SDCFans - The Unofficial Fan Site For Silver Dollar City
Silver Dollar City & Celebration City Discussion => Construction/Rumors => Topic started by: Ozark Outlaw on October 31, 2010, 05:40:38 PM
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Well, now that we know what at least one of the new attractions will be for the 2011 season, it is almost time to start a new thread for SDC’s 2012 Project! ;D
We all know the area around the old Waterboggan Tower will be used for something major, and will probably debut in 2012. I have never thought about it until it was brought up just now, but this would also be the perfect opportunity to repaint, or retheme Geyser Gulch. I think that entire section of the park does need a new "spark" to it.
I must say I really enjoy the special effects in the newer rides such as Powder Keg, and River Blast. I hope Silver Dollar City continues with this route. Speaking of that, I wish they would go ahead, and fill dirt into the old concrete channels used from Buzzsaw Falls so that they aren't such an eye soar while returning to the station on Powder Keg. :o
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Since SDC is showing a commitment to families with their recent ride choices of River Blast and Half Dollar Holler. Closing Geyser Gulch in Fall 2011 (for a major new attraction) will not cause young families to stay away. First of all, in the region there are not many places to go . Adventureland, SDC, Worlds of Fun, and St.L Six Flags. Where you going to go ??? ( if you can't afford Disney) and are on a branson budget. SDC best theme park in Missouri. However, SDC has to do something big soon. Because their competion is doing more. Adventureland- new water park addition W of F --prowler and 2011 Planet Snoopy also W of F best Halloween Haunt in midwest.
SDC must go big in 2012 or 2013.
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Unless you're going mainly for the rides, it is hard to compare SDC to those other parks. Dollywood would be about the closest thing. Worlds of fun and six flags do nothing with christmas, bluegrass music, crafts etc. Comparing SDC to another park is like comparing apples and oranges, for the most part.
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Alright, since we're going to be talking about the 2012 project anyway, I guess I might as well go ahead and create the 2012 topic so we can keep the discussions somewhat separate.
First of all, in the region there are not many places to go . Adventureland, SDC, Worlds of Fun, and St.L Six Flags. Where you going to go Huh
Nowhere. Most people simply don't feel the need to go to theme parks unless they're drawn in for some reason. There are other places and ways to spend the money.
A lot of people with children have mentioned how hard it is becoming to justify a trips to SDC because there is so little for their kids to do compared to how much it costs to get into the park these days. With the context of the park changing so much, there has to be a variety of things for young families to do, not just a single playground and a couple of kid's rides in GE. I think this addition will give them pretty firm footing in terms of fulfilling those needs for now, but backsliding by taking out GG would cause a pretty big uproar, IMO.
I think we're all pretty much in agreement that whatever is added in 2012 is going into the WB area. With the low capital on this year's project, and the trends in expansions lately, I think it's fair to say that a new coaster is a prime possibility. Before we rush to any conclusions on it being a G-fighter though, I think it's important to question how much MM paid off for DW. It's a great ride, but was it worth the cost? Would a woodie fit the park better?
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I think a woodie would be nice to see. I could be wrong, but I feel they are becoming extinct, and I hate to see that.
And thank you for opening up a 2012 new ride forum........my addiction can be fulfilled now!
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While woodys are okay in their own right, they take up too much volume with too little payoff in my opinion. What I would like to see is an inverted style rollercoaster with the track overhead. Oh how much fun it would be to fly through the air with your feet dangling just feet away from the treetops! :D
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that would be great! No woodies dont have razzle dazzle of the steel, but I feel that the woodie has a better look in the woods.
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I think a woodie would be nice to see. I could be wrong, but I feel they are becoming extinct, and I hate to see that.
O RLY?
The last two coasters to be built in this state were wooden coasters
Coasters built in the area in the last 10 years - red highlighted ones are in Missouri
WOODEN COASTERS
2009 - PROWLER (Worlds of Fun)
2008 - EVEL KNIEVEL (Six Flags St. Louis)
2006 - KENTUCKY RUMBLER (Beech Bend - KY)
2006 – the VOYAGE (Holiday World)
2004 - THUNDERHEAD (Dollywood)
2003 - OZARK WILDCAT (Celebration City)
2000 - the BOSS (Six Flags St. Louis)
2000 – the LEGEND (Holiday World)
STEEL COASTERS
2008 – STEEL LASSO (Frontier City)
2007 - TONY HAWK'S BIG SPIN (Six Flags St. Louis)
2006 - GRAND EXPOSITION COASTER (Silver Dollar City)
2006 – PATRIOT (Worlds of Fun)
2006 – X COASTER (Magic Springs)
2005 - POWDERKEG (Silver Dollar City)
2004 – GAUNTLET (Magic Springs)
2004 – SPINNING DRAGONS (Worlds of Fun)
2001 - WILDFIRE (Silver Dollar City)
2000 – BOOMERANG (Worlds of Fun)
2000 – TWIST ‘N’ SHOUT (Magic Springs)
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i realize the thrill of the ride is what is important to most of us here on the site.
BUT IMO a big woodie would be a great compliment to the park. especially if done at the same time of a reworking of GG..
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I agree that a wooden rollercoaster would be a welcome addition. I brought a very brave person to Six Flags who rode all the other rides except Screaming Eagle. It is the most thrilling ride in the park (ride in the back car...trust me) The Boss is another great example. It doesn't have to go upside down to be cool :)
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So all of the recent talk about the Greedy Brothers, and their three, or four different attractions that they once had on Lake Silver got me to thinking. Silver Dollar City needs to add another attraction to the lake! Currently, the only thing of interest near the lake is The Lost River of the Ozarks, and Geyser Gulch. However, neither of those attractions really use the lake extensively.
Silver Dollar City needs to put in some type of ride, or attraction that brings the lake back to life again. As mentioned before, they could even put the station of the ride between the backside of The Lost River of the Ozarks, and the restrooms next to Geyser Gulch. Plus, all of the additional foot traffic would really increase the popularity of Geyser Gulch. :)
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i think u r on the right track now ozark..... ::)
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I am absolutely on the right track sanddunerider. Granted, we are probably not going to see anything new on the lake by the 2012 Season. However, it only makes sense to eventually build an attraction that significantly utilizes the lake. This is especially true since the geography of the land causes real estate, and green space to be hard to come by at Silver Dollar City.
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What if they did something like Worlds of Fun used to have and build a stationary paddlewheel/steamboat on the banks of the lake and have it as a restaurant?
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How did you read my mind Joy?
I think I nice Seafood restaurant would be great on a stationary paddle wheeler with a ragtime band and all! When I was a kid I rebuilt (in my mind and on paper)Tom Sawyer's Landing on the other side of Lake Silver and it included a boat that was snagged in the water- the boat was a seafood restaurant with a live show. This would introduce both a new musical group (Hearken to the days of the River Rats) and a new restaurant.
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I always thought it was funny you could have a riverfront area somewhere where there was no river. They changed the name of "the Deepwoods" to "the Riverfront" in 1982 as the Deepwoods were becoming a bit too developed since their 1977 debut. The deepwoods were being replaced by buildings and attractions as that area of the park expanded in the 1980's. Copper, I like the idea of a seafood restaurant with the Dixieland music. It would fit in that area.
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What if they did something like Worlds of Fun used to have and build a stationary paddlewheel/steamboat on the banks of the lake and have it as a restaurant?
Random trivia time. Ths showboat that was at Worlds of Fun was the actual Cotton Blossom from the musical SHOWBOAT by MGM
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Swoosh, you are an amazing, deep bucket of information! Cool tidbit, never knew that one.
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Very good Swoosh! I can back him up on that, i walked thru that boat many times as a kid. It used to be just to the left when the main entrance to WoF was located in that area.
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now thats a loooog time ago.. :o
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...and once again completely random. There were originally 3 ships at WOF
The Cotton Blossom from the MGM movie "SHOWBOAT" (river boat)
The Victrix from the MGM movie "All The Brothers Were Valient" (masted boat / pirate ship)
The USS Henrietta modeled off the ship from the movie "Around the World in 80 Days" (keel paddlewheeler)
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:o :o ??? ??? ::) ;D ;D
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Random trivia time. Ths showboat that was at Worlds of Fun was the actual Cotton Blossom from the musical SHOWBOAT by MGM
Didn't they (WoF) just demolish the showboat? I heard that somewhere, and I was sad.
I love that movie, by the way.
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I barely remember the pirate ship, didnt they have RC boats around it? And it was by the log ride? I cant recall the other one.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mGGPTdTQfg Check out this 1977 commercial for WoF, it shows the Cotton Blossom at 22 seconds of the video. I was 12!! :D
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Random trivia time. Ths showboat that was at Worlds of Fun was the actual Cotton Blossom from the musical SHOWBOAT by MGM
Didn't they (WoF) just demolish the showboat? I heard that somewhere, and I was sad.
I love that movie, by the way.
Towards the end of Hunt Midwest's control of the park, a lot of maintenance became... well let's just say it wasn't the best. By the time Cedar Fair took over, the Cotton Blossom needed a lot (let's just same most of the ship) of wood replaced. The cost of replacement did not warrant it mainly because it was just a retail shop. It was taken out and RipCord replaced it in 1996.
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swoosh, do you have all this info in a file to recall? or do you have magical websites to look up history on?
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Well, he is the person in charge of midwestinfoguide.com (http://midwestinfoguide.com). To say he is a theme park trivia buff would be putting it mildly. :P
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swoosh, do you have all this info in a file to recall? or do you have magical websites to look up history on?
To say that I am a theme park trivia nerd would be an understatement, and especially when it deals with Worlds of Fun.
I think I've only met one person that knows more about the park than I do -- and to answer your question, it's all in my head, I don't have any of this written down anywhere, it's amazing how I can remember completely random (and to some useless) information with ease but cannot remember what I had for lunch later on in the evening.
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LOL, well no that you mention it. I wanted to ask you
"" it's all in my head, I don't have any of this written down anywhere, it's amazing how I can remember completely random (and to some useless) information with ease but cannot remember what I had for lunch later on in the evening.""\
But did not want to risk offending anyone... thats a lot of stuff, I also was unaware you were in charge of the quide....
Nice job!
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Back to 2012...Nothing's confirmed that it will debut in 2012, but the stakes/markers are back up in the WB area, and 3 employees mentioned a version of MM, with use of the old WB tower ;) My hope is the redesign to the land could make it an all indoor, for pleasure during rain & cold. After all, with all the stops & scenery, it's just FITH with loops, sharp curves, etc...
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That would be awesome...I like the idea of a MM type of ride...
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Interesting. I actually took a bunch of photos of the area surrounding the tower over Thanksgiving weekend to see how things could fit. It struck me that it would actually be pretty difficult to use the tower for a G-fighter, considering the layout of the beams, the train tracks underneath, and the stairs. It's also not very tall for a major coaster drop. Maybe they have something funky up their sleeves though.
Considering how much MM cost, I wonder if SDC's model would be of a similar magnitude and level of theming? I'm sure they'd make it look good, but MM is a Disney-quality ride from what I've seen, and I've hoped that same magnitude could be brought to SDC, even if the ride is different.
Personally, I wish they'd just build a woodie. It would fit the park better and round out the coaster collection well, plus it would be more appealing to a larger audience and split PK's line some.
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;D ;D ;D right! woody!
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-- and to answer your question, it's all in my head, I don't have any of this written down anywhere, it's amazing how I can remember completely random (and to some useless) information with ease but cannot remember what I had for lunch later on in the evening.
Hello, Cousin! ;D
My father would often start questions to me with, "Say, O Fountain of Worthless Information, what is... "
:D
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CC's OzCat would work well at SDC, I wish they would just move it over there!
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yes junior!! :o :o Just move it over and get it over with! :o :o It would be the right thing to do!! LOL ;D
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I really think that in Waterboggan's spot, a terrain hugging GCI woodie would be great. Honestly it would be kind of cheap because it could stay close the ground, therefore be longer because of less money. It would be great!
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I just want to know what's going into the Waterboggan area because the anticipation is killing me! :D
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I really think that in Waterboggan's spot, a terrain hugging GCI woodie would be great. Honestly it would be kind of cheap because it could stay close the ground, therefore be longer because of less money. It would be great!
While it *would* be great, it's not happening.
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SDC has so much terrain to put to good use that either of the scenarios involving them moving OzCat here or building a woodie in the waterboggin's place would be a slap in the face. I'd rather wait till they're ready to build a OCI-style big terrain woodie than have them build a mediocre compact model on a flat piece of land.
I've been watching more of the discussion about G-fighters from the community lately. A lot of people seem to think the old model G-fighters are aging really badly already, including Mystery Mine. The new models seem to be doing OK though, I've only heard good things about Anubis, Lynet, Huracan, and Fluch von Novregod, but they're all overseas...
I guess that means if SDC is headed the G-fighter route, we'll probably (hopefully) be getting the newer version. If they do, they'll be able to incorporate a launch within the layout as well, similar to Fluch von Novregod, but capacity will be lower.
I don't know, I'm definately holding my breath. 2012's addition will most likely be the greatest thing since Wildfire or a let-down. It can't be too bad though, the people behind HFEC do know what they're doing.
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A couple of years ago, I was practically sure that a woodie was going to dropped off the hill behind the farming area near the entrance of the park. There is plenty of room for development and it could force gp to walk through a part of the park that is sometimes overlooked.
Why is everyone sure that the old tower is going to be incorporated into a new ride? Did SDC say that the tower would be used in a new ride and that SDC knew how they were going ot use it? What stops SDC from adding a few safety features, telescopes/binoculars, and plaques explaining points of interest and call it a new observation deck?
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I would love that.........
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Tom, thats quite an idea in itself. ;D
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Why is everyone sure that the old tower is going to be incorporated into a new ride? Did SDC say that the tower would be used in a new ride and that SDC knew how they were going ot use it? What stops SDC from adding a few safety features, telescopes/binoculars, and plaques explaining points of interest and call it a new observation deck?
Tom, very few people actually know anything for a certainty. We go off of physical evidence (such as tree markers), and speculation (such as why remove the Waterboggan, and yet leave the structure), practical reasoning (why would Silver Dollar City carve out more landscaping when the old Waterboggan site is prime real estate), and just plane fun “what ifs?” ;D
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For those of us familiar with the roller coaster history of WOF, I miss the little roller coaster that used to be in the Africa area (zambezi zinger?). I wonder if that could be a possible coaster addition to take advantage of the hills and hollers of SDC. While at times it was a little rough on a body, I have spoken to many who thought it was the most fun.
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I've thought of that idea, as well, Tom. It could be Fire Watch Tower 60 (for the opening year). I'd like to see some themed pieces included. I still fear the Adventure Mountain thing could include that tower - just watch and see.
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My guess on y the tower is still there is because of time restraints. It is possible that they didnt want to take the time (or didnt have the time) or money to take it down. It is a very large structure with huge steel beams and would take some time and money to take down. Just my thoughts.
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I still think the email that was sent to dwfan a few months ago is probably a clue that they are indeed planning to use the old waterboggin site for the next big attraction. However, the more I look at it, the less I think the old tower can actually be used for much of anything besides a zipline. My hope is that they'll use it for theming for the new ride, making it look like a giant mine shaft or something.
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Why couldn't they build one of the lifts for a Eurofighter in it? There is more than enough room. Just sayin...
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Why couldn't they build one of the lifts for a Eurofighter in it? There is more than enough room. Just sayin...
Because that would make too much sense. ;)
I believe the water tower will be used for something. There is no reason to leave an inoperable, and non themed tower structure just standing there.
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How would they put a G-fighter lift in there? With the train tracks underneath and the way the stairs are built into the structure there's no room to work with. I bet it'd be cheaper and better to tear it down and just build a new tower for the purposes of hiding a lift.
Then again, what do I know - but it seems more and more like they don't actually have a plan for the tower. To me it looks like they had to get rid of the Waterboggin sooner than they planned due to some sort of liability or maintainence issue. The tower might be standing simply because there's no need to spend the money on bringing in a crane to remove it. OR, the waterboggin reached the end of it's planned maintainence life and the park had planned to have a new ride in it's place by now, but the 2009 delay has pushed everything back a year...
Hmm, it all still seems weird to me. I'm still trying to see why Splash Harbor and the Waterboggin were removed when they were.
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How would they put a G-fighter lift in there?
Very carefully. ;D No seriously, it would fit. The lift is not as wide as you'd think, and just because the train goes through there doesn't really mean anything.
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Hmm, it all still seems weird to me. I'm still trying to see why Splash Harbor and the Waterboggin were removed when they were.
There are definitely a lot of uncertainties, but I am very confident that they were both removed to make room for a new attraction. The biggest question being, what role (if any) will the remaining tower play? That is a question that we will just have to wait, and see. Silver Dollar City loves surprises! ;D
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I think a G-fighter would fit. When you look at Mystery Mine, you can see the ride is really compact and dosent have a large footprint. :D
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I'm still trying to see why Splash Harbor was removed when it was.
Splash Harbor was due for a rather extensive (and expensive) overhaul. With the addition of River Blast and more up-to-date waterguns, the opprotunity to just remove, what had really had become a "duplicate attraction", seemed to be the best move fiscally for the park
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Are we going to see a Mystery Mine type of ride in 2012? Is that what the existing Waterboggin' Tower will be used for? The suspense is killing me already...
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Okay- I totally change my vote to zipline, zipline, zipline. I do not necessarily care if they put one in or not- but a zipline has got to be what that tower will be used for.
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With the new zip lines being built in the Branson area this last year, I'd be surprised to see SDC put in a zip line. If a wooden roller coaster is not possible, I'd love to see a Mystery Mine type of ride. Dollywood's looks pretty cool.
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i also have my doubts for the zip line because of how many "citizens" it would take at both ends to keep us "safe".. :-\
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In the 2011 project thread I pointed out that SDC's images on Google Maps had been updated somewhat recently. DW's images have been updated within the past few months as well. So of course, I just had to do a little test to see exactly how easily it would be to fit an MM in the old waterboggin spot. As it turns out, it does indeed look pretty easy, at least from this eye-ball estimation. Even accounting for differences in elevation for the two photos, there's still a lot of room to work with if they use a more elongated layout. Notice that the old waterboggin station is way down at the bottom of this pic.
(http://i.imgur.com/vo5h8.jpg) (http://imgur.com/vo5h8)
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It WON'T be a Zipline. End of story.
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Agreed.
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(http://i.imgur.com/vo5h8.jpg) (http://imgur.com/vo5h8)
Looking at this aerial photo....there is plenty of room in that area for Silver Dollar City to build what ever they wanted. You could relocate the employee parking and build a massive roller coaster in that area. They could even build a loop into the G.E. and expand the G.E. to include several more rides.
Jay
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^A loop would also require theming the back side of Red Gold, which often needs vehicles to transport things in and out. Plus I think it's a nice feature of GE that there is only one way in and out (less possibility of losing a child into the whole park). Traffic in this one entrance is usually not too bottlenecked like the area by the saloon all the way to the River Blast.
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^ yeah, I'm no expert on the daily operations of the park and the logistics that are required to make it operate. I was just impressed with the overall size of land that could be available for development (if you weren't limited by operations and parking).
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there does seem to be some additional room to expand into if need be..Must be a reason they are not using the "available" area
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I know we haven't even started the 2011 season yet and HDH is not even complete, but I was just wondering if anybody has heard anything on SDC's 2012 project...Not to be ungrateful for what we currently have, but it seems like Dollywood has gotten all the big attractions lately...Just wondering when it's SDC's turn...
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In 2012, you will see an innovative, unique, one of a kind attraction...a Saturn Rocket ride! Themed 1880's style...it will be called "Doc Harris' Roman Candle." Each of the three rockets have their own nicknames, 1) Fireball Express 2) Tail of the Dragon 3) Light my Fire.
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(Just kidding! The park has not announced anything at this point! ;))
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Wouldn't it be great to have a book of Doc Harris's inventions, complete with concept art from the mind of this genius?
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I think it would be really cool to put in one of those new B&M 4th dimension coasters!!! May be one of docs newest flying invention? I garuntee it wouldn't happen. But a person can dream right? ::)
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Too many "Doc" inventions would change the park to a steampunk theme. I'd like a park with that theme, but it shouldn't overrun SDC.
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*now humming Light My Fire by THe Doors* Thanks a lot. That'll be stuck in my head the rest o the day!
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Light my fire, huh? Well, that's better than the tune "Musicbox Dancer!" ;)
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OH NO!! Already starting the song list for midnite madness!!??
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I have always felt that DW seemed to get the newest first, expecially with the "big" things. Wonder why? Do they get more visitors than SDC?
I guess I would just assume that the space would be used for something similar to the MM at DW. Would be fine with me.
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^I dunno, SDC has gotten a lot of things first. It's only been recently that a few concepts tried first at DW have come to SDC second. DW does have a fair lead in attendance, IIRC.
This year will be fun, we'll actually have a space to watch over the summer. If they are planning a huge MM-scale addition, we'll probably see markings/clearing beginning in the late summer, if not earlier.
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Agreed SDC has gotten a few things first..
And yes I believe you are correct about watching the "new" site.. I would imagine prep work to start june/july. elevation markers, utility markers. I would not expect to see clearing/dirt work until maybe fall/late season.
No telling when the actual announcement would be. but i am sure with our "friends" of the park. as soon as work starts we may get some insight.
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It was announced during the all-park orientation today that there is no new major attraction planned for 2012. Sorry...I know that disappoints some of you who were hoping for a big new thrill ride. Instead, efforts will be concentrated on a variety of smaller projects, one of which could be a new Christmas production for the Red Gold.
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I would like to see small improvements done. Bring some of the classic signs and gags that made SDC so much fun. It would be great to bring new life into the park ya know.
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HMMMMMMMM? that is disappointing.. But maybe they will do some "major" past due remodeling..??
such as the FM
FITH
AP.
We are all in agreement updating is WAY past due.!
I do hope they will redo most of the shows. seem like we know most of them by heart.
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I would look for more money to be spent on WW next year if anything... just saying.
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It was announced during the all-park orientation today that there is no new major attraction planned for 2012. Sorry...I know that disappoints some of you who were hoping for a big new thrill ride. Instead, efforts will be concentrated on a variety of smaller projects, one of which could be a new Christmas production for the Red Gold.
Wow, really? Unless they're putting their money into re-opening CC, that kind of sucks. They've already had a couple of seasons recently where they just worked on small projects around the park. How many signs or gags are left to bring back? They've worked on FITH and the Flooded Mine already; fixed up the talking bucket, ghost trap, and several other gags; added a bunch of new signage throughout the park; and re-painted/re-paved areas.
I mean, not that SDC has to keep adding rides or anything, but I was really hoping that they were gearing up for something big in 2012, especially seeing as the last several years have almost taken more out of the park than has been added back.
Meh, I guess we'll have to wait and see what happens.
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It was announced during the all-park orientation today that there is no new major attraction planned for 2012. Sorry...I know that disappoints some of you who were hoping for a big new thrill ride. Instead, efforts will be concentrated on a variety of smaller projects, one of which could be a new Christmas production for the Red Gold.
I hope they aren't getting rid of the Nativity that was in the Red Gold Hall.
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I hope they aren't getting rid of the Nativity that was in the Red Gold Hall.
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I hope not either. The production has changed over the years (even though the basic storyline will forever stay the same). At one time it was located behind the Wilderness Church, where showgoers would sit on simple bales of hay and watch a very touching, simple version of The Nativity. It then has changed locations several times, and in various formats at Red Gold; it was even in 'the round' for a couple of years, with the town of Bethlaham serounding the center stage. I feel the version that has been performed for the past few seasons has put on a 'musical' like quality, and has just seemed off to me.
I for one (as a Christian) am very please that we can go to a Theme Park and have the previledge of even seeing "The Living Nativity" played out.
Even the lighting of the Christmas Tree at the lighting ceremony, talkes about the life of Christ, and that has even brought my family to tears at times; Along with Grandpa on the train ride...its perfect....its simple.
For me, simplicity is the way to go with The Living Nativity.
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This past Christmas was my first time seeing the Living Nativity and I did find the Kenny Rogers type narrator/angel a little strange, but it still brought tears to my eyes.
And I agree. It is wonderful to have a place to go that still celebrates The Reason for the season! Even the greater on our way out of the park reminded us to "keep Christ in Christmas". I hope they keep Christ at the center of the Old Time Christmas. I hope they are just moving the show or just chaining it. I can't imagine them getting rid of it.
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Well, I really don't know what will happen to the Nativity show. I can't see them abandoning it completely...probably a return to the simpler version as some of you have suggested. I'll see what I can find out.
As for not adding a "big" thing for 2012...I just have to say I think they've been doing a pretty good job of adding new things, especially considering the economic climate that has existed the last half decade. This year they're adding Half Dollar Holler...it's a big thing...maybe not the cup of tea for everyone here, but it is in response to the requests of a lot of families with little ones. In the last decade they've added River Blast, The Giant Swing, The Grand Exposition, Powder Keg, Wildfire. Gone are The Waterboggan, and Splash Harbor. I'm not counting Buzzsaw Falls because it was unpopular and replaced immediately by Powder Keg, so one for one exchange. Anyway, it's not like they've remained static for the last decade.
Last season was a pretty good year for SDC, with attendance pretty much meeting expectations. But the four or five years before that, attendance numbers, and therefore profits, didn't come close to reaching expectations. Yet, they still added new things. I ask you all to realize that SDC does not have unlimited pockets, and be patient. SDC is still the best value for your dollar in the whole area.
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^Agreed, it'll still be the best value entertainment around even if they don't make any changes for several years. Strange that they've had tougher times meeting attendance in the past few years - the park has always been busy every time I've been for years. I guess that explains why they would be focusing on families now more than thrill seekers. The amount they've spent on new rides lately is crazy if they're not getting a good return on it.
That said, if they aren't planning the big coaster project we've been dreaming of since this site was created, I hope they at least add a new shop, craft, or a ride from CC. The S&S double shot would be perfect - it fits with their other S&S rides, runs on clean compressed air, doesn't take up much room, appeals to a wide audience, and can be easily themed and tucked away in the park. The only down side is the low capacity.
Heck, I'd even take the old Roaring Falls rumor over nothing ;) Selfishly speaking, it's just been too long since I've got to watch something I was truly excited about go into SDC. River Blast was nice, but the year-long delay, and the loss of everything that was taken out in those two years kind of dampened my enthusiasm.
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yes they are doing very well,
If you think about it IF they would spend a million dollars updating/repairing existing rides and attractions.....
That would be great, after all a million dollars worth of repairs would go a LOOONNNGGGGG way.
But it would be nice to know what they are "thinking" about for the WW area. With the fact that area will be vacant for 2 years know, I wonder if they should have repaired it and left WW funtional.?
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This past Christmas was my first time seeing the Living Nativity and I did find the Kenny Rogers type narrator/angel a little strange, but it still brought tears to my eyes.
And I agree. It is wonderful to have a place to go that still celebrates The Reason for the season! Even the greater on our way out of the park reminded us to "keep Christ in Christmas". I hope they keep Christ at the center of the Old Time Christmas. I hope they are just moving the show or just chaining it. I can't imagine them getting rid of it.
I agree 100%...It was so exciting walking into the park (1st time I'd been to OTC) and see the banners with scripture on it...I want to take my parents this Christmas and I know they will enjoy...Being a pastor's son and born again Christian it does my heart good to see things like I saw during OTC...
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It was announced during the all-park orientation today that there is no new major attraction planned for 2012.
There is information there, but you have to read between the lines. That is all.
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This past Christmas was my first time seeing the Living Nativity and I did find the Kenny Rogers type narrator/angel a little strange, but it still brought tears to my eyes.
And I agree. It is wonderful to have a place to go that still celebrates The Reason for the season! Even the greater on our way out of the park reminded us to "keep Christ in Christmas". I hope they keep Christ at the center of the Old Time Christmas. I hope they are just moving the show or just chaining it. I can't imagine them getting rid of it.
I know I am in the minority, but the Nativity show does nothing for me. A simple version might be better. I'd watched it three times, and after that I decided not to see it again. The Dickens show still brings tears to my eyes, though. I love Jesus, I just hated that Nativity show.
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This past Christmas was my first time seeing the Living Nativity and I did find the Kenny Rogers type narrator/angel a little strange, but it still brought tears to my eyes.
And I agree. It is wonderful to have a place to go that still celebrates The Reason for the season! Even the greater on our way out of the park reminded us to "keep Christ in Christmas". I hope they keep Christ at the center of the Old Time Christmas. I hope they are just moving the show or just chaining it. I can't imagine them getting rid of it.
I agree 100%...It was so exciting walking into the park (1st time I'd been to OTC) and see the banners with scripture on it...I want to take my parents this Christmas and I know they will enjoy...Being a pastor's son and born again Christian it does my heart good to see things like I saw during OTC...
My Dad is a minister also and SDC is his most favorite place to go. :)
My parents will celebrate their 50th anniversary in 10 years and my brothers and sister and I talked about saving up to all go to Disney World, but my parents said they would much rather go to SDC.
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[/quote]
I know I am in the minority, but the Nativity show does nothing for me. A simple version might be better. I'd watched it three times, and after that I decided not to see it again. The Dickens show still brings tears to my eyes, though. I love Jesus, I just hated that Nativity show.
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I'm just a sap for musicals. I cried at the Christmas Carol show, too.
I think a simple Nativity would be great. That's a story that doesn't need any embellishment. Like I said, I just don't want it to go away completely.
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I asked about the Nativity today. Here's the deal...the hope is to produce a big new production show in Red Gold for 2012. However, major modifications will have to be made to the building to accommodate a large production...big dollars for that. The producers are trying to get approval, but it's not yet been given. So, if the approval is given, there will be a new Christmas production in Red Gold for 2012, and the Nativity show will be relocated, not abandoned. Whether it's the same show or a simpler one would depend on where they relocate to. But, if they don't get approval for the new show, the Nativity will remain in the Red Gold.
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HMM? ok. so if i am reading this right.. the PTB are thinking about spending a bunch of money for 1 show?
That sounds wrong to me..?
not trying to take anything away from the meaning of christmas.
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Obviously will need more details on this "project"
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I gave SDC my money 3 years ago even though they postponed the new ride for a year.
I gave them my money last year even though I knew the new ride wasn't for me.
I gave them my money this year hopping something new would occur, alas.....nothing.
Nothing to the extent they are apparently forewarning us to get used to the same ole for 2012.
I realize that it takes a lot of money to put in a new ride or major improvement but I am losing my willingness to hold a seasons pass waiting and contributing to a improvement that is not occurring.
I am interested in a family attraction, something that we can all enjoy. Why they nixed creature in the creek is beyond me, that is what SDC needs ( or something similar).
A ride that tells a real story, that is not going to soak you and can be ridden by everyone all season long.
They have lost me on the shows as well, they have ridden the same shows long enough.
To reiterate, there is less and less that will hold my attention for another season.
I guess I am super negative but that's how I am looking at the latest SDC news.
2012 will have to have some real promise to have me bring $150 out of my wallet for passes. I have contributed $500 solely in passes during the past 3 years and am still without something new.
Basically that news pisses me off a little.
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I know that I am solidly in the minority here but I am not at all bothered by them not adding anything.
I loved SDC long before the started adding thrill rides, and whatever they choose to add is nice but even if they just had FITH and a kids play area like we did when I was young we would still go.
Rides are not why I go, shows aren't why I go. The people and place are why I go. And unless they try to change the spirit and environment of the City we will be there.
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mhguy, I do agree with you on the show situaiton. as i have stated before. I dont know they cant have 2 or 3 or even 4 "skits"/ "shows" and revolve them monthly/quaterly even yearly.
I know we would all love the show much much more if we did not have them all memorized.
As far as the "major" thrill, I dont do much riding. I do realize alot of people do and that is fime with me. That is all part of the theme park thing..So i do wish something would happen there.
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The thrill is not what I am asking for.
I want a family ride that isn't " thrilling" in that is keeps some off. FM tells a story and is a staple of a visit to SDC. FITH is a little more thrilling but also a staple of a visit to SDC. The other rides are great but lack that connection.
This is what SDC needs more of, this is why we all wish they would fix them up again, they have character and they tell a story. The great swing is fun but there is no story, there is no story to wildfire, these rides are fun but they lack the connection. There was a post on this site that asked people what ride they wouldn't mind seeing removed. Overwhelmingly FM and FITH were voted to stay. This speaks volumes, we need more story attractions. No big splash, no huge hill, no upside down flips we need a story.
Something like this would be a good investment.
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Well, maybe we'll get lucky and they'll refurbish American Plunge and get the theme back up to par. Maybe we'll get an old-ride-turned-new as part of the 2012 season...
Would be nice, if only.
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The thrill is not what I am asking for.
I want a family ride that isn't " thrilling" in that is keeps some off. FM tells a story and is a staple of a visit to SDC. FITH is a little more thrilling but also a staple of a visit to SDC. The other rides are great but lack that connection.
This is what SDC needs more of, this is why we all wish they would fix them up again, they have character and they tell a story. The great swing is fun but there is no story, there is no story to wildfire, these rides are fun but they lack the connection. There was a post on this site that asked people what ride they wouldn't mind seeing removed. Overwhelmingly FM and FITH were voted to stay. This speaks volumes, we need more story attractions. No big splash, no huge hill, no upside down flips we need a story.
Something like this would be a good investment.
I agree. More family rides would be great! We have a 2 year old and a 4 year old. Flooded mine and the Train were pretty much the only things we could ride together at Christmas. This summer we can ride River Blast and American Plunge, but what if we don't want to be soaked all day?
We took a trip to Disney World in 2009 when our youngest was 9 months old, yet he could still ride most everything except the coasters/thrill rides. There were far more rides that we could together than not.
But I am excited about HDH. It sounds perfect for my boys, but it does exclude a lot of people.
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I agree that SDC has enough get wet rides! I am still scratching my head over RB. We go to SDC on an average of 20 times a year. Every time we went last year you could walk right on or have virtually no wait at all. Don't get me wrong it has great theming and looks great. It just seems strange a brand new 7 million ride has no waiting lines. We have 5 children that range from 9 to 15 and they had little interest after the initial first few times they rode. With that being said, I do believe that the next big thing for SDC would be something that can be rode pretty much throughout the year.
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^Yeah, that is really sad, especially since a lot of kids had to be dragged away from Splash Harbor after hours of play. Even though it is pretty fun, and great to cool off on, RB did seem to fall short in both being a water ride and recreating the parts of the Splash Harbor experience that were so fun IMO. :P I wonder if the lackluster response is another factor in SDC's current decision process.
SDC really hasn't had much luck in the past few years. The parking lot project became a boondoggle that took forever and apparently cost way more than they were expecting, the recession hit and caused them to delay cap. ex. for a year, and all the while attendance hasn't even soared from all of their efforts. If everything had gone to plan, the parking project would have been done in 2008, RB would have been 2009's attraction, and who knows what we would have gotten for the 50th anniversary.
That's life I guess. I'm sure SDC will have something up its sleeve for 2012, even if its not a ride, that will be worth looking forward to. However, this talk about family rides really makes me think that SDC needs a good wooden coaster now more than ever - even though I'm sure some of you guys wouldn't classify that as a 'family ride'. Ozcat sure had a diverse age group riding it back in the day though.
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RB was supposed to be a big family ride but teenagers were non existent and grownups were just riding because of the smaller kids. During mid summer lines to the LR were backed up to the entrance while at the same time you could walk right on RB. This tells me it's not just getting wet but the little added thrill that brings a family to a ride. Yeah! I agree it might be time for a nice wooden coaster or at least something with a little more thrill to it. But hopefully not another get soaked ride :).
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We need something with theme.
If you think about it WDW would not be what it is without the Haunter Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean. Neither are thrill rides.
What they do have is theme and storys.
Like FITH and FM.
They are more expensive then a off the shelf ride I would think but they have staying power and lifelong fans.
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I gave them my money this year hopping something new would occur, alas.....nothing.
I realize that it takes a lot of money to put in a new ride or major improvement but I am losing my willingness to hold a seasons pass waiting and contributing to a improvement that is not occurring.
I am interested in a family attraction, something that we can all enjoy.
They have lost me on the shows as well, they have ridden the same shows long enough.
2012 will have to have some real promise to have me bring $150 out of my wallet for passes. I have contributed $500 solely in passes during the past 3 years and am still without something new.
Basically that news pisses me off a little.
I'm truly sorry that you can't find anything at the park to enjoy anymore. Fact is, there is something new this year...something that will appeal to families. It's called Half Dollar Holler, just in case you haven't heard about it yet. There will also be some new food offerings. Concerning shows, counting all the Festivals, shows rotate in and out on an almost weekly and in some cases daily basis. Sure, there are the standards like Horse Creek, Pure Heart, Sons of the Silver Dollar, Cajun Connection, Echo Hollow (and that gets revamped to some degree every year), Dickens Christmas Carol, and The Nativity that are back from year to year. But they're there why? Because people demand it! What do you think those surveys that they take on park everyday are all about? BTW, according to those surveys, RB is quite well received.
Soapbox rant---
I love this forum, but, being a long term citizen of SDC, sometimes I really have to bite my tongue when reading some of the opinions expressed here. And I do realize that that's what they are...just feelings and wishes...and all of them worthwhile and valid to some degree or another. But I swear, sometimes I get the feeling that some of the members here regard SDC as their own personal and private playground. It would be good for those people to remember that SDC caters to a wide variety of people, of all ages and backgrounds, all with their own needs and wishes. It's just not physically possible to please all of the people all of the time. I, for one, think SDC does a pretty darn good job at keeping most of 'em happy though.
Off the soapbox now.
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The main problem is that a lot... sorry... A LOT of people got spoiled with SDC additions.
If you look back a few years you have the following *BAM* *BAM* *BAM*
-PowderKeg Area
-Grand Exposition Area
-Wilson's Farm Area.
3 huge new areas with lots of attractions and other stuff.
The issue, and I addressed this with Genesis at the media event for Wilson's Farm, is that people are going to start expecting each year that a whole new land would be unveiled. Sure enough here we are 3 years later and we have sour grapes because the park is not expanding enough to their liking. Fact of the matter folks, we are back on "typical SDC expansion mode" -- there were YEARS before the major expansion boom mentioned above where nothing was added except upgrades to festivals.
I will say this, the park plans 5 years out minimum. This is standard practice in the amusement industry - so the neext big thing has been planned. With that being said, there are a bunch of perfectly fine rides at CC that need a home and it would be silly not to include them into SDC or another property. SO do not be surprised if that happens here in the near future - it may not be popular among you "SDCana" (to ripoff the Disneyana label) people but it makes sense on a business standpoint.
About done - my point is you can either gripe and complain about the park and not renew your season pass, but the park is not really going to care one way or the other as you are just ONE individual and if you think someone else won't step up and fill your void, you need to recheck your self worth. Just saying.
/soapbox
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Right you are, Swoosh. I might just say that the park does care what everyone thinks...there have been instances where a single letter got something changed. But on average, the park cannot feasibly accommodate everyone's wishes.
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They care to a point... but if all the person is doing is complaing that the park isn't adding what they THINK should be added, they are going to turn a deaf ear to it. It quite easy to play armchair Imagineer - the Disneyana people do it all the time, but there is a lot more to it then opening the Sears-Roebuck book of thrill/family rides and picking one out.
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Swoosh do you pay admittance when you go to SDC or are you admitted as a member of Media?
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I have had a season pass for 12 years now.
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Added thrill ride or not. I will be going, without too much concern as long as i see improvements..
HDH is a noticebale improvement obviously..
But I am sure the park could spend BIG money on small repair/maintenence that the everday SDC goer would not even notice.And if that is what they decide to do, Good for them!
Some money reinvested into current rides/ some money back into the shows. That would all be good.
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I loved the park as a kid before many attractions that we have now were added. Do I love when something new is added? Of course. But my family will continue to visit the park even if they don't add new things for awhile. It's a getaway place. When we need a little break from life, we head to Branson. We usually take a bigger vacation each summer so we can see what's out there in this great country of ours, but Branson is near enough that we can also get away to somewhere familiar that feels like home.
SDC season passes are a great value for this purpose. If you live near enough to take little getaways throughout the year, you can come to Branson and a big chunk of the entertainment expense is paid for. We pay for very little beyond SDC entertainment-wise. There is something for everyone, and the festivals change enough to keep us busy. I'm always looking forward to what SDC has in store, but I love my old familiar SDC, too.
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When we need a little break from life, we head to Branson. We usually take a bigger vacation each summer so we can see what's out there in this great country of ours, but Branson is near enough that we can also get away to somewhere familiar that feels like home.
This is my situation as well. I take half days to SDC. I have seen the shows and ridden the rides and just wish they would shake it up a little.
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I think we have all mentioned before (somewhere in this maze of threads) that a year off for maintenance and upgrades would be a welcome investment. I'm perfectly OK with that. Get this up to date all at once - FitH, AP, FM, etc. Make some technological upgrades to all of these and improve the special effects. How about adding the splash to PK and sticking some Fountain of Youth surprises in the final LR room? And that's just the rides...
...I'm sure there could be some improvements made to shops, as well as to the kitchens and dining rooms. Bring back roaming characters, and stick a full-blown comedy show back into the Riverfront Playhouse (After all, it is a playhouse, not a concert hall.).
An investment like this could be a part of a super advertisement campaign: "How long has it been since you've been to Silver Dollar City? After 50 years, the Ozark playground is looking better than ever. Now it's shinier, cleaner, smoother, better...and funner than ever! Yeah, that's right, we said 'funner', and we know some people who say that's not a real word, but guess what: it is now!" [pumping music montage] "Silver Dollar City! 2011! Funner than ever before!"
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I agree, History Buff. A little spiffing-up would go a long way!
And if I were adding things to the list, I would have to say the bathrooms right after the ticket windows, before the turnstiles really need some help! Yikes!
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Yes, sounds like we are all in agreement. hopefully somebody is listening.. ;D
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There are those kinds of improvements that do happen every year. A new roof here, a new floor there, shoring up the foundation of a building here or there, new counters for a food shop, etc., etc. Improvements this winter, just off the top of my head include but are not limited to- New deck for Fried Fancies eating area, new roof for Heartland Furniture, new roof for the Blacksmith shop, the new food place in front of Lumbercamp (a place that sells those spiral potatoes on a stick from what I hear), and new street surfacing in several areas. And besides construction maintenance, they do electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical upgrades and maintenance every year. Enough to keep the Maintenance & Construction division working 7 days a week, 10 hours a day for most of the off-season. Thank God, I don't work that hard. The improvements that you all can see, whether it be refurbished scenes in FITH, new service counters, or whatever...those are just the tip of the iceberg.
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...not to mention new felt on the pool table.
But I'm talking about a complete sweep - really getting in there and covering the PVC, filling in the cracks, shining the light fixtures - making a real effort to earn the cleanest park award - more than routine maintenance. Make it so that more than just the diehard fans will notice.
Maybe even putting some serious money into employee training to go for the friendliest park award, too.
And making it a point to advertise it as such.
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Zephon you're right of course, and we all realize there is the daily/monthly/yearly maintenance that is involved with a park this size.
I am simply saying/suggesting more in depth projects..As history suggested more in depth work.
Making the little doodads that used to work in different attractions work again. and so on. No real complaint list.. just thinking out loud.
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ya know I have to say that sdc isnt about big thrills. Not to me anyway. I like that they have a couple of thrill rides, but to me SDC is an enviroment. Its somewhere to escape to, get away from fast paced things in our life. What they have is a mix of everything. No my four year old cant ride everything. So what. They did a great job of adding GE and HDH. putting in rides that my husband and I can ride with our son. Heck just going to SDC is experiance enough. The smells and sights and special stores. The entertainers and black smith and glass blowers. Yes they have the staple shows. I have come to expect those every year and listen to it in the off season. I would hate to see SDC become a fast paced thrill ride expert. I want trees and landscaping over rides. I want quirky shops and oddball charecters. Rides come and go. I for one am thrilled with SDC the way it is. If they dont get a new ride for another 5 years thats not going to keep me from buying my passes. There is something for me, my husband, my child. There is something for the grand parents. There is somethin for everyone to ride together. Yes grndfathers mansion could use a revamp, but if they revamp too much it would have to be ADA acceptable, which there is nothin wrong with but then it might change what GM is. Then where would we be??? If we go changing too much and wanting the next big thing, we will change what SDC is and that would be a sad day.
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The park will always change, as trends change, and people, so will the park. There are parts of the park that don't change. Some areas are almost exactly the same as my first visit in 1970. There are parts that will change. Attractions and shows will change from time time. There have been, to my knowledge, four or five theaters on the spot where Boatworks Theater is now. Each time the stage and seating area has gotten larger. The park will almost always be very familiar to those who go back year after year. However, I was disoriented as to where I was first time I went into the Grand Exposition area, because it was woods or employee parking when I worked there!
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Believe me, I get disheartened as much as you all do when I see some of the old stuff neglected or even abandoned. And I've seen a lot of it in my time here. Heck, I remember FITH in it's glory days!...when it was just a few years old...everything worked and it was a marvelous experience. I remember the days of a full strength street troop...shows every hour on Main Street, "happenings" inbetween time at various parts of the park. It was common for "battles" between the Hatfields and McCoys to erupt any where on park at any time...guests loved it. The shows in the Playhouse were actually funny at one time...belly-laughs were common and guests were included in the action. Even the crafts demonstrations have suffered through the years. I could go on and on. I really do miss "the good ole days."
Through it all, us old-timers have learned to persevere...knowing that it's not the same park as when Jack and Pete took an active hand in deciding it's direction. The money-managers are at a definite disadvantage...not having "grown-up" at the park, they have no concept of what it was...or what it could be again for that matter. You have to believe that if they did, their priorities would shift in efforts to regain some of that flavor.
This year's theme for employees is "fast and friendly." All well and good. You have to have that in your personnel in order to be successful. And the thing is, that doesn't cost the company, whereas, maintaining the atmosphere does. Sigh...
So, we continue to support the place we love as best we can, knowing that if we decide to "cash in our chips," it will become just another dime-a-dozen amusement park.
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Zephon, thanks for your truthful and candid remarks. I can tell it comes from the heart. I pray the powers that be gain a deeper understanding of the park and traditions. I think it would help in the long run. After all, that's what it took to build the park up in the first place. :)
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zephon.. as always, well said and to the point. And as usual, very accurate.
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The refurbishing of SDC and it's already great rides would be great...I'm still wondering why they took out the waterboggin so soon...Also, why did they leave the tower?
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The one thing that everyone needs to remember that in this business is that everything is fluid. Just because they said one thing now or even a month from now does not mean that it is the final decision. Don't be surprised to hear one thing from the PTB one day and then a couple weeks later something else - it's the nature of the beast. If attendance is up this year, which it very well might be considering they are calling for a cooler start to summer, who knows what may happen. They DO have a few larger projects planned, they have certain areas of the park earmarked for different projects (including the waterboggan site) it is just a matter of when and if they get the green light from headquarters to do it.
So like I said, just because they said "no large attraction" now, who knows in a couple of months. I still say look for more CC rides to make their way over to SDC though.
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It could also be a distraction - a bluff to get the manufacturer to lower a bid.
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History Buff...I hadn't thought of that...you and Swoosh are much more familiar with how this business works than I am...I always enjoy and learn from your posts...
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And another option could be is the PTB elected not to say anything yet.
They probably have already decided what is going to happen, But want to get this year going first!.
Upper management knows we have our spies/ sources and connections.. lol!
i just DOUBT they pulled WB out 2 years early for NO reason..
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Imagine if the whole ride was still sitting there and not operating. The tower's not unsightly, but the whole slide would just loom there like a ghost town.
I do doubt they're just making this announcement to throw us off the scent, though.
Josh, I'm no expert - I'm just cynical.
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Imagine if the whole ride was still sitting there and not operating. The tower's not unsightly, but the whole slide would just loom there like a ghost town.
Kinda like Huck Finn's Hideout!
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Not exactly - a nice iconic treehouse that barely gets any notice by the visiting public can still generate some nice photographs, while a weed-infested, rotting waterslide just gives off the vibe that the park is dying. But I get your point.
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Always a great reminder, Swoosh. To that point, I was specifically told twice last year by HFEC reps that the WB was specifically removed to make way for an exciting new attraction for the 2011 season. Clearly we got something new. And clearly it had nothing to do with WB site.
I'll be the first to admit that I was probably wrong about the addition of HDH. Even having a little one, I didn't really see the value in having another attraction geared toward a younger audience. I do think it will be a nice addition.
I do, however, still yearn for another new major thrill-ride at SDC. Couldn't agree more that it's a tough balancing act. And at the end of the day, I would rather retain the park's unique character and charm than see it evolve into a major ride destination. But quite honestly, I don't ever see that happening. I think the decision makers know what makes SDC work.
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I'd still like a Mystery Mine type of a ride in the Waterboggin' area...Dollywood's looks cool...
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well lets see DW appears to be getting 2 major attractions in 2 years,
Major rebuild on the showboat,
major revamp at WW...
But nothing at SDC, (except of course HDH).
so with all the money being spent in for 2011 & 2012 looks like SDC is coming in last place on the investment list. with an estimate of only about 6-8% of total money invested, it does not look good for our favorite place! HMMMM??
still think there is nothing in the works? ::) ::)
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whatever happens Silver Dollar City will hold a special place in our hearts for the rest of our lives. ;)
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YES you are right of course.. no matter what they do/dont do. we will always love and go to SDC.
whatever improvements they make, will always be nice bonuses.
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If HFEC is not inclined to invest in a major attraction for the 2012 season, or even 2013 for that matter, I would definitely like to see them take on one or all three of the following:
Renovate and improve FITH
Significantly overhaul and improve AP
Remove or renovate GG
For me, these are the only three current attractions in the park that could really use some TLC in terms of maintenance, thematic improvements and/or a general face lift.
If another major coaster project is on the books for completion anytime soon, I think the WB/GG area of the park would be an ideal location. As it stands, SDC's major thrill ride attractions all anchor the perimeter of the park. The only exception would be TGS, if you want to call that a major attraction. The addition of a new coaster project in the WB/GG area would be in keeping with that trend and afford a few other benefits.
• It would provide a destination point on that side of the park rather than a place you meander to during your visit
• It would offer a major attraction to balance the offerings of nearby GE
• It would relieve ride and foot traffic congestion from the opposite side of the park featuring WF & PK
I'm sure we've all hashed out these or similar thoughts here a thousand times over; and I'm sure they are things that have been on the radar for TPTB at HFEC. Just putting it out there, albeit my personal opinion.
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If HFEC is not inclined to invest in a major attraction for the 2012 season, or even 2013 for that matter, I would definitely like to see them take on one or all three of the following:
Renovate and improve FITH
Significantly overhaul and improve AP
Remove or renovate GG
For me, these are the only three current attractions in the park that could really use some TLC in terms of maintenance, thematic improvements and/or a general face lift.things that have been on the radar for TPTB at HFEC. Just putting it out there, albeit my personal opinion.
Agreed! FITH and AP really NEED to be cleaned up and updated a bit. Also, it would be great if they improved the theme of PK. I hate looking at old ride parts. It clearly looks like a new ride setting on an old one. All the old waterways and the unfinished splash down makes the ride kind of half a**ed. (don't get me wrong i still LOVE the ride). You could even add LROTO to that list. Wouldn't mind if they did some more theme related stuff to the "cave" section of that ride.
To me for the 2012 project, I would rather they spend the money on improvements/TLC of the park then build a new major ride in 2013. (or do both in 2012 ;D)
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that was very obvious sunday back intime.. the area by the saloon,, AP, WW. up towards PK and opera house. was BUSY.. lots of people.. as i walked around the park the only other "busy" part was GG. other than those 2 area it was easy to walk around and look at anyhting you wanted to.
I dont see them taking out GG because of the obvious demand it has with the kids.
I do think a major ride in the WB area would help with people traffic in that area.
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the area by the saloon,, AP, WW. up towards PK and opera house. was BUSY.. lots of people..
May I present the opinion that if that new chip stand really gets a line the area in front of the saloon is really gonna get tight.
At Christmas that area is really a bear from the saloon to PK is a real mess. I am afraid of the additionional traffic standing in the thoroughfare from the chip stand.
I question the position do to the close proximity.......thoughts?
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agreed! ;D
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If no new attraction, I'd also like to see some TLC given to the current attractions...Additionally, it would be nice if they would do some updates to The Wilderness Campground...Maybe running cement pads for RV parking, freshing up the sites, adding a Basketball Court, Mini-Golf, etc....Love the campground but would like to see some updates...I'd like to see the full hookup for spot #173 moved to the opposite side of the site...It would definitely make it a better site...
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good point josh,
we know that most of the other branson properties have had some upgrading recently.
No one has pointed out that the campgrounds could stand some updating too.
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Honestly, for 2012 I would like them to build an additional "events" building up in Wilson's Farm on the site of the old train robbery cabin. The building could be just like Red Gold, but designed from the get go to have productions in it instead of retrofitted like the Red Gold was. That would allow them more options for entertainment venues without having to have RG do multiple things at the same time like it does now.
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If they built the new events hall at the old robbers shack location, what would become of the cabin? Would they move it and reuse it, or, would it disappear forever?
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Disappear forever. Right now it is just a mere shell that is used for storage.
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Another events building might be a good idea, Swoosh, but I wouldn't want it at the old robber's shack location. Situating it between the RR tracks there would limit it's size, and it would be quite expensive considering the amount of leveling that would have to be done due to the lay of the land. Plus, there's a major access way into that end of the park and the Opera House that runs through there and closing that road to allow for guest traffic back and forth from Wilson's farm would put quite a crimp into operations.
I think a good location would be west and south of HH. That area was scouted and even flagged out when they were considering locations for the Opera House years ago. A major venue up on that end of the park would be nice.
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Actually the main reason I suggested there is because of the access to and from backstage. Honestly all they'd need is a couple of gates there across the access road - if they need to hault traffic bad enough to get something across then so be it. As far as space, there is more there than one thinks. That parcel of land is huge. As far as leveling is concerned - Don't worry about that - the main show floor can be the 2nd level and then the lower grade can be the entrance to a half submerged 1st level/basement.
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think a good location would be west and south of HH.
Are you talking between the HH and the Mill restaurant?
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I think he's talking about below the birdhouse maker on the other side Mhguy77! But not for sure.
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for a building as big as that would be, they will need to expand into virgin territory,? dont you think?
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they will need to expand into virgin territory,? don't you think?
I still feel convinced that they will use what is left of the employee parking lot behind the old
WB at some point. That is flat land and ready to go right now if they choose to use it.
I noticed they are improving the employee parking across 76.
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well i wondered about that are too, but if a "new ride" goes in there, and they put a new building in. All of a sudden that area is very busy, with train tracks and the new facilites...
BUT wouldn't they be a great set of additions! Do away with that fence from the old tower clear to GG, redo the vegatation, lay some fresh asphalt!..... oh man!!!!!!!!!!!
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We LOVE the park, but the parking lots look like......... like some strip mining or rock quarry project. The lots are ugly. Where the RV parking is an example of leveling out an area and paving it flat. Please put in some trees and landscaping, planters, creative signs, banners or something. How about a picnic area, or grass patches to walk a pet that often make the trip (in mild weather). There are miles of steel guard rails, how about using landscaping blocks walls instead of all that guard rails. Look at the lots in Google maps they look so bare. Just my two cents!
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I'm with you on the dog park/walking area. I am a huge pet lover..
But as far as the parking lots... dont hold your breath..
They are just that - parking lot.
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think a good location would be west and south of HH.
Are you talking between the HH and the Mill restaurant?
On the other side of HH, the restrooms side. Between HH and the Apple Butter place is the Shingle Saw shed. From that area and south of there.
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I was under the impression the town square area, being the original part of SDC, was somewhat off limits to major alterations. Would a massive theater next to McHaffie, Birdle's, the church and schoolhouse not greatly alter the character of the area? Is land becoming that short and precious? I know it must be, otherwise Grand Exposition would not have been built virtually on top of the Indian Point/Hwy 76 intersection. I still have a hard time with that move.
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yes junior, I actually like the GE addition, it is well laid out, easy access. Good "enclosed" area for the kids. Made use of wasted land.....
But does seems odd this time of year and at OTC, when you can see the hiway through the trees. Really does away with the "theme"...>/
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Does anyone know if the PTB have ever given any thought to transforming storage areas/maintenance shops that are close to the park into areas for new attractions, etc and moving those areas to other property that HFE owns away from the park? I know it would be inconvenient to have the storage/maintenance areas further away from on-site, but it might free up some space for further park growth. I'm no expert, but thought I'd throw the idea out there. Since the shuttles are provided anyway, maybe using one or more of the parking lots for an attraction is a possiblilty as well, moving the parking to a site further away from the park.
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Back in the old days, there was a lot going on in those buildings behind Lake Silver on the other side of the RR tracks. Shops, storage, some audio stuff recorded in there. Electronics shop, Atmosphere barn, and so on. I only was in that area a handful of times during my employment, but it seems to me if the area gets as much use today as it did back then, relocating would be a major job.
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well all i know is that i hope they do something fun what ever it may be. I have also learned from reading past posts that what ever they do we will be way off the mark! :)
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Perhaps SDC not getting a major attraction means some love is being considered for CC.
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And you know HB, if that is indeed what is going to happen, GREAT!
As long as they spend some time and money redoing/repairing/modifying/updating areas in SDC that need it.
we all Agree with that.
If they do decide to do something with CC it will be surprising to several of us, And the speculation has no bounds to what they may do..
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^^That's what I'm hoping. It definitely seems logical as they're well beyond their original stated time frame to get something moving on the property and 2012 is as good a year to make that move as anything. In some ways I'd rather they sell off the place piecemeal and invest in a couple of large-scale quality rides and attractions for SDC, but if they can bring back OzCat in 2012 I'll call it even.
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well in the most famous words of this forum..
"Guess we will wait and see"
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There's a rumor that SDC may be working on some sort of new show/interactive experience that either entails motion simulation or heavy use of animatronics, or both. The details sound sketchy, but it's something to think about.
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Would that be the show in Red Gold, or something else?
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There's a rumor that SDC may be working on some sort of new show/interactive experience that either entails motion simulation or heavy use of animatronics, or both. The details sound sketchy, but it's something to think about.
Are we going to get Heartsong too?
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If they were to incorperate all of these features, I would daresay it will be in a NEW building/location.
ANd if it does happen that way it will be great!
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Anyone heard any new news?
"Motion Simulation" ?? -- Yep, its gonna be the Diving Bell :o
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Hmmm...diving bell? We'll see. I wouldn't think so. If they do that, they will have to find some young guys to play "Junior" 'cause me and the other guys that used to do that are between 45-55 years of age now! LOL! :D
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I bet there are some "younger" volunteers available... But Expierence is hard to beat!!
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hey Junior haven't you heard of evolution? Capt. Junior Dugan ?
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CAPTAIN JUNIOR DUGAN! Well now, Hmmmmmm...I think I COULD GET USED TO THAT! LOL :o ;D
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I found this: http://www.jimdavisdesign.com/portfolio/grizzly-encounter/
It's probably the source of the earlier rumor. As with the case of the CC artwork earlier, if you can find it online, it means the park must have turned it down. Still, it might imply that the park has played with the idea of having an interactive show of some kind again.
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Nice find Shave!
I may be alone in this boat, but I am glad they left the “Grizzly Encounter” on the cutting room floor. With that being said, a well themed show would be okay.
However, I am still holding out that something major will be done with the old Waterboggan area. Beating a dead horse am I? Perhaps. However, I doubt that will come to light by 2012. There is still hope for 2013.
Since no major construction, or announcements have taken place, I believe it is safe to assume that 2012 will feature another small scale attraction such as the interactive show rumor.
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ok, so that is interesting shave. wonder what else is on the drawing board... or what's on the floor as ozark said.. ??
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That's the silliest idea I have ever seen! Thats like a bear verson of Stitch's Great Escape in Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom. That just seems so out of place for SDC, just weird....just weird.
!!!BRING BACK THE DIVING BELL!!!
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That's the silliest idea I have ever seen! Thats like a bear verson of Stitch's Great Escape in Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom. That just seems so out of place for SDC, just weird....just weird.
Stitch's Great Escape + Country Bear Jamboree = Grizzly Encounter
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^ LOL :D
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So I saw the thread about the new attraction at Dollywood for 2012 being a possible roller coaster. In the article it stated that nothing like what they'll be doing has been done in the US and that it will be the biggest investment to this point. Will SDC be getting anything major in 2012? I know that a survey has been sent out but still haven't heard any confirmation that there will be a new attraction. Surely at some point SDC will have to get something major. I'm jealous of the Dollywood clientale. Seems like they've been getting a major attraction every year. It's just not feasible for us to travel to Pigeon Forge to visit Dollywood. SDC is already a 12-13 hour drive.
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Well what state do u live in joshblakebran?
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cocodane, josh is in or near denver colorado.
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I was SDC today and Wildfire broke down. This really created huge lines for Powder Keg and American Plunge. Some sort of thrill ride needs to be added to the old waterboggin side of the park to help with congestion in the Powder Keg/Wildfire area, especially if one of those attractions break down.
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so when did u get to branson josh? how long are u staying?
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Wow. I hardly ever hear of Wildfire breaking down.
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Will SDC be getting anything major in 2012?
I am leaning towards no for anything super mega major scale (for example a coaster). Usually, construction for those attractions begin about a year in advance, and here we are in June, and there hasn’t even been one pebble turned over at Silver Dollar City.
Although I do agree, the old Waterboggan site is primed for something at some point.
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^Yeah, and with what was apparently said to the workers about there not being any major new attraction, it pretty much seems like they're going to wait for gas to come down in price again or something, even though the park is still getting full and their competitors are pretty much walking all over them with expansions. ::)
However, I have some hope that what was told to them was just to throw us off, or was not set in stone and we'll end up getting SOMETHING this year. I know they are rumored to be pouring more money into WW though.
I was SDC today and Wildfire broke down. This really created huge lines for Powder Keg and American Plunge. Some sort of thrill ride needs to be added to the old waterboggin side of the park to help with congestion in the Powder Keg/Wildfire area, especially if one of those attractions break down.
Did it actually break down, or did someone just puke or have a medical issue in the station? That's the only reason I've ever seen it down. It might be the first time in ten years that I've ever heard of it going down for mech. reasons, but B&M's do age eventually.
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As crazy as it sounds, I would rather Silver Dollar City wait a year, or two on a quality major attraction rather than rush a mediocre ride, and wedged it into an unnatural spot on the park.
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Next year is the "year of the waterpark" as SFStL is expanding Hurricane Harbor (it's not announced yet but it is one of the worst kept secrets in the industry right now) and Adventureland is adding Phase III to Adventure Bay. It sounds like Oceanse of Fun is FINALLY getting a new attraction next year (this is probably the least "confirmed" though) and Schlitterbahn KC is said to go ahead with part of Phase III next year.
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Next year is the "year of the waterpark" as SFStL is expanding Hurricane Harbor (it's not announced yet but it is one of the worst kept secrets in the industry right now) and Adventureland is adding Phase III to Adventure Bay. It sounds like Oceanse of Fun is FINALLY getting a new attraction next year (this is probably the least "confirmed" though) and Schlitterbahn KC is said to go ahead with part of Phase III next year.
I was in KC on a Hubby/Wife excursion this weekend. However, she couldn't keep me away from Cabela's. I was disappointed that store to tell the truth. Bass Pro has got that concept expect for the guns down. That area where schlitterbahn is at is compact and still full of attractions. Outlet Mall, Race track, Soccer Stadium, minor league ball, indoor waterpark hotel, and the Schit thing.
The waterpark is going to have a huge footprint. My wife will not even entertain the notion of Waterwater with all that and a better traffic stituation. Whitewater isn't all that impressive I loved the models of the WoW coasters at Union Station and a bit sad I didn't get to ride a few.
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They've got to have something up their sleeve though; otherwise why send out the 3 ride concept survey?
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^Yeah, and with what was apparently said to the workers about there not being any major new attraction, it pretty much seems like they're going to wait for gas to come down in price again or something, even though the park is still getting full and their competitors are pretty much walking all over them with expansions. ::)
However, I have some hope that what was told to them was just to throw us off, or was not set in stone and we'll end up getting SOMETHING this year. I know they are rumored to be pouring more money into WW though.
I was SDC today and Wildfire broke down. This really created huge lines for Powder Keg and American Plunge. Some sort of thrill ride needs to be added to the old waterboggin side of the park to help with congestion in the Powder Keg/Wildfire area, especially if one of those attractions break down.
Did it actually break down, or did someone just puke or have a medical issue in the station? That's the only reason I've ever seen it down. It might be the first time in ten years that I've ever heard of it going down for mech. reasons, but B&M's do age eventually.
The workers said it was for mechanical reasons.
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so when did u get to branson josh? how long are u staying?
We got here on the 8th and are going to stay until the 23rd. I'd love to meet any of you that will be at the park during this time. By the way, I did catch the Nic Wallenda Discovery thing...It was neat to see, but perhaps a bit overhyped...That said, to hang by your teeth 200 ft in the air from a helicopter with no safety ropes or anything attached is amazing.
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I forgot KC is getting an SeaLife Aquarium and a Legoland at the Crown Center.
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As much as I anticipate a new ride I would be just as happy next year if they brought back a "re-vamped" show like the Melvin the Chicken Thief show, the Boxing Show or one of the older Saloon shows.
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I would love it if they brought back the Lumbercamp Lumber Jack show there by the Falls and made it into a real outdoor theatre with bleachers and everything = giving that "wasted space" a meaning again.
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All those shows you mentioned sounds neat...Especially the lumber jack show...I was sad to see that Adam Western is no longer doing the Saloon Show...I guess he moved to St. Louis following his girlfriend...He was a great comedian...
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There's definitely a possibility of new shows. The concept piece I linked to a while back shows that they are probably sniffing around new show concepts - I doubt that guy designed that piece just for the fun of it. There's certainly demand for it too, and I know Dollywood just put a lot of work into some new shows recently that probably paid off for them.
With the new log hewing craftsman coming in, there's obviously still some interest in new crafts too, so maybe we'll see more of that come in.
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I’m all for it! I say bring on more craftsmen, and definitely bring on new shows. Branson is essentially a miniature Hollywood, and there are lots of talented actors in the area that could really bring Silver Dollar City to life.
The lumberjack show returning to the Lumberjack Camp would be so wonderful! :D
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I would love to see the lumberjack show again...
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I loved the show. My favorite event was the log rolling in the waterfall lake, it made for a good show! They even had a springboard demonstration, and a single buck competition. With the lTall Timber logging show that was 1.5 miles from SDC, they would not have any trouble finding competitors/ demonstrators for this event...
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There's definitely a possibility of new shows. The concept piece I linked to a while back shows that they are probably sniffing around new show concepts - I doubt that guy designed that piece just for the fun of it. There's certainly demand for it too, and I know Dollywood just put a lot of work into some new shows recently that probably paid off for them.
With the new log hewing craftsman coming in, there's obviously still some interest in new crafts too, so maybe we'll see more of that come in.
Do you remember which thread had the "concept piece" link?
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^It was back a few pages, here it is again: http://www.jimdavisdesign.com/portfolio/grizzly-encounter/
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^It was back a few pages, here it is again: http://www.jimdavisdesign.com/portfolio/grizzly-encounter/
Thanks, Shave! Are you going to get a chance for a visit to SDC this summer?
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Any new info on next year's project or change/addition of shows?
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^^I hope to get out there sometime this summer, but it's always iffy for me. I'll at least be there for Christmas.
^Nope, it's still somewhat early to see any signs of construction if we are indeed getting a new addition. All the rumors I've picked up here and there still point to no major addition for this year either. It seems like the money might go to WW instead. It still sounds strange to me, because again people are clamoring for new things to do, and attendance has apparently been really good even in the face of the downturn that the company was so worried about. Maybe they just want to hold the park steady for another year before making a splurge in 2013. I still say the improvements of the park's infrastructure point to them gearing up for something.
We'll likely have to wait until November to hear what the change-ups will be for 2012. I don't expect to hear much. I think they'll push a new show or resident music group or something, and if we're lucky we'll get a new craft or something as well.
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Agreed. I don’t mind having a year, or two without a major attraction. I would rather them plan thoroughly, and build something really great by the 2013 season.
Unless they put in something small scale at the last minute, I predict 2012 will be a quiet season.
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Unless they put in something small scale at the last minute, I predict 2012 will be a quiet season.
I guess it depends on your definition of "quiet season"
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My definition of a quiet season is no ground breaking whatsoever. :)
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My definition of a quiet season is no ground breaking whatsoever. :)
Well then it won't be a quiet year by that definition as there will be some ground breaking next year. There is ground breaking every year.
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Any thoughts on a new attraction for 2012? Anybody heard anything? DW is getting their new attraction...didn't know if SDC was going to see any additions...
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Idk but the dw coaster looks pretty good. This is a different subject but my dad is talking about not renewing our sdc sp's and going to dw for summer vacation. To me this makes no since because we live 3 hrs from sdc and 17 hrs from dw.and with the season pass u save 50% at dw.stepping of my soap box now. I hope it's homemade lye soap. Haha
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Poked around a bit to see if there were any construction markers to be seen anywhere, but I didn't find anything.
The places to look are in the old Waterboggin area, the employee parking lot next to the GE, the hillside next to GE (near the kiddie rides), and the area next to Wilson's farm.
If they do break ground on anything for next season, we're likely to see them start marking an area within the next couple of months, so keep an eye out for anything if you visit.
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right on shave! i have been looking this year, but have yet to see anything yet.. i really check out the WB area close... but nothing yet
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Speaking of that, does anyone remember the hype a year, or so ago about all the flags, and markers around the old Waterboggan site? I wonder what those were for? Surveying for a future attraction perhaps?
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Speaking of that, does anyone remember the hype a year, or so ago about all the flags, and markers around the old Waterboggan site? I wonder what those were for? Surveying for a future attraction perhaps?
I forgot about those. Yes, they must of been surveying new attraction ideas like they were with the guests a few months back. I'm still on that woodie idea. ;)
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I personally would like too see rube duggans diving bell return.
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Hey, I'm right there with you on the diving bell return...today's special effects would make this such a great attraction. However, I think the ride should be updated, just called "Dugan's Diving Bell Operations." Junior is now the Captain, Rube has passed on and joined Grandpappy, guarding the silver at the bottom of the lake. Both of them greet you as they did in the old days. The Slim Pickens voice track could be edited so it appears if Rube is greeting you at the scene of the treasure. The Dub Taylor voice track could be slightly altered so it works well with Rube's voice. However, we now would have to be fair to the womenfolk...we would have to have diving bells that Ruby Dugan could drive, and the new pilot of the submersible could be Junior's nephew, Ruben Dugan. Hey, I think that might work! I'd LOVE to work with SDC in recording Junior's voice that would shout down at the audience and at Ruben or Ruby from the loft! What a kick that would be! Perhaps Eli Tolts' kid could be the one racing us to the silver in his dad's old contraption. The possibilities are endless...maybe modern 3D effects? Smoother motion in the simulator, more water effects! Modern Dolby Surround Sound! Whooooweeee! BRING IT ON!
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@ Junior - If that happens it'll be like you died and went to heaven...
I personally think that would be awesome.
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@ Junior - If that happens it'll be like you died and went to heaven...
I personally think that would be awesome.
Okie that really makes it sound like you want junior to die and go to heaven! lol
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junior your on too something there!! great idea!!
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Ground might not be breaking next year, but it will be the year of shows and special events. There are a lot of things planned for next year including the Fourth of July, Fall Time and Christmas. I’m not spoiling anything, but I will let all you speculate because you’re all so great at it.
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Copper, speculation lets our imaginations run WILD! We do look forward to the OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS in the weeks ahead.
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Ground might not be breaking next year...
I am actually okay with that. There is no reason to rush a mediocre attraction into the park just for the sake of having something new. They should take their time, think, plan, and then build. :)
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There will be some ground breaking next year, just not what most people are expecting or necessarily expecting.
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oh swoosh!! you know something? and aint sharing?
break ground next year? you mean as in january? Or NEXT year as in summer..
Come on....
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Just makin the cave deeper thats all!
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Copper & Swoosh are accurate on this one, based on the economy & ticket sales, no major projects will debut in 2012, but there are markers & plans for 2013...hate the anticipation & knowledge that the powers that be don't want acknowledged...
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That's what I expected, though I had hoped they would change their plans to include even just a little something new. Oh well, I'm assuming what's planned for 2013 will be worth the wait.
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where sre the markers and tinman? are they new ones? old ones?
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There will be plenty "new" for 2012 - just don't expect an attraction. This has been known since way before the season. Now will there be a new shop/stand or other improvements for next year? Yes. That is the ground breaking I am talking about. There have been plans all season for upgrades and what not that will include some earth moving here and there and that I was what I meant when I said "just not what people are expecting"
Sounds (from my sources) that a lot of attention will once again be on White Water -- but at the same time it really needs it and had sat pretty much untouched for many seasons until just recently.
Some of the acts being tossed around for the festivals next year sound promising. We'll see which ones they decide to finally go with - but the ones that they have shown interest in should be fun.
Also, you better bet that all eyes will be on ********* at Dollywood next year as a future ride for SDC
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That all sounds just as good. I've been hoping for more shops and crafts for ages now, and the improvements are always good. Hopefully there will be another new stand-alone shop or craft in the mix. I just hope they don't take out the waterfall... I know there have been rumors over the past few years that it might get taken out eventually since the area takes up so much room and it's not a focal point anymore. They could squeeze a new shop in the old pathway there easily though.
As long as there are a few new improvements and a little something new to see, I'll be content to wait until 2013 for the next ride, which as I take it will be a big one at last.
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couldn't find the other thread?
Funny that the converstation came up today about "new coaster" rumor behind the big swing. we will see what happens there..
While sitting next to the lake today, i noticed how dirty the lake is. Looks poluted, trash floating in it, balls from GG. water just look dirty.
As i was sitting eating lunch by lake silver, I was looking at GG, and how "bad" it looks, paint faded, boards rotted out by water and so on.. JUSt looks "bad". I began to wonder if they would consider taking GG out next and then putting in new attraction in the GG and WB area all at one time.
With HDH, you have the nets and treehouses, they have the sandpiles there, and with the RB, kids can get as wet as they want. with or without parents..
Just wondering about it, are they ignoring maint. on this area getting ready to do something else??... ???
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(Moved your thread and merged it with the existing one)
I doubt it. It's always been a bit messy around the lake, they don't clean it often.
Everyone complains about they way GG looks, but it would be a travesty if it were removed from the park. It's basically the main focus for all the kids that come to the park these days, now that so many of the old kid's attractions are gone. The rides in GE are OK, but aren't anything that they couldn't do for much cheaper somewhere else, and HDH is strictly for very young kids.
I wish it wasn't made so prominent with the way it's themed, but that should be behind us at this point. I wouldn't be surprised to see a fresh paint job next year though. This should be another year of improvements...
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thanks shave, i guess i just didn't go back far enough!.
I know GG is almost a "landmark" for the kids.
Just something i was thinking about while eating my Philly!
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it would be great to see GG fixed up. I know when I went last year, I noticed some new items (or maybe I just never paid attenetion) and that was cool but nothing mind blowing. It does need a face lift. Its a great place for older kids to run, considering HDH is for the real young. (isnt it for those under 7??)
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in theory trams, yes HDH is for 7 and under.... or restricted by height.
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New for 2012: ADA Compliancy. You're going to see a lot of changes this off season due to the new law. Enjoy!
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Meaning some of the attractions will be altered as we have discussed in threads on this site like the GM?
I am unfamiliar with new law changes but I can think of a few attractions that will need to alter their existing set-ups...Wonder what that'll look like.
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This deals more with pathways
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Pathway to rides FITH, Thunderation etc? or main pathways like the narrow walk way to the Grand Ex or the narrow road by the Candy shop?
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Ouch. I don't know the technical specifics of the ADA changes, but I'd wager a guess they'll have to add a lot more line, access routes, and signage at the very least. It could be a real headache redoing some of the entryways and steep drop-offs as well. SDC's pathways are still quite rugged, like they just poured asphalt over the forest floor.
Just as long as they don't have to level hill street. ::)
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Not sure about this law but there inevitably is a built in " grandfather clause". So if the ride/attraction/building was built before the law then that is "grandfathered" in. Build something new and you MUST comply. So although there are some tricky spots in SDC for wheel chairs and some changes will certainly be made I dont believe this is room for panic, the changes will most likely not effect you adversely on your visit to the city.
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Installation os a ski-style chair lift up Hill Street would fix that.
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that would be great! No woodies dont have razzle dazzle of the steel, but I feel that the woodie has a better look in the woods.
For those of you that thing woodies dont have the "Razzle Dazzle" you need to get in your car and drive to Holiday World and get on the Voyage. This is still my favorite wood coaster I have ever ridden.
Start with a big lift hill and first drop and follow it up with some 90 degree banked turns.
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We are huge fans of the "Wildcat" woodie that is sitting lonely at CC! Wish there was a way to get that one to SDC. I'm a huge fan of the wooden roller coaster. It has a feel that steel can never give. But then I am a fan of any roller coaster!
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your right busy mom, the woodie at CC looks pretty lonely just sitting there.. its a real shame!
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Swoosh recently updated midwestinfoguide.com with an update from the annual Coaster Christmas event at SDC, where the local Missouri parks come out and talk to ACE about their new additions.
Here's an interesting tidbit on 2012:
First up was Brad, the GM of Silver Dollar City.
Next year is being billed as the "Biggest Show Year Ever" at SDC. World Fest will be honoring Italy. Kids Fest will have Nick Wallenda return. There will be fireworks for 4th of July this year. Country Music Weekend will feature concerts by Pam Tillis and Diamond Rio in Echo Hollow. Harvest Festival will have a Wild West Stunt Show in Echo Hollow. Christmas will introduce "It's A Wonderful Life"
a new musical in the Heritage Hall. AND finally, he said that the Mystery 2013 addition would excite the ACErs. Soumds like a new coaster to me, but that opinion is just Mine.
Sounds good to me, though for the "Biggest Show Year Ever" it sounds like there's only a couple of new shows. At least they both sound really good. I wonder how they're going to set off fireworks when all the trees in the park obstruct the view? I guess there's echo hollow, but not everyone can fit in there.... Maybe the main square....
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AND finally, he said that the Mystery 2013 addition would excite the ACErs. Soumds like a new coaster to me, but that opinion is just Mine.
I'm not buying just yet. Can't wait to see construction photos of whatever it is though.
I wonder how they're going to set off fireworks when all the trees in the park obstruct the view? I guess there's echo hollow, but not everyone can fit in there.... Maybe the main square....
That was my first thought too. Maybe the back of Lake Silver?
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Lake silver seems to be a little out of the way, But the fireworks reflectong off the water would be a great view.
EH seems to be the obvious answer.
Not really a "prime" location, But i am sure the PTB will make a great effort
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The fireworks for the 50th anniversary were done over Echo Hollow, and we were able to see them on Main Street.
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so I had a thought kinda unrelated ish to the toppic-----how do you think crowd levels will be in 2012 without a major attraction not being placed?
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In that quotation that Shave posted, did anyone else besides me notice that the words
"Mystery" and "Mine" were both used, and they were both capitalized??!! Coincidence or just a choice of words? hmm......
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Good catch, DCB! Grammatically, both words should probably not be capitalized, and Swoosh has pretty good grammar, so I'm thinkin' you're on to something in that it could be a hint...
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LOL.I wondered when somebody was going to Mention that!!!.....
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New signs, new buildings, and other changes.
http://www.midwestinfoguide.com/silver/2012/mar17/
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I like the look of all the new signage. It looks really clean and slick. Can't wait to make it to the park this season!
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Lots of good stuff. Anyone know why the medicine wagon is gone and if it will come back?
Biting my tongue about the Trailblazer queue. They expand that just a little more each year...
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You can now buy one at 50$$/person good for ONE DAY unlimited rides.........Silliness
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50.00!!!????? another way to get that almighty dollar..
I like the looks of all the new signage, good job shave, thanks
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Shave didn't take the photos.
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Oh Damn!!!!
Swoosh!!! I'm sorry man!! LOL>!!!!
THANKS, I got all confused ??? ??? ???
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Just pickerin'... :)
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Lots of good stuff. Anyone know why the medicine wagon is gone and if it will come back?
I can remember that stage being used for years during the Mountain Music festival and by small groups with little or no amplification. I hate to see these little things disappear.
And why does Aunt Polly's sign show a thigh and wing of chicken when they are only serving strips.............?
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Nice pics BTW Swoosh ;D
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Ecuador Mantra was the last group I saw using it, but they have since moved near the old time photos.
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You can now buy one at 50$$/person good for ONE DAY unlimited rides.........Silliness
Damn, so now they have a straight up 'Fast Pass' just like Six Flags. The day has come. With a few more rides and less and less of the old pieces of the city, it'll be hard to call this anything more than just another overpriced amusement park before long.
I know the issue is hotly debated, but I can't get my head around fast passes. After spending somewhere in the $50-80 range to get into the park, you now get to be inconvenienced at every turn by longer waits due to those who can shell out that price again to cut in line 'legally', not to mention all the kids who cut in line unhindered already. Every time I see one of those lines it's like seeing a middle finger to all the other paying customers. I already avoid a number of other parks because of these situations, I hope I don't have to start avoiding SDC in the summer time as well.
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How about $100 bucks a day for admission, the trailblazers pass, 1 meal a snack and a refillable mug........
That might be a little more like it.
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Shoot, I avoid SDC when Kidsfest hits due to tourists and their terrible attitudes. Really gets old how they think theyre special and deserve special treatment over other guests. I always love when Fall Festival hits and we AP holders finally come back.
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Thanks for sharing the photo's Swoosh! I really like seeing all those finishing touches SDC does during the off-season. The new sign for Echo Hollow is great, and I also really like the new building for the Tator Twist. I hate seeing those Icee stands pop up, but it does look like they are trying to conceal them as best as they can with theme appropriate architecture.
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Shoot, I avoid SDC when Kidsfest hits due to tourists and their terrible attitudes.
I admit guilt here myself. I enjoy all the festivals but try to avoid Kids fest, seems to be the least pleasant time to visit the city.
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One: I still wouldnt shell out money for a fast pass even if a snack and drink were offered. I hate the idea that you pay an insane amount of money (equal to a one nights stay at the Homestay) for ONE DAY of cutting the line. Maybe if it were for the whole season. MAYBE. I hope they dont make any cash on this deal and get rid of it completly. Even the 25$ for 8 cut the lines is silly.
Two: As wretched as kidsfest is, and as hot and sticky as the weather gets, I still go. Its fun for kids. They have alot of different offerings for them and that is where alot of my memories lie. We always went during kidsfest. I hate the crowds and the rude kids that run in the line queue and butt ahead and the parents dont say a word meanwhile my FIVE year old is standing nicely and not climbing on the fence like a monkey.......sorry got off track a minute. Bluegrass and BBQ and the Fall Festival are my absolute FAVES!! The best festivals that they offfer.
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Worldfest is my favorite with Fall Fest being a close second.
The only time I've paid to cut is at WoF's Halloween Haunt and at Universal Studios Florida due to time constraints.
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WorldFest, Fall Fest, and Christmas are the main times that I like to go to SDC. Sundays in April are a really great time to go--not a large crowd usually.
As for the "Fastpass"... I don't have much of an opinion either way. I can't imagine too many people deciding to spend that much money. This is why I like Disney's Fastpass program. It's totally free and available to everyone. But SDC isn't big enough for that. I do think the show pass at SDC is a better idea than a ride pass.
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Trailblazer pass is an easy way for SDC to make an extra buck. Obviously it's working for them. We'll NEVER pay for it but if others pay for it, hey, it supports SDC even more. I'd rather them keep having the Trailblazer and Show passes than raise ticket prices for every guest. If they're struggling for money, then I think this is an okay way to do it.
I also love Disney's Fastpass system. Works great, but you're right, SDC isn't near big enough for it.
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You won't love Disney when you find out about xpass or whatever they end up calling it. Also fastpass is not as cheerful as you are making it out to be. It is easily explored if you know how.
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Yeah, I've heard about XPass. They keep trying to make people's trips more and more structured; I don't like the loss of spontaneity. I mean, granted, my friend and I used the Touring Plans to help guide us for our trips last year and this year, but we were there on off-season, so beyond using the crowd calendars to decide which park to go to on which day, we didn't even end up using the tour plans. I imagine XPass might be useful for on-season trips, though... I've been to Disney during its busy times, and boy, it's hard to get anything done with those crowds. But personally, having been to Disney World twice in two years, both in January... I'm never going any other month ever. LOL
I can understand the need for a pass-like system for people who maybe have only one or two days to spend at a park. I've personally just avoided the busy times at the parks I go to, and so I don't mind waiting upwards of 30-45min to ride a ride.
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I was at Silver Dollar City the 23rd and trailblazer almost caused a riot on both the powder keg and thunderation. It wasn't because people paid to go to the head of the line, it was because if 6 people using trailblazer got on they left the other seats empty. At thunderation, a worker got on the mike to explain what had happened and was drowned out with cries of "fill the cars!).
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The Trailblazer IS NOT a VIP private ride. Those seats should have been filled by protocol. Only the seats in which the riders chose would be held for the next train.
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I was at Silver Dollar City the 23rd and trailblazer almost caused a riot on both the powder keg and thunderation. It wasn't because people paid to go to the head of the line, it was because if 6 people using trailblazer got on they left the other seats empty. At thunderation, a worker got on the mike to explain what had happened and was drowned out with cries of "fill the cars!).
Yikes! I agree they should fill the cars.
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I was at Silver Dollar City the 23rd and trailblazer almost caused a riot on both the powder keg and thunderation. It wasn't because people paid to go to the head of the line, it was because if 6 people using trailblazer got on they left the other seats empty. At thunderation, a worker got on the mike to explain what had happened and was drowned out with cries of "fill the cars!).
And so it begins.
I've seen them do this at Alton Towers and Six Flags where every other train pretty much becomes fast-pass only and the normal waits just crawl along for hours. Hence why I avoid these parks.
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it was because if 6 people using trailblazer got on they left the other seats empty.
So this is my question, If the train fits 16 people total and 6 show up as trailblazers they leave 10 seats empty?
If this is the case I will complain loudly next time I am at the park. Right up front at the guest relations.
If a trailblazer shows and they ask for the front and I am next in line and I have to wait but the other seats are filled by regular " Steerage" like myself, then I am OK with that.
If they are leaving the entire train empty then I am very offended at having my and other guests time wasted.
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See I find it really unfair that they have this trailblazer pass. I for one even if I had the money would not buy it. It is a waste. And for the select few who can purchase it and cut the line well that sucks waiting in line with the kids and trying to teach them about taking turns and waiting patiently. Then because someone has the cash gets special perks. But who am I but a lowly season pass holder to complain....
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See I find it really unfair that they have this trailblazer pass. I for one even if I had the money would not buy it. It is a waste. And for the select few who can purchase it and cut the line well that sucks waiting in line with the kids and trying to teach them about taking turns and waiting patiently. Then because someone has the cash gets special perks. But who am I but a lowly season pass holder to complain....
I feel the same way.
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Some other updates at the park since the 2012 addition was nothing really...
- The new Tater Twist Shack,
- The remodeled Pottery Shop-the counter/ checkout was moved and the demonstration area was expanded
- The New Christmas Hollow seemed a bit empty compared to the plethora of stuff that was in the previous location
- The removal of the Medicine Wagon,
- and some new signage here and there.
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Great updates Rube!
I am always a fan of expanding any craft demonstration area, so the improvements to the Pottery Shop are welcomed. Hopefully, the new Christmas Hollow will eventually fill up, and be just as festive as it was before. Also, new signage, and similar themed elements are always great additions. ;D
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Rube, I noticed the new Tater shack and the removal of the medicine wagon on opening day. I hope the medicine wagon will just be put into storage for a while before it pops up on park again. It is good for use as a small stage for acoustic performances in a quiet area of the park.
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See I find it really unfair that they have this trailblazer pass. I for one even if I had the money would not buy it. It is a waste. And for the select few who can purchase it and cut the line well that sucks waiting in line with the kids and trying to teach them about taking turns and waiting patiently. Then because someone has the cash gets special perks. But who am I but a lowly season pass holder to complain....
Didn't. Need anything of the sort on Sunday, or on most days during the week during the summer. I've learned the secret of when to visit for a ride packed day. Z
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Didn't. Need anything of the sort on Sunday, or on most days during the week during the summer.
You are right there, I was in Sunday the 20th and there were no lines, it was a great day.
I don't think I would go on Memorial day and expect short lines. Saturdays are not days I choose to enjoy SDC. Sunday on the other hand always seems to be a nice sparse crowd.
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"Some other updates at the park since the 2012 addition was nothing really...
•The new Tater Twist Shack,
•The remodeled Pottery Shop-the counter/ checkout was moved and the demonstration area was expanded
◦The New Christmas Hollow seemed a bit empty compared to the plethora of stuff that was in the previous location
◦The removal of the Medicine Wagon,
■and some new signage here and there."
Rube I believe you left out the moving of the woodcarving shop into the cramped old Christmas Hollow
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I think I forgot to mention this before, but I seem to remember that at least one side of PK's failed water tunnel has been completely removed. I guess this means they've given up on getting that to work. I seem to remember there being some issue with moisture affecting the sensors.
I also noticed a lot of new thematic signage and such in various places, like TNT's tunnel. Some of it may have been from the last couple of years, but I'm sure some of it is brand new, and some of it really blends in well with the rest of the park. I was glad to see that they still have some of the old touch. Can't remember any specific examples though.
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I think I forgot to mention this before, but I seem to remember that at least one side of PK's failed water tunnel has been completely removed. I guess this means they've given up on getting that to work. I seem to remember there being some issue with moisture affecting the sensors.
I also noticed a lot of new thematic signage and such in various places, like TNT's tunnel. Some of it may have been from the last couple of years, but I'm sure some of it is brand new, and some of it really blends in well with the rest of the park. I was glad to see that they still have some of the old touch. Can't remember any specific examples though.
Also, sometime in the last few years, I noticed a new sign inside FITH. I'm not sure if that's been mentioned here, but I'm glad to see that they're still putting thoughts and money into old rides.