GE wasn't announced until November 6. I don't recall there being any construction noticeable before hand in either case, especially TGS.
Considering the Branson market, maybe they'll hold back again this year, but they have been investing a lot in every other park, and their competitors are gaining a foothold on the market. As far as rides are concerned, they'll need to put up or shut up soon. Instead though, they could do heavy emphasis on some other aspect of the park such as shows and festivals. Either would be great, but it seems like they'll have an easier time marketing a new ride, so that's the direction I see them taking.
Heck, now that I think about it, at this point I wouldn't completely rule out a new coaster for next year, as far-out as that seems. I'm sure there will be something worth looking forward to.
Quote from: shavethewhales on September 20, 2010, 10:05:21 PM
^That's possible, they've certainly been trying to branch out more with shows and festivals. Considering DW did that for 2009, maybe we're due for the same treatment.
Which is fine by me! ;D Let's face it, the 2000 through 2010 decades has been one of the busiest decade in terms of new rides. There was a new ride, or attraction almost every single year it seems like at least. Silver Dollar City should take a year off, and use that year to spruce up the park.
Quote from: shavethewhales on September 20, 2010, 10:05:21 PM
On the other hand, The Giant Swing wasn't announced until October 18, and GE wasn't announced until November 6. I don't recall there being any construction noticeable before hand in either case, especially TGS.
Exactly! January through March may not seem like a long time, but those construction crews can work extremely fast! With that being said however, I would figure that we would have seen at least something now for any super major size attraction.
QuoteSilver Dollar City should take a year off, and use that year to spruce up the park.
I agree with Ozark BBQ. If I was given a choice between a brand new roller coaster or for SDC to restore/update all the park's attractions and rides, then I would vote for the latter. It would be great to rediscover old favorites like FITH, AP, and LROTO.
Quote from: wtrf22 on September 21, 2010, 04:46:03 AM
QuoteSilver Dollar City should take a year off, and use that year to spruce up the park.
I agree with Ozark BBQ. If I was given a choice between a brand new roller coaster or for SDC to restore/update all the park's attractions and rides, then I would vote for the latter. It would be great to rediscover old favorites like FITH, AP, and LROTO.
Except for the fact that they have been doing this anyway even with the new additions.
So let's go for the new coaster anyway
Maybe I'm just naive, but when it comes to competition I don't see SDC as having that much. They're in a class by themselves because of their history, reputation, and management. They have built more than a park; it's an experience. For my family, half of that experience is the drive to Branson...the entire 3 1/2 hours is spent talking about our favorite places in SDC, our favorite rides, our favorite foods, our favorite crafts, our favorite Citizens. I'm sure from a business standpoint that SDC needs to be concerned with "keeping up," but even if they decided that they were never going to add anything new ever again, I'd still be going there three or four times a year...and I bet many others would too. SDC isn't a cookie-cutter theme park...it's like stepping back in time. That, I think, is the one thing that other parks can't replicate or compete with.
Well put, Kerrydale!
I sure diehard fans of other parks have the same feelings toward their faves as we do toward SDC. Wether we want to admit it or not there is competition for leisure dollars in today's economy. SDC must keep up with other parks, theme....amusement or otherwise or they will not survive. You cannot keep an operation the size of SDC going with a limited fan base, no matter how large and avide they are about the place. You have got to continue to build on your base and in this entertainment segment, you do that with the latest and greatest. Stagnation doesn't make for a successfull business operation of any type.
Any project for 2011 must be a clear home run for them. Riverblast was just a triple for them. I believe it failed to generate the excitement they were hoping for. Every time I go to the park I travel with their target demographic...and the kids I go with just keep going right on past. It was a been there and done that kind of experience for them. Even a short line was enough to entice them to ride it more than once. And I dare to say I'm sure I'm not the only one with this experience. Riverblast was an easy addition for them. They had done it before, they had experience with this type of ride...it was a no brain-er for them. To truly make an impact on the park and not just be another ride, the next addition must be as unique as the park it self is. Something not before seen...not just another rehash of something they have already done. I'm sorry to say, we are not going to get that.
QuoteMaybe I'm just naive, but when it comes to competition I don't see SDC as having that much.
From a business standpoint SDC is in competition with the local redbox as well as any other entertainment. The money you spend at both of these as well as a CD from Wal Mart is discretionary income. SDC is in competition with every other company in that category. We have just so much discretionary money to go around. SDC has to seek out this money. If they shut down the advertising and additions they would tank.
Its just the way business is.
I visited the park this past weekend and grilled every ride operator and maintenance worker I could on what we could expect and most seemed to think it would be the "return" of a discontinued ride and maybe some brought over from Celebration City. Nothing set in stone though...
Okay here is my bold prediction. Get it? Bold? I digress. :P
Anyway, I believe that for the 2011 season, Silver Dollar City will perhaps bring back an old ride, or two. I believe the next major attraction will debut in the 2012 season. So as anxious as we all are for a major attraction next year, I do not believe it will happen.
Mark my words (which I may end up eating later), the next major attraction will open in the Spring of 2012. ;D
I concur Ozark, This years Riverblast was BIG as in it took several years to accomplish. They removed The Wilderness Water Boggan, BUT they brought back the Rainmaker, even if it was only the cart, and no show as of yet! Balloons sound like a possibility, But I cannot think of any others that have been removed that could cost effectively come back....maybe it is just too early (I am assuming there will be no return of the gandy dancers, or diving bell 2.0)
QuoteThis years Riverblast was BIG as in it took several years to accomplish
Now Rube you know it took a cpl years cause they didn't want to spend the cash.
That's the straight talk on the matter
They can bring back the Balloons, and the Carousel and.....maybe they can fix the treehouse?............
There seems to be some hinting towards UP in the trees
Ozark BBQ, I think you might be on to something! The Rainmaker show has been going on all summer, including the rain provided by a hose located on the second floor of the Ice Cream Parlor. I am not sure if it is going on any longer, but I saw it performed at least 20 times while at work this summer. I think it should have a permanent home in the Grand Expo, so it can go all season long. Main Street is really full this season with demonstrating craftspeople.
I don't believe that the Riverblast would have taken as long as it did if not for the economy taking a dive. I believe that main reason it was delayed and delayed again was that everyone was holding all their cards (money) close to their chest waiting to see what was going to happen. I just can't imagine that the Riverblast was the first thing on their list when planning for an addition for this year. It things had not turned south so quickly I can only imagine what we could have had.
I have 2 things to say here.. :)
If they are going to go cheap I think they need to convert Wildfire to a floorless, especailly since themeing of it would preclude being able to theme a flyer.
My question is who saw undercover boss? Who looked at what the front gate guy built using roller coaster tycoon? Who realizes it kindof takes up the space of what has been shut down? If the series was filmed last year that would give them time design and at least start tracking. (My secret hope is that would be an intamin vs a B&M)
QuoteMy question is who saw undercover boss? Who looked at what the front gate guy built using roller coaster tycoon? Who realizes it kindof takes up the space of what has been shut down?
The ride also had the passengers going under water for a period of time. Yeah, not happening...
It's been several months since I watched the episode, but didn't his concept include some sort of tunnel that went into, and under the water (essentially keeping the roller coaster dry)? I don't see that as being too far fetched of an idea.
Although, I highly doubt they will use his proposal. I believe the goal for him was to make it to college, or a design school to follow his ambitions.
I am not a cynic, but when I saw the episode, my initial thought on that portion was...so you just met this guy, and are now showing off your pride and joy-a video game roller coaster? I have had people shadow me before in several workplaces, and well...I was never that open about things with them! I am assuming Manby knew the kids aspirations, and wanted to hear his ideas, but I digress. It all just at times (the show in general) sounds scripted (all episodes) not just the HFEC.
As much as I would love to see a new coaster announced for 2011, I think it's going to be a small miracle if that comes to fruition.
FYI, I hate being told things, then being asked to keep my mouth shut, the 2 of you on here know who you are ;)
Latest rumor mill, keep your eyes open on the area between Wildfire & Powderkeg...
Quote from: tinmann620 on September 27, 2010, 11:21:40 AM
FYI, I hate being told things, then being asked to keep my mouth shut, the 2 of you on here know who you are ;) Latest rumor mill, keep your eyes open on the area between Wildfire & Powderkeg...
Shhhhh!!!!
Cruel and USUAL punishment. I'll be in the city next weekend. You can bet your baldknobbin' behind I'm gonna fish for some concrete news.
If they do connect the ends they will need to do some pathwork on the wildfire side. Probably remove the American plunge line from the street and re route it through the old float trip station.
It would be a much needed link in the areas.
I wonder what they will do with the back of the water fall. I sure hope they have no
ideas of removing it.
Quote from: mhguy77 on September 28, 2010, 12:35:10 PM
Probably remove the American plunge line from the street and re route it through the old float trip station.
It's funny you should mention that. I figure since they are over there, they might as well revamp the American Plunge too. Perhaps I am asking them to bite off more than they can chew? ;D
I would love to hope for revamping and reusing the old float trip track but I think its maybe far from probable with the way they split it up during the initial change.
I hope they don't get rid of the waterfall. It's kind of a ill-used area now that it's blocked off, but every time I go past it I always think it's cool that SDC has this huge waterfall.
That is a lot of space though, and they're running out of accessible flat land. It'd be a good location for Half-Dollar Holler.
The waterfall has been there for so long that I had never considered it as available "space." However, you're absolutely right! If they (heaven forbid) did tear down the waterfall, that would open up a chunk of real estate.
If they really went on a tirade, they could potentially clear out the old float trip, American Plunge, and the waterfall all in one shot. I hope this thread doesn't give them any ideas! I'm just teasing. ;)
Sometimes I wonder if the people on here who claim to know something really do. In the big scheme of things...just who are we here. Avid fans who like to wish, imagine and remember...nothing more. Even those who maybe claim otherwise....not a slam...just an observation. Still not convinced there is going to be anything of consequence next year.
QuoteAvid fans who like to wish, imagine and remember...nothing more. Even those who maybe claim otherwise
On that line we were all looking for posts that were in the ground earlier this season. If you read back through the threads the claims and " Look here and theres" have changed now, without any warnings of change from anyone "in the know".
I think you might be on to something.
If I remember correctly there is enough space back there to retain the waterfall. They could just put a facade on the back of it to make it look like a wall from the back side. Possibly have a building front there, bathrooms or a huge 2 story dippin Dots stand :O behind the building could be the falls. It can be done and I hope they do leave them
It would be a shame as the movement of all that water does create a great little atmosphere back there. But I think we are jumping the gun with the removal of anything like that. It is one of the few quiet places left. I hope it stays.
Love the continued speculation. And it's interesting to consider the area between PK and Wildfire. That area doesn't seem as appealing to me though considering the park's two largest attractions are already located there. If something is to be added in between, I would be surprised if it's anything substantial. But what do I know? I'm sticking to what we already know.
1) Waterboggin was removed earlier this year.
2) Some here claimed to have seen markers in that now vacant area.
3) That corner of the park currently does not feature a thrill ride.
4) SDC has renovated or added something new every year but one (2009) since 1999.
There will be SOMETHING new to talk about and look forward to for 2011.
Okay folks, as much as I love all of the ongoing banter regarding the possibility of a new attraction at SDC in 2011, I've been dying for something more legitimate and newsworthy. So, on a total whim, this morning I decided to email HFEC and simply ask if they could give me any information regarding the possibility of a new attraction for the 2011 season at SDC. I was surprised I not only received a response, but one that officially answers two important questions. Here is the response I just received directly from a HFEC Customer Serivce Rep.
"Thank you for your interest in Silver Dollar City. You may or may not be aware that the WaterWorks Waterboggan was closed at the end of 2009 to make room for an exciting new adventure that will open spring of 2011. However ...we just can't reveal the details of it just yet! Once it is released this information will be posted on our website at www.silverdollarcity.com <http://www.silverdollarcity.com> so keep an ear out for future ground-breaking news sometime soon!
We are proud to continue to add family-friendly attractions to the park giving all ages a place to spend time together. We hope that you will visit and experience our latest new addition RiverBlast - America's Biggest Water Battle for yourself."
Sincerely,
Silver Dollar City Properties/Customer Service
Let the speculation fly as to how that "exciting new adventure" language can be interpreted, but I hope it's the first indication of a new thrill at SDC and not an Adventure Mountain scenario.
Nonetheless, we can all be excited to know that something new WILL be coming in just a matter of months.
Nice, good to know something will fill that void.
I must be the only one who hopes it's NOT a thrill ride though. SDC is about one marquee ride away from being a typical theme park with some craftsmen on the side. Even though we've discussed the issues spurring their new developments, I'd still rather they go the other way. Not that I'd really complain either way.
An expanded AM concept with a better theme and more activities would be great. It'd fit in with the park, be unique, be family friendly, and offer something to do other than rides. The remaining tower is already set up perfectly for a dual zip-line.
As far as rides go, we may see the Balloons or a carousel added back again with this expansion, which would go over great as well.
I still think the next marquee thrill ride won't be until 2012, but I expect it to be SDC's long awaited huge addition.
Quote from: bthomas on September 29, 2010, 08:22:17 AM
Sometimes I wonder if the people on here who claim to know something really do.
I can personally attest that there are at least three of us (myself included -- and there maybe more) on here that do know what is coming next year. Do we like to miss with you and send false hints every so often -- of course we do. However if you look back through this thread all three of us have said to keep an eye on the Wilderness Waterboggan area in one form or another.
Just be patient. Marketing clues should be coming out any day now.
So, uh, the rumors I've heard might NOT be true? 'Cause I heard they were putting in a museum attraction at the waterboggin site called "The International House of Defunct Theme Park Rides." The untouched watterboggin site is the main attraction! ;)
^No, that's still a go. ;) ;D
I still say its an escalator on hugos hill. Thats quite a thrill ride for those pounding the pavement all day!
QuoteI can personally attest that there are at least three of us (myself included -- and there maybe more) on here that do know what is coming next year. Do we like to miss with you and send false hints every so often -- of course we do. However if you look back through this thread all three of us have said to keep an eye on the Wilderness Waterboggan area in one form or another.
Just be patient. Marketing clues should be coming out any day now.
Well then why didn't anyone have the marbles to tell us the Waterboggan area was in fact the next site for development from day one? It's not as if that's letting the proverbial cat out of bag. And it's not as if one of you happened to drop a hint about that area that started this thread early on. When WB came down, the speculation began.
I'm all for keeping confidential information under raps, but misleading other readers here just for the sake of conversation is pretty shady.
Quote from: BackInTime9 on September 29, 2010, 06:58:27 PM
Well then why didn't anyone have the marbles to tell us the Waterboggan area was in fact the next site for development from day one? It's not as if that's letting the proverbial cat out of bag.
Because even though it appears as if things are "cut and dry" when it comes to announcements, it's not. Things change and shoot we've seen entire projects completely cancelled when we thought they were a go. Fact of the matter is, we really don't have to say anything, but the three of us have. We told you there were clues if you knew where to look for them. One person mentioned the flags on the WB lot and I believe all three of us confirmed you should look there. I will admit it was humorous watching some of the other guesses... and who is to say some of that won't happen eventually? In the end it comes down to the fact that it is NOT our money that is being spent on the capital improvements and thus we do not feel that it is our place to let the cat out of the bag for the park. They have their own time agenda and while I cannot speak for the other two, I will respect that.
I'm not sure I would call it shady. I think that some people enjoy the attention they get when they insinuate they know what is going on. It's easy to say you know what is going on when you don't have to give your sources or say what you know. Its equally as easy to say that a new ride is going to be where WB was....not a long shot since it was torn down.
And you are correct...projects have been cancelled. Heck its easy to cancel something that was never announced isn't it.
I respect and appreciate that, Swoosh. And in the grand scheme of things, it's not a big deal. To your point, we've seen things change or get put on hold in the past so I completely understand why HFEC and other "in the know" keep things hush hush until the official press release. Just wish it would have been confirmed when they removed WB that this would be the site for something new to anticipate for 2011.
Gotta say, an AM attraction seems like it appeals to a very narrow demographic (I'm guessing 8-15). I assume it's only a matter of time before we get one given the fact that SDC and DW seem to swap attraction concepts so often now. But I have to say, given the AM concept art for DW, it looks like this is exactly what they plan to fill the WB area. I just wouldn't understand the site choice, or the timing. As I've said many times before, the park is already lopsided as it is. You have your biggest rides one side of the park (WF,PK) and your kiddie area at the opposite end (GE,GG). And they just opened a kid/family attraction in RB this year. Just doesn't jive to me, but what do I know?.
(http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=5206134&id=542587772&ref=fbx_album)
(http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=5206134&id=542587772)
Just wanted to say thanks to Swoosh and others in the know for giving us what info they can.
Someone posted a modified image that shows how Half-Dollar Holler would fit perfectly over in the area between Wildfire and Powderkeg.
I'm willing to bet that discussions are happening for both areas--there and where the Waterboggan was--but we (the general public; not those "in the know) just don't know which area is getting developed first.
I wouldn't mind one of those two areas being filled with new shops and/or some more hands/on period appropriate activities similar to the candle shop. As far as I'm concerned, the entire park is a giant playground in an of itself with plenty of fun and areas suited for patrons of all ages. That's one of the main reasons I'm so vocal about and opposed to the AM concept. If we're going to see another area specifically designed for kids, can they not make it something other than another place to just burn off some steam? Maybe my vision of what AM actually offers is significantly skewed, but I just don't see any real value in it. Okay, that's my last soap box about an AM scenario until we get some real news from HFEC on the next attraction.
More hands-on activities would be fantastic. There's are loads of examples out there that are fun, engaging, and educational all at once, and those experiences would really set the park apart more than just throwing in some kiddie rides and calling it a "family" section. I'd also like to see them re-invent some of the shop concepts. I think the new HP area at UO shows how engaging a themed shopping experience could be. A lot of the shops have lost their significance over time, so it feels less and less like an experience going into any of them.
Unfortunately, I don't think the park is ready to take that step yet, but I have hopes they'll start moving that direction soon. I think it's fairly obvious that this year is going to be focused on competing for young family crowds with WOF, local branson attractions, and SF. With that in mind, I don't know what else they would consider adding except a re-hash of the AM concept or some of the old CC rides plus the old Balloons, or a mix of both. It doesn't seem like a lot to look forward to from our standpoint, but it will definitely help the park remain competitive with young families, which means there'll be more cap. to spend on other stuff in 2012.
Who knows though, they could have something completely different in store. Can't be too long till we find out for sure.
I'm at the point of being disappointed with the whole mess. It appears that they are reading our posts here and then doing just the opposite of what we express. In that case, maybe they should start doing rocket launches, have NASA put on a display, and discuss alternative fuels! Say, around October 20th. That would fit sooo well with the theme and wouldn't ruin my experience at all.
Corn likker is a good alternative fuel. They should put in a working still. ;D
Just left the park and I saw no markers of any kind...anywhere. The ones that were so prominent around WB are gone. Maybe they have served their purpose....whatever that was.
Quote from: bthomas on October 02, 2010, 09:52:29 PM
Just left the park and I saw no markers of any kind...anywhere. The ones that were so prominent around WB are gone. Maybe they have served their purpose....whatever that was.
Bummer. Gotta figure we'll be hearing something soon.
Quote from: History Buff on October 02, 2010, 11:11:51 AM
I'm at the point of being disappointed with the whole mess. It appears that they are reading our posts here and then doing just the opposite of what we express. In that case, maybe they should start doing rocket launches, have NASA put on a display, and discuss alternative fuels! Say, around October 20th. That would fit sooo well with the theme and wouldn't ruin my experience at all.
I'm with you, HB!!! I'm sick of all this talk about new thrill rides like that dopey and far-too-scary Mystery Mine ride at DW. I say let Disney have all those highly themed dark rides and animatronic figures! What SDC needs is more merry-go-rounds! Put one in every corner of the park. Then how about adding an all-night dance party with music by Michael Jackson and Lady Gaga!
(Do you really think this whole reverse psychology thing will work???)
Oh! ok! ;) Got it! ;) ;) Maybe a ferris Wheel on Main street, and a Tilt a Whirl over by the swing. How about that!!!
Just from reading other peoples posts I can tell you guys are anxious! ;) But this is October, so , it can't be that much longer before Silver Dollar City announces something. I also have to say Adventure Mountain is not just for ages (8-15) because i've seen babies doing it while there dads lead the way and mom walked behind. It allows grandparents to do it with there grandchildren because there are bridges in case people don't want to do the challenges. I was in DW's sweet shoppe and over heard two 25 year old men talking to a clerk about how they loved it because it challenged them. I have seen college kids, and highschoolers and adults doing Adventure Mountain. Trust me it's not what everyone is making it out to be, it challenges everyone and people laugh and have a ball on it! :) :) :)
We could avoid all of this mess by simply adding the long awaited woodie, or a Euro-Fighter coaster. Just sayin'.
I think it's important to remember that Silver Dollar City will most likely have two (or more) projects coming up. Of course we all know something big (rollercoaster etc.) is coming very soon. However, there are also rumors that the old balloon ride, and some other old rides my resurface in the park somewhere. Not too mention the rumors of something being built between Wildfire, and PowderKeg. Also, let's not forget the possibility of removing, or revitalizing the American Plunge. Of course then there is the question as to which one of these major projects will actually be constructed on the old Waterboggan site.
How about that for a recap? :o
Either Silver Dollar City has a full plate ahead, or we all just have very active imaginations! :D
It's probably a combination of the two! :)
Ozark, I think your recap is dead on the money.... now if we just new whats next ??? ??? ???
While I was there on 10/3, I didn't see any signs of construction at the Waterboggan site.
I continue to doubt a "big" project, because nothing is being done for prep :-\ :-\.. If they wait till close in dec.. nothing major could be done by the time the park opens in march..less than 90 days? ??? ??? I dont see them shutting done a "ride".. for instance american plunge to rebuild it.. So ??? ??? I have been watching, reading and listen to all the possibilities..... I guess we will know soon enough.
I've got it......they are turning the waterboggan tower into a giant look at your neighbors bathing tower complete with spyglasses to get an eye full. Only 1.00 per 30 second look, you will be able to see the world!!
Swoosh...Is anything going to be added for next year? Please say it's so...We've got to have something new for next season...
I mentioned this in a page, or two prior to this one, but I will say it again. We will not be getting a major attraction for the Spring of 2011. What we are currently waiting on, is an announcement for a major attraction that will open in perhaps the Spring of 2012.
However, we may be getting something small, or an old ride brought back to life in the Spring of 2011 which we are also still waiting for an announcement on. :)
Quote from: joshblakebran on October 08, 2010, 09:11:40 PM
Swoosh...Is anything going to be added for next year? Please say it's so...We've got to have something new for next season...
Oh sure. They have quite a few new additions to the festivals that have already been confirmed. They will have a new show in the opera hous for Kidsfest and it sounds like some big names will be there for BBQ and Picnic. Some other new festival things for sure.
If you are talking attractions, be patient. The park has said they will release that information when season passes go on sale.
Also someone mentioned no visible construction yet... it's only October.
ok fine i will be patient........ ;D ................ By the way, when do 2011 passes go on sale??? ??? LOL.
In other words....we need a hook to sell the season passes, because the prices will be going up again. Apparently, Dollywodd and their other attractions don't need this hook since they announce far in advance of next year pass selling.
^Not necessarily. It's pretty much always been this way
Like I said a month or so ago, a lot of major attractions at SDC aren't announced until late October or November. There's no evidence that we'll see anything major next year, but there's certainly been years where we've been surprised. TGS kind of came out of nowhere and was announced in early November, IIRC. I think they had only begun clearing land for it when the announcement was made.
So far we only have definitive proof of the Half-Dollar Holler concept being planned...
Where did the last several posts go? They seem to have mysteriously disappeared. ???
They got split off into a new topic
Missed that. Thanks, Swoosh.
I must say, my Saturday visit was a great reminder of just how special the three coasters are at SDC. From theme to the actual ride experience itself, HFEC hit home runs with TNT, PK and WF as far as I'm concerned.
Sorry if this is more in-line with a new ride idea versus what could be coming in the next year or two, but I wanted to throw it out there. While I am hopeful another great coaster will be added sometime soon, what would all of you think about HFEC working with S&S again to enhance PK even more by extending the track layout? I think their could be a very cool opportunity to extend the ride into the wooded loop area between train tracks. For instance, what if instead of the last turn that leads to the lift hill, the ride continued into a tunnel that took it under the train tracks and into another series of twists, turns and hills before going back under or over the tracks to hit the lift hill for one last drop? Might even allow an opportunity to add a third train to the circuit for added rider capacity. And I would think such an enhancement would not only be a well received one, but probably more economical than having to commit to an entire new attraction. That is, if they are planning to add a MAJOR attraction soon.
There's a lot of real estate in between the tracks that could possibly be utilized to make a fantastic coaster a little longer and even more enjoyable than it is now.
What do you guys think?
To get us back on topic........
There is an area that no one has mentioned. I think people should continue to speculate, I like this because people come up with some great ideas when they do this.
See my last post just above.
Lengthening the track would make for an enhanced experience, but also would increase ride time and reduce capacity. When you have capacity issues you have another diving bell...then it's goodbye time so a shorter ride length attraction can be put in its place. I can tell you, American Plunge ride time is about half the time the old float trip was. FITH is nice, and has been refurbished, but a few years ago they took out a section of track to shorten the ride and increase capacity. In my day, they moved over a million people a year through the park...today, it's over two million. (Keep the line moving, son, step lively now!) ;)
Fair enough. I guess if it aint broke, don't fix it. I just assumed the possible addition of a third train would offset any issues with a potentially longer circuit. One more fun thing to ponder anyway.
I have noticed SDC is like a big circle, I kind of wish they would expand out instead of removing rides to add a new one. Like waterboggan, Carousel, Balloons ETC.
It's more like a figure-8 with a tumor (Grand Expo)
it does seem to be expanded within the circle. rather than the outskirts... pk and rb are perfect examples// wb is gone and obviously will be replaced.. while else disassemble it.. the expo was an added area, but very limited......I wonder ??? ???
Maybe instead of putting something new in the waterboggan area, they will just re-build the waterboggan. I know this sounds crazy but it is a possibilty, because now that DW is removing the Dreamland Forest treehouses for Barnstormer, and removing other old things in Dreamland to make room for the barnyard themed playgrounds, they said they would NOT remove Mountain Slidewinder because it was a Dollywood Classic, so maybe they will rebuild it.
I get the idea behind the Grand Exposition. I get that Silver Dollar City is themed to be an early 1900 Ozark experience. I also know that in this era World Fairs where popular and St. Louis even hosted one and thats where I think the whole Grand Expo theme came from and how they tied it to SDC. I don't mind it one bit. My kids that are 6 and 8 favor those rides as well and it keeps us from having to go to county fairs and such to experience those types of rides. That said theres two glaring omissions that fit the World's Fair theme. Carousel and Ferris Wheel.
I also would like to see a ski lift type ride if they expand down hill
i agree chitlins,the expo is a nice addition and i feel a needed addition for the kids... after all. isnt that whats it really is all about? yes we want it themed. and it is... but it is for the kids.. that is where "our" pleasure comes from is the kids having fun. and having someplace to take them they will remember.... not six flags, not worlds of fun not just another theme park....Silver Dollar City is for family fun and memories..
I have always thought an old time circus under a big top tent, with sawdust on the ground, three rings, and acts like clowns, trained chimps, trained horses, trained dogs, an acrobat, trapeze artists, and such would go over well. As a side show attraction prior to entering the tent, have a sword swallower, rubber faced man, jugglers, magicians, and so on. Maybe some caged animals like apes, lions, tigers, bears...oh my! Maybe call it the Herschend Brothers Three Ring Circus and Sideshow Attractions!?!? Maybe it could be placed in the Grand Exposition Area, or around Lake Silver...it would be perfect as a limited attraction for say, Kidsfest. Whadda think?
Quote from: Junior on October 13, 2010, 08:56:12 PM
I have always thought an old time circus under a big top tent, with sawdust on the ground, three rings, and acts like clowns, trained chimps, trained horses, trained dogs, an acrobat, trapeze artists, and such would go over well. As a side show attraction prior to entering the tent, have a sword swallower, rubber faced man, jugglers, magicians, and so on. Maybe some caged animals like apes, lions, tigers, bears...oh my! Maybe call it the Herschend Brothers Three Ring Circus and Sideshow Attractions!?!? Maybe it could be placed in the Grand Exposition Area, or around Lake Silver...it would be perfect as a limited attraction for say, Kidsfest. Whadda think?
No
So apparently there is a storyline that has been written about the Grand Exposition, I had never heard it, let’s see if you guys have. Around the turn of the last century there was to be a Worlds Fair, but do to unforeseen circumstances the fair never happened and instead of letting the attractions sit idle the fair began to travel and low and behold it made its way into the Ozarks. I guess this story is loosely based on a real fair, not one hundred percent of the accuracy. But there you go that is the story line. I don’t mind the rides, I just wish they were themed better than what we got.
What I do think we need besides an amazingly highly themed coaster… a few attractions which allow any child or guest to ride with little to no restrictions. Where this could go and what could it include, I’ll let you guess?
3 ring circus for the kids.. (and adults).. sounds like an interesting concept.
The most important thing about Grand Expo. is that it's mean't for kids. Also, I think the Circus idea is a bad thing because it will clash with themeing.
I don't care for a circus theme either. It pretty much flopped when they tried that out for KidsFest
???
A travelling circus was a popular thing for folks to see in the 1880s through the 1940s. Circus acts did not pass regularly through the heart of the Ozarks, but likely visited Joplin, Springfield, and other larger towns on a regular basis. Yes, a circus would be in theme...so long as there were not any motorcycle acts, and at SDC you would not want to see a freak show as a sideshow attraction. M.E. Oliver was a noted illustrator and author from Madison County, Arkansas, who, in one of his books, described a circus that came to a little town he lived in: "Jumbo (the elephant) and Drakes Creek (Arkansas). One of the first circuses and probably the largest elephant ever shown in the Ozarks, came to Drakes Creek in 1893." If SDC put together their own circus for a Kidsfest, they certainly could keep it in theme. There are several circuses in the US. In fact, I think Hugo, Oklahoma in years past was the winter home to one or two circuses, and a local cemetery is full of the graves of old circus acts. That ain't too far away from the Ozarks. Likely, those circuses would have passed through the Ozarks. How about a WILD WEST SHOW? A Wild West Show is a circus, too...instead of clowns and arcobats, you would have cowboys and Indians...WHOOPS! Indians! NOT POLITICALLY CORRECT! ;)
The circus is not a bad idea but I would definitely go for a Wild West Show! I even talked to some Citizens about having one at Echo Hollow and they said the problem they saw with that was another place to keep and store the animals and getting them in and out of Echo Hollow. I begged for years for SDC to do a Western-type festival and I believe that's where the Salute to the Great American Cowboy/Cowgirl came about. So they certainly do listen to input from customers. Now if they'd just bring it back for next year...
I like the idea, however I wish Frontier City in Oklahoma would embrace that more, rather than being a six flags wanna be. I think it should be more like a Silver Dollar City just with more of a western theme. I don't know the history. Were there a lot of cowboys in the Ozarks?
I'm feeling pretty sure that we are going to see an Adventure Mountain type of attraction in the Waterboggin' area next Spring....
Didn't they present a wild west show as an idea in a survey once? I seem to recall one of the ideas presented being a Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show.
I want THAT.
Don't think you will see an Adventure Mountain any time soon st SDC.
I like the idea, however I wish Frontier City in Oklahoma would embrace that more, rather than being a six flags wanna be. I think it should be more like a Silver Dollar City just with more of a western theme. I don't know the history. Were there a lot of cowboys in the Ozarks?
Posted on: October 15, 2010, 09:34:32 AM
There is a lot of western history associated with the area. James Butler "Wild Bill" Hickok had a "High Noon" type shootout with Dave Tutt on the city square in Springfield in July 1865; Cowboy Artist Charlie Russell was born in Missouri; the James boys and the Youngers were what I would consider "Wild West" and they were all from Missouri, etc. I guess it's not "cowboy" like Texas or Oklahoma but it's close enough for me!
I guess I just feel sorry for all them horse having to walk those steep hills.
Seems its a lot easier for them out here where it's flat
I hear ya! Probably why the 'Missouri Mule' is more famous than the 'Missouri Horse'.
Quote from: Copper on October 18, 2010, 11:53:32 PM
Don't think you will see an Adventure Mountain any time soon st SDC.
OOPS....I didn't mean adventure mountain, I meant half-dollar-hollar
FYI, for those that were wanting a clue on where the next "project" will be located... the park gave you a big clue today. Work walls have gone up since last weekend. I'll see if I can post photos of them tonight to MiG. No graphics are on them yet but they are coming
72 hours! i will be headed down there.. be there ALL day sunday, and staying for the show.. will have camera in hand.. I will look like a real "tourist"
That's exciting news! I assume the wall is around the waterboggin site? For anyone going anytime during the remainder of this year, we'd all appreciate if you could snap some photos and share them here. I'll be down there the weekend after Thanksgiving hopefully.
I assume an announcement is imminent.
Actually, no it's not around the WB area.... photos soon
Uh, okay. So where exactly is this new site? I'm not sure I understand the point of withholding info about something any of us could conceivably go to the park at any point right now and learn for ourselves? Problem is, many of us don't live close enough to SDC to be able to do that, so if you would be so kind, please enlighten us, Swoosh.
^BD be patient. It's not like I live 5 hours away from the park or something... oh wait I do.
Photos from today of the new work wall.
http://www.midwestinfoguide.com/silver/2010/oct20/
Quote from: BackInTime9 on October 20, 2010, 09:29:15 PM
Uh, okay. So where exactly is this new site? I'm not sure I understand the point of withholding info about something any of us could conceivably go to the park at any point right now and learn for ourselves? Problem is, many of us don't live close enough to SDC to be able to do that, so if you would be so kind, please enlighten us, Swoosh.
I do believe he is getting great pleasure in torturing us. ;)
Because of this, I am now planning an impromptu trip to SDC for one reason and one reason only, and that is to find out where this mysterious new construction site is! 8) Swoosh, I certainly hope that we are not being misled simply for your amusement! ;)
Now granted, I AM a somewhat oblivious person, but I was at the park last weekend and I didn't see any area boarded off, but like I said, I'm not the most observant person on earth. But, was it there last weekend?! ??? Either I am REEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAALLLY oblivious or it was in an area that I didn't go by last weekend. So, I have my guesses as to where it is, but am not 100% sure.
No the walls are new. They were not there last weekend.
If you look at the post above yours you will see a link to photos of the new walls
Quote from: Swoosh on October 20, 2010, 10:02:33 PM
No the walls are new. They were not there last weekend.
If you look at the post above yours you will see a link to photos of the new walls
hmmmmmmmmm. Very interesting location.
Isn't that by the train station? I'm trying to orient myself but I'm having a hard time.
Quote from: DianaGail on October 20, 2010, 10:19:21 PM
Isn't that by the train station? I'm trying to orient myself but I'm having a hard time.
I do believe so.
I heard the carousel was coming back next year! Maybe between the train depot and Becca's weaving?
That would be a pretty good location for a carousel. What about Half-Dollar Holler though? I wonder if that's what's going there... perhaps both will make their way to the park this year?
It's the smoking area by the train depot! That is definitely not one of the spots I was imagining them to utilize. I could totally see either the balloons or a carousel or something like that going in right there. It's just the right size of footprint.
I don't know about Half-Dollar Holler going there... The blueprints from the survey make it look a bit more spread out to fit there. I remember one of our members made a great overlay that showed how HDH looked settled just south of Powderkeg (with the PK exit line pointed out in the print). So either it could still fit over there and whatever's happening near the depot is an additional addition, or maybe they reworked HDH's design to fit somewhere other than where they'd initially thought to do it.
I did tell people to think of other locations... Also, remember that blueprints are not always set in stone, they can change.
Quote from: Copper on October 20, 2010, 11:22:09 PM
I did tell people to think of other locations... Also, remember that blueprints are not always set in stone, they can change.
If you skim everything else that Copper has said, read the bolded part.
Also if you missed the photos of the new walls that have gone up...
Quote from: Swoosh on October 20, 2010, 09:51:47 PM
Photos of the new work wall.
http://www.midwestinfoguide.com/silver/2010/oct20/
Whoa! I was literally just at Silver Dollar City a few days ago. It's amazing how fast those walls went up. :o
Well this still doesn't answer what they plan to do with the Waterboggan Tower. However, these pictures definitely add a new twist in the speculations, and rumors. Nice catch.
Thanks for sharing the pics, Swoosh. I'm still not biting though. If this "new location" is in fact the site of "the" 2011 project, why would HFEC specifically tell me WB was dismantled to make way for an "exciting adventure" in 2011? Who's to say we won't see a couple re-purposed rides added to the fenced area, as well as an entirely new attraction at the WB site in 2011? Heck, at this point, they could be adding a 300 ft. hyper coaster that towers over the entire park. Mass collusion I tell you.
i will be there sunday... i am going on a scouting trip.. will see what else i can find.. flags? markers? other walls? ok here we go again!
Sad to see this wooded area to go under the knife; the underground utilities have been marked with flags, however, since at least Spring, I believe I pointed them out to Tinalsgirl on a trip? The logical place for the balloons would be by Dr Harris' WF, so I'm thinking shot tower or Merry-go-round. Hmmmnnnn....the guessing will continue
For the sake of entertaining the fact that "something" could be going up around this new fenced area, can someone please give us an idea of how much usable space is actually there? With the exception of a shot tower type ride, would the footprint there offer enough space for any other real thrilling attraction? If this newer area is going to be home for some refurbished ride(s) in 2011, I certainly hope its announced in conjunction with a very major attraction coming our way for 2012...and that doesn't mean SDC's version of Adventure Mountain.
Given how crowded that area is, I highly doubt anything with an extremely high draw will be put there. It's big enough to support a lot of things, but I'm hoping they keep any additions there somewhat small to preserve the woods around the swinging bridge. The carousel from CC would fit nicely there. I assume they'll re-vamp that whole square to look nice as well, and maybe handle the crowds better.
Hmm, now that I think of it, is it possible the swinging bridge is in danger of being taken out soon? It's another non-ADA attraction, and I'm sure it's considerably more expensive to maintain and insure than it's worth to the park.
Quote from: shavethewhales on October 21, 2010, 10:44:15 AM
Hmm, now that I think of it, is it possible the swinging bridge is in danger of being taken out soon? It's another non-ADA attraction, and I'm sure it's considerably more expensive to maintain and insure than it's worth to the park.
OMG! OMG! OMG! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! :o
They CAN'T take the swinging bridge!!!!! :'(
Yes....don't take the Swinging Bridge. Not EVERYTHING has to be ADA compliant. If it was, stairs would not exist. We simply have to make an alternate route that is ADA-Compliant...which SDC has plenty of.
I will totally admit to jumping and running on that bridge too. What fun would it be if you didn't?
The running, jumping and horseplay on the bridge is probably the number one reason why they WOULD get rid of it (again, I hope that they don't). It would be way too costly to put an attendant at the swinging bridge to ensure that nobody ran or jumped across; and yet it definitely is a potential for accidents (and subsequent lawsuits). I can definitely see why they would... I just really hope they don't!
Don't panic! I already have my 'Save the Swinging Bridge' petition going! ;)
I am just teasing. However, how do we know for certain that this area is going to be a new ride at all? Perhaps, it will be a new store, or small interactive attraction? I'm just playing around with speculation. :)
I hope this is not going to be another shop. where its located I bet its going to be a resturant or a shop
I doubt it'll be another shop. Restaurant, maybe; but they don't always have all of the restaurants that they DO have open on all days. So, I have a hard time believing it's a restaurant. Maybe another craftsman's station? I agree that it doesn't seem like an ideal location for a ride, but a small ride might be OK there. But I know from experience that the line for the train can sometimes go back as far as the start of that fence (especially during Christmas). I think traffic in that area would be INSANE if they put a popular ride in there. So, you're right... it's probably something else. Maybe another outdoor theatre?
On my way to the city now... armed with a camera! :D
Will post pics when I get home! ;)
OK, just got home. So, the area starting just across from the Wooden Indians shop where the wall begins to the end of that wall is 45 paces (roughly 2.5 feet per pace - I have big feet and tried to take Military paces, which are generally 2.5 feet).
(http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c177/kissnflirt/SDC3.jpg)
Then, starting at that wall and going to Becca's weaving is 32 paces.
(http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c177/kissnflirt/SDC4.jpg)
So, a rough estimate of the square footage of this footprint if they DO NOT take out the swinging bridge is 8972 feet (assuming each of my paces is 2.5 feet).
The lady at Becca's Weaving said they'll be putting out a press release next week giving further information. The guy at the knife place said they're putting the carousel there, but that footprint is WAY too big for just the carousel.
This next one is from the swinging bridge:
(http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c177/kissnflirt/SDC10.jpg)
I also got some pictures of the site itself. From this next one, you can see that they're going to have a difficult time excavating this. ESPECIALLY if they take out the swinging bridge! It's a gorge! This picture is from the bridge where you hear the horse hooves and the baseball guy is. It shows how big of an area it would be if they take out the swinging bridge - well, best I could do anyways. You can see the swinging bridge, and then the one above shows from the bridge itself, so the area would be downright gigantic if they took out the swinging bridge. You can also see from this pic that there's quite a bit of depth to that spot, and making it level will be tricky and might take a while.
(http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c177/kissnflirt/SDC11.jpg)
Here's another picture showing the gorge and the small pond they will have to contend with. Taken from the swinging bridge:
(http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c177/kissnflirt/SDC9.jpg)
These pictures were taken from a tiny crack in the wall by Becca's Weaving:
(http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c177/kissnflirt/SDC7.jpg)
(http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c177/kissnflirt/SDC6.jpg)
And, some more random pics that show the layout of the site:
(http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c177/kissnflirt/SDC8.jpg)
(http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c177/kissnflirt/SDC1.jpg)
(http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c177/kissnflirt/SDC2.jpg)
Interesting, seems like everyone is saying a carousel will be part of what's going there. Other people have said they were told the balloons and a CC kiddie ride would go in there as well.
Seems like it might be a bit crowded, and it might hurt the ambiance of that area, but I assume they have a good plan to make it all fit in well. I could see a carousel being set up against the corner to help brighten up the square. The Balloons have a good spread, so they'd have to be farther back - probably fairly close to the Woodshop. Anything else could be tucked in behind Becka's Weaving, maybe with a path going around the building... I still wonder if a playground would be part of this or not.
I'll be anxious to see what kind of theming they will do to make this area flow with the rest of the park. The Balloons would look great with a steampunk/woodworker/antique flying contraption theme, if they are indeed coming back.
Not much longer now until we know for sure. What's the day most parks announce things? It's either Tuesday or Thursday...
Their last press releases were as follows:
9/8 (Wednesday)
8/11 (Wednesday)
5/10 (Monday)
5/6 (Thursday)
3/10 (Wednesday)
2/24 (Wednesday)
My bet is on Wednesday! ;)
Still think it's going to be much ado about nothing. Rehashed rides....exciting? Don't think so. Like I'ved said it was going to be a minimum of a capital out lay this year. The real money went elsewhere. After all, look at all the money they spent on the anniversary year...lol.
Good info Makayna. I'd like to see the balloons and the carousel. Maybe a playground for the kids. I must admit I am old fashioned. In 4 days at SDC this year, I did not ride any coaster except FiTH. Too much other stuff to do.
great pics maykana... lots of info too... i would guess mid nov. before they announce for sure, we will see.. i will be there sunday going to ask some questions. and of course, more pics..48 hours///
I just don't see how they could fit the carousel AND the ride from CC AND the Balloons AND a playground in that area... unless they nix the swinging bridge. So.... I'm hoping for no playground in this area! ;)
As for it being a low-budget affair, I agree. They're not building any NEW rides, and certainly no coasters... just some rides that had to get the axe elsewhere that were still somewhat popular and/or would be MORE popular in a different, more noticable area. But... I don't think we're "making a big deal" or anything. I mean, we may as well talk about it! What else big and exciting is there for us to talk about here?! ;)
The carousel would fit where the smoking area is, and perhaps the rest of what's boarded up will be Half-Dollar Holler?* Or some kind of kiddie play area that makes up for Huck Finn's Hideaway & Tom Sawyer's rope stuff being closed, something that can possibly be built to the curvature of the land, instead of attempting to fill the gorge? Maybe the swinging bridge will remain and perhaps be a part of the outskirts of the "attraction"?
*BTW, I can't remember: did anyone post the description that went with the picture on the survey?
I'll be anxious to see what kind of theming they will do to make this area flow with the rest of the park. The Balloons would look great with a steampunk/woodworker/antique flying contraption theme, if they are indeed coming back.
Not much longer now until we know for sure. What's the day most parks announce things? It's either Tuesday or Thursday...
[/quote]
Great idea for the baloons! A Steampunk thing would be awesome. SDC, ARE YOU LISTENING? We're going this weekend- I'll post when we get back of updates and/or announcements.
makayana-love the between the crack picture. I felt all spy-ish. naughty even! Those were great pictures to wet the whistle of my mind! Great job being nosey!!!
;) :-X :o
Quote from: BackInTime9 on October 21, 2010, 01:38:58 AM
Thanks for sharing the pics, Swoosh. I'm still not biting though. If this "new location" is in fact the site of "the" 2011 project, why would HFEC specifically tell me WB was dismantled to make way for an "exciting adventure" in 2011? Who's to say we won't see a couple re-purposed rides added to the fenced area, as well as an entirely new attraction at the WB site in 2011? Heck, at this point, they could be adding a 300 ft. hyper coaster that towers over the entire park. Mass collusion I tell you.
I got the same message as you just a couple of weeks ago from an HFEC rep....
Quote from: Nate65807 on October 21, 2010, 11:32:26 AM
Yes....don't take the Swinging Bridge. Not EVERYTHING has to be ADA compliant. If it was, stairs would not exist. We simply have to make an alternate route that is ADA-Compliant...which SDC has plenty of.
With all due respect, I think this is a very insensitive statement. It's not like the swinging bridge is JUST a walkway - it's an attraction. Yes, they DO have other walkways, but they DON'T have ADA compliant swinging bridges (I'm certain that such a thing doesn't exist for obvious reasons). It's an ATTRACTION that many people cannot enjoy. Imagine that you are a child in a wheelchair. You go to SDC with some non-disabled friends. Imagine that you had to sit there and watch them running, jumping, laughing and having fun going across the bridge. Wouldn't you feel a little left out? Most of the attractions at the City ARE ADA compliant - and the ones that aren't, I fear might get the axe (GF Mansion, for example).
I certainly don't want to see the bridge go any place, but I can also completely understand their reasons for doing so if they did. And I think saying, "there are plenty of other alternate routes that ARE ADA Compliant" is very insensitive. No offense... it just bothered me. :-*
The Swinging Bridge, Grandfather's Mansion, Flooded Mine and a few others were "grandfathered" in so they do not have to be ADA-compliant. Now if they make MAJOR changes to them, they they will lose the "grandfathered" status and will have to become ADA-compliant.
Quote from: bthomas on October 21, 2010, 04:59:03 PM
Still think it's going to be much ado about nothing. Rehashed rides....exciting? Don't think so. Like I'ved said it was going to be a minimum of a capital out lay this year. The real money went elsewhere. After all, look at all the money they spent on the anniversary year...lol.
Oh I think it's pretty exciting. This is a good time to add back in some good family-oriented flats and spruce up this nook of the park. This area has been increasingly becoming just a place to pass through, but with these additions midtown will feel more extended and lively. Plus, anything that helps spread people out is a bonus.
It's especially good if they can do it in a way that leaves more space and money for a big attraction in '12.
Does anyone think 'Half-Dollar Holler' will be the theme of this new sub-area? I can't think of anything they could specifically theme it to, unless they're going to extend the Huck Finn theme up there too. I hope they have as good a plan as they did for RiverBlast.
Quote from: Swoosh on October 21, 2010, 09:47:11 PM
The Swinging Bridge, Grandfather's Mansion, Flooded Mine and a few others were "grandfathered" in so they do not have to be ADA-compliant. Now if they make MAJOR changes to them, they they will lose the "grandfathered" status and will have to become ADA-compliant.
Yeah, I completely understand that. All I was saying was that saying "there are other routes" implying that the swinging bridge is JUST a "route" to get from one place to another was very insensitive because, at least for me, the swinging bridge is NOT just another route.
^While it may be an attraction, for all intents and purposes it IS just a route.
Yes, it's a route, but it's NOT just like every other path at the park, which makes it special. Implying that it's JUST another way to get from one place to another is simply not true. Comparing it to a staircase would not be a fair comparison. It's an attraction. It's unique. And, it's something that disabled guests of the park cannot enjoy - unlike a staircase that IS just another route to get from one place to another. As long as there are ramps that go to the same place, and serve the exact same purpose, then all is good. But you cannot say that other walkways serve the same purpose and have the same qualities as the swinging bridge. They don't.
I heard that they are going to bring roaring falls to sdc.
Quote from: chadewb on October 21, 2010, 10:41:11 PM
I heard that they are going to bring roaring falls to sdc.
Okay, source? :P
I think Roaring Falls has been discussed around here as a possibility, but as of yet I don't see any evidence of it happening. Especially since American Plunge already fills the "down a hill, and splash" role. Now, if they decide to remove the American Plunge, then that could change the playing field a bit.
Quote from: Makayna on October 21, 2010, 09:27:34 PM
Quote from: Nate65807 on October 21, 2010, 11:32:26 AM
Yes....don't take the Swinging Bridge. Not EVERYTHING has to be ADA compliant. If it was, stairs would not exist. We simply have to make an alternate route that is ADA-Compliant...which SDC has plenty of.
With all due respect, I think this is a very insensitive statement. It's not like the swinging bridge is JUST a walkway - it's an attraction. Yes, they DO have other walkways, but they DON'T have ADA compliant swinging bridges (I'm certain that such a thing doesn't exist for obvious reasons). It's an ATTRACTION that many people cannot enjoy. Imagine that you are a child in a wheelchair. You go to SDC with some non-disabled friends. Imagine that you had to sit there and watch them running, jumping, laughing and having fun going across the bridge. Wouldn't you feel a little left out? Most of the attractions at the City ARE ADA compliant - and the ones that aren't, I fear might get the axe (GF Mansion, for example).
I certainly don't want to see the bridge go any place, but I can also completely understand their reasons for doing so if they did. And I think saying, "there are plenty of other alternate routes that ARE ADA Compliant" is very insensitive. No offense... it just bothered me. :-*
In much the same way that stairs and elevators co-exist in buildings, the swinging bridge and the "toll bridge" near the glass factory (which take you the same place) can co-exist. I appreciate the fact that you don't want to see the swinging bridge go, but to call me "insensitive" for pointing out that ADA requirements have been met by providing an alternate accessible route seems a bit harsh. And you felt the need to re-post my comment twice!
It certainly was not necessary to add a story about a child that was left out of having fun to further illustrate you point. I am certain that the folks on here are smart enough to know what "insensitive" means and envision this terrible scenario on their own. In fact, maybe somebody on this forum is in a situation where they cannot enjoy the park, or has a child that faces this situation. Maybe they didn't want a reminder how disheartening this situation can be. I'm insensitive!?
I must admit I agree with you somewhat that the Swinging bridge is more than just a route to me. It is sad that everybody cannot enjoy everything in the park. Every ride has a weight restriction, some of my best friends cannot even enjoy an amusement park because of this, so believe me...the fact that things are not more accessible bothers me. But I realize that you can't make the park 100% accessible to everybody while keeping all of the wonderful nostalgic things like Grandfather's Mansion, and many other areas of the park that many of us on here have enjoyed for decades and would like to share with future generations.
If you try to cater to everyone, you will not successfully cater to anyone.
I also wonder that if whatever project goes in that area, if the swinging bridge just wont overlook it.. much like the ramp walkway on the south side of rb.? That would be nice view assuming it is a kids area, to be able to have a birdseye view of all of them having a good time.. :)
Quote from: chadewb on October 21, 2010, 10:41:11 PM
I heard that they are going to bring roaring falls to sdc.
Last I heard, that ride was for sale.
Okay, folks. I finally have the real story. In an aggressive and unprecedented move, HFEC will soon announce it's largest contrusction effort to date, which will involve three simultaneous projects to bring multiple new attractions to SDC in 2011.
Roaring Falls will be moved and erected in the newly fenced area at the center of the park. A much anticipated euro-fighter coaster dubbed "VIGILANTE" will transform the wooded terrain at the old Waterboggin' site. Additionally, the carousel and old balloons ride will be placed near the backside of this area to expand The Grand Exposition and provide two means of access to that section of the park. Finally, the American Plunge will be removed to add a massive interactive area for guests of all ages called Hugo's Ozark Mountain Adventure.
Whew. Everybody happy? I'm tickled pink. Can't wait to get me season pass for 2011.
Yea!!!!New Roller coaster and they brought the balloons back :) But sad about the American Plunge...Oh well...I didn't ride it that much anyways, not like I did when I was a kid.
NO MORE AMERICAN PLUNGE?!?!?! :'(
Are they taking out the swinging bridge?
Although cramped, I think there is more space in this new development area than we are giving it credit for. I don't think this new ride, shop, attraction, whatever it is, will have any effect on the swinging bridge at all. It will be fine. :)
Plus, I don't think Silver Dollar City constructed the temporary privacy walls by the train station just so they could remove the swinging bridge because of existing disability laws. ;)
It's gonna get up to 76 Degrees today. Just enough time for one last plunge. I gotta go and re-live that memory one more time...even if it is crazy. I'm headed out right now :-)
^I don't think you'll have to worry about it just yet.
I was just pondering the fate of the Bridge in the long term, I didn't mean to get people too riled up about it. Sooner or later, we're going to have to come to terms with the fact that some of these original favorites are going to have to make their way out at some point. The Bridge is definitely going to see a lot more action this year - I wonder how they'll handle it?
And BackInTime9, that whole posts needs a winky face at the end so people know it's not serious, lol ;)
Ya know, it seems that SDC is doing away with almost all of their water rides (with the exception of the new Riverblast and Lost River). I remember a point in time when the only non-water rides at the park were Thunderation, Flooded Mine (since you don't really get wet) and the kiddie rides at Tom Saywer's Landing... and there were SIX water rides (if you count FITH as a water ride, which I understand the argument against that).
And then, they started systematically opening up non-water rides, and closing some of the existing ones... Buzz Saw, Waterbogan, Splash Harbor. I wonder if their plan is to do away with all of the water rides except for a couple?
Wow, everyone sure has active imaginations around here! That's a good thing though. ;)
I honestly don't believe Silver Dollar City is even as close to planning, or building, or removing as many attractions, and places around the park as we all want to believe. Most of these ideas, and rumors that we all have been floating around are things that won't be in place by the Spring of 2011 trust me.
I think we are all stressing over stuff that is years away, if ever. :)
^Nope, water rides are still a massive draw during the summer. They have taken out a few recently, but there were issues behind those removals rather than the park just wanting to reduce water rides. WB's "refurbishment" apparently added a level of danger that the park didn't want to deal with anymore, Splash Harbor needed a major refurb (and it would have been somewhat redundant with RB), and you know what shape Buzzsaw was in.
AP is yet another old favorite that will have to leave the park sooner or later. So many parks have removed Arrow log flumes in the past few years that they've gone from being a staple to being an endangered species. I think it'll be at least a few years more before AP gets axed however, and when it does, it'll probably be replaced with an excellent new water ride such as a Hopkins flume like DW has or one of the new Intamin flumes that Holiday World got a couple of years ago.
Hope the announcement comes soon before we drive ourselves crazy with rumors.
Quote from: sanddunerider on October 22, 2010, 05:44:50 AM
I also wonder that if whatever project goes in that area, if the swinging bridge just wont overlook it.. much like the ramp walkway on the south side of rb.? That would be nice view assuming it is a kids area, to be able to have a birdseye view of all of them having a good time.. :)
That's an interesting idea! If they utilized the area on both sides of the swinging bridge, but just kept the swinging bridge to look over the whole thing! I wonder if there's enough room under it for something like that. I mean, there's definitely enough room for people to walk under it, but you know how kids are. ;) They constantly want to jump up to see if they can touch whatever is above them... and if they tried to do that with the swinging bridge, that could bring awful, scary consequences for them AND for the people traveling on the bridge. But, if there's at least 10 feet of clearance there, then that would certainly be a possibility.
Personally, I don't see the affinity for AP. It's not even a real flume ride. Just a boring, under-themed lazy river with a lift hill and a drop. At some point, I hope it's significantly improved, or razed altogether in favor of something more interesting. I love a good flume ride, but this just isn't one.
P.S. Sorry about the ;) omission from my earlier post. Can't believe anyone fell for that pie in the sky banter. Just goes to show you how passionate we all are about SDC and how anxious we are for some real news.
I have memories of having to sit there at AP during Young Heathens Weekend ;) because all of the kids were jumping off the ride. My job was to sit there... for hours... making sure that kids didn't jump off and go over the fence, which they'd been doing... and getting themselves into a lot of trouble. ::)
Well, Ozarks BBQ, I guess I'm a little "wet behind the ears" in regard to your post about not believing rumors. Drying off from the AP as we speak. Ride operator says they're re-building the playground. Better news, the AP is NOT closing :)
I would like to see AP with more of the Jim Owen's elements. Leave it as a log flume, but theme it more like the old ride. I hardly remember the float trip, as a was 6 when it closed. But there is a lot we could do with the theme.
Yes Okie, it needs to be updated or it won't survive.
Even during the summer, when it was hot, the line was short. I was 1 when they changed it to the plunge, so I don't know it any other way. They can make any changes they want, as far as I am concerned,except of course, removing the hill portion of the ride:)
SDC employee saw me peeking through the hole of the fence near my favorite "Non-ADA compliant" bridge and told me that they'll make an announcement in about a week.
I asked if they were closing the swinging bridge and she said no.
My takeaway is to simply enjoy the park, not worry about what "might" happen, and leave the "reporting" to the reporters.
I'm happy that SDC values tradition and family values over politics :)
I think most of us will agree that AP was pretty awesome and special ride when all of the old effects were in and working. The old tunnel was the best part of the ride, IMO. Now that it's gone and the entire first half is a solid minute of slow darkness, it's just a so-so ride. A new, revamped flume with a similar theme would be pretty sweet. I really did like the Ozark Society of Daredevils theme.
Anyway, back to the project at hand, they mentioned a playground? Sounds like Half-Dollar Holler will be a part of this after all. It's going to be interesting to see how many of these rumors turn out to be true. It seems like the carousel, balloons, and playground are in the bag. I just hope the theme of the area as a whole is a little more inclusive than "Half-Dollar Holler".
Shavethewhales, what do you mean "more inclusive?" ???
I should have said "broader", sort of like the Grand Expo. I'm hoping for a theme that fits with Midtown rather than being just a kids area, even though that's pretty much what the old Landing was. Whatever though, I'm just glad to see these elements being brought back for future generations.
I agree, Shavethewales. As much as I loved the playground, we live in a different world. People are more "sue happy" and the current playground is not to code. I'd like to see a smaller playground and a broader use of that area.
I say everyone needs to calm down about things being removed or changed. DW's spokesperson said that they do things one at a time, they said that they are well aware of things that need to be refurbished or fixed in the park. So, everyone should just chill, realax and think about what SDC is getting in 2011.
yea! thats what we will do calm down a patiently wait.... NOT!!! keep the rumors flying, thats what this site is for.. makes for good converstation.. LOL
rumors make the time go by ya know. its like sittin on the virtual front porch whittlin and shuckin corn. Its great. It is such a small community, so if one person starts somethin its the whole community chiming in. If one run naked then the whole town knows.
Rumors provide entertainment and inspire critical thinking. You get to take something and decide if you think it is likely to be true or false. It is also more entertaining to debate than to agree.
Rumors are good laughs. ;D
I was told that they are going to announce their plans tomorrow!
Interesting that they would do it on a Saturday.
With College Gameday being in Columbia, it will be hard to get any quality press time (papers / tv) on anything local. Tuesdays or Thursdays prove to be the best day to get good press coverage as there is little to cover on those days most of the time.
I guess I will stop and see what is going on on my Blackberry as I will be in Columbia all day tomorrow. M-I-Z!!!
My only thought is maybe they want to announce it to all of the people at the City that are here for fall break. But who knows that is what they were saying today, it might change tomorrow, that is a big reason I don't post too much of this stuff on here.
I work in the advertising industry and I can tell you with virtual certainty that information like all of the praise, complaints, ideas and general discussion that makes this site so fun are monitored by someone with HFEC or its marketing/research partners (if they don't handle this in-house). Regardless of how loose our thinking or conversations are here, they are worth their weight in gold to the people making critical decisions at HFEC. This site in its entirety is essentially an ongoing, free focus group providing regular and invaluable customer feedback on every aspect of the park. And while information shared here doesn't necessarily provide a consensus on anything, it does offer a feel for what's keeping, or could continue to keep, the pulse of the park going strong.
I wouldn't be surprised if there are registered members here who work for, or are closely affiliated with HFEC. I say this because in my line of work, we routinely leverage access to forums similar to this one for everything from target insight to nuggets of inspiration for new ideas.
So, folks, the moral of the story is, keep wishing, keep dreaming, keep complaining and keep posting anything on your mind about SDC. I guarantee the powers that be are watching and listening. And there's no such thing as a bad idea.
BackInTime, I completely agree with you. On another forum that I moderate, people who work for the company that runs the game for which the forum is based are CONSTANTLY making accounts, giving suggestions, and contributing to conversations... but not as admin of the forum, but rather as regular members who are simply making suggestions and asking questions about the game. I always thought it was funny because 1/2 the time, the regulars would tell that "newbie" that that's a stupid suggestion or all of the reasons why that couldn't be a part of the game... not knowing that they're talking to an IT person for the company! ;D
So yes, I think it's 100% entirely probable that there are HFEC people on this forum making suggestions, gathering ideas, reading feedback, etc... to get an idea of what the general public would possibly think about new changes as well. 8)
ok ok. you think announcement will be made on sat. ??? well here i am 12:08 sat morning?? Nothing yet??? LOL, just kidding!! ;D storming here and i got up to check radar and of course SDCfans.com!! ;D
It's going to be an ADA-compliant Adventure Mountain and zip line. ;)
...still waiting for an ADA-compliant cave tour, too.
The are putting a new water boggin up. They are also moving Oz cat to sdc too
I can see that cave tour now.....ramps in the same design of stairs......whoops I accidently let go of auntie henrietta! Oh no someone catch her before she hits that rail! *Auntie goes flying over the rail with because of the sheer speed and force of the hit* AHHHHHHHHHHHHH! there goes silver dollar city. :-\
Quote from: MissinTheGreenTrams on October 23, 2010, 04:34:28 PM
I can see that cave tour now.....ramps in the same design of stairs......whoops I accidently let go of auntie henrietta! Oh no someone catch her before she hits that rail! *Auntie goes flying over the rail with because of the sheer speed and force of the hit* AHHHHHHHHHHHHH! there goes silver dollar city. :-\
If they designed it right, like one of those coin vortexes you see at the mall, you could probably charge extra for wheelchair rentals!
So what do you guys think is definately in store for 2011?
A smaller version of the "Hollar" for kids is going in by the depot;possibly 2 former rides will re-surface next spring...
Quote from: tinmann620 on October 24, 2010, 06:34:39 PM
A smaller version of the "Hollar" for kids is going in by the depot;possibly 2 former rides will re-surface next spring...
That's probably one of the more accurate responses around here in a while. Another small children's area, and the perhaps the old balloon ride, and/or the old carousal returning sounds right on the money. :)
Like I've always said, there's no money left for SDC for 2011. It all went elsewhere. It's going to be a simple addition on the cheap with rehashed rides. Everyone in-charge should be ashamed. I guess they think we should be satisfied with them throwing us a bone every 4 or 5 years.
ok people. i failed u all today...checked trhe boarded up area today. NO action there yet... i checked by WB on the walkway and rode the train twice... NOTHINg there, no flags, no fresh gravel.], NOTHING>> talked to probably 20 citizens, nobody is saying anything..I had one person indicated kids play area, but NO details.. supposedly will be announce 11-6 in a mailer promoting 2011 and christmas this year.. SORRY!!!! i tried :'(
There were visible markers in the old WB area as of two weeks ago, but they are very hard to see due to the relatively dense overgrowth in that area. Nothing telling, but they are some there. I know HFEC still has time to pull the proverbial rabbit out of the hat, but I'm not overly optimistic we're going to be thrilled about any upcoming news regarding anything new for 2011. It's going to be such a let down if all we can look forward to are a couple of refurbed rides. Sure, the economy has been unforgiving, but I would be willing to bet HFEC is still seeing profits at SDC. And if DW continues to get new attractions, we should, too.
I am so confused right now.
i know the feeling, and i was there today...... ???
I know it wouldn't be the greatest for us, But my younger kids would be ecstatic if they brought the balloons back!
Quote from: BackInTime9 on October 24, 2010, 09:21:18 PM
It's going to be such a let down if all we can look forward to are a couple of refurbed rides. Sure, the economy has been unforgiving, but I would be willing to bet HFEC is still seeing profits at SDC. And if DW continues to get new attractions, we should, too.
I don't see how it would be a let down. A couple of extra family attractions, albeit old ones, and a new playground will really add to the park and further boost the family appeal. We all loved the old Landing area, and now they're bringing it back in a new way for future generations to enjoy.
I mean, I'm just happy that they're expanding the park again after all that has had to be torn down over the last couple of years.
While I have difficulty understanding how SDC is struggling financially, I agree that bringing back the playgrounds and balloon rides will make me happy.
Between PK, WF, and Thunderation, we have enough coasters. The fact that SDC is not JUST rides is what makes it better than Six Flags and Worlds of Fun:)
I am just shocked by one, or two of the people around here that practically demand that a new major attraction should be built every single year.
There is another major attraction coming down the pipeline, but it won’t debut in the Spring of 2011. Additions are nice, and new smaller attractions are always welcomed. Why must we have a new major rollercoaster, or major thrill ride, or major attraction put in every single year? They just opened River Blast this year for goodness sakes! :P Heaven forbid after Wildfire, Buzzsaw Falls, Powder Keg, The Giant Swing, the Grand Exposition, the fancy Culinary School, and River Blast that Silver Dollar City could take a year off from putting in a major attraction.
There is concrete evidence of development over by the Train Station. Whether big, or small, I support it. :)
I am THRILLED about what seems to be coming next year. With a two-and-a-half year old niece, I'm excited to think that there'll be more for her to do. And I am hoping beyond all hope that the balloons do indeed come back. I want to introduce her to them!
Who cares if it's a big coaster or not? They can't build new, exciting rides EVERY year!!! What park does that?! And if they do, then they probably charge, oh, $80 just for a one day ticket! ;)
Personally, a new ride every 2-3 years, and other new additions, say a kids' ride here or there, even if it's a refurbished ride, is better than nothing, and I'm glad to see that SDC is being proactive about refurbishing and/or doing away with rides that need a little (or a lot) of attention in an effort to make the park better and bring rides/attractions that the majority of park-goers want to see.
Something doesn't have to be thrilling or expensive to be great. Sometimes bringing back something retro/nostalgic is cool too. I am sure that there are at least 2 or 3 people on here who would be thrilled if SDC restored a few green trams and brought them back into service ;D Even if they had to order some new ones, it would still bring people happiness without costing half a million dollars.
Maybe they could give the new white trams a paintjob?
Well last nite after the GAC show I would have PAID for a tram ride from echo hollow to parking area!!!!! LOL LOL
I agree. Paint the white trams green for old times sake!
I loved taking my kids on the balloons when they were little. My daughter has never seen them. And she would ABSOLUTELY LOVE the old carousel.
You can paint the new white trams to green all day long, but they still won't replace, or compete with the original green trams. Although, I do like the creative thinking! ;D
How about Doc having another project? This time he is trying to invent a launch into space. A shot tower. what do you think?
I get the sense that some of the folks around here misunderstand my views regarding this whole new attraction topic. So, perhaps I should clarify my position a little further. I'm not suggesting that we have to see a MAJOR attraction go up EVERY year to be happy. I'm merely saying as long as ticket prices continue to go up, something NOVEL should be demanded with every new season.
It could be a couple of new and unique shops, a kids area with hands-on activities reflective of the late 19th century era, a festival that offers something we've never seen at SDC before, or a even a smaller ride that's themed well and fun for many. Whatever. Just be sure it oozes that unmistakable SDC charm.
Do I (like many) want to see another major coaster at SDC sooner than later? Without question. Can I see the value of an AM-type area? Sure. Would a carousel and the balloons ride be a welcomed addition somewhere in the park? Perhaps, but not as "the" stand alone improvement for an upcoming season, IMHO. If it's part of a more involved area improvement, then by all means.
Despite the fact that RB isn't my cup of tea, I'll be the first to admit that HFEC did a phenomenal job with it. The theme work is elaborate and it's probably a people eater during peak summer operation. But let's not lose sight of the fact that it was supposed to debut in 2009, not this year. But I digress.
As far as bringing new, quality entertainment and value to SDC, HFEC hasn't disappointed much in the last decade.
2000.....Red Gold Heritage Hall
2001.....Wildfire
2002....."For the Glory" Civil War Musical
2003.....Water Works Water Toboggan
2004.....Power Keg
2005.....Bluegrass & Barbecue Festival
2006.....The Grand Exposition
2007.....The Giant Barn Swing
2008.....The Culinary and Crafts School
2009.....N/A
2010.....River Blast
2011.....?
For me though, simply bringing back a couple of older rides couldn't be more underwhelming news. And unfortunately, like many here have speculated, their track record of spacing out more costly attractions does suggest we're more than likely due for something smaller for 2011, with the possibility of something more significant for 2012. If that's the case, I think HFEC would be smart to announce both of those plans in one unveil this fall. That type of PR move would generate a lift in season ticket sales for 2011 and sustainable buzz throughout the course of next year with the anticipation of a big addition coming in 2012.
I will say, I read through the entire "The next coaster (SDC)" thread and found it to be very interesting that in 2007, some here thought to was a virtual certainty that SDC's next coaster would be in place by 2009. And here we are, knocking on 2011's door and that theory still hasn't come to fruition.
Quote from: BackInTime9 on October 25, 2010, 02:10:59 PM
For me though, simply bringing back a couple of older rides couldn't be more underwhelming news. And unfortunately, like many here have speculated, their track record of spacing out more costly attractions does suggest we're more than likely due for something smaller for 2011, with the possibility of something more significant for 2012. If that's the case, I think HFEC would be smart to announce both of those plans in one unveil this fall. That type of PR move would generate a lift in season ticket sales for 2011 and sustainable buzz throughout the course of next year with the anticipation of a big addition coming in 2012.
Announcing the big ride in the fall for an opening in 2012 could be great PR, but could backfire for guests "on the fence" about buying SDC passes.
I'm sold either way, but what about "thrill seekers?" I can hear it now: "Let's do Six Flags this year and SDC in 2012, when they have a new ride"
I would wait until March 17 or so to announce when the next major ride opens. You want to flaunt your successes and keep em' guessing on the opportunities:)
For the last few years SDC has been really geared towards listening to MOM and I think 2011 is going to please mom greatly. There is a need for a few attractions that any person i.e. very small children, disabled guest or older adult can ride. When they removed those rides/attractions I think they heard MOM loud and clear and now they are bringing back a little of what they took out. Some rope towers, sand boxes and a few rides with basically zero height requirement. I can see the need. I'm with most of you, I want something big too and I can wait a year.
QuoteAnnouncing the big ride in the fall for an opening in 2012 could be great PR, but could backfire for guests "on the fence" about buying SDC passes.
Agree it would probably backfire, you use these moments to draw people, not make them say, "maybe I will wait a year before I go there."
Don't know why anyone would be "on the fence" or looking for an excuse to "wait until next year" to attend SDC. Especially if there is something new to be experienced in 2011, even if it's relatively small. Now if the plan were to not do anything for 2011, but add a major attraction for 2012, then I totally agree there wouldn't be any value in announcing those plans this fall.
Quote from: BackInTime9 on October 25, 2010, 02:10:59 PM
2000.....Red Gold Heritage Hall
2001.....Wildfire
2002....."For the Glory" Civil War Musical
2003.....Water Works Water Toboggan
2004.....Power Keg
2005.....Bluegrass & Barbecue Festival
2006.....The Grand Exposition
2007.....The Giant Barn Swing
2008.....The Culinary and Crafts School
2009.....N/A
2010.....River Blast
2011.....?
POWDER KEG opened in 2005
BUZZSAW FALLS opened in 1999
I still don't see any value in announcing 2012 in 2010, it's like saying what we have to offer next year isn't that great, but the year after we have something BIG. That is how most people would take it.
Back to 2011... I'm excited, as I am always excited when SDC does something.
Sounds like we'll be waiting until Nov. 6 to get the details on this one, as usual.
Is it possible one or more of the new rides will go down by RB where the Run-away-ore-carts used to be? Maybe there's more space in that smoking area than I think, but I don't see how all 4 attractions could fit there, if indeed they're getting all 4 that have been rumored. I'm hoping the new playground is pretty big.
Okay so is it just me or does anyone else feel let down by the sudden turn of rumor events. Its been one big thing after another then.........playground. Dont get me wrong thats a snazzy idea considering I have a 4 year old who would love that and I dont get much of a chance to ride the "big kid" rides much anymore. I am not opposed to a playground. Especially if it is themed after the landing and has great big climbing rope towers. Still feels like a let down though. All well. Save the money for something AMAZING that I will alas not get to ride often due to the aforementioned 4 year old. All well.
Backintime9 does have a good point, given the "pattern" of major ride releases, why should anybody EXPECT a big ride in 2011 when we had River Blast in 2010?
In response to those who feel that no "big ride" in 2011 is a let down:
I for one am excited about what SDC is doing, and I do not feel that it is necessary to announce a new ride 1 1/2 years in advance to keep people's interest.
Go to SDC on a Friday morning after the 2nd week of September. If the roller coasters didn't make noise by themselves, all you would hear is crickets. With the exception of Sat/Sun and summertime,the shows/shops/music/crafts are what most people are there for.
As far as I'm concerned, the shows and shops at Six Flags seem very corporate and impersonal to me. Let's be thankful that SDC is unique:)
What I find the most entertaining is how much stock is put into the latest "I heard" hearsay. Within the last week or so, we've seen a fence go up and a couple of folks claim to have heard mention of the word playground and now all of the sudden that's what we're getting and it's going in that area. If that were the case, then why was WB removed over winter? And why are there markers there? And why was it communicated directly to me from HFEC that it was specifically removed to make way for something new and exciting in 2011?
As I pointed out in my earlier post, in 2007, SDC's next coaster was widely discussed and speculated here as if it was a mere formality for the 2009 season. It's now 2010 and what has been added to the city since? A culinary/craft school and a family water attraction. Both were great additions in their own right, but neither are a new coaster.
I'm as impatient as the next and agree that any new improvements/additions will more than likely be done with great thought and detail.
The simple fact is, nobody here is going to know squat until we read the official press release from HFEC with our own eyes. Hate it, but that's the truth.
QuoteThe simple fact is, nobody here is going to know squat until we read the official press release from HFEC with our own eyes. Hate it, but that's the truth.
You obviously have no idea that someone that posts on this forum works for the park... And They have posted on this subject.
What I find funny (and maybe this is the wrong thread for this observation) is that every year, they always raise their single day tickets mid-season without question. I mean, those of us who sell single day tickets KNOW that it's coming around late June/early July. This year, they didn't do that. Not once. Granted, they raised the price about a dollar from the end of 2009's prices to 2010, but they didn't do a mid-year raise like they normally do.
So, maybe SDC is starting to realize that their ticket prices are too high and they NEED to step up to the plate and bring in new attractions before they can justify raising the price?
This year, the park seemed like a ghost town compared to other years. A friend and I were at SDC either Memorial Day weekend, or Labor Day Weekend... I think it was either Friday or Saturday, I can't remember. But the place was EMPTY!!! if you would like to reveal your identity and back me up, go ahead ;) I mean, walk on to Wildfire, Powderkeg, and just about every other ride at the park with no line whatsoever! In fact, it's been that way just about every time I've been this year, not waiting more than 10 minutes for ANY ride!!! And it shouldn't be that way!
The economy is still in a sluggish recovery, and despite what another member said about how they don't see how SDC could possibly be hurting this year, I stronly disagree. I'm sure that I have no idea how much it costs to keep the park running day to day, but I also know that it's got to be outrageous!
Yes, they opened a new ride this year. Yes, it was their 50th Anniversary. Yes, their loyal fanbase probably all still bought season passes, but I guarantee you that SDC has hurt this year... and it probably DOES have quite a bit to do with the cost of their tickets!
Nate made a VERY good point that if you announce 2012's plans in 2010, you're going to have a bunch of people buying Six Flag's season passes over SDC's! While to many of us, it's nearly impossible to even compare the two parks in any way, but not everyone feels the way that we do about SDC! When I worked at White Water eons ago, the WW guys put up this slide show and showed us that a drastically more significant amount of people who came to WW lived in St. Louis than Kansas City. At the time, KC had a water park and St. Louis did not. The difference was ASTOUNDING!!!
If you don't think that SDC competes with Six Flags and Worlds of Fun, you're seriously mistaken. And, if SDC is going to continue to raise ticket prices, but not deliver on expected additions, then people WILL go elsewhere to buy their season passes... especially if they can get a family of 4 season passes at Six Flags for about 1/3 less than it would cost them to buy SDC season passes!
Quote from: oklaSDCfan on October 25, 2010, 07:55:59 PM
QuoteThe simple fact is, nobody here is going to know squat until we read the official press release from HFEC with our own eyes. Hate it, but that's the truth.
You obviously have no idea that someone that posts on this forum works for the park... And They have posted on this subject.
That wasn't my point. I'm simply saying whatever is being discussed is nothing more than speculation until we receive official word from HFEC.
Quote from: BackInTime9 on October 25, 2010, 08:25:59 PM
Quote from: oklaSDCfan on October 25, 2010, 07:55:59 PM
QuoteThe simple fact is, nobody here is going to know squat until we read the official press release from HFEC with our own eyes. Hate it, but that's the truth.
You obviously have no idea that someone that posts on this forum works for the park... And They have posted on this subject.
That wasn't my point. I'm simply saying whatever is being discussed is nothing more than speculation until we receive official word from HFEC.
Does that mean that simply because we don't KNOW for a fact what it is, that we SHOULDN'T guess, speculate, discuss and hope?!
Quote from: Makayna on October 25, 2010, 08:11:54 PM
If you don't think that SDC competes with Six Flags and Worlds of Fun, you're seriously mistaken. And, if SDC is going to continue to raise ticket prices, but not deliver on expected additions, then people WILL go elsewhere to buy their season passes... especially if they can get a family of 4 season passes at Six Flags for about 1/3 less than it would cost them to buy SDC season passes!
I agree. One would be ignorant to think that SDC isn't competing with Six Flags for St. Louis area dollars. However, I believe three major problems are preventing SDC from winning that battle.
1) Proximity. It's an obvious one, but Six Flags is simply far more convenient to get to for St. Louis area residents/visitors.
2) SDC is a niche destination. Many people around STL know that SDC is a mix of demonstrations, shops and shows with some rides sprinkled in. While it's right in the wheelhouse of many, I would argue that there are an equal number of folks who have no interest in driving four-plus hours to visit a park that isn't simply full of rides. As much as we love it, it's just not for everyone.
3) Misconception. I can't tell you how many people around STL are baffled when I tell them my wife and I went to Branson and SDC for the weekend. Many have either never been, or have not been for a very long time. They don't realize how much both have to offer for everyone and how vastly different both are now compared to several years ago, much less a couple of decades ago. This is a marketing/advertising issue as far as I'm concerned, but a real world barrier that's keep many from many from even dabbling with the thought of making the trek to SDC once a year, let alone bucking up for season passes.
Quote from: Makayna on October 25, 2010, 08:40:29 PM
Quote from: BackInTime9 on October 25, 2010, 08:25:59 PM
Quote from: oklaSDCfan on October 25, 2010, 07:55:59 PM
QuoteThe simple fact is, nobody here is going to know squat until we read the official press release from HFEC with our own eyes. Hate it, but that's the truth.
You obviously have no idea that someone that posts on this forum works for the park... And They have posted on this subject.
That wasn't my point. I'm simply saying whatever is being discussed is nothing more than speculation until we receive official word from HFEC.
Does that mean that simply because we don't KNOW for a fact what it is, that we SHOULDN'T guess, speculate, discuss and hope?!
Of course not. Look how many hours I've wasted on this topic. I'm just saying people continue to put too much stock into the latest rumor(s) circulating here. It's a blast wishing and speculating, but in the end that's all they are...rumors. After all that's the title of this section for threads isn't it?
Quote from: BackInTime9 on October 25, 2010, 08:51:39 PM
I agree. One would be ignorant to think that SDC isn't competing with Six Flags for St. Louis area dollars. However, I believe three major problems are preventing SDC from winning that battle.
1) Proximity. It's an obvious one, but Six Flags is simply far more convenient to get to for St. Louis area residents/visitors.
2) SDC is a niche destination. Many people around STL know that SDC is a mix of demonstrations, shops and shows with some rides sprinkled in. While it's right in the wheelhouse of many, I would argue that there are an equal number of folks who have no interest in driving four-plus hours to visit a park that isn't simply full of rides. As much as we love it, it's just not for everyone.
3) Misconception. I can't tell you how many people around STL are baffled when I tell them my wife and I went to Branson and SDC for the weekend. Many have either never been, or have not been for a very long time. They don't realize how much both have to offer for everyone and how vastly different both are now compared to several years ago, much less a couple of decades ago. This is a marketing/advertising issue as far as I'm concerned, but a real world barrier that's keep many from many from even dabbling with the thought of making the trek to SDC once a year, let alone bucking up for season passes.
OK, obviously more people who live in St. Louis are going to go to Six Flags. That's a given. BUT, what about people in Tulsa who don't have much in the way of a major theme park? Are they going to go to KC which is about 4 hours away, or are they going to go to Branson which is about 4 hours away? OKC - I don't know if there's a theme park there or not, but from what I do know, I don't think there's much of one, is there? If not, then same question. Columbia, MO which is about 2 hours from both St. Louis and KC or are they going to spend the extra couple of hours to drive to Branson? You see, it's all about proximity. Yes, some places HAVE a theme park... but others really don't have much of one.
And yes, I COMPLETELY understand where you're coming from with people not knowing about SDC! I work in the tourist industry, and I get people ALLLLLL the time asking me, "what's Silver Dollar City? What is there to do there? Is it just rides for kids?" Seriously. So yes, I get that, and yes, I agree that it's a marketing thing, and SDC SHOULD run ads on KC, STL, Tulsa, OKC, Chicago, Little Rock television stations and other major cities to get the word out more. When I lived in KC, I don't think I EVER saw an SDC ad. So yes, you're right... they should do that. But despite that, there are a lot of people who DO know what SDC is all about, but still choose to buy season passes at a theme park based on price of ticket and what that park has to offer. And for many, SDC doesn't cut it on either of those (especially if you have really young children).
Funny, literally as I began to type this a TV spot promoting the Christmas season in Branson came on. I live about 30 minutes east of STL. And you're dead on about proximity. Honestly, regardless of how much SDC has to offer, I don't think it's realistic to think that many can and will ultimately justify buying season passes for a park that's four hours away. It just doesn't make a whole lot of sense due to the inconvenience of travel and lodging expenses that quickly mount up. I believe they should be doing all they can to get more people through the turnstiles once a year to discover all that SDC has to offer, then work on building whatever momentum they can establish from there. I truly don't think promoting season passes in regional markets is the best strategy for building market share.
Another great topic we might want to move and continue on a separate thread. Sorry for veering off-topic folks.
So any guesses on the name of this new coaster we're getting next year? ;)
I look at it this way... people WILL buy season passes to a park that's 4 hours away IF they have a reason to. For instance, let's say you buy a timeshare someplace. Duh. It makes sense to buy season passes because usually you can stay cheaper on your non-free time than most non-owners can. And even if you can't, let's say you have a family of 4, and you buy 2 season passes early, and only go during BAF times and use those for your kids. Or, like in my case when I lived in KC, you have family that lives down that way and you stay with them. Even if that family is in Springfield or something, that would work... IF your family is nice enough to let you stay with them.
What I'm saying is that people DO do these things to save money! People DO buy season passes to parks that are 4 hours away from them! I KNOW people who do! So your theory that people who live 4 hours away aren't going to buy season passes just isn't true!
Certainly those scenarios are possible. I just mean that's not going to be the case for the vast majority of people living that far away. If it was, we wouldn't be having this discussion. :)
And even if they're not buying season passes, they ARE going to a park on vacation... are they going to go to WoF that's 4 hours away or are they going to go to SDC that's 4 hours away?
What Branson has to offer in that respect is that there's SO much more to do. But at the same time, people who are sports fans would be more likely to go to STL or KC so they can see their teams play.
Like I said, there are A LOT of factors that go into a family's vacation destination, and even a factor that you and I don't think is very important may be VERY important to another person and their family!
This year, Branson had a BUMPER year! After last year's slump, Branson took off this year with record attendance at many of the theatres and most of the hotels/resorts were jammed packed! Mine STILL is and has been since the summer with hardly any rooms at all to rent! Before I tell you why, I want to get your guesses as to why... and you might be surprised at the answer. ;)
Makayna is right! We went to the park together labor day weekend and it was dead there. SDC needs to quit raising ticket prices mid year when the tickets are worth less ($98 for a season pass now and only 2 months left).
SDC and 6 Flags compete for customers interested in Rides. As for the other things SDC offers, two different markets!
I'll give you a hint... it has to do with other vacation destinations and shows that Branson DOES compete with other areas many, many, many hours away. ;)
I know what you are talking about But will let others guess first.
Quote from: Nate65807 on October 25, 2010, 09:56:25 PM
I know what you are talking about But will let others guess first.
Should I just say it? ???
I know you will position it in a sensitive manner, as it results from tragedy elsewhere, so why not?
But, I just gave a hint, wanna let people guess a bit longer?
No. :P
Basically, one of my duties this past summer was to ask people, "so what made you decide to come to Branson this year?" for marketing tracking purposes.
And, of course, I heard the standard, "oh, we come every year! We just love Branson!" And, "we wanted to take the kids to Silver Dollar City," and so forth... but I was surprised at the number of people who said, "well, we were going to go to the gulf this summer, but because of the oil spill, we decided to come to Branson instead."
THE GULF?!?! That's like 10+ hours from Branson!!! But, LOTS of people changed their plans, and decided to hit Branson instead of Texas, Louisiana, Florida or other gulf areas.
Believe it or not, Branson DOES compete with other areas... even other areas 10+ hours away. So, it's definitely not hard to imagine that people will go to Six Flags or Worlds of Fun next year if they know that SDC isn't opening anything cool in 2011, or if the price of tickets between the parks is significant.
She's right here too. Another example was Bass Pro. A unique enough sporting goods store to get people from the other side of the country...Just to shop!
Branson has Bass Pro, Shows, SDC, Table Rock Lake, and more. This place is great. Beats Vegas hands down
"Tis' a privilege to live in the Ozarks"
-Harold Bell Wright
Quote from: Nate65807 on October 25, 2010, 10:33:04 PM
She's right here too. Another example was Bass Pro. A unique enough sporting goods store to get people from the other side of the country...Just to shop!
Branson has Bass Pro, Shows, SDC, Table Rock Lake, and more. This place is great. Beats Vegas hands down
"Tis' a privilege to live in the Ozarks"
-Harold Bell Wright
Well Nate, you're right, but there are many other things that Branson DOESN'T have that draws them other places... football and baseball are two major ones. If they're from, for instance, Colorado, and the Chiefs are playing the Broncos, and that family was already planning a vacation at some point in time, wouldn't it make sense to take their vacation in KC at the same time as that game? And while they're there, they're not going to drive 4 hours to go to SDC... they're going to go to Worlds of Fun if they want to hit an amusement park on their trip.
Branson also doesn't have public transportation, which is something that people ask a lot about on tripadvisor. I don't know if that would be a "deal breaker" or not, but for some, it just might be. Plus, it's usually cheaper to fly into KC or STL than it is Spfd or Branson.
And, many people go to KC for vacation to see the Plaza light up on Thanksgiving. ;)
And of course, there's the arch in STL.
There are many things that sometimes draw people away from Branson. And, just because people DO go to Branson doesn't mean that they're going to go to SDC while they're here. For the price of 1 single-day ticket, they can easily get TWO tickets to a show! So, SDC really does have a lot of competition. They're not immune simply because they're SDC - maybe to true die-hard fans, they are, but not to the general population.
What you say is true, but with a typical family, sports is something that not EVERYONE is excited about. Branson has something for everyone, even if it doesn't have everything. I would guess that most people who come here don't fly.
Just in the past few years, plane tickets and fees (i.e. Baggage fees) have went up quite a bit. Flying one person may be cost effective vs driving, but the price increase isn't as evident when driving 5-6 people vs buying 6 plane tickets (like 2 grand depending on destination...yikes)
My apologies for getting off topic there. I think whatever SDC does the fans will appreciate it. Impressing the masses is what is important here. I'm sure SDC does demographics studies of who visits the park (or at least season pass holder info).
They know we want rides and more than just a playground. But if that's all they have to give and ticket prices don't skyrocket, I'm all smiles :D
----quote----
And while they're there, they're not going to drive 4 hours to go to SDC... they're going to go to Worlds of Fun if they want to hit an amusement park on their trip.
----quote----
WoF is a THEME park not an Amusement. Sorry had to correct that, I'll go back to hiding into the shadows now 8)
What's the difference between an amusement park and a theme park? I'm guessing that any park that's fun is an amusement park, but if it fits a theme, it gets to be a theme park. Am I wrong on this?
1st time post here....found the site after I learned about Jim Owen's Float Trip from Swoosh.
Anyhow. I have a family of 5. We buy season passes every year to SDC and we live in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I have been to Worlds of Fun once back in 1989. I tried to get my family (Kids 16, 14, 6) to go this year, but they are not excited about going...why I don't know.
The reason we like going to Branson is because of all there is to do, in a relatively small geographical area. There are nice hotels, golf courses, shopping, lakes, fishing, Silver Dollar City, etc. When you got to Branson, you feel like you have gone somewhere special, not just another city (as you do when you go to Kansas City, Dallas, or St. Louis). We will continue to buy season passes no matter what the new attraction is for 2011.
Going this last weekend, the place was packed, but the ride lines were short and they were not even running to full capacity. So that shows that Silver Dollar City is much more than just a ride park, and that the majority of people that go, do not go for the rides.
I know what I want the park to build (GCI Wooden coaster), but that might not be what will benefit the park the most. I would also like to see them bring back the carousel and the balloon ride for me and my youngest to enjoy together. We've missed those the past two years. As far as a playground goes, I would hope they would just finish out the Old Tom Sawyers landing area, it seems kind of weird walking through that area now.
Looking forward to whatever 2011 brings us, even if it is just another place to shop and eat some great food.
Quote from: cowboy on October 26, 2010, 10:52:45 AM
Going this last weekend, the place was packed, but the ride lines were short and they were not even running to full capacity. So that shows that Silver Dollar City is much more than just a ride park, and that the majority of people that go, do not go for the rides.
Welcome to the forum, Cowboy. Totally agree with you here. As somebody who comes for the rides, it was hard to believe. But I've seen it several times. SDC is great because it is more than just rides.
Also I agree with you on Branson. There are so many different things to do in such a small area. I live about 45 min away, but come down twice a month because it is so much fun.
Quote from: Nate65807 on October 26, 2010, 10:09:00 AM
What's the difference between an amusement park and a theme park? I'm guessing that any park that's fun is an amusement park, but if it fits a theme, it gets to be a theme park. Am I wrong on this?
That's pretty much how I take it. World's of Fun is an AMUSEMENT park, but SDC is more a THEME park. I'm sure there's some sort of theme at Worlds of Fun... but certainly not executed the way SDC is. IMO, no park out there is as much of a THEME park as SDC. But SDC is also still an amusement park... but IMO, they're ALSO a theme park. ;)
Worlds of Fun USED to be a theme park, but it's for many years been just a cookie-cutter amusement park.
The theme of WoF was supposed to be "Around the World in 80 Days" (hence the balloon), but... yeah, they may still have areas (Europe, America, Africa [where the 50s Diner is IN Africa]), but so does Knott's Berry Farm, but I'd probably call that another park that used to be a theme park but is now only an amusement park.
Worlds of Fun may have great rides, but that's all that it has going for it.
I'm so confused I don't know what SDC is getting in 2011. I have tried thinking about it, but don't know what direction there headed. :)
plan on a new kids area.. they need it! and the kids will love it.. they can add something they need and wont have to spend millions to do it... IMO LOL
Quote from: sanddunerider on October 27, 2010, 06:34:10 PM
plan on a new kids area.. they need it! and the kids will love it.. they can add something they need and wont have to spend millions to do it... IMO LOL
Is there a great need for more kid areas? I feel like everywhere I turn there is kid attraction. If anything I think it is time for an attraction catered more towards adults. SDC should add an area with more crafts, a new show, and a major ride.
Quote from: Polley on October 28, 2010, 02:39:48 AM
Is there a great need for more kid areas? I feel like everywhere I turn there is kid attraction. If anything I think it is time for an attraction catered more towards adults. SDC should add an area with more crafts, a new show, and a major ride.
Welcome to the forum, Polley. I agree with you on the new show/theater idea. This year the shows have had longer lines than the rides, even during the summer (unless it's Saturday/Sunday). The crafts idea...not sure how many people that draws, I am neutral here.
Consider that the playground at Tom Sawyer's landing was taken out, as well as the Treehouse. Geyser Gulch is really the only major
playground left in the park. Sure the Grand Exposition is geared towards kids, but it is all rides. Not everybody wants to get wet, or wants their kids to get wet at Geyser Gulch. If you're going to a nice restaurant after SDC and don't have a second set of clothes to change into, do you really want to tell your kids "No playground for you!?"
I have reluctantly accepted that the Treehouse is a relic of the 70's and 80's, when people didn't sue someone every time they skinned their knee :( but there needs to be a 2nd playground that's up-to-code and
dry for kids to play on.
Now Polley, this part isn't directed just at you...but everybody that is upset about the lack of a new major ride next year...nothing personal :)
Do people honestly think that we
don't want to see a major ride!? I'd love nothing more than to see the Water Boggan ride souped up to be even wetter, more extreme, and have less downtime ??? than before.
That said, SDC is truly special because it is a good
mix of things. SDC has several shows, rides, and crafts, but only only one playground. In the very rare instance that SDC fails to satisfy my adventure seeking side, Six Flags is just 3 hours away and $48, if you include parking :)
On a related note, even when I had a Six Flags Season Pass, I never visited more than 3 or 4 times a year, and I lived in STL at the time. I go to SDC about 10-15 times a year. I wonder why that is? ;)
I know why!!!!! :o :o You have the same sickness most of us have. know as SDCS ( Silver Dollar City Syndrome) : And it is NOT curable, but it is contagious. ;D
I am not sure if Silver Dollar City needs a second playground area, but they definitely need a better one that is comparable to Tom Sawyer's Landing. Let's face it, as great as Geyser Gulch is, it is still a one hit wonder so to speak. The main attraction there is the foam balls, and the water cannons. Silver Dollar City needs a playground with more diversity in things to climb on, or under, or around, and more variety to interact with.
Also the Grand Exposition is a good place for the tots to find "kiddie rides," but then most of them are the same style of ride repeated over again (i.e., up, and down around a circle).
I think SDC is in need of a second area where height is not an issue, working at FITH I heard that a lot. Moms and their little ones had to sit on a bench while the rest of the family went off to ride. This area will provide another place for those extra "little" ones.
Don't know if the fire pump wagon is still in place anywhere on park, but I remember that kids loved it, just pumping the pump and splashing the water. That would be perfect for FITH area. Also, why not do the pass the fire bucket drills like in the old days, and walk that dalmation around for kids to pet. How about a fireman's pole and some climbing obsticles, stuff to fit in with the fireman theme?
On the kidsfest page Half Dollar Holler is on the page for 2011!
Here's the link
http://festivals.bransonsilverdollarcity.com/mini-section/default.aspx?id=21
WOW!!! finally!! that page just changed in the last 2 or 3 hours. i checked it earlier this afternoon... well now we know.. just as we suspected kids rides, with a low dollar investment! they needed this, i am glad to see it.
As i read through the page i am dissapointed that it sounds like the GAC will be the same show as this year >:(. I stated earlier i dont know why they cant come up new shows/music/dancing shows in the new year.. ???
Anyway it will be another GREAT year!
It mentions the swings and carousel (among other things) doesn't say anything about the balloon ride.
yep with treehouses and climbing nets, i bet the use the contour of the land to lay it all out.. i would like to see a "floorplan". should be great!
Nice find!
I really like that they're reviving elements of both the old treehouse and the landing at the same time, but I'm a little disappointed that the target age is so low. I enjoyed the tree house and the landing long after I was 7.
They don't mention the balloons though, and I'm sure they would if they were making a comeback, so I guess that's out of the picture.
Good addition overall. Lends to something big in 2012, that's for sure.
I am excited that they're taking care of the kids on this...but yes a target age of 7 is too young for a "max age". Kids are sometimes 10-12 years old before they can/want to ride the big rides. Still, a welcome addition :)
Unless, of course, the balloons are coming back elsewhere, so they wouldn't be included in the description of Half Dollar Holler.
They didn't say that those over 7 would not be allowed to play, they just said that was the "target age"
Yeah, I doubt the true target age is really that low, they probably just want to advertise more heavily on the fact that there's something new for the very young kids since that has apparently been a sticking point for young families. The new carousel and swing ride from CC will really add to to rides very young kids can do. Right now they're pretty much limited to the 3 kiddie rides in GE and the train.
I'm wondering if I should post this news story on the main site or not... Do you think they're going to be bothered about this info leaking out?
dont know it could bother them at all. it is on their website obviously.. so anyplace else you put is more people will see. more people more sales!! all is good..
Well, there it is guys. Low dollar investment...and low enthusiasm to match. They throw it into a obscure web page, that not many people would looking at this time of year? Wow, even they cant get that excited about this. Really makes me want to go out and invest over $500 again for season passes for the family...NOT!
i am sure it will be in the Times when it comes out next week, probably front page news.. and more than a few of us are glad they are adding the play area. Funny thing about that is my daughter is 33 years old. So even though i dont have kids to take advantage of play area, I know others will and i know i will enjoy watching others enjoy the area.. I think it will be great, watch the kids while waiting on the train...
I understand your frustration. But despite SDC's huge profitability, major renovations have only been coming every other year. No surprise here.. and yet what SDC already has is totally worth it to me...then again, I have weekends off and live close. Maybe I get more bang for my buck :)
Complete 100% letdown.
^^^Don't be such a downer. Yes, it's a smaller addition than what they've added in some years - that just leaves more for next year. This isn't the official announcement, we've repeatedly been told that the big announcement will come Nov. 6 when the passes go on sale. I'm suer there will be plenty of enthusiasm on both SDC's and the GP's part.
Obviously, SDC saw that they had a gap in their offerings, and this addition is going to meet that. Not a lot of parks offer a whole lot for small kids. I don't know about you, but I'm extremely happy to see them bring back these concepts - it sounds like it's going to be extremely fun for these kids.
I'm betting the webmaster jumped the gun a bit in updating the website. I imagine there'll probably be a nice news release, a couple good concept art images, and heck, maybe they'll have a separate site to advertise, like they did with the Giant Barn Swing.
And I am EXCITED about this. Sure, I ain't 7, but I have a 2 1/2 year old niece and I am THRILLED with the idea of taking her next year to experience the new area! Especially since she never got to experience Huck Finn's Hideaway or the ropes/etc at Tom Sawyer's Landing. My 7-year-old nephew got to experience both back when he was my niece's age, and I'm sure he'll be uber-excited about Half Dollar Holler, too.
I find great enjoyment in living vicariously through my niece and nephews. It fills me with joy to see THEM filled with joy as they run about, not a care in the world.
Quote from: mhguy77 on October 28, 2010, 10:14:08 PM
Complete 100% letdown.
Perhaps, but I think it was a pretty obvious addition.
It's not as if the park didn't give enough clues this off season that it was coming.
I don't get the "shock" of some of you posters.
So basically we have a perfectly good (albeit closed down) tree, and tree house just around the bend, and yet they are going to build another small tree house? Eh, I'm luke warm at the moment about the attraction. I will have to see it after it is built before I completely disown it. ;)
Although this new addition won't do anything for me, I'm not bothered by it at all. The park was lacking an area for small kids ever since the treehouse was closed down and I like that SDC noticed.
You say a big announcement will be coming on November 6th? Do you think it will just be concept art and a press release like Joy said, or do you think SDC has more up their sleeves?
Quote from: Nate65807 on October 29, 2010, 01:08:07 AM
Quote from: Ozark BBQ on October 29, 2010, 12:22:46 AM
So basically we have a perfectly good (albeit closed down) tree, and tree house just around the bend, and yet they are going to build another small tree house?
I thought they were gonna restore the exsiting tree. Why Hollow out another perfectly good tree, or clear out real trees to make room for a fiberglass tree wanna be? Epic Fail!
Well to be fair, the tree trunk at the original tree house was also not made from a real tree. Instead it was made out concrete I believe? I cannot remember precisely. However, I do understand where you are coming from about how this appears to be another cheap cookie cutter style attraction. :)
Yeah, Ozark BBQ you're right...the original one wasn't a real tree either...it would be dead by now if it was, lol :)
Quote from: Ozark BBQ on October 29, 2010, 12:22:46 AM
So basically we have a perfectly good (albeit closed down) tree, and tree house just around the bend, and yet they are going to build another small tree house? Eh, I'm luke warm at the moment about the attraction. I will have to see it after it is built before I completely disown it. ;)
What's perfectly good about it? It's dilapidated, non-ADA accessible, had very low capacity, and is structurally unsound (apparently). We all have good memories of it from back in the good ole' days, but there's no way they could fix that thing to meet the demands of their current customers. This project gives the kids of today a chance to have the same SDC experiences we all cherish from our childhood.
There's no 'Epic Fail' about it. There's no way this is cheap or a cookie cutter attraction. What other parks have things like this? Just wait till you see it in person.
Quote from: shavethewhales on October 29, 2010, 09:29:13 AM
What's perfectly good about it? It's dilapidated, non-ADA accessible, had very low capacity, and is structurally unsound (apparently). We all have good memories of it from back in the good ole' days, but there's no way they could fix that thing to meet the demands of their current customers. This project gives the kids of today a chance to have the same SDC experiences we all cherish from our childhood.
There's no 'Epic Fail' about it. There's no way this is cheap or a cookie cutter attraction. What other parks have things like this? Just wait till you see it in person.
Sadly we live in a disposable society where we would rather build something new than repair/restore what is already there.
I'm not saying that the new attraction won't be good, I can't judge something that isn't built yet. If it is made of plastic or fiberglass with fake looking colors, I may be disappointed. I have faith that SDC is better than all of that and it looks really cool from the website you posted though :)
However, if something new must be built, why not at least clear out defunct attractions so that something new can be put there instead of having a defunct attraction graveyard?
Guys and Gals...
I am an old man. I don't do rides much anymore. I still ride my old favorites FITH, AP, the train, FM and LRoTO. The last real roller coaster I rode at SDC was Buzzsaw Falls in 2002. This was my first year back, and I just didn't feel like waiting in line. I last rode TNT in 1995.
I have 3 kids, 14, 13, and 7. My little girl will love this area.
Some of you are getting all wound up about the fact that there is no major ride this year.
When I was little, there was hardly ever a new ride. I remember when AP (81) , LRoTO (84) and the wilderness watterboggans (87) opened. Back then it was one addition every 3 years, so why get so uptight about them only making a small investment this year?
Half Dollar Holler sounds OK to me! My grandkids will love it. Sounds like they are not going to hack down too many trees, and it will be a relatively small area of development. A million dollar investment is pretty small, too. I just hope and pray the old treehouse does not get torn down. I hope it will eventually be restored and reopened. I would think that would be a million dollar or less fix. (By the way the tree at the old treehouse is made of concrete.)
I am excited for this. No its not a big fancy ride geared yet again towards the older crowd, my kiddo has a hard time on the RB due to him being little, but he still has fun. This will be somethin for those who cant ride any rides or very little rides due to height. Its not what we wanted at the moment. I think we all sat around building up in our minds this grand and fabulous ride and got let down. Its not that bad an idea. Its kinda a Treehouse compromise. No its not OUR treehouse but its an all new fantastic updated memory for a new set of kids. I cant wait to climb with my kid and have a hoot'n good time with him.
Oh and notice in the ad that it said ONE entry way. Hmmmmm hope the one entry way doesnt become too congested with all the in and out traffic. And if it is ADA approved (which is fantasic) and kids pushing around and shoving thru when another child is trying to wheel chair it..........I guess we will see.
Well I'm sure Half-Dollar Holler will be great in its own right. Like Ozark BBQ, I am lukewarm about it. I'll have to wait and see after it is built. If Half-Dollar Holler is all we get for 2011, then I wish they kept the waterboggin for one more season so we could still enjoy it a little bit longer. :-\
I cannot speak for everyone on these forums, but I am glad that they don't install a new major attraction every year just as I have mentioned multiple times before.
With that being said, the last major ride to come through that was geared towards adults was back in 2007 with the Giant Swing, and it will be at the very least 2012 before another one comes through. So perhaps that's were a little animosity seeps through?
I am on par with Junior, and wish they could have used this same one million dollars to breathe fresh life into the original tree house. I understand the concerns of ADA compliancy, but perhaps this structure can be grandfathered in. Why must everything that was already previously in existence be ADA compliant, always? Heck, they might as well install a new elevator into Marvel Cave while they are at it.
Sure, I am a bit sentimental about the old tree house, and I choose to be. However, it's hard to warm up to this "new kid on the block" that I have only seen an artist interpretation of. I truly hope that I am pleasantly surprised by this new attraction! :)
Quote from: Ozark BBQ on October 29, 2010, 11:11:47 AM
Why must everything that was already previously in existence be ADA compliant, always? Heck, they might as well install a new elevator into Marvel Cave while they are at it.
Sure, I am a bit sentimental about the old tree house, and I choose to be. However, it's hard to warm up to this "new kid on the block" that I have only seen an artist interpretation of. I truly hope that I am pleasantly surprised by this new attraction! :)
Good point on the ADA deal. But I hope this new playground fills the void for future generations. If we're lucky, SDC will see fit to restore the
existing Treehouse too :)
Unless you have kids this age, you don't really understand the importance. We bought passes this year and have used them twice. The first time we went, the kids couldn't do anything. See it rained the night before and they weren't allowed to go into Gyser Gulch until at least noon. There are 4 rides they can ride in the kid area.
Before you consider this an epic fail, think about the population it serves. It's not here to serve as a play area for those that are able to ride the rides. It will be there so that FAMILIES with YOUNG children can have a good time when they go and not have to worry about their children getting bored. Deal with it!
Way to go Silver Dollar City! This will be a great addition to the park. I, for one, am very happy with your decision. We will be buying passes for next year because we know that our children will have something to do when we go.
Quote from: DianaGail on October 29, 2010, 03:21:40 PM
Unless you have kids this age, you don't really understand the importance. We bought passes this year and have used them twice. The first time we went, the kids couldn't do anything. See it rained the night before and they weren't allowed to go into Gyser Gulch until at least noon. There are 4 rides they can ride in the kid area.
Before you consider this an epic fail, think about the population it serves. It's not here to serve as a play area for those that are able to ride the rides. It will be there so that FAMILIES with YOUNG children can have a good time when they go and not have to worry about their children getting bored. Deal with it!
Way to go Silver Dollar City! This will be a great addition to the park. I, for one, am very happy with your decision. We will be buying passes for next year because we know that our children will have something to do when we go.
Sorry, accidentally deleted my previous post:
Quotefrom: Nate65807 on Today at 01:08:07 AM
I thought they were gonna restore the existing tree. Why Hollow out another perfectly good tree, or clear out real trees to make room for a fiberglass tree wanna be? Epic Fail!
Anyways, I don't really
dislike the idea of building the new playground. In fact, I have been complaining about the
existing playgrounds being closed for years. I too, have been complaining
on this very thread that there aren't enough playgrounds for kids:
Quote from: Nate65807 on October 28, 2010, 03:01:31 AM
Consider that the playground at Tom Sawyer's landing was taken out, as well as the Treehouse. Geyser Gulch is really the only major playground left in the park. Sure the Grand Exposition is geared towards kids, but it is all rides. Not everybody wants to get wet, or wants their kids to get wet at Geyser Gulch. If you're going to a nice restaurant after SDC and don't have a second set of clothes to change into, do you really want to tell your kids "No playground for you!?"
I have reluctantly accepted that the Treehouse is a relic of the 70's and 80's, when people didn't sue someone every time they skinned their knee :( but there needs to be a 2nd playground that's up-to-code and dry for kids to play on.
However, I
also think that SDC needs to restore what they
already have! Your instincts serve you well, I
don't have kids, so I don't understand what it is like to bring them to SDC. However, I do know what it is like to
be a kid. The old Tom' Sawyer's landing and old Treehouse were so much fun to me as a
young 5 year old, that I am defending them 26 years later, as I don't think that modern playgrounds are adventurous enough.
But either way, I am excited that SDC is getting a playground, and I understand where you are coming from :)
QuotePlus, back by popular demand, our hand-carved carousel returns in a whole new way!
What does this mean - it's going to go counter-clockwise now?
It says, "back by popular demand." Does that mean it's the old carousel, and they're not going to bring over the carousel from CC? Would it "return in a whole new way" by being powered differently?
And...are the mini wave swings from CC?
This doesn't mention anything about puppet shows (which were a part of the HDH survey a few months ago).
Exactly how much usable land is in the area? Will it extend to Becca's Weaving, or around it...or through it?
^^ As I said in another thread, the old tree house wouldn't be worth the millions of dollars in renovations it would take to re-open it. By the time it could be brought up to standards, it wouldn't have much room inside, kids would end up getting separated from their parents, mass frustration would ensue, etc. While this area does incorporate tree houses, it goes well beyond the scope of the old tree house as well with play areas, kiddie rides, and a safe system to keep track of small children. I think all the complainers (not you specifically Nate65807) need to quit pouting and realize that not every addition to SDC is about them.
^ I think they just mean that they're bringing back a carousel with the hand-carved horses from the old carousel. Maybe they're using the old CC carousel as a base, since the hardware on the SDC one seemed to be pretty worn out. The concept artwork seems to show some woodland theming on it.
Yeah, I see that now. As long as it isn't a jungle theme, it'll be OK. I just can't imagine reusing the old carousel when the one at CC was so much better. The old one was small and pretty beaten-up. The wording is intriguing though.
hopefully more details next week!
As a parent with a 3 year old and another one on the way I am excited about rendering that they have going. Since he can only go on so many rides this kinda gives them something else beside GG
My grandkids will love this new area.
New question:
Dose any one know what the ride numbers have been this year for RiverBlast? The few time I have wastched it there has not been that many people using it. If not was it a wasted of money that could have gone into a more attractive attractton?
that would be an interesting number.. along with the other attractions. But i am sure it is here to stay high traffic count or not.
I went to Face book and told them that I was very dispointed. We need to let them know how we feel. I been a faith full customer to Silver Dollar City. I believe this is a slap in the face to the people in Branson. They deserve much more than a Half Dollar. I am very upset. I was hoping for something big. I think they need some changes in thier fron office. The park is getting run down. No water boggin. The effects dont work on the plunge. Silver Dollar city is not as good as it used to be. Sorry if I offended anyone I just got to vent my anger towards SDC. Lets send them the message DONT RENEW YOUR PASSES!
You have every right to your opinion, but I don't think a fan site is the place to express yourself in such a blatant manner. Save your harsh rhetoric for your personal remarks on Facebook, or make a call to them yourself. We are generally supportive of SDC and often offer constructive criticism, but we do not call for boycotts.
chadewb, you've gone too far. If that is what you have to say about SDC and this project, please take your feelings elsewhere. I'll grant that this addition falls below what some people expected and want, and sure, you can express your disappointment here - but to call for a boycott just because you didn't get what you wanted this year is beyond ridiculous and I won't waste my bandwidth spreading it. If you're such a fair-weather fan that you can't stand to see something added for kids because it means you'll have to wait another year for an adult-oriented attraction... well, that's pathetic, and I'm sure SDC won't miss your patronage.
Anyway, to get back on topic, who thinks the Balloons might still be part of this? Seems doubtful... I'm pretty sure they would have mentioned it by name, but one never knows. At least that gives us something to hold out on until the full announcement is made.
I hate to say it, but the balloons definitely would not mesh with the tree house theme. Well, at least not with the new tree house. ;)
However, the balloon ride would work great say in the Grand Exposition. Several of the rides there are redundant in my opinion. If they could yank one of those out, the balloon ride would fit perfectly. ;D
It makes me sad toi see some of these posts. I sure hope that some of you posters are not as ego-centric in real life as you come across on here. It really makes me sick how people think they know so much better on how to run the park. Just because you play RCT at home on your computer does not mean you know what's best for SDC. The problem a lot of you are dealing with is that you had unrealistic expectations to being with. Never once did Copper or I or any of the others say it would be a thrill ride but countless numbers of you posters were convined it would be. On what grounds? RB was a medium-large cap. Usually a small cap follows if anything at all. Why is this a surprise?
@Chadewb:
The boycott idea is just ridiculous! If I had a magic SDC Genie and could make three wishes, then yes we would have three major rides waiting for us tomorrow morning (hey, if I had a genie...why wait for next year?)
That said, Silver Dollar City is a family park. Younger kids like playgrounds. Teens and young adults are generally the ones who like thrill rides (although there are many exceptions, such as my 80 year old grandpa who rides WF and PK). Some of the older (and younger) folks go for the music and crafts. You want to keep it diverse to please as many people as possible. Would McDonald's survive if they had 20 variations of a cheeseburger to choose from, but no McNuggets or fries? What SDC is doing in 2011 is not a "let down" and certainly does not warrant a boycott.
SDC is probably saving money from 2010 and 2011 to build a great major ride in 2012, instead of settling for a mediocre major ride in 2011. More importantly, they are also catering to a group of guests (young kids) who have been "overlooked". This was based on guest feedback, they didn't draw a little piece of paper from a hat and say "Let's build a playground."
You are entitled to your opinion, but I agree with Shavethewales. Asking for a boycott is taking it too far. If you're not attending SDC next year, hope you live close to another theme/amusement park to fill the void.
So what ever they do in 2011 is fine with me... Even little updates. I'm usually just reading the forum but it seems it got outa hand so I'm tryin to get on topic... But there really isn't much to discuss... Nothing done yet and WB still lays empty... I think SDC will get creative with what ever they make no matter what... Honestly the water blast ride was themed amazingly and I enjoyed it.. So back to being a hermit for me :-)
Boycott? :o really? ??? dont renew passes? :o really? ???
OK! you go ahead and do that! ;D
if you think that is the right move,Go for it!, And while the rest of us are enjoying the train, watching the kids, doing the coasters, eating the great food, having funnel cakes, watching the shows and enjoying everything that IS SDC.. at least there will be 4 or 5 LESS people there to be in line. ;D
I have stated before and sounds like the majority if us agree, new kids area is WAY past due, yes i know they took out hucks fort for the RB, But that is now history..
I do like the idea of balloons in the GE area. That area "seems" to be missing something..
And yet we all know that there will a new "ride" in WB.. Just have to see........ ??? ???
I can understand the people who have no kids and go there for just the roller coaster and that is it. The key thing is SDC is not a amusement park. If you look back SDC did not make it name by having thrill rides. The rides are added to attract more and different people. If you look at the majority of the people that are there they have kids and when you have a family like mine where my son is not tall enough though if he could he would be on every ride, it gives him some where to run , climb and have fun. The key to repeating memories is that the entire family from 1 to 99 can have something to do.
I, for one, am still hopeful that this is another step toward taking care of the little ones in a different way than the Geyser Gulch (which is also, sadly, called a treehouse). If that can then be removed, and maybe some elements relocated, the skyline could then be dramatically changed with the major ride (and take care of the thrill seekers among us).
I am also happy to see that HFE is not seeking to turn the park into a teenage rampage in one flail swoop. Family is still the focus. Now, I want to see some things done for the elderly. It does my soul good to see older folks still enjoying the same place where they brought their own kids 30, 40, and 50 years ago.
SDC: the Next 50 Years!
Now...no, the balloons don't fit with the theme...unless they are raised to rise above the forest and renamed the Canopy Balloons. I'm not sure how that could be done without an expensive re-engineering of a low-impact attraction. Actually, they could be rethemed with some wood-patterned paint, but they wouldn't be as effective. They should reappear, at some time, in the GE, with repainted balloons. My vote is to replace those elephants, which are too similar to the flying elephant icons of another park. The balloons would be an obvious addition to the "transportation" theme of that part of GE.
I'll be interested in seeing how big this attraction will really be and how they handle the slope of the land.
That's also what I like, is that it's all about family. Be on the lookout because next Saturday I'm going to Dollywood to do a trip report on there Smoky Mountain Christmas. I'll try to post the pics by Sunday at least.
Quote from: History Buff on October 30, 2010, 11:18:44 AM
I'll be interested in seeing how big this attraction will really be and how they handle the slope of the land.
From just the artist interpretation alone, it doesn't appear like it's going to be that big. It looks very quaint with just a "kids size" tree house, or two (not considering the merry-go-round). The adult in the drawing almost appears to be as tall as the second level of the tree house. Just rehashing an old concern, but although this will probably be very visible from the swinging bridge, I doubt it will affect it at all. :)
dwfan, I would for one like to see some christmas pics from DW.. having never been there i think it would be interesting,
Quote from: sanddunerider on October 30, 2010, 06:32:37 PM
dwfan, I would for one like to see some christmas pics from DW.. having never been there i think it would be interesting,
I'm going to the ACE event at Dollywood on the 20th - I'll make sure I take plenty of photos while I am there of their Christmas event.
Swoosh is correct...this should not come as a surprise to anyone here. It was obvious to everyone that bothered to watch what was going on elsewhere within the organization that a large project was out of the question. The capital had already been committed to other parks. Anything that was added to SDC was going to be ,at best, a token project that added at least something "new" no matter how small or relatively insignificant it seems to some here. It serves a purpose. I for one believe that they didn't see the return on RB that they had hoped for. Over the summer I was there at least 3 or 4 times a month on the weekends and I never saw lines at RB that were reminiscent of PK, LR or the Giant Swing. Granted RB is a different type of ride, but with all the efforts they put into the ride, I expect they had higher expectations for the ride. Could they be rethinking their direction that have for the park? Could a larger project have been on the boards, but with the lack luster performance of RB, they decided to retool any ideas they had? We will never know, even those that claim to have an inside track on the wheelings and dealings of the park, really cannot know what is going on in executive offices in Atlanta.
Silver Dollar City is something to be cherished by those of us here. But it is also a property owned by a large entertainment company. No matter how much we idealize HFE, it is in the business of making money. Capital is going to flow to the property that has the highest potential of turning a profit on their investment, and right now that is DW and the other parks in the organization. This should be evident with the lack luster effort that was put into the anniversary celebration. Anniversary weekend was nice and well done, but it was just that a nice weekend. With the exception of the banners and passing out leftover buttons to those who wanted them, you would never know this year was any different than any other year. You would have thought that the park that started the entire company would have deserved a larger effort that what was put forth. Dolly gets her national TV special for 25 years and we get a weekend. To most of us here that is enough.
Company priorities shift and change just like the wind. SDC and HFE are no different. Keep the park clean and attractive. Stay true to its founding. And give us the occasional major addition. At this point in time I don't think we can ask or expect more.
In my opinion, I think Half Dollar Hollar is a sign that something big is coming soon. Not 2011 but maybe 2012 or 2013. I believe River Blast and Half Dollar Hollar are replacement rides for Geyser Gulch. They need to open these attractions first before Possibly building a fence across the entrance to Geyser Gulch in November 2011. I am not a insider but, I predict Geyser Gulch will close Fall of 2011. I predict Geyser Gulch area will be redeveloped into something great--possibly a new "land" with major ride and maybe new restaurants and shops. I think redeveloping Geyser Gulch will take over a year to do. so that means 2012 is a fence around Geyser Gulch and spring 2013 is a "new area with major ride. 2010 River Blast
2011 Half Dollar Hollar, small rides
In MY Opinion,
2010 River Blast
2011 Half Dollar Hollar, small ride relocation
2012 Fence around Geyser Gulch, maybe relocation of Roaring Falls to SDC
2013 New Area with Major Ride, possibly new restaurants and shops (location of old Geyser Gulch)
This is my opinion, any comments??
I don't think Geyser Gulch is going anywhere soon. As much as some of the people on here dislike it, it's a huge attraction for younger families coming to the park, and Half-Dollar Holler is more of an addition to it than a replacement. It might be headed for a major re-furb/re-theme in 2012 to compliment whatever is going in WB's spot, but I think taking it out completely would destroy the park's chances with a lot of young families, and they're kind of dependent on young families these days.
As I've mentioned in many previous posts, I (like many) can see the value in adding HDH to the park. What's disappointing to me is the timing. If in fact HDH is our new addition for 2011, I'm not sure I agree with it being added on the heels of a multi-million dollar attraction geared toward an obviously younger audience (see RB). I have a toddler myself so I would applaud the decision to add a play area just for kids in this age range. Just can't justify doing back-to-back projects targeted at the young ones. But that's just me. And yes, plans change fast and change often so I'm anxious to see what's revealed with the official announcement(s). Still somewhat perplexed that HFEC specifically told me WB was removed prior to this season to make way for an "exciting new adventure" in 2011.
So, did plans change? Were they blowing smoke? Who knows. I'm just glad to see them continuing to make improvements and doing them the way only SDC can on an annual basis. Sure, I want another major coaster, but I guess I'll have to settle on the assumption that one will be coming sooner than later. Who knows?
Back to the project and away from the speculation about what could/might have been...
It mentions a mini-waveswinger. Is this "Twirl and Swing" from Celebration City making its way over to the park and "repurposed" ?
I think what worries me most about the addition of HDH is the fact that the prospect of an Adventure Mountain scenario still looms on the horizon. With it already a fixture at DW, and HFEC's track record for duplicating attractions at both parks, it seems to be a virtual certainly we'll be getting one at some point. Or won't we?
Quote from: Cujo on October 31, 2010, 05:01:07 PM
In my opinion, I think Half Dollar Hollar is a sign that something big is coming soon. Not 2011 but maybe 2012 or 2013. I believe River Blast and Half Dollar Hollar are replacement rides for Geyser Gulch. They need to open these attractions first before Possibly building a fence across the entrance to Geyser Gulch in November 2011. I predict Geyser Gulch area will be redeveloped into something great--possibly a new "land" with major ride and maybe new restaurants and shops. 2012 is a fence around Geyser Gulch and spring 2013 is a "new area with major ride.
It would be great if SDC redevelops the whole WW and GG areas and expand behind the lakeside in order to add an entire new area to the park. A new major ride, a new major show, new shops, new exhibits, and new restaurants for 2012!!! They could make the theme a 1880's logger village! Or how about the grand exposition part two? any takers? ;)
Quote from: Swoosh on October 31, 2010, 11:07:29 PM
Back to the project and away from the speculation about what could/might have been...
It mentions a mini-waveswinger. Is this "Twirl and Swing" from Celebration City making its way over to the park and "repurposed" ?
Too bad it's not Fireball. ;)
Well, keep in mind that with HDH this year. HFEC also is supposedly doing a complete makeover on the showboat. I have not heard any numbers on that project, but it is supposed to be all new in 2011 also... So that is 2 properties here doing wok, and of course DW getting the new swing.
^Don't forget White Water is redoing the lazy river
Sounds like almost all of Herschends' properties are getting a facelift, or new addition for the 2011 Season which is great. It seems like twenty years ago, it was not uncommon for the parks to go two, or three years without an update.
I wonder if our society of instant gratification, and endless digital media at our fingertips, has kind of propelled along the notion that something new must come frequently, or people loose interest?
Remember, they spent most of their time and money this year with the 50th anniversary celebration at SDC, so they will invest money in other things this winter. Half Dollar Holler is a cheap, easy winter construction project that will likely have a pretty good payoff with families next year. All of you folks in your 20s and 30s will fondly remember Tom Sawyers Landing...well, HDH is the place the little kids today will be forging their fond SDC memories.
Although I don't have additional information, I E-mailed HFEC, and they said there will be a new ride in the waterboggan's place in 2011. They told me they weren't ready to announce the details just yet, and to also keep watching the website for further news! Here's the E-mail I recieved.
Bradley,
Thank you for your email regarding admission price into Silver Dollar City. Know that your input is very important to us and will be shared with the general manager and management team.
In answer to your concern regarding the Waterboggan area, yes it was closed to make room for a new ride, however, the details about this new ride are not ready to be released just yet. Be watching the website for announcements as they are being made.
The Half Dollar Hollar area will be located down by the train depot and swingin bridge area.
Sincerely,
Silver Dollar City Properties/Customer Service
2800 W Hwy 76
Branson, MO 65616
1-888-455-1383
"creating memories worth repeating"
Herschend Family Entertainment
Silver Dollar City* , Showboat Branson Belle,* White Water*,
Ride The Ducks*
Playing Devil's Advocate here... I see no where in that email reply where it says the attraction in RB's lot will be coming in 2011. (not saying it is or isn't - just reading what they DIDN'T say)
They said keep checking the website, so I thought that was pretty obvious it would be in 2011. But, just to make sure, I'll E-mail them again.
Just, E-mailed them again, should here a reply soon.
Looks like the announcement was made today on their Facebook page.
yep! but i did not see anything we did not already know.
Quote from: shavethewhales on November 01, 2010, 04:37:44 PM
Looks like the announcement was made today on their Facebook page.
Could you get us the link for this...I've tried to find it but can't...
Thanks,
http://www.facebook.com/#!/Silverdollarcity
link for facebook
I guess I am as blind as joshblakebran because I even have Silver Dollar City added as an interest, and I am looking at their Facebook page from top, to bottom, and I see nothing about any announcement. Just general stuff about the Christmas festival, and so on. :o
There's a new in 2011 tab which can be seen here: http://www.facebook.com/Silverdollarcity?v=app_7146470109
It links to the attraction page. Neither say anything more than what we already know. Less even. It actually sounds like it will be a little smaller than I was thinking...
Oh, there it is! Okay maybe I do need glasses. ;D
Boy, they certainly snuck this one in quietly. I like the bigger artist rendering on the Facebook page. It looks like it will even have some sort of slide which I never noticed before.
In perspective a million dollars isn't much for an attraction.
You are talking about clearing land, adding electricity, water pipes.
Infrastructure alone is expensive.
The swing was reported to be 7 million.
We aren't talking large here....
And you can see the revamped carousel on the left.
would be nice to see a real footprint/set of plans..
Silver Dollar City's newest addition is no small change - discover a forest of fun at Half Dollar Holler!
This brand-new, $1 million playscape and ride area is designed with the youngest adventurers in mind! Half-pints will find a woodland wonderland filled with activities to take them to new heights, challenge their growing minds and bodies, and delight their senses. Half Dollar Holler, created especially for children through age 7, also provides a safe play zone with a single-access entrance and kid-friendly structures.
Kids need a place to branch out and Half Dollar Holler has the hands-on, high-energy play that little explorers love. Treetop funhouses and climbing nets set the stage for engaging entertainment, as whippersnappers make their way through a wacky maze of elevated dwellings. And, a lot of sand and a little water equal big fun for small hands. Creativity and imagination run wild as they dig, build and sculpt masterpieces at pint-sized sand tables. When it's time to settle down, gather round on tree stump seats and hear tremendous tales in the story circle brought to you by Highlights magazine.
Plus, back by popular demand - Silver Dollar City's Carousel returns in a whole new way! This family favorite, featuring magnificent hand-carved horses and bears, never fails to inspire wonder and joy!
Come play in our neck of the woods next year...it's sure to be big fun for the little ones!
There's an ad in the Weekend section of Springfield's newspaper, which mentions the changes at WW as well.
I'm not sure what to think about this. Is this truly an new addition . . .or just putting back one of the three that they ripped out last year. My kids will like it. . .but what will they rip out in order to install this one? ???
Didn't the original announcement about half-dollar hollar state that SDC would have a press release on nov. 7th?
^^ They're not taking anything out except a few trees and a smoking area. They are bringing back only one of the rides they've taken out recently, but it's just one part of a whole new experience for the kids.
^There was no original announcement. When we found the page with the info, I assumed there would be a press release by Nov. 6, since other people said they were told an announcement would be made by then. They've put out a bunch of ads, but the addition might be too small to warrant a press release until it opens.
well then, it is probably just one step. We can probably expect WB area and GG will get a makeover to "accent" HDH. More for the kids...
Silver Dollar City is doing a great job of spreading out the kiddie areas! Years ago, Tom Sawyers Landing was it. Now we have the new Half Dollar Holler by the Train Station, River Blast at the old Tom Sawyers Landing, Geyser Gulch by its lonesome next to the lake, and The Grand Exposition shoved all the way in the back of the park.
Want to sight see Silver Dollar City? Just bring a kid along! :)
true enough ozark.. still makes us wonder what they may do to GG and WB area... Do you suppose that will all tie together with some kind of redo?? ??? ??? what to do in 2012?? LOL
Here are three pictures of the HDH area I took from the Swinging Bridge. If the orange tape is an indicator, this is going to get pretty close to the bridge itself. http://www.flickr.com/photos/55890907@N03/
I was really hoping the new project would NOT come close to the swinging bridge. I like the idea that the bridge was an isolated spot in the middle of the city. Hope they don't develop the Half Dollar Holler area too much!
with you on that junior, i like the HDH idea, i am also hoping that leave some trees and brush between bridge and the new area.. I would not mind looking through the brush to see the kids playing.. But I dont really want it butted up to bridge for easy viewing. (like the walkway at AP for instance).. Guess we will all know in 122 days!!!!!! ::)
Where's Mrs. Mary Herschend when you need her? She would never allow such atrocities! ;) The markers closest to the bridge look very reminiscent of the carousal footprint based on my own perspective.
ozark, thats they it looked to me, BUT was afraid to say it out loud. LOL ;D
I too would like to see some type of woodsy barrier between HDH an the swinging bridge. The good news is, that all of the trees within the orange tape are little ones, they don't seem to be preparing to sacrifice any of the big boys.
I hope you're right! But those markers may not be flagging off which trees to cut, but rather mark the location that the utilities such as electric wires, and pluming, and foundational preparations need to be made for the attractions. :-X
Parson, i doubt if they would pull any big trees. With this addition I would think they could work around the trees as needed. especcially for the kids area.. I am hoping for a couple of picnic table in that area too. adults can sit and relax while the kids play.
I dont know if this has anything to do with it but I asked my husband what the orange tape ment survey wise and he said its a marker to show boundries or where a stake is for surveyin purpose. :-\
Markers are multipurpose, and can be used for any number of things including surveying. Who knew we could all get so excited about little plastic flags? However, it's a sign of progress! ;D
progress. yes but verrry limited ::)
Quote from: Junior on November 14, 2010, 07:47:29 AM
I was really hoping the new project would NOT come close to the swinging bridge. I like the idea that the bridge was an isolated spot in the middle of the city.
For anyone who's wondering what will happen to the swinging bridge. Just look at the photo. I think it's pretty clear. ;)
I think that is a different "swinging bridge".. shows it between 2 treehouses.... I think Old Faithful is safe for now.. ;D
If they took out the Swinging Bridge, this city would be headed for a disaster of biblical proportions, real wrath of God type stuff. Fire and brimstone coming down from the skies! The Lost River and Lake Silver boiling! Forty years of darkness! Earthquakes, volcanoes... Human sacrifice, dogs and cats living together... mass hysteria! And that would just be from us here on SDC fans, that's not including what the old-timers might do! ;D
thats pretty good parson! and i might add VERY accurate...
As Bart Simpson would say, nobody better lay a finger on my swinging bridge! :D
I'm just teasing, but I am very confident that Miller's Bridge will continue to swing, and sway for generations to come. :)
I'm sure it is safe Ozark. It is one of the "landmarks" of the city.
Agreed, SDC won't remove the swinging bridge. It's a signature attraction. :)
Unfortunately, I bet they will remove a tree, or two. :'(
Oh well, that's just a part of progress. I suppose you can't even have a log cabin without cutting down a few trees. ;)
they may, but i would think they would work around as many of the bigger trees as possible.. I quess we will find out next march.
I do not think we have to worry about trees....
Silver Dollar City co-founder Mary Herschend insisted on saving the natural beauty of her properties. To continue that legacy, Jack Herschend founded the Gift of Green. His personal goal is to plant 1,000,000 trees in the Ozarks through tree donations, supporting benefit-tree sales and through old-fashioned, hands-on, hard work. Over 200,000 trees have been planted in the Ozark Mountains since this program's inception in 1992. HFE supports the efforts of Gift of Green and embraces its philosophy. Inspired by this program, HFE makes it a policy to plant two trees for every single tree cut down on HFE properties.
i had read that somewhere. ??? so i am sure they will save as many of the trees as they can..
One of the last times I visited Branson My wife and I passed an SUV parked on the side of the road just south of the Highway 65/Highway 76 interchange, and guess who had a shovel out, planting trees on the side of the road? None other than Jack himeself!
Quote from: oklaSDCfan on November 20, 2010, 10:19:26 AM
HFE supports the efforts of Gift of Green and embraces its philosophy. Inspired by this program, HFE makes it a policy to plant two trees for every single tree cut down on HFE properties.
I just wish they remembered that philosophy when it came to their own parking lot! Granted, trees must be moved out to make space for cars, but there are other ways of doing it besides ripping out entire chunks of hillside. I wish they would have been a little more creative with that. If nothing else, I wish they would have done most of their bulldozing on the East side of the main road.
Let's face it, Mrs. Mary was passionate about those trees, but she is gone now, and although Jack's heart is still there, I don't think he is playing the power, and in charge card at the park as much as he did in his younger days. It's true, the company may plant two trees for every tree cut down on their property, but just because they cut down a tree at Silver Dollar City does not mean they are going to replace it with two trees at Silver Dollar City specifically.
Honestly, I am not worried about the trees when it comes to Half Dollar Hollar. It's just a small attraction, and I am confident there is nothing to worry about there. As for future projects, we will just take them as they come. ;)
Does anyone think, as I tend to think, that the reason larger capital investments are fewer at SDC than a DW is that they don't need to make such large investments? I mean, many of us come to the park because of nostalgia, because we want our children to experience it the way we did, because it's a local icon that we can't escape, because it's atmosphere is wholesome. Sure, a few come because of the biggest and latest feature that has been added, but as long as they get their "fix" every few years, they'll come back. Now, as for Dollywood, perhaps the same cannot be said: the "base" crowd is not as established and loyal, so the "base" crowd becomes the people they can lure with Dolly's publicity, the latest park award, and the glitz and flash of high-thrill rides.
I'm just guessing TPTB know something we don't about crowds and appeal. I don't always like their decisions, but they may be onto something by spreading the thrills over longer periods at SDC while making costly, but necessary, investments at DW and other places.
Dollywood is viewed more as an amusement park with some themes whereas Silver Dollar City is a theme park. DW is constantly having to fight with SFoG and Carowinds for guests. They are not (imho) as "stable" as SDC is with regards to repeat visitors, especially in the same season.
Well from the looks of it, they aren't fighting with SFoG this season because from what I've heard and seen they are not doing to good right now at SFoG. Dollywood does have some regular season guests I'm one of them! lol :D
^Nope, but most of the usual Carolina visitors this year went to Carowinds or north to Kings Dominion
Just returned from the City. I'll try to post pics of the new area soon. The fence is up, but you can see the entire Half Dollar Holler area from the swinging bridge. They have ribbons on the north side of the swinging bridge that appear to be outlining the different structures to be placed in the area. One round area, that must indicate the carousel, is all the way at the bottom of the valley, very close to the water that flows by the mill. Other rectangular places are scattered on the same hillside.
This new area looks to be filling in the entire space between Midtown, where Becca's Weaving is and the swinging bridge. It should finally bring in some business to Midtown after years of trying to lure people down that street.
As promised:
All of these pictures were taken from the entrance to the swinging bridge. This first photo shows the back of Becca's Weaving. Look closely to see the orange ribbons that seem to outline structures to be built.
(http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii154/MrHoggatt/Silver%20Dollar%20City/IMG_2384-1.jpg)
The second picture looks back toward the depot. You can see a clear shot of that silly fence, and yet no attempt has been made to hide the area from the bridge. Why a fence at all? Why not put up a nice temporary sign to announce the new area? Anyway, all you tree huggers will also notice at least one larger tree in the center of the ribboned area on the left side of the picture. Most of the area is filled with smaller trees.
(http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii154/MrHoggatt/Silver%20Dollar%20City/IMG_2383.jpg)
In this third and final installment, the camera is aimed toward the grist mill. At the bottom of the hill, near the standing water, is a circle of the orange ribbon just about the size of a small carousel.
(http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii154/MrHoggatt/Silver%20Dollar%20City/IMG_2385.jpg)
good pics! great detail.! ;D
Yesterday was the first time I really looked at the area. It was a little strange to see it filled out with shapes, knowing the view from the bridge will never be the same. It does look like the carousel comes fairly close to the bridge, but not so close that it's in danger of being taken out or modified.
I actually thought all the footprints looked pretty small. It'll be interesting to see how much is actually going to be in this addition. Right now it looks like the carousel is the majority of the area with a couple of small footprints for tree houses on either side - a far cry from the big structure depicted in the concept artwork we saw last summer.
yes seems to be confined although I saw Orange Tape depicting a "treehouse" maybe south andand a little east of beccas house.
Yes it appears the Carousel will be close to bridge, but it appears to be on the southern edge of area to, with several other shapes closer to the train/carvers area. Are may actually be bigger than it appear when done.
My biggest concern is with location of carousel, is will they have to "fill" in the whole are to raise elevation for project??. ( i would think so). the creek are is quite a bit lower than the north area. The play area itself will change the swinging bridge, BUT if they fill in that whole area the bridge will never be the same.
Hopefully IF they fill it, they will rebuild/reroute the stream area for small critters and to try to keep us old farts happy ::)
There are now a set of gates on the west fence of new are, I dont remeber them being there last month, Maybe they are going to start on are early, while we have decent weather, ???
Guess I will find out next month.
On a similar, but different note...I was at the city on Wednesday, and sat by the waterfall in the Lumber Camp area and noticed a couple of orange flags on the upper end of that area, behind the little shops that are along the walkway up to PowderKeg. I don't know if they mean anything, but I thought I would mention them.
Quote from: crossinmo on November 29, 2010, 08:19:17 AM
On a similar, but different note...I was at the city on Wednesday, and sat by the waterfall in the Lumber Camp area and noticed a couple of orange flags on the upper end of that area, behind the little shops that are along the walkway up to PowderKeg. I don't know if they mean anything, but I thought I would mention them.
Very interesting...I'm still a bit dismayed as the email I received back from a rep at SDC had said that there would be something going in at the old Waterboggin' site for the 2011 season. Why did they take the Waterboggin' out until they were ready to replace it with someting else? Also, what about Splash Harbor? Is something going in there? Swoosh seems to know a lot of these details. Is Half-Dollar-Hollar all we are getting? Not that that is a bad thing if it is. I have a two year old, six year old, and ten year old that I know will enjoy the area AND I like the fact that it is replacing a smoking area. Nothing against people that smoke, however, the smell gives me a headache...The area by PowderKeg is really bad.
^From what we talked about before, it seemed like the waterboggin suffered from a lot of unexpected issues after its make-over in 2003 that led to them taking it out. It's possible that the person who wrote that email may not know all the details and assumed that would be where the 2011 addition would be.
Half Dollar Holler is all we are getting this year.
As of this weekend, you can now see the outline for the Merry-Go-Round. The park told me the Swinging Bridge will remain in place. Very trusting to think no one will be tempted to do something stupid, like pitch pennies on the roofs below. That said, I'll miss the view of the dogwoods, each Spring, w/o structures everywhere...
Any new development on the Half Dollar Holler area? Some of you that have visited in the last week or so, can you give us an update?
Quote from: Junior on December 20, 2010, 05:34:11 PM
Any new development on the Half Dollar Holler area? Some of you that have visited in the last week or so, can you give us an update?
I'll take some photos on Wednesday
and i will be there sunday/monday next week..... ??? ???
^Just Sunday. Park is closed Mon-Tues
not next week... open after christmas- mon tues wed thurs... ;D ;D
I have been keeping up with this thread since page one, but I realize there are 56 pages too, so this might have already been posted and I forgot about it.
My wife and I were at SDC again on Sunday 19th (our 1 year Wedding Anniversary btw) :)
When we crossed the Swinging Bridge we noticed that there were flags, ribbons, etc on BOTH sides of the bridge. I wondered if there would be an attraction on the other side of the bridge or this had to do with plumbing/electrical.
Anyway, that was just something we had observed, sorry if it has been posted already!
On another note, we rode River Blast with the water turned off. We had our hot chocolate with us on the ride. It was VERY nice to float around and look at all the lights while sipping hot chocolate and NOT getting a TON of water in your eyes! haha
Have a great day Y'all
We talked to Becca and Joe at Becca's Weaving on Saturday (really nice people) and I asked them if they were staying at the same place once Half-Dollar opens and they said they were moving to the building where they're giving out the SDC Christmas Ornaments. The old Butterfield Stage Depot they're in now will be incorporated into Half-Dollar Holler.
Quote from: Duelist on December 21, 2010, 12:10:47 PM
We talked to Becca and Joe at Becca's Weaving on Saturday (really nice people) and I asked them if they were staying at the same place once Half-Dollar opens and they said they were moving to the building where they're giving out the SDC Christmas Ornaments. The old Butterfield Stage Depot they're in now will be incorporated into Half-Dollar Holler.
Well that's very interesting news Duelist! I was wondering about that shop, since it protrudes so much into Half Dollar Holler. It would make since that it would have to be incorporated/themed to that section.
I remember, as I am sure most of you do, when Becca's Weaving was the Taffy Shop.
as schultz says " VErrrryyyyy Innntereesttinnnnggg!!""
The old log building part of Half Dollar Holler? That building has been where it is since I visited the park the first time in 1970. I don't know the history of the building. Does anyone know if it is a historic building...one that predates SDC, and may have been moved to the park?? Or is the building something built by SDC workers in the early years? It will be interesting to watch and see how it is used!
Are we talking about the old taffy shop across from the depot? I haven't been o SDC since summer, and have yet to see photos of the "wall". I was envisioning more of the area of the smoking section-formerly the outdoor tin typery
Quote from: rubedugans on December 21, 2010, 04:51:59 PM
Are we talking about the old taffy shop across from the depot? I haven't been o SDC since summer, and have yet to see photos of the "wall". I was envisioning more of the area of the smoking section-formerly the outdoor tin typery
Yes, the old taffy shop that is now Becca's Weaving. She didn't tell me exactly how it would be incorporated into Half-Dollar Holler. At least it sounds like they won't be tearing it down. Thank God for that!
probably will turn into some kind of a concession stand, goodies for kids, souviners from HDH...
I'm guessing a changing/nursing station considering the target audience of the area. WOF is doing something similar at Planet Snoopy.
Did not take any photos of the area as nothing has changed really -- some posters on the wall now.
The cabin you are talking about was built by SDC and was originally set up as an old inn. It was called Marmorose Inn and you weren't really able to go all the way in, but just peer inside. I think they should put the Taffy Shop back in and put a Basket Shop in the current Taffy Shop location on the square. Mixing the broom with the baskets wouldn't be a bad idea either.
Thanks for the background on the log building. I seem to kinda sorta remember the Maramos Inn, at least seeing it on old SDC maps. I remember the building primarily as the taffy factory in the 70s and 80s.
For a good chunk of the 80's the current Taffy shop was the doll shop.
Quote from: Copper on December 23, 2010, 10:45:39 PM
I think they should put the Taffy Shop back in.
Except doing that would nix the "impulse buying" that they currently have with its current location. That was one of the main reasons it was moved up there in the first place.
Even me...an SDC regu;ar, still gives into the Taffy buying upon exiting the park. I always have a stash in my desk at school. It definitely gets more business up front.
I stopped in by Becca's Weaving yesterday, and as others have said, they are moving up the road to the old quilt shop (the current site of the 50th sweepstakes kiosks, and season pass sales-ornament pick-up) to become a part of the Half Dollar Hollar Construction.
http://www.bransonsilverdollarcity.com/rides-attractions/ride_detail.aspx?AttractionID=1419 (http://www.bransonsilverdollarcity.com/rides-attractions/ride_detail.aspx?AttractionID=1419)
It will allow for a much larger space with an area for classes and demonstrations for the existing store. Also the heat/ AC is better in there so that is a good thing for this time of year!
Quote from: rubedugans on December 28, 2010, 06:51:39 PM
It will allow for a much larger space with an area for classes and demonstrations for the existing store. Also the heat/ AC is better in there so that is a good thing for this time of year!
Sounds like a pretty good gig then, and it will hopefully work out well for them. :)
i'm sure it will work great for themk, and whatever they use the building for the kids will be very beneficial i am sure.
In the latest edition of the Times they fleshed out all the components of HDH. The area will include exactly:
- 4 treetop funhouses with climbing and sliding amenities
- Mini wave swings (One of the kiddie rides from CC?)
- Sand area
- Carousel
- Story telling theatre
It looks like the old Becca's Weaving location will be used for the story telling theatre. It does sound much more oriented to the very young than I had thought previously, not that that's a bad thing.
Meh, won't be long till we're drooling over the 2012 prospects.
the new times is out? great!
Well, shucks I haven't received a new Times yet. I don't suppose there in an online version anywhere? The details sounds perfect for families with little ones. However, I hope 2012 brings the action back to us older "kids" too. :)
"high energy play that little explorers love" sounds an awful lot like a "Tiny Tunes land" like Six Flags has in StL. PLaygrounds, attraction, concessions all geared towards the littluns.
I am interested to see how the Carousel will be back "in a new way" as all of the press says. Does that just mean it is in a new spot?
You bring up a good point Rube. In the artistic rendering, the carousal has a different look, and feel to it than original one. Perhaps it will receive a facelift to match the new area?
Speaking of the Carousal, as I recall, it has been in several different locations over the years.
Three locations I remember it being:
1: Middle of Tom Sawyers Landing (across from ball pit)
2: Moved to where the old petting zoo location was
3: One Christmas season, MANY years ago, it was on The Square
If anyone else has any other locations, please feel free to post
interesting that they have kept it through the years. and not sold/destroyed it.
If I am not mistaking, I believe the animals on the carousal were hand carved right there at Silver Dollar City. Besides the sentimental value, the ride still works great, so it definitely makes sense as to why they have held onto it after all of these years.
When it was unveiled in 1984 as Becky's Carousel, I thought that only the horses were carved in house.
Oh don't quote me about anything! I am by no means a Silver Dollar City historian. :-X I know parts of the carousal were made in house. That's about all I know. :)
Quote from: DollarCityBoy on January 08, 2011, 02:09:13 PM
Speaking of the Carousal, as I recall, it has been in several different locations over the years.
Three locations I remember it being:
1: Middle of Tom Sawyers Landing (across from ball pit)
2: Moved to where the old petting zoo location was
3: One Christmas season, MANY years ago, it was on The Square
If anyone else has any other locations, please feel free to post
When I was in sixth grade, it was i
nside the carousel barn, along with leather and wood crafts for kids to make.
Good point Stacey...I am sure someone has wondered why it was actually called the "Carousel Barn" though there was no carousel.
Yup, I do seem to remember the carousel debuted in 1984 inside the former Wagonworks Barn, I think known today at the carousel barn. I remember the paper crafts, and some other things for kids to do inside the barn, too. Yes, SDC craftsmen carved the horses and the SDC team put together most of the carousel.
Now the only question that remains is where did the Baloon Ride go?
Quote from: rubedugans on January 10, 2011, 08:45:04 AM
Now the only question that remains is where did the Baloon Ride go?
It floated away! :D
Okay, I digress. The Balloon Ride would make a great addition to the Grand Exposition!
^^That's a great question. The last we saw of it, it had been taken apart of pretty carefully and looked like it was in good shape (http://sdcfans.com/index.php?mod=photos&type=site&id=10)
However, I would have thought that it would come back this year if it was coming back ever, with the carousel coming back and it being a low-budget year. Still, I doubt they would sell it, so unless it's been scrapped it may just show up again during another low-budget year. Perhaps after 2012...
I was never a big fan of the baloons, the Grand exposition seems to be a great place for plastic manufactured rides with little to no theming. AGAIN, I think they should retheme it to a state fair, bring in competitions for jellies, jams, pies, hogs, cows, everything that made Fairs great. I hardly ever go over there, only go if I am searching for some Where in the city items honestly!
Could the balloons work again...at Half Dollar Holler?
With the current tree cover, and the "treehouse" theme, I doubt it.
You know... they could easily add some rides to the Grand Expo from CC and just not announce it.
^I don't think there's any way they would add rides and not announce it. The whole point of adding rides is to create a draw, and if they don't market their additions extensively they're pretty much just flushing money away.
I mean, look at how much effort they've gone to just to market a small carousel and tot play area. It only makes them money if people know about it and are made interested enough to come out.
It would be nice though. I'm pretty positive GE is going to be expanded soon after the 2012 addition (I'm still assuming 2012 is going to be a huge addition) with a new ride or two. We know the idea is already in place, as a Frisbee ride was proposed for the area behind the elephants for the 2007 season. Heck, I wonder if they're saving the KMG Fireball from CC for that area...
The draw of the Hollar is that it is a little kids play area. It is specifically for those up to age 7. AND one entry access so no one loses a child. AND it allows them to bring back a carousel, cause what kid dislikes a carousel?
Better than this, Could this area means that the overflowing colored sand pits will NOT be on the square during the kid's fest? This might be wishful thinking on my behalf....but I hope it is true. Now to only get rid of the basketballs.....
"""Creativity and imagination run wild as they dig, build and sculpt masterpieces at pint-sized sand tables."""
you may be right rube. sand boxes may be relocated...
and what about those basketballs????? LOL!!! ::) ::) ::)
I don't recall it being a "treehouse" theme; I'd have to go back to the website to see. GG is already called a treehouse, though it clearly is not. We don't need another ground level treehouse.
I hope the carousel does not now sport jungle animals. The art looks like the area is a jungle. I don't think it will be, but I always fear the worst, and then I can't be disappointed.
It is all going to be Tree Houses...
I wouldn't panic too much over the artist rendering alone. If you take a look back at the artist interpretations of Thunderation, Powderkeg, the Giant Swing, and Riverblast, you will find that none of them look exactly like their real life counterpart.
Good, cause I kept thinking of an Ewok village straight out of The Empire Strikes Back!
(http://i649.photobucket.com/albums/uu218/rubedugans/ewok_village_unused_matte.jpg)
Ha! Now that's funny. :D
dont think you need to worry about "jungle animals"..
I dont think it will be treehouse only.. the little ones would not be able to climb up to treehouse.
with the stree being up to 7 years of age........... guess we will see in about 65 days! ;D
I expect the tree houses to be on the order of the little tree house that was built by River Blast, though they'll probably be smaller with bridges connecting them.
As for the carousel, the concept art shows horses and a bear. The description says it will have "whimsical woodland creatures".
ptobably right about the houses//
but to me ""whimsical woodland creatures"".. sounds a little suspicous.. that could go about anywhere.
Lets see... what kind of ""whimsical woodland creatures"" did they have in the 1800'S????. LOL
Well let's not forget, the original coursal had horses, and bears. I am sure it's the same wooden ride animals.
I took a walk by the new dig today, just to see how it's going. The cold weather has kinda brought things to a halt for right now, but progress is being made. Some of the pictures show a steel structure...don't know what it's going to be though, I haven't investigated it that much.
From the street in front of Becca's-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/IMG00107-20110113-1510.jpg)
From the street in front of the Woodcarvers Shop-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/IMG00109-20110113-1511.jpg)
From the well beside the Woodcarvers Shop-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/IMG00110-20110113-1512.jpg)
From the end of the Swinging Bridge-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/IMG00111-20110113-1513.jpg)
From the end of the Swinging Bridge-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/IMG00112-20110113-1513.jpg)
Awesome, thanks so much Zephon!
It looks like they're really doing a good job of keeping trees and cover in place. It looks like they're building platforms that will connect the treehouses instead of paths on the ground. Looks neat already.
Wow, what a suprise! And just a short few weeks since the park closed. Thanks for the photos, please keep us updated as you have time!
great job! always nice to have a "inside" source!
Looks like they are not going to do any elevation changes! I was concerned about that part. I thought maybe they were going to "flatten" the area and then start!
Looks great! keep us updated if you can.
THANKS!!
That treehouse looks much larger than I was thinking they were going to be. I too, am glad to see the grade of the land not changing. Looks like a lot of usable space under that platform could be used as well.
Thanks for the insider photos Zephon!
I would think there is a lot of rain/runoff on that hillside. There is often standing water in parts of the area. Elevated paths/bridges might be necessary.
So everything I have read it sayd for children up to 7.. So are they going to check ages at the gate? I am certain that if my 8 year old can't go in there my 6 year old will not want to either.
I think that's just the recommendation for the appeal of the attractions.
yes okls, i am sure that is just there description... no way they would keep 8 or even 9 year olds out of area. I am sure they will be concerned with the "size" of the kids, rather than age/. ;D
I'm hoping you're right History Buff. I personally, am looking forward to riding the Carousal! :)
Has anybody taken any updated pictures in the last couple of days of the new Half-Dollar Hollar? Just curious to see if there has been any progress since the last posting of pictures.
^^The little ones can't ride the carousel without an adult anyway. I do hope they enforce some rules with any rowdies that might enter the area.
I would like to think that there will be citizens in the area helping the little ones..
One thing I always missed on the SDC carousel was the lack of a Brass Ring. I know it would lead to kids possibly falling off of horses, but it was something now, looking back to 20-30 yrs ago, I am suprised they did not have. It would have added a whole other aspect, that would be period specific to the ride.
The brass ring would be fun. Most folks today probably would not know about a brass ring, though.
I am guessing none would know what it is to be honest. I know of 4-5 antique carousels here in StL and no brass rings.
You're right so far. I have no idea what it is.
If you were on the outside horses you would lean out and try to pull a brass ring as you went by.
i wanted to guess that, but thought taht was too obvious ;D
Correct gentlemen, There would be a dispenser that had brass rings, if you could "grad the brass ring" on your pass by, one of 2 things could happen. You would receive a prize (usually a free ride) or there would be some sort of target/ game to throw the rings, which would also result in some sort of prize.
Here is a YouTube video showing a carousel with the rings.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBlCwGOCuX4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBlCwGOCuX4)
We all know about Half Dollar Holler going in this winter. Have any of the current "citizens" heard or seen anything else going on at the park over winter? Anything getting touched up, remodeled, fixed or fancied up? Winter is when the sparkle and shine gets added to SDC, so things are all ready to go again in mid-March. Zephon, Copper, Steamfreak, Doc Speleo, Mr. HeHaw, and others...I'm talkin' to you! Whattttttts up?
I know the Hospitality House is getting a remodel, the floor is being torn up and replaced, new lighting and other things.
Not only that, Copper, but I heard that some of the PTB want to get rid of the murals. Talk about causing an uproar if that happens! Let's pray that it doesn't.
No Way! That is the most ridiculous thing I have heard in a long time. I hope you are wrong.
I would just be happy if this remodel helps the HH become less of a bottle neck during the mass exodous at the end of the night.
The powers that be best keep their hands off! Good thing I took photos of that too just in case.
dont see how they could help traffic flow, without MAJOR rebuilding.. that walkway is only so big..
If the powers that be at SDC read this...DON'T GET RID OF THE MURALS IN THE HOSPITALITY HOUSE! PLEASE! PLEASE! PLEASE! :o :o :o :o :o
In all honesty, If the cave tour had it's own seperate entrance building just off the square instead of in the Hospitality House itself, that would free up a lot of space and would help with the traffic.
let me help! SAVE THE MURALS!! SAVE THE MURALS! SAVE THE MURALS!!
I think HH just needs demolished and rebuilt; the park has outgrown the building. The aisles are small, the registers are hidden and the ceilings are too low. A building should be conducive for what it is intended for, that building was built as a cave waiting area. It was not intended for 2million people to travel through it in a year. The entrances to the building need more space, a lot more space!
I would love the Cave to have its own entrance and not have to deal with the HH! The murals can't go, they are a major part of SDC history. Are they replacing them with cheap t-shirts or some other cheapo thing merchandise has come up with? It wouldn't surprise me, sad to say.
It surprised me, Copper, to read your above post! The HH is an old, old building, to be sure, but I always thought it served well. Think about it...cave tour area, a couple of gift shops, a concession, rest rooms, plus, hidden behind the scenes...office space and storage space. Anyway, I see what you mean, but I hope they keep it...and preserve those murals!
Those murals would look great in my entryway!
you mean you havent taken pictures, printed them up and have them hanging already? ??? ???
LOL>>>>
It would be pretty good for the cave to have it's own entrance and not have to deal with the HH. The entrances or exits to the HH (whatever their being used for at the time) could be quite a bit wider. The main problem I've noticed is entering and exiting at the same time during Old Time Christmas. Going thru the Marketplace isn't much better. It would be nice to have one entrance into the city and one exit, with the exit going directly to the parking lot. But I don't believe this would ever happen because they want people to walk past that last bit of merchandise to get that last sell. That being said I sure hope they never demolish the HH.
My thoughtsa are they would need to incorporate it into a new design, with the cave leaving on one side of the building, and returning on the other...the lower level-cave train exit would need to somehow lead up to the city again. Not that that is a big issue, they have done much more than that before, but I would think that it (the HH) would be adapted/ changed to warrant itself better to the flow of the modern vacation traffic (not that of the 1960's).
I hope they leave the HH just as it is...yeah, maybe it get's crowded but isn't that part of the "aura" of SDC...Maybe as I'm walking through the crowd I'll run into one of you...Why is everybody so into changing the traditions and makeup of SDC...I read these posts and on the one hand, many are upset because a lot of the traditions and what SDC used to be are being changed...On the other, there are many of the same people posting wanted changes that would do the very thing they've blogged about before...Not trying to be critical, but I hate to see SDC become just another amusement park...I'm all for adding a ride here or there that' themed appropriately and does not intefere with current "history" of the park and I look forward to what construction will happen next as long as it does not require changing "Who SDC is." Some things, however, need to be left alone... :) :)
HH could be razed and I would not feel any remorse or pain. It just does not work with the current attendance figures of SDC - especially during OTC.
NOW if FitH, G'sM, or FM were to leave I'd call foul big time.
HH on the other hand has no connection with me other than being a pain to navigate at the end of the day.
===
As far as cave emptying out where it started, that would just involve rerouting the route back to the other side of the building. Would not be that difficult. I sure would like a building specific to the cave for an entrance that is not connected to the HH.
Also I would love to see the small snack shop in the HH be removed to open up more room. There are plenty of options nearby out in the City that there is no need to take up that space with another. If need be they could build another stand out there to accomidate the loss of this one. That alone would help with the flow of traffic.
I always saw the building almost as an anachronism-something out of place with the era- but I also saw it as a gateway to the city. I have never felt like it was part of the whole. I understand that at some point, you have to change from 2011-1880, and that happens when leaving the HH and moving into the City, and then upon leaving, you once again cross a line and are out of 1880. (Just like in Field of Dreams, there is a line that is crossed, and the change is immediate) Regardless of the bakery, and parts of the OM, in my mind I am no longer in the City when I enter the HH upon exiting the park. I think like the other structures that have been built in the park, the building can be constructed to make you feel like a part of the era immediately upon going through the turnstyles.
I myself hate to see SDC ever change and wish every stick and stone would stay the same every time I visit. But in reality I know changes have to be made for the survival of SDC and benefit to it's visitors. If you just look at the parking situation over the years, it tells quite a story. It started with maybe a 10 car parking area across highway 76. Moved to what is the square now and then evolved into what it is today. That has been quite a change over the years and probably not everyone liked it, but it was a necessary one. This is kind of how I look at the HH. If changes are going to be made this off season, and it sounds like they are from the reports of the citizens. We might as well throw our two cents worth in, they might just listen. What's the old saying "If you can't beat them, join them".
I've never felt that HH was really a part of the city. It acts more like the final portal from the real world to SDC, and it doesn't even do a very good job at that. Other than the murals, there's absolutely no aspect of the building that adds value to the park. It's just plain bland and cramped overall, I know SDC can do better.
However, it's not the type of thing I see them really spending money on to rebuild anytime soon. If they had the resources, I'd love to see the outer gates and OM be transformed into a kind of vintage train station sort of thing, as if guests were truly arriving in a different era. Where HH is now I would have separate buildings on either side of the pathway with a huge ornamental arch/breezeway of some kind.
I don't see why they'd want to get rid of the murals though. They must be in bad shape or something. I admit I haven't even looked at them in a long time.
Yep, HH is too cramped. I too have no problem with razing or drastically changing it to make it more accommodating.
I've always had a bittersweet relationship with HH. I love looking at all the merchandise but it's a signal that my time at the city is about to end and won't come again for another year. Really, I'm more attached to the stuff in HH, not HH itself. I'm with Swoosh. HH is not something that has the quintessential SDC quality like the attractions inside the city.
SDC updated their Faceboook page with several photos from the carousel restoration:
SDC Facebook Page (http://www.facebook.com/Silverdollarcity)
(http://i649.photobucket.com/albums/uu218/rubedugans/carousel2.jpg)
(http://i649.photobucket.com/albums/uu218/rubedugans/carousel4.jpg)
(http://i649.photobucket.com/albums/uu218/rubedugans/carousel3.jpg)
(http://i649.photobucket.com/albums/uu218/rubedugans/carousel1.jpg)
Quote from: Swoosh on January 26, 2011, 08:51:49 PM
Also I would love to see the small snack shop in the HH be removed to open up more room. There are plenty of options nearby out in the City that there is no need to take up that space with another. If need be they could build another stand out there to accomidate the loss of this one. That alone would help with the flow of traffic.
That is a great idea. I don't think it really gets a lot of business anyway.
SWOOSH, they are removing the Refreshment Stand, very happy about that!
I forgot I took these photos of the Carousel when they first got it out of "storage" early summer of last year. Here they are...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/53826242@N00/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53826242@N00/)
great! NO LOSS there.
Two weeks after the first set, an update on Half Dollar Holler--
From the end of the swinging bridge-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/IMG00113-20110127-1225.jpg)
Also from the end of the swinging bridge-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/IMG00114-20110127-1226.jpg)
From a bit closer to the Depot-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/IMG00115-20110127-1226.jpg)
From yet closer to the Depot-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/IMG00116-20110127-1227.jpg)
From right across from the Depot-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/IMG00117-20110127-1227.jpg)
From the corner of Becca's house-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/IMG00118-20110127-1228.jpg)
And for an added bonus...work on the top of the American Plunge-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/IMG00119-20110127-1232.jpg)
#1 SDC is NOT a winter park, it is amazing just what the trees plants and leaves do for the place.
Its not great looking in its present shape.
#2
It looks like they are prepping for the carousel by leveling a round area.
How close is this to the Old Taffy shop?
Awesome! Thanks so much for the continued updates guys.
The area looks great. It's looking bigger and better than I had imagined already. I can tell they'll have trees going through the structures again in a few places. These will actually be authentic tree houses for once... sort of. Are the carousel animals still the original woodcut versions? They look fiberglassy in the photos.
Thanks for the photos, Zephon! AP shack on top of the drop looks good, too.
great pics, thanks.. we all thought the area was going to get "close" to the bridge... Looks like REAL close....
THANKS FOR THE UPDATE!! keep em coming..
They look like the originals to me. They say they are being "restored". We can be thankful for that.
These pictures don't look anything like the concept art yet.
Quote from: Copper on January 27, 2011, 06:03:11 PM
SWOOSH, they are removing the Refreshment Stand, very happy about that!
Well, I'll be... color me psychic. ;D
Quote from: History Buff on January 28, 2011, 11:23:03 PM
These pictures don't look anything like the concept art yet.
I know we're a long way from the finished project but I am not impressed with it so far -- I really don't like how close it is to the Swinging Bridge. I'm not really sure why this once rather tranquil area was deemed to be "the perfect spot" for this expansion.
Is it just me or does the pic of the AP, looking all wooden and plain, look like a kids playhouse with a long slide to get down from it?! :-\ ??? Without summer or fall colors and no water rushing through it, it looks really bland.
The story line is something like this... The City of Silver Dollar asked their friend S. Fred Prince to design a hamlet for them. S. Fred Prince was all about nature so he created a place nestled amongst his favorite muse and each piece was designed to blend with nature. S. Fred Prince was a real life man who was great friends with the Lynch family and he was the first person to map Marvel Cave. The large painting of Marvel Cave that hangs at the entrance of the cave was done by him. His favorite medium was watercolor and he created a book on Marvel Cave filled with descriptions and paintings done by him. His descriptions of the cave are amazing and extremely interesting to read. He also wrote books on the Ozarks Wildflowers and Flora and Fauna. If you have taken the Lantern Tour you may have heard stories of Mr. Prince. Now Half Dollar Holler is designed to resemble Prince's watercolors.
Yes, those are the original animals of the Carousel; they have just been freshly painted.
Copper, we'd love to see some of the artwork of Prince, and an example of what his book on the cave looked like. Anything in the company archive that could be posted here?
the rebuilt carousel will be great.. guess as the project progresses we will it will come into perspective.
I asked SDC via facebook to post a more accurate drawing/rendering for our viewing pleasure.. we'll see what happens!
Too close to the bridge! Too close to the bridge! Too close to the bridge!
I'm glad I took several pictures, last Spring, of the Dogwoods blooming between the bridge & mill, knowing this area was going to be "cultivated"...
For those of you who care the murals in the Hospitality House are still up and the walls are painted. I hope this means they are staying!
whew!!! that was close ::) ::)
If they paint over those murals they WILL hear from me next time I visit.
Quote from: Junior on January 29, 2011, 09:01:34 PM
If they paint over those murals they WILL hear from me next time I visit.
and the PTB won't care.
I would predict the murals have a significant monetary value.
hopefully they (PTB) monitor this site and pay a "little" attention to our "opinions"... ;D ;D
Maybe not the actual "PTB" but there are people from HFEC/SDC that monitor this and other sites.
thats good, as long as somebody is watching and listening.. ;D
Quote from: tinmann620 on January 29, 2011, 08:47:50 AM
Too close to the bridge! Too close to the bridge! Too close to the bridge!
I'm glad I took several pictures, last Spring, of the Dogwoods blooming between the bridge & mill, knowing this area was going to be "cultivated"...
While it may seem too close to the bridge, at least the bridge wasn't taken down...That would have been a tragedy...Just trying to focus on the positive I guess....
;D ;D
The concept art doesn't look a thing like the area that was chosen for this project. Here are some random thoughts:
There's no bridge at all in the artwork, plus all the little huts/treehouses all appear to be sitting on large tree stumps, but the photos make it look like it's going to be a collection of stilt houses.
I hope the yellow plastic-looking slide is made to appear more themed than it does in the art.
I wonder what the purpose of the mailbox is. Is it a talking mailbox? Is it interactive at all?
This really doesn't look like a million dollar idea yet. I wonder where the great expense is in this project.
Publicity!
This thing has only been under construction for a few weeks now, so there's a lot to be done before anyone can really pass judgment on it, IMO. Right now it's just a bunch of sticks in the ground.
I think the concept art was more concept than anything. This looks like it will be a whole lot bigger and better than the little that was shown there. Considering the very young target age group, there's not going to be much more to it than stilted playhouses connected by ramps, but I expect the finished project will be fun to look at, at least.
I have seen the fake tree pieces that the tree houses will be sitting on, so it won't just be stilts. I will look for some photos that S. Fred Prince did Junior!
OK Copper, thanks!
i was hoping that the PTB would cover up the stilts somehow.. ;D
I hope they look very realistic.
Didn't want to make a whole new topic for this, but Google Maps' images for SDC have been updated, and you can clearly see the carousel in the storage area. Looks like there are some other old ride parts scattered around - can anyone identify anything?
http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&ll=36.669185,-93.339302&spn=0.001962,0.007328&t=h&z=18
nice catch steve, i wish the google "live" was just that, "live: !.. last time i checked was at christmas time and the picture was 5 years old and a summer picture.
Nice big open plot of land there where Waterboggan used to be.... just sayin' (looking at that Google Map)
yes there is.. and as i look at the map, laughing at myself.. it still is not very recent.. NO SNOW!!
the RB is quite easy to spot. Looks much larger in picture than it is.
Hey, hey, hey, I got some pics today! There aren't as many because I composited them together to give a better overall view. As you can see, a lot of progress has been made in spite of the lost time due to snow.
This is from the south end of the Swinging Bridge-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH1.jpg)
This is from the north end of the Swinging Bridge-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH2.jpg)
And this is from beside Becca's-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH3.jpg)
For a bonus, here is a picture of a new food stand going in beside the entrance to the Lumbercamp. Not sure what it's gonna be...another skillet perhaps?
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/IMG00150-20110214-1227.jpg)
I've just been using my cell phone to take these pictures...maybe someday I'll remember to take my camera and get some better ones.
Sweet, the 'tree houses' look huge and the theming is looking great already.
Looks like they're really torn up the area around the new food stand. I hope the plans call for dramatic adjustments to traffic flow through the area.
well they are sure putting in a lot of wood! looks awfully "busy".. be interetsing to see the final project in 30 days!
Agreed on both accounts. The first thing I noticed was the "busy-ness" of HDH - again, it does not resemble the concept art at all.
And then, why all the torn up area at the LC? They must have had to tear into the blacktop to put in plumbing or electricity for that little stand. It's a weird location for another snack stand though - already in a congested area. I wonder if another little stand is being moved into a new location - mayhaps an extension of the potato and skillet place that's at the corner there.
I hope this is to replace the temporary stand that was over by the entrance to the queue of the Saloon -- moving that out will free a heck-ton of space to relieve congestion.
I agree... it's not a good location for a new food stand...as you say, already congested. But, I guess the people who make such decisions don't get out there much to realize that. I believe all that asphalt is torn up because they had a water line break in that area a week or so ago. Don't quote me though.
Now I'm actually interested to see if they replace the pavement with blacktop or stamped concrete.
Guys this is replacing an ODV cart that was there. This is a 1-for-1 switch out.
Thanks for the update and new photos! Opening day is just a few weeks away...Hoorrayyyyy!
agreed.. does look like they are simply repalcing old with new and probably bigger..
i am sure they will do the asphalt back to keep consisitent with the rest of the area.
If this has been asked before, forgive me, but do they really not care that you're taking these pics and posting them? As much as we all enjoy seeing them I have to wonder if some of the higher ups would frown on sharing the construction photos and such before the general public is allowed to see the completed project.
I would think the PTB would not care for some updates to the public..
Its a great way to keep the public up to date and the SDC doesnt have to do anything.!
If you think about sneak peaks is a great marketing tool!!
I hope so because I really love seeing them! Pics of the park when it's closed isn't something everyone gets to see and I really appreciate them being shared here.
Quote from: thelarsonsix on February 15, 2011, 06:33:15 PM
If this has been asked before, forgive me, but do they really not care that you're taking these pics and posting them?
SOP from the PTB is that off-season photos must not contain workers and if they do, those workers better be practicing safe worksite practices (ie. proper headware, ropes, etc). This is more of a OSHA thing than a GP thing.
Photos during the off season of current and upcoming projects only perks interest in the upcoming season, and any publicity (especially free) is good from the marketing stand point.
I'm glad somebody agrees with me. Although i had not really thought about people being in the photos..
I'd wondered about the PTB as well...glad there is no harm in posting the shots.
Silver Dollar City just tweeted this video intro to Half Dollar Holler http://social.silverdollarcity.com/EGv (http://social.silverdollarcity.com/EGv)
I envision there being some adventurous little toots who try to climb from a tree house to the swinging bridge.
decent short video. i like the additional picture of the steps on the 1 tree house.. Great idea using u-tube.. Lets see if they post another update in a week or so. sounds like the workers are hard at it in the background!. Looks like lots to do in the next 4 weeks!
The do have a lot of work with only a month left to finish. Makes me wonder if they will still be putting finishing touches on after the opening.
Good to see Genesis Estes is in charge of the project. For those who do not know she was in charge of both the Wilson Farm area at SDC as well as the Mystery Mine area at DW during design and construction -- we're in good hands with her, it will turn out amazing -- not to mention she is an amazing person to talk to if you get the chance.
thats great! I'm glad they have a person with knowledge overseeing the project.
FYI: This is the same Genesis that the cow in Wilson's Farm is named after. ;D
now thats " verry interstinnnggg" LOL
She was also one of the creative directors for the Culinary & Craft School
All nice add-ons for her. Indicates that she knows what she's doing!
I'm anxious to see what this "net maze" that she mentioned will actually end up looking like. Obviously, it won't be anything like the nets we all experienced growing up in Tom Sawyers Landing, but maybe it will be lower to the ground and on a much smaller scale?
Here's Part II of the Half Dollar Holler intro: http://social.silverdollarcity.com/3hF (http://social.silverdollarcity.com/3hF)
Not a lot of info in this video.. But hopefully they will do a new video every week OR MORE, until opening,..!
Thanks for the updates on the winter contruction. :)
;D
I know I'm being impatient and we just had some updated pictures on the HDH, but anything new in the last couple of days? I didn't know if somebody had some updated pictures of the new food booth and updating on the HH....
Thanks to those of you who have been so great about giving the updates you get when you get them...
Here's another tweeted video featuring some of the amenities of HDH: http://social.silverdollarcity.com/yWN (http://social.silverdollarcity.com/yWN)
just watched it, once again, not much info. And it looks like that video was taken befroe the other 2 last week.
If I was three inches shorter, I'd be allowed in the treehouses! LOL
sorry, but that would tooo funny!! ;D
you did bring it up ;)
The new food stand will be Chester's Kettle Chips. I asked them on twitter and got an answer right away.
good for you!! that sounds good right now!! More info is always good!
I've got ten new pictures taken today. I'll try to get over there about once a week, but sometimes I just get too busy with my own work. Anyway, once again, they show good progress.
This is a new structure that I hadn't seen before. Taken from the Swinging Bridge, you see the back of Becca's so that gives an idea of where it is.
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH4.jpg)
These next two are of the little children's ampitheater where I'm told there will be a storyteller. I wonder if it will be Judy? They will access it by walking under the Swinging Bridge.
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH5.jpg)
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH6.jpg)
Still from the Swinging Bridge, the structure on the right is where the netted climbing alleys will be.
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH7.jpg)
Another view of that same structure but from the Woodcarvers side.
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH8.jpg)
Here we see how they're making use of the prefabricated tree trunks that laid in the M&C lot for so long.
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH9.jpg)
From the corner of Becca's house. The painters have been busy.
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH10.jpg)
They are working on the Carousel, and coming right along. You can see the Depot in the background. I was on a little crew that put the Carousel together when SDC first acquired it. We put it in...of all places...the Carousel Barn, and all we had to work with, as far as figuring out how it went together, were a half dozen or so Polaroid pictures...no blueprint. It was a challenge but we got 'er done.
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH11.jpg)
A view from the street in front of it.
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH12.jpg)
And one from the south end of the Depot.
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH13.jpg)
GREAT PICS!!! AGAIN!! THANKS!
They are realing coming along, the treehouses appear bigger than i expected. And they look good.!
I think it is interesting that they decided to put the carasoul out front in the main area. Rather than back in a corner.
So am i to understand the kids will enter from the street area and if they go to the "storyteller", they will go under the bridge and the area is on the "east" side of bridge? Or shall we say the opposite side of the bridge than the treehouses?
Also any word on what beccas building going to be used for?
This is lots more progress than the videos have indicated. What is the big round thing in the middle of the storyteller area? Surely not a fountain - you'd never get a story told. That area looks a little like Ariel's (the mermaid) Grotto or something - not sure it really fits with the rest of the area, but time will tell. The rest of the area looks like it fits well with RB, down the street, and with the faux tree trunks, this looks like a treehouse - unlike GG.
Looking at the pictures again, I'm doubtful that's the storytelling area. I think it's strictly a water feature - where kids can just get get wet.
HB, I don't think the round thing is going to be a fountain but maybe it will be...or maybe it's a raised dias for the storyteller. I'll ask. But, we've been told it will be a storytelling arena.
Yes SDR, it is on the east side of the Swinging Bridge, between it and the truss bridge between Brown's Candy and the Glassblowing shop...you can even see under the truss bridge in the second picture. As I was taking those pictures they were getting ready to set some trees around the upper rim of the taller section of the wall. I've not heard anything about Becca's.
Has this project grown larger than the $1 Million they stated? Seems to me it is a tad bigger than what they originally announced.
Wow, this is going so quickly, and it looks sharp! Way better than I was expecting already.
If you hadn't have said that hill cutout was for the amphitheater I would have assumed it was the base for the kiddie swing ride. Is that still a part of all this? I was sure they mentioned it in one of the videos, but it's hardly been talked about.
I was wondering about that myself. The original plans mentioned a kiddie wave swinger but that has not been talked about much lately.
Project does look much larger than we expected, I did not expect the house to be as "massive" as they appear!
As far as the storytelling area, Looks like they are getting ready to pour a concret floor/base. I would speculate the middle area will be a bench/platform area. My guess..??
I agree everything looks like it belongs, but no surprise there. HFEC is not going to spend money on a project like that and not "make" it fit.
With this group of picutres, I can say I am impressed with the addition. Obviously they are wanting room for LOTS of kids!
Zephon, Thanks again for the update, The great pics, and all the details..
I don't know if the precast tree pieces for the base of the structures is fiberglass, concrete, or wood...but they do look good. Nice theming! Thanks for the photos Zephon, and for keeping us all updated on the winter construction.
The tree bases (or stumps) look VERY good! I am so glad to see that the area does not look "cartoonish" / fake. The paint scheme looks wonderful as well. IMHO, I really like the placement of the Carousel; it will look and sound great as you are coming around that courner. I had said much earlier in this thread (when we were all looking at the orange flags) that I thought there would be something on the other side of the swinging bridge. The swinging bridge will have an entire new feel to it, as we will be walking/swinging over children as they pass to the storytime area. :-\
yes, that will be an all new view/expierence walking over the swinging bridge now.
Looking forward to it.
I'll admit it does look great and is probably going to be great for the kids, but I sure will miss the peacefulness of the area. It sure looks like there is going to be a lot of commotion and was wondering how this might effect the storytelling in this area. It might be a little hard for the kids to pay attention.
yes, pintrader. that quiet area is going to be very "busy" now..
Also this just posted on facebook.. scale models of the treehouses. not much info again, but something to look at.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aucopqPDyFo
The Swinging Bridge is one of the few places in the park where you can just enjoy the scenery and feel completely surrounded by the Ozarks. The cave and on the way to the top of a coaster are the only other peaceful places I can think of in the city. However, I think this area is much needed. Geyser Gulch is great but it has some undesirable aspects. Not everyone wants to get wet and I would probably be a nervous wreck sending my younger kids loose in Geyser Gulch because there are a lot of older kids that enjoy that area. Plus, there's not a lot of shade over there so parents who want to watch their kids while they play would get hot. I was absolutely in love with Tom Sawyer's Landing as a kid so I hope HDH brings some of that back to the city. I think it will. I love how it's enveloped in the trees. Can't wait to see it!
Ooooookay...I asked about the circular thing in the middle of the amphitheater and as it turns out, I was given some wrong information the other day. I passed it along to you all...my apologies.
Shavethewhales and Swoosh, you are right. That area in the 2nd and 3rd pictures is going to be the Kiddie Swing ride, and the circular thing is where it's base will mount. Now, I was told two different things about the Kiddie Swing...it's coming from CC, and it's not coming from CC...so who knows. The picture shows them laying the rebar, well they poured the concrete today.
There will indeed be a storyteller in the area, but I don't know exactly where. I will miss the peacefulness of that area as well.
Junior, I picked up a chunk of the tree trunk that had been tossed. It looks to be some kind of composite shell...doesn't look like fiberglass or plastic. And then the back has been shot with a small amount of styrofoam. It's real light. Got a couple of pictures of the piece.
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/Trunk1.jpg)
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/Trunk2.jpg)
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/Trunk3.jpg)
zephon, mor good info thanks.. at least that clears up those questions.
I wondered all along if the storyteller would be in beccas. Along with refreshments/goodies for the kids.?
I hope they will theme the swings well - especially if it is from CC - and don't allow it to look too "carnivally". The look of that one item does not really seem to fit with the rest of HDH yet.
Seeing the size of HDH, is it time to talk about the ultimate demise of GG?
Quote from: History Buff on February 23, 2011, 05:10:20 PM
Seeing the size of HDH, is it time to talk about the ultimate demise of GG?
;) Nah. Let's just talk about HDH for now.
I can dream, can't I?
I asked on twitter if there are any plans for the waterboggon tower and was told this: "There are not any plans for the Waterboggan Tower in 2011, and nothing firm beyond that".
Translation: there will not be an addition for 2011 using the tower. They have yet to decide if they will incorporate the tower into the design for the 2012 attraction.
Translation: It's there to hold up the Christmas lights.
exactly. ;D
I am surprised how fast "they" seem to answer twitter questions..?? ::)
New pics on facebook today.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?fbid=10150140407862603&id=7656242602&aid=328574
and FB says that the area that was guessed to be for the story teller is for the swings :)
Wow. Those are some old photos
yes i saw the photos were outdated, but they were a different view. And pretty good pics of the treehouses.
And Zephon did verify the other day that round area is for the swings..
The round area past the swinging bridge is for the small swing and yes it is getting a make over to blend in with the rest of the area. The story teller area will be in the center of the place. Also the old taffy cabin is going to be like a Build a Bear and you can make the different animals that are represented in the area (not a actual build a bear, but like it).
I like the build a bear idea. Thats crafty and kind of more inline with SDC.
well beccas is plenty big for that. Sure will be interesting in 3 weeks to see how it all turns out!
Has it been determined that Becca's is completely gone, or is it moving to a different location?
yes history, it is/was in the plans..
beccas was moving up the street to vacant building where we bought passes and picked up the x-mas ornaments.
then the "old" beccas is to used for something related to HDH.
I got my SDC times today and squealed and commenced to reading it right then let my husband read it and he exclaims (yes exclaims) you didnt tell me they had a new area built! When did they do this and will it be open when we go!?!? Lord child I have only been talking about it nonstop giving you blow by blow updates from you tube AND built a shrine on our bedroom wall commemorating SDC and its glorious bounty for how long??..........what is it with men and not wearing their ears???
We learned it from the women folks!!!
AND I have not received my times yet!!!!!
Do all passholder's receive a Times? We got our passes for $50 each while in the park so we did not receive Bring a Friends.
It gets sent to the female of the house if there are multiple AP holders.
If you are a single male living alone chances are you will not get one.
Quote from: Swoosh on February 25, 2011, 05:59:35 PM
It gets sent to the female of the house if there are multiple AP holders.
If you are a single male living alone chances are you will not get one.
That's not always the case unless it's changed this year. The last one we got (xmas '10) was in my wife's name, (xmas '09) was in mine.
last year I bought a pass, and we did an upgrade for the wife.... and the times came in her name? figure that one out!
I am a single guy and have always gotten one.
Now as a little switch I have always bought a pass for a friend of mine to go with, maybe that makes a difference.
If you don't get the paper just call them, they will always send one out to you.
I've bought 6 passes a year for the last 3 years. You would think I could at least get one copy of each issue of the Times.
And then last year, about a week after we all started receiving the times in the mail. The times was on the SDC website for all to see. I just checked and the times still is not on the site yet.
I have been expecting to see another video of HDH. I got the impression that those were going to continue to be rolled out until opening day.
We won't be there until April 22, so I am going to rely on pictures from you opening day!
Any new pics yet?!?!?
Yeah! For all of us that cant get there on opening day or week, those cameras better be snappin' and pictures bein' posted! We are relying on those getting the jump to give us our fix in any way we can get it! :'( :P :o
Can I get an Amen from my fellow SDCers who have to live through those that get to go?!
SDC's facebook has a new photo of part of the Lil' Swings. They look good in the new paint scheme.
There's also a new video. Looks like the tree houses are just about finished, but the rides and the walkways still have a ways to go.
Seems like they're kind of cutting it short on the carousel. Only a couple of weeks to get the rest of it installed and build the themed pavilion that will go over it.
new video just posted on FB/youtube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxfijUfXIOY&feature=player_embedded
HDH is looking good...Hopefully even though it's geared towards kids 3-7, us older kids can enjoy it too...I want to play in the area with my 3 yr old son...Actually, I just want to play...Always a kid at heart, guess that's why I'm a principal at a K-2 school :)
If not...guess I'll have to go and have some littlun's so I can experience the treehouse huh? Expensive, but it could work...
not much info/pictures this time again.
some fresh paint and they are gaining on the carasoul..
Less than 2 weeks to go! Will be interesting to see the final product!
It shouldn't take long to get the carousel installed. I'm sure it's not much more than sticking tab A into slot B. Most of it will be prefab.
Who isn't pleased that they've renamed it Hugo and Mary's Carousel? Is there an old H & M carousel story to go along with it? Did Hugo purchase the ride with Mary in mind? Did they like to ride the carousel after hours in a romantic moment? Why the carousel and not some other feature of the park?
Quote from: History Buff on March 04, 2011, 05:20:51 PM
It shouldn't take long to get the carousel installed. I'm sure it's not much more than sticking tab A into slot B. Most of it will be prefab.
Who isn't pleased that they've renamed it Hugo and Mary's Carousel? Is there an old H & M carousel story to go along with it? Did Hugo purchase the ride with Mary in mind? Did they like to ride the carousel after hours in a romantic moment? Why the carousel and not some other feature of the park?
I was wondering that myself. I think it's great that they re-named it Hugo & Mary's; for whatever reason it's a good one & very sentimental.
I think it is a great idea. Glad to see it, probably past due for a "namesake" for the founders
there appears to be new pictures of HDH on the SDC facebook page.
I dont know how long they have been there, But better pics than the video.
HDH update.
video does not look "new" If it is they have a lot of work to do in the next 6 days.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsnFwgpAYm0&feature=player_embedded
If you slow down that vid you can really see how it did take away the open space under the bridge, the building are really close to the old taffy shop as well.
I am sure it looks great and I guess that part of the park could use a little lift but I hate to see the openness and quiet of the area under the bridge go away. I will try to withold judgement till next Sunday when I see it for myself.
The video is pretty old. The concrete pad that was just poured for the Lil' Swings in the video was already in use with the central ride frame in place on it by last Friday. I expect that ride is already done and testing now.
I think your right to shave.. When she finished talking she says it will be ready in "march". so i am gueesing it was done couple of weeks ago.. If they had recorded it this month i am sure she would have used different terminology..
Your right too mhguy, looks like they have eliminated alot of the "quiet area" that was there, and really made the SB so special.
Like you though I am trying to wait and pass judgement after i see HDH next sunday.
Since I can't make it over Spring Break is there any of you who would be willing to take pictures and post them??? I'd like to see the new food stand by the Lumberjack as well...Thanks
Josh, it looks like there are a few of us going between the 17 and sunday the 20th. I am sure you will get some pics. I will for sure take some.
I will also being be checking for progress at WW also..
Thanks.... ;D
We will be there the 17-20. I'm sure we will be getting lots of pics of HDH as I'm sure my 2 & 4 year old boys will be spending lots of time in there!
Any other specific pics you want, let me know and I'll do my best. My hubby is a photographer and I'm sure he will be doing a couple photo walks.
I'll be there the 19th but will be unable to meet up as I have a group that I am escourting around the park.
While short, this video seems to give the latest update on HDH that I can find....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqOok3gAwrU
It's looking good. Cannot wait to check the new area out myself next weekend.
Great video! Treehouses look good, the whole are looks like is coming together. Glad to a video with some current pics. Get to see it next sunday.. !
Can't wait to check this out in about a week and a half! My 18 month old should enjoy it. :)
something that has not been mentioned for HDH, is the original "ads" stated something about sandboxes.? have not seen any mention of that.. Hopefully they just have not mentioned them...
I am hoping the sandboxes in HDH will replace the sandboxes on the main square during kidsfest....
Definately!
I had the pleasure of touring the city, today, major improvements/construction going on all over the place, from new roofs, floors, fences, etc... and I took over a 100 pics :D Having Wildfire, PK, & Thunderation going was an added bonus ;D
Pics?? did somebody say Pics? where? come on!? quit teasing! show us some of what you got.!
PICS? Pics...I heard pics! I absolutely heard pics! C'mon, tinmann, pony up them shots....*shudders*.....*shakes*....I....I need my fix!
Quote from: sanddunerider on March 12, 2011, 12:12:34 PM
something that has not been mentioned for HDH, is the original "ads" stated something about sandboxes.? have not seen any mention of that.. Hopefully they just have not mentioned them...
I am hoping the sandboxes in HDH will replace the sandboxes on the main square during kidsfest....
Genesis mentioned them in a recent video which also showed where the Story Book theatre was going to be. She was on the SB.
COME ON tinman!! you started it! show us a little!! or a lot? LOL
Quote from: sanddunerider on March 12, 2011, 12:12:34 PM
something that has not been mentioned for HDH, is the original "ads" stated something about sandboxes.? have not seen any mention of that.. Hopefully they just have not mentioned them...
I am hoping the sandboxes in HDH will replace the sandboxes on the main square during kidsfest....
Your right Sanddunerider, it would be pretty good for the sandboxes in HDH to replace the ones on the square. The square is crowded enough without putting a tent and sandboxes in the middle of the walkways. I guess it would be set up the same as Kidsfest, which worked out pretty well. But on the other hand I could see a supervision nightmare with kids throwing sand (hair, eyes, mess). Maybe some of the teachers on here would like a part time summer job ;).
QuoteMaybe some of the teachers on here would like a part time summer job.
Make that a big "no" for me. :P
Quote from: History Buff on March 13, 2011, 02:01:44 PM
QuoteMaybe some of the teachers on here would like a part time summer job.
Make that a big "no" for me. :P
Same here...no, no, no......
LOL! i am sure there will be no volunteers for the job. Let the parents deal with it.
The sand pits in HDH are designed so that you are specifically looking for something. I think there were "acorns" that the squirrel had hidden as well as some other things. It was showcased in one of the videos.
I dont mind sand boxes a whole lot I suppose. But I been thinkin isnt there some sprinkler system aroud there also? So wet hands and wet clothes and sand.......
Pictures: For some reason, I can't upload them, here. I have a new album on fb "Spring 2011", that all my friends on here that have me on fb can see them. My profile pic is me in front of the HDH entry. I'll try to add some to the sdcfans on fb?
Please do.
I would love to know what to look forward too.
Just saw your pics tinmann, the area looks pretty much finished, and simply fantastic from the pictures. The bridge looks out of place now, but it's still there so I'm not going to complain. I'm surprised how fast they got the carousel roof on.
I hope to have our new photo sharing feature up this week, but I'm dealing with a lot of unexpected stuff at the moment. I hope you can find a way to share those photos through a public photo album or something.
Quote from: tinmann620 on March 13, 2011, 04:07:41 PM
Pictures: For some reason, I can't upload them, here. I have a new album on fb "Spring 2011", that all my friends on here that have me on fb can see them. My profile pic is me in front of the HDH entry. I'll try to add some to the sdcfans on fb?
If you'll let me, I can throw them up over on MiG
^^Sure, if you want to select the best ones over on fb, go ahead. The quality isn't the best, size wise. I need to get back to using flicker...
okie dokie. I'll get started.
Tinmann...Is there anyway I can access your facebook pictures? The suspense is killing me...Thanks
Here you go... here are the best of his pictures.
http://www.midwestinfoguide.com/silver/2011/mar12/
I would like to see them also, please..... ::)
thanks, you posted at the same time i did!!
thanks, swoosh....
great pics, now we can finally see the almost complete, finished product.. ;D
And yes it looks like we completely lost the quiet/serene swinging bridge. :-\
what fun that looks like!! wish I could climb around with my kiddo in there!!! ;D :D
I cant wait I cant wait
I wonder if there is enough room in that area to bring a few more kiddie rides for CC over
Nope, not an inch. However, the other side of the wooden bridge has been cleared out. They added a bunch of LARGE pine trees between the swinging bridge & wood bridge, fyi
I didn't see any seating for parents?
tinmann620
Is the small pond still under the bridge?
HOLY COW! The swinging bridge looks totally different now! I too, am VERY glad that it is still there, but it does look very out of place now.
Also, glad to see the ropes (or net maze as they call it). Kinda brings back the good ole days of Tom Sawyers Landing ropes (just on a much smaller scale, and closer to the ground)
Quote from: mhguy77 on March 13, 2011, 09:36:37 PM
tinmann620
Is the small pond still under the bridge?
yes
The only complaint I can see coming up is how there is really not a good viewing area for the parents to watch their kids on the Lil' Swings.
Wow!!!All emotions going through me at this time, Jealousy for not seeing it like TinMan did. Happiness that I get to see something new that will provide for some nice Where in the city photos...Sadness that I am too old for the playground...much more also...thanks so much for the photos TinMan.
Things are looking good. Still some concern about how they have cleared out the entire holler around and under the bridge. However, that's progress. Looks like they have done a nice job with the area, can't wait to see it in person.
Well, these pictures may be a repeat of those that tinmann620 posted on his flicker page but I'll go ahead and post one last set before opening day.
From the south end of the truss bridge-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH23.jpg)
From the north end of the truss bridge-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH14.jpg)
From beside the Woodcarvers shop-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH15.jpg)
From beside the Woodcarvers shop again-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH16.jpg)
A look at Becca's which has now become Bears at the Holler-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH17.jpg)
Looking across the HDH entrance at Hugo and Mary's Carousel-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH18.jpg)
Looking up the HDH entrance walkway. I couldn't walk very far in because it's still a hard hat area.
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH19.jpg)
Another look at the Carousel. The horses are still wrapped in plastic for protection against the weather.-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH20.jpg)
A look at one of the treehouse bases-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH21.jpg)
A look at another of the treehouse bases-
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll238/Zephon907/SDC%20Stuff/HDH22.jpg)
Hope those of you coming to the park this week have a great time.
TBQH the Lil' Swings placement in this area is just so random. Not sure what the thought process was on it -- how does it fit? I mean the carousel works but the swings???
The styling is a little too cartoonish, too "Dogpatch", for my tastes.
For the target age group, I don't think it needs to be so stylized. For older age groups, I think the over-stylized look is a turnoff.
It certainly is for me.
Another great set of pics KB>
true enough KB, but a couple of years of weather and HDH will look more at home.
Swoosh, the swings do look wrong there. I would have prefered they at least left that side "natural" for the bridge. With HDH there now, the ambience of the bridge will never be the same!
I will be there sunday to check it all out. Maybe it is not as bad as it appears
ZEPHON!! , thanks for the pics!!!!!!.
I thought KB had posted them and that did make sense to me!!
I just hope this doesn't lead to the eventual demise of the swinging bridge...I also agree the swings look out of place...for some reason, the location of the employee booth for the swings just drives me crazy in the pictures...maybe once I've seen it in person it won't be so bad...The rest of HDH looks great to me however...Hopefully I'll be able to go through it once with my 3 year old...
It is a great addition to the park but it also takes something away from the park. I guess for some people it will be more of a + and to some a -. I know SDC is valuable real estate but it sure seems like they are starting to cram a lot of stuff into a small area. I thought connecting Wildfire and Powderkeg with some sort of walkway and putting HDH somewhere in between would have been a great idea. Maybe it just wasn't feasible or over budget.
QuoteI thought connecting Wildfire and Powderkeg with some sort of walkway and putting HDH somewhere in between would have been a great idea.
I agree, that would be a great area for a playground. That ground is relatively flat compared with other areas on the outskirts of the park. Maybe they will connect those area at some point.
I sure hope the bridge doesn't leave anytime soon! It's a significant attraction in the city and it's not about to come tumbling down due to age. If the bridge were to be taken out, they would have done so during the construction of HDH. Don't ya think?
I've been saying for the past couple of years Wildfire & PK have limited traffic, because of dead ends. If they connected them, either by a path, or a series of tree top walk-ways, they could add a bunch of craft shops, food, etc., to bring more traffic. There's NOTHING for kids in those areas, so it would be ideal for, say using the abandoned lines for WF for the balloon ride, which would fit the Doc Harris flying machine stuff...just thoughts... ::)
Any thought that involves the reappearance of the balloon ride is a good thought. I like that idea of having it be one of Doc's creations.
Quotelines for WF for the balloon ride, which would fit the Doc Harris flying machine stuff...just thoughts...
Amen Bruthu.
I did some exploring off the beaten path in SDC when I was a young boy. The ground behind the waterfall is at a good level for building. They would need to hide the back of the falls but thats not a big deal. I wonder if they dont do this because of the need to build more bathrooms. It seems to me that SDC uses septic fields in remote areas. At least thats what it smells like, especially near thunderation / echo hollow.
Maybe the cost of septic service for a new area is too high, doesn't perk? it may even have impact on the cave.
I am betting that is a big consideration when they expand a new area.
will the swinging bridge be as swingy/bouncy???? What with a building under it now and all.....
The area between Wildfire and Powderkeg is the last undeveloped area of the park that contains the only original dirt and gravel road left from the stagecoach. I've reported this on other threads before, but when I worked at the float trip (plunge location) the remnant of the stagecoach trail was from the bridge over the plunge channel (that people now cross to go to Wildfire) and the old stagecoach path snaked its way through the area that is now Wildfire, through the woods behind the float trip and lumbercamp, through the area that is now Powderkeg, past the Opera House, and came out at FITH. When I was a young kid, prior to the building of the area from FITH past the saloon, lumbercamp, and Fried Fancies, that was also the stagecoach trail. the restaurant/concession next to what I call Fried Fancies used to be the stagecoach depot. RUBE DUGANS has posted some photos of the old stage depot prior to and after renovation, but I cannot remember on what threads. I think in homage to the stagecoach, they could theme the area between Wildfire and Powderkeg as "Butterfield Trail" or "Stagecoach Lane" or something of that nature, and put up a few old stagecoach signs or something. Sadly, I think all of the stagecoaches were sold off or donated. I think the Ralph Foster Museum at College of the Ozarks has one of the stagecoaches on display.
Based from the pictures of HDH, there are a few things about the attraction that I don't really like. I don't like the swings at all, especially how you can look down on top of the ride structure, and as a parent of a small child there doesn't look to be a way for me to view or get pictures of my child on the ride. Another part of the attraction I don't care for is the look of the rope play structure, why couldn't it be enclosed in other tree houses, or some other effect.
But I guess the main thing that disappoints me is the choice for the location of this project. From the pictures, I just don't like the way it blends with the rest of the park structures that surround it, and the tree houses just don't seem to fit with the "City".
Hopefully my opinion is proven wrong when I view it in person.
Jay
Quoten homage to the stagecoach, they could theme the area between Wildfire and Powderkeg as "Butterfield Trail" or "Stagecoach Lane" or something of that nature, and put up a few old stagecoach signs or something.
Thats a great idea.
QuoteFrom the pictures, I just don't like the way it blends with the rest of the park structures that surround it
I side with you on this.
to quote someone earlier " A little to Dogpatch"
QuoteFrom the pictures, I just don't like the way it blends with the rest of the park structures that surround it, and the tree houses just don't seem to fit with the "City".
I also have to agree! I do think it is a good addition to the park but not in that particular area. I myself just hate to see things change too much in some areas of the park and the swinging bridge is definitely one of those areas.
I think that if they had included 2 more kiddie rides along with the swings it would have made more sense, but to just have the one random kiddie ride there makes me ???
Ya know fellas, I think HDH will be OK. It's compact, by design, to allow parents to keep an eye on their kids without actually having to hold their hands, yet it doesn't seem crammed. I really think it blends in as well as Tom Sawyers Landing did, or the Tree House, or any number of attractions that have been built over the years. For those of you who don't think it fits...well it's certainly not nearly as out of place as GG. That place, IMO, is an absolute eyesore.
And I don't really think the swinging bridge looks out of place there. To me, it's almost like it serves a purpose again. Here's why...back when it was first built, it did serve a purpose...that being the way into the park. Back then, crossing the swinging bridge through a wooded valley seemed a viable "time tunnel" taking one a hundred years back in time. But as the city grew around it, it more or less just became a "lost" pathway. You guys may have found enjoyment in the "peaceful" nature of the woods as you crossed it, but in truth, not that many people walk across it or even realize its there anymore. And most of those that do take advantage of it, do so only for the bouncy effect it affords...it's only a "fun" way to get from here to there, and not even a "shortcut" really. What I'm saying is that the "peace of the woods" that some of you have mentioned is largely lost on the majority of our guests. But...I think, with the new setting around it, new life has been given the swinging bridge as people will be able to gaze down from it right into the heart of HDH.
I know that HDH will not be the favorite place of a lot of you, but my grandkids will enjoy the heck out of it...and we'll have a great time watching them. It's not just the "kiddie ride," it's the whole experience of running around through the structures and nets. I think it will beat GE hands down.
Great point Zephon...I'm so getting SDC fever...Come on June...I know my four boys will love HDH...
Okay Zephon, you've sold me! You would make a good real estate agent.
:)
It will look fine with the surrounding structures (other than the Li'l Swings - henceforth, the LS - for reasons already stated). SDC is about all kinds of buildings built at angles other than 90 degrees in relationship to one another. I think once people are in the area, they will be able to look up at the "real" buildings and feel as if they are "down the rabbit hole" like Alice. I worry that Swoosh will get his way, but I think more rides ruins the purpose of HDH - a one-entrance, small-people place where some parents will drop their young'ns and then hang out at the exit to make sure they don't escape. Too many unsupervised children may crawl over each other to be first in ride lines and cause safety issues for the operators, but with the limited rides (2) parents will be more apt to supervise them.
In short, this area needs to remain quaint and serene, and please do not pipe in music from Nick Jr.!!!
Quote from: Zephon on March 15, 2011, 05:21:54 PM
I think it will beat GE hands down.
We'll have to agree to disagree there. GE is designed for the entire spectrum of the family whereas HDH is a very small specific group.
Quote from: History Buff on March 15, 2011, 05:59:26 PM
I worry that Swoosh will get his way, but I think more rides ruins the purpose of HDH - a one-entrance, small-people place where some parents will drop their young'ns and then hang out at the exit to make sure they don't escape.
I've just been in the business too long to know how the PTB think. I don't see how adding more rides to this area would be any different than the Science area in GE which also has one way in and one way out.
see?? i had wondered about the fact they only added 2 rides.. unless the treehouses keep the kids very very occupied.? along with the sandboxes.
Has anybody noticed that HDH is actually on the way to GE? kind of puts the kids stuff in 1 area.. On purpose? by accident?
I guess we will see this weekend!..
^^Really? Because TPTB seemed to think they only need two rides in there. You said it yourself:
QuoteGE is designed for the entire spectrum of the family whereas HDH is a very small specific group.
Besides, the rides themselves are an investment in the labor force, the insurance cost, and more maintenance expenses. Hopefully, there will be something to offset the cost of this area - the draw of a new area will only attract a limited number of
new guests, while the bear-making shop will raise some additional funds. I think TPTB want to do the minimum necessary to bring in the greatest amount of income possible.
Quote from: History Buff on March 15, 2011, 08:52:11 PM
^^Really? Because TPTB seemed to think they only need two rides in there THIS YEAR. You said it yourself:
QuoteGE is designed for the entire spectrum of the family whereas HDH is a very small specific group WHICH THE ADDITION OF THE SWINGS CONTINUES TO CATER TO - AS WOULD THE ADDITION OF OTHER SMALL KIDDIE RIDES FROM CC.
FTFY
Quote from: Swoosh on March 15, 2011, 06:00:20 PM
Quote from: Zephon on March 15, 2011, 05:21:54 PM
I think it will beat GE hands down.
We'll have to agree to disagree there. GE is designed for the entire spectrum of the family whereas HDH is a very small specific group.
Yes, you're correct, as far as the rides go. But still, I think most people see that as a place to let their kids ride rides. On the other hand, the design of HDH comes much closer to fitting in with the SDC ambiance than GE, which is straight out of any modern day carnival midway. The inspiration for GE may have come from the 1904 World's Fair, but it fails to capture the feel, IMO.
I knew I could get a spark out of you, Swoosh.
QuoteWe'll have to agree to disagree there.
Yep.
excuse me just a minute: :P ;D :o ;D :o LOL! nuff said!
So any of you who have been to SDC this opening week...Have you seen any adults going in the the new HDH with their kids or have you? Just wondering if adults would be able to go in with their kids.
I have no kids, but I want to see the new stuff! Maybe I can rent a few for the couple minutes to pass through the area! I am short, but not short enough to pass for anything under middle or high school!
Check out my Flickr site with the photos from opening day. Many taken in Half Dollar Holler. Many, many adults were there, enjoying the new play area. The carousel was packed, the playground attractions were, too. The little kids swings kept at a busy pace. The new build a bear shop was heavily visited.
Quote from: rubedugans on March 18, 2011, 02:28:39 PM
I have no kids, but I want to see the new stuff! Maybe I can rent a few for the couple minutes to pass through the area! I am short, but not short enough to pass for anything under middle or high school!
I'll loan you a couple of mine for the day.....
Just kidding.
You do enough babysitting in your day job
:o
Okie, he said he would rent them, and you said you'd loan them. You coulda made some money!
As for babysitting, teachers don't get paid as much as babysitters.
whats a matter? dont you have nieces? nephews? grandkids? they are out there somewhere..
Trouble i have is getting the kids away from there parents. ??? almost like they dont trust me ::). LOL
I do keep track of enough grade 6-12 graders during my day, some that could, by thieir actions pass for toddlers, and sometime, I will have young'ns to bring around HDH, but that'll be a while.
Pictures of HDH. i was standing close to the back corner of becca's house. The sanbox area is pretty small, so i think we will see the sand and sprinklers up on the square :-\.
the control booth for the swings is literally within inches of the swing, I walked across the swing and it just AINT the same no more.. There is a small pond they built below the bridge now , but.................
Treehouse were "closed" for some reason sunday, But the carasoul was getting a work out! LOL.
Hope the pictures come out right.. here goes....
Picture under the swinging bridge:
(http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii154/MrHoggatt/Silver%20Dollar%20City/Picture3.png)
Alice looks up at the real world from Wonderland, er, I mean from HDH:
(http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii154/MrHoggatt/Silver%20Dollar%20City/IMG_2715-1.jpg)
Holy acorns, Batman!
(http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii154/MrHoggatt/Silver%20Dollar%20City/IMG_2711-1.jpg)
thanks for my fix historybuff! oh I cant wait to make it home. I keep havin to postpone my trip and it looks like I wont be there till end of may or beggining of june. :(
HB, those are some great close ups. good detail, very interesting views. thanks
Thanks to everybody who have provided pictures. I've enjoyed them greatly and I feel like they have kept me connected with the park...YOU ALL RULE :)
I had mentioned on page 4 of 2011 Trip Reviews that I had noticed that Hugo & Mary's Carousel does not play music along with the ride like it once did in Tom Sawyers Landing. I just asked Silver Dollar City, via their Facebook, about this. Will let y'all know if I get a reply!
I mean, come on, a Carousel without music? ???
I can answer that one. The Carousel will have music, eventually! You people fret about the strangest things. lol :o
Haha! Thanks Copper! ;D
LOL. funny!
I would have thought that after a complete rebuild on the carousel, the music would have been repaired/replaced/rebuilt also.. guess not?
Does anyone know the prices of the bears at the new build a bear at silver dollar? ;D
I saw somewhere i the 15-20 range, could be as high as 25, with different add ons. dollars that is,. ;D
Me and my wife went on opening day and were lucky enough to be the first to purchase a stuffed animal at Bears At the Hollow. A large animal is $12.99 and a small $9.99, with an option of a noise maker which is inserted inside the animal for $3.50. We purchased a bow for the top of the head which was 50 cents and a shirt which was $5. In all it was around $23 total but of course you can keep adding things to boost the price up. Very Reasonable!
(http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/008.jpg)
(http://i884.photobucket.com/albums/ac45/tomncyndi/007.jpg)
cute! nice picture. thanks for verifying those prices.
That is very reasonable! I was expecting it to be as expensive as the Build-a-Bear store.
Pintrader: First bear and certificate from Bears in the Holler? Hang on to it. In decades past SDC offered certificates to guests who rode the Jim Owens' Float Trip on the first day. I've seen one of those, and some other attractions in the early days did the same. You have a collectable you and your family can cherish for years to come. :)
Yeah! That sounds like good advice Junior. It's a neat item and coming from SDC makes it that much more special ;).
that really isnt bad pricing at all. I too was expecting to put my liver up for sale!! Great pics and congrats on being number 1!!!
Absolutely, being the 1st bear out the door will be a great memory/collectable for you and yours.
Thank you all for the encouraging words. We sure didn't go down to the Bears In The Holler with thoughts to be the very first. We just walked down to take a look at HDH as soon as they dropped the chains after opening ceremonies. We walked into the shop and asked if they thought they would be busy today and they said "they didn't know we were their first customer". So that was all my wife had to hear and she was ready to be the first. My first thought was well there goes lunch today and I am going to starve if I have to pay like $50 to $60 for this bear (didn't tell her that just thought it) but like I said it was a little over $20, so not very bad.
Quote from: Pintrader on April 07, 2011, 12:38:48 PM
Me and my wife went on opening day and were lucky enough to be the first to purchase a stuffed animal at Bears At the Hollow. A large animal is $12.99 and a small $9.99, with an option of a noise maker which is inserted inside the animal for $3.50. We purchased a bow for the top of the head which was 50 cents and a shirt which was $5. In all it was around $23 total but of course you can keep adding things to boost the price up. Very Reasonable!
I agree that they are reasonable. We kept our animals "naked." My youngest sleeps with hers every night. It is really soft!
Are the leaves coming out on the trees in the city?
I will be up next weekend and its a step up above bare limbs :)
Does anyone know if some of the improvements at HDH were planned, and just not completed by opening weekend? I mean, I am sure that the modification of the entrance was realized after they saw the comgestion, but seems to me that the LS observation deck was probably thought of before opening just not done. Just curious.
Also both of the new large food stands (GE and Saloon area) have been quite busy both times we have been there.
I'll let you in on a little secret. When I was on park on opening day I bumped into Jack Herschend and other top management while they were on a tour of the park at HDH. When I was approaching them to say hello, I heard them talking about changes that were planned for the new area. So it does not surprise me that over the last few weeks HDH was altered from what it was. Not uncommon with the short off season to get the new attraction ready for opening day, then finishing it later. Could also be that park employees noticed some little problems early in the season, and decided to tweak things before the full summer hit. Just some observations.
can anyone tell me what is different in front of molly mills?
I noticed concrete and i thought there was a step there last year. Just can't quite put my finger on it.
what did they do? OR am i imagining things?
At sometime in the last few years they reworked the walkways there. There used to be just a plain old concrete walkway there. Later, blacktop. Now, the patterned concrete. I thought the changes looked fine.
agreed junior , look nice.. I actually stood in the square and was studying the change. it looks great! I just could not figure out that had done.
Living in a town with REAL cobblestones, I can tell you that the patterned concrete is much cheaper, and has much less upkeep. It also looks so much better than the blacktop (Though if this replacing keeps up, we will eventually miss that same blacktop smell...)
Photos or it never happened.