SDCFans - The Unofficial Fan Site For Silver Dollar City
Silver Dollar City & Celebration City Discussion => General Silver Dollar City Talk => Topic started by: sanddunerider on March 06, 2013, 02:29:29 PM
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Well with swoosh's hints for the new year, I sure hope anybody being at the City opening weekend will take lots of pics so we can all "review" them ;D...
Just a few more days..
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Yep, I hope the same thing! Bring it on!!
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Remember those iPhones and Panorama mode!
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HERE WE GOOOOOOOOOOO! ;D ;D ;D
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Got to park on opening day at 8:35. Easy and quick ride on the trams to the ticket booth area. By the time I parked, the parking lot was already getting pretty full at stop #2, and they were getting ready to open the area around stop #3. Big crowds, and much anticipation about Outlaw Run. First merchandise display in Hospitality House was for Outlaw Run. I was blown away when I hit Main Street because I found out the park personnel started the line for Outlaw Run at 8am at the Saloon, and by the time I got on Main Street 45 minutes later, the line was already up to the Hospitality House! :P Plenty of "citizens" on hand to work crowd control and everyone seemed in high spirits, so I went and had breakfast at the Mill. They dropped the ropes a half hour early at 9am because of the crowds. I made my way directly to Outlaw Run after I saw the flag raising and National Anthem on Main Street at 9:30am.
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At the bottom of the corkscrew overpass where the haystack dryer used to be is the new Wax Hand area. Done nicely. The old Wax Hand Station is part of the outdoor seating area for Crossroads Pizza. This restaurant is HUGE! Indoor dining area very nice, too, as was the service area.
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I noticed as I passed the folks standing in line for Outlaw Run that the little Wilson's Farm race game has been rethemed "Old West." But when they opened it, it was still the same, and they were giving stuffed farm animals away as prizes like last year. Outlaw Run plaza is big, and was filled to capacity when I got there. Nice locker area, good merchandise shop. Again, many "citizens" working crowd control. I saw and spoke with Terry Sanders, he was dressed as the Warden, and was helping get people with Trailblazer Passes to the right area. The Park CEO, Brad Thomas, was also in the area, and it appeared as if he was very busy making sure things went smoothly. The loading area was packed, as was the observation area. Several TV and Radio station crews on site to promote opening day. There were giveaways for those riding Outlaw Run, including T-Shirts and special certificates given to early riders. Most park personnel wore Outlaw Run buttons.
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Noticed Facebook logos on signage in the Ozark Marketplace area and in the Pathfinder. Did not see any in the 1880s area of the park.
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A few side notes: Jack's Sandwich shop apparently has some new signage, the beloved Treehouse still in place, but, of course, still closed. Noticed the train had two of the newer coaches on it today. The area where you line up to get into the Saloon was refurbished, Overall, the park looked great. I did have a chance to visit with a few old pals from my days on park, but everyone was super busy running here and there on opening day. I did see and speak with Terry Sanders, Randy Stowe, Kerry Chester...all old diving bell people, and a fellow named Terry who is a supervisor in food service that I worked with. Also saw Rex Burdette, who is an entertainment director now, saw D.A. Calloway, but did not have chance to speak with him. It was nice to see all these old, familiar faces, and Kerry Chester, celebrating his 38th year on park, is getting ready to retire. God bless them, all!
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I concentrated on Outlaw Run on this visit, as I knew everyone was excited about it. You will NOT BE DISAPPOINTED FOLKS! SDC looks great for the 2013 season, hope you can make it out to the park soon! ;D
CHECK OUT THE PHOTOS:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/juniordugan
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Thank you SO much for posting pictures of Crossroads Pizza! I was really anxious to see how that area of the park transformed. Note my avatar is in memory of Aunt Polly's Restaurant.
WOW, that place looks great though! Love that the old ball pit/fort is still more or less in tack. Wish they had kept the ropes above for added ambiance and a nod to what once was, but oh well.
Thanks for the detailed review, and I hope they continue to stream in. We should be able to get there sometime in late April for World Fest!
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Thanks Junior! Great photos! ;D
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thanks junior, good pics.. and i am sure we many more to see in the next 48 hours ;D
Ready to be there next week and check it out
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I'm working on getting my own pics uploaded to Flickr right now. I'm glad you got pics of the Crossroads Pizza interior, Junior, 'cause I completely forgot to take some!
EDIT: Okay, here are the pics I took today!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rjoyhelvie/sets/72157633006268310/
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Thank you all for the pics. Now I just have to remember my own camera next weekend, when I get to take my first trip to the city (IN 2013 that is).
BTW------How was the pizza? Was it good? What was pizza prices?
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The pizza was, IMO, a very good price. I got an 8" pepperoni for $8.29. Pretty large, but I managed to eat it all (if the crust hadn't been thin, I wouldn't have managed it, LOL). It tasted great, except I'm not sure I'm a fan of the "fired" part. There was a lot of ashy stuff on the bottom of the pizza, especially around the bottom edges. That makes it a VERY messy meal; little bits fell onto my shirt and smeared when I wiped them away. So be very careful and grab lots of napkins (actually, I'd recommend wetnaps; they'd prob work better than a dry napkin in getting all the black stuff off your fingers).
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Great pictures Joy, thanks for sharing!
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Thanks for sharing the pictures ya all!! ;D
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I just an unoffical attendence count for opening day.....
15,008........!!
Pretty good number for a friday.,,,,!!!!
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So, do you think the crowds today go over 20,000? I'm thinking around 25
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i dont think there will be 10,000 difference between the 2 days... the 1st day for the big coaster was obviuosly a BIG day, I would speculate 18-20,000... we will see, I have already assked a couple of friends there to check on count tonite when they are done working..
Also keep in mind, 25,000??? I think that would be a new record, (seem like old record is 23-23,500? maybe)... either way thats a lot of PEOPLE!!!!!!! :o :o :o :o
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I just figured with Friday being a school day for some of the country (mine had to go to school here in central Ark) that there may be more of a crowd for Saturday. What with all the hype of Outlaw Run they could see a record attendance.
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Duelist, it could be a record breaking weekend for sure..
Might be interesting to compare this weekend to the 50 anniversary weekend ( it was a bug weekend also)..anybody rememebr the numbers on attendence for the 50th weekend?
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I worked on park on a day that over 20,000 were there...not a fun day, way, way, too busy. In recent years, seems like they may have had some 21,000 to 23,000 days, but I don't know for sure.
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I googled the average daily attendance at SDC and found a report from 2007 that it was 12,500. Does anyone know what it was last year?
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I got out to the park today. Was in line at about 10:30...didn't make it to the ride for three hours! They had to stop the ride 3x for whatever reasons. It was soooooo worth it...that ride is something special!
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15K Friday
18K Saturday
They stayed open until 6:30 pm tonight.
If it's busy next Saturday check with a cast member to see if park hours have been extended
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Thanks Swoosh! 18,000 is a lot of people but not as much of a headache as the 25,000 I predicted :D
Sounds like they're off to a great start.
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15K Friday
18K Saturday
They stayed open until 6:30 pm tonight.
If it's busy next Saturday check with a cast member to see if park hours have been extended
I've seen the forecast, I don't think it will be.
I plan one going Wed, before it gets really chilly.
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When "you" were there, How many trains was OR running?
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There were two running when I was there on Friday, both in the late morning/early afternoon and late afternoon/early evening.
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2 trains on everything but the actual train today.
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What is the Min. operating temprature for OR? I will be there next weekend, but it is supposed to be cold. It would suck if it can't run while we are there.
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I didn't ask, but the min temp must be lower than 38. It hovered between 37 & 39 today. Wildfire & Powder Keg (min temps 40) were closed all day. Giant Swing (min temp 38) closed and reopened later due to the temp. Outlaw Run was open all day.
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I didn't ask, but the min temp must be lower than 38. It hovered between 37 & 39 today. Wildfire & Powder Keg (min temps 40) were closed all day. Giant Swing (min temp 38) closed and reopened later due to the temp. Outlaw Run was open all day.
SDC said on facebook that OR would run in the rain as well as long as long as there was no lighting or the rain wasn't heavy.
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Thanks for the reviews, everyone. We are going on Thursday when the high is listed as 39 degrees. I hope it's not too bad. Those of you who went today seemed to have had a good time!
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Here's my first PTR of the year from SDC
http://midwestinfoguide.com/migcrew/2013/SDCspring/
I'll have a photo update showing details of all the new changes later this week
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Awesome pictures. Thanks for the report Swoosh
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Ditto! :D
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I enjoyed your report, Swoosh.
We went in for about an hour today. It was craazzzyyy. People everywhere, hoping to get in a few rides before the great snow. When we got to Outlaw Run, it was broken down and the sign said 120 minutes to wait. We made a circle and decided to leave. There were long lines for everything--Flooded Mine, popcorn, cave. It was too busy for us.
Still, we haven't ridden Outlaw Run, so we are going to try at opening tomorrow if the blizzard doesn't stop us. I have wind pants, underarmor, gloves, and earmuffs, etc. I am ready if it's possible. If we can't swing it tomorrow, we will try Friday. We plan to stay in Branson until Sat.
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I saw on FB, that SDC extended hours to 7 on Last nite (wed)... I am sure they were trying to get more traffic in before the weather turns bad on thurs/friday,
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Lurker here... Haven't posted much since 2012.
I was out on SDC's FB page and I was amazed at how many people were very, very unhappy with the park. Complaints ranged from "Outlaw Not Run" to waiting in line and rude customer service, to waiting in line for 2 hours just to exchange guest passes.
I've been going to SDC since the early 80's .. go about 5-6 times a year (for 3-4 days at a time) and we've never had experiences like that...
Can we just chalk this up to people who are not happy about long lines (and sometimes problems) for a new ride?
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doug, i think we could easily assune that the people that are posting complaints on the SDC FB page are just .............................WHINERS!!!!!..................... ;D
And you can assume they really dont understand the whole SDC expierience anyway,,
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We got to ride Outlaw Run today! Yippee!
I am now enjoying a hot chocolate in the comfort of my motel room.
We were there early. I think we were on the square a few minutes after 9:00. We were wondering if the new coaster would even open this morning because of low temps. At around 11:00, the ride operator near the beginning of the queue said they were able to open. We watched the test rides, and then we were allowed in the line. We waited a few rides, and then we rode for the first time in the last seat. After the awesome ride, we got in line again. The second time, we rode somewhere in the middle. Waits were not long at all, but it took a little time to load and unload a single train.
As we left, we saw that the Giant Swing was open, so we walked on to that. It was fun, as usual. At this point, Wildfire and Powderkeg still weren't open. We decided to leave. We had already checked out a few shops this morning. We looked around at just about anywhere that was open. As we got off of the tram, we saw from the parking lot a train going on Wildfire.
There were not many people around this morning at all. It's fun to have the park to yourself, except for the small crowd around the new coaster.
I understand why people were upset yesterday. If yesterday had been my first visit to the park, I don't think I would come back.
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Powder Keg and Wildfire were only open for about 45 min this afternoon. Outlaw Run was open until about 4:30 and Fire in the Hole closed a few minutes later.
We were fortunate to get on the last rides of the day for Powder Keg, Outlaw Run and Fire in the Hole. Never rode a coaster in the snow before. The train ride and hold up scene were highlighted by the snowfall.
The tram ride back to the lot was miserable though.
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Anyone going today (friday), webcams show snow on the ground... get us some pics, regardless of season, I like pics of the season with snow on the ground..
Thanks
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I just read somewhere that Branson got 5" in some areas. We need someone local to verify it. I've only seen SDC once with snow on the ground, and that was my first trip during the Christmas season several years ago. It was breathtaking!!
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yes thats right gilligan, friend of mine in branson verified 4 --5 inches overnight..
here is a link to 1 of thr webcams in branson
http://www.bransontravelandvacation.com/webcams/4
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I am over here in Branson West and I only got ice crap. Nothing too exciting. Missed work cuz I couldnt get up hill due to the ice. Pretty lame.
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We went into the park this afternoon and walked around. Not too much was open. Fire-in-the-Hole, Flooded Mine, and the train were going, but we didn't ride. The candy shop was the busiest place in the park! The Grand Expo and Geyser Gulch were chained off. The Culinary School was closed. The new pizza place and the rib house were open. The kettle corn guy was open, but not the pork rind place or kettle chips. The cave looked like it was having tours today, and a sing-a-long was in progress at the church when we walked by.
We walked around taking some snow pictures. It is actually a little foggy, as well, so my pictures have an eerie fog effect to them. We've had the park nearly to ourselves before. Once was when the park would stay open until 11:00 during Christmastime. We've never had the park to ourselves in the daylight before. Yes, there were other guests, but you could walk long stretches without meeting anyone. Again, most people were on the train or in the candy shop. :)
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Priceless picture StaceySue!!
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Looks like a horror movie.
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Here are a couple more. These are from my husband's phone.
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Your pics are great. Especially the one of the church in the haze!
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3/20: Park was pretty crowded. While in Heartlands, a citizen told me attendance was just above 15k. Lines were long to nearly everything. Rumor was OR line was 2-2.5 hours long. I walked by to check it out and the line started just passed the new pizza joint,. so needless to say....I didn't ride it. Took the 3:30 cave tour just to warm up! Tour was full with several turned away. On a sad note, while in the mill, I witnessed the guy filling the SDC corn meal sacks from a 50# sack of "corn meal" in the back. That is certainly something you do NOT want to see. To make matters worse, they were not even trying to hide the fact that their "ground corn from SDC's water powered mill" actually comes from a sack in the back.
3/21: Despite the threat of snow and freezing temps, we went back to the city and it was pretty bare. Never could get a firm number for attendance because every citizen I asked said "they haven't heard yet, but it's not much". I doubt there was a thousand people there. Streets were bare and we felt like we pretty much had the run of the park. Kids rode OR and loved it. I decided to face the cold watching the pickers in the cabin! LOL Snow started around 3pm or so and we headed back to the motel. Snow continued and they received around 3-4 inches. We were at the "SIX" show that night and at the end of the show they informed us to be careful on the way back to the motel because it's changed since when we got there. On a funny note, when we reached our car, somebody had cleared our windshield for us by mistake no doubt, because ours was the only car with the windshield cleared! A BIG thanks to whoever mistook our car for theirs! LOL Drive was slow back to the motel (Classic Motor Inn since Homestay isn't open yet), but the streets were clear the next morning. Plows ran all night up and down the SotH Expressway and I can confirm because I woke up each time they went by!
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8:53am - Sun. March 24th, my brother & his G-friend are the only ones at Mollys Mill, they were the first ones thru the turn-stiles. They are going to look for sanddunerider as we speak.. ;D
They were at the park yesterday & they got alil' cold & left after about 3-4 hours. They only got to ride Thunderation.
UPDATE as of 11:58.. My brother said they walked the entire park for afew hours & only saw about 8 guests, no rides we open because of the weather. They already left the park. He did not find sanddunerider.
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Went to the park last Wednesday 3/20/13. We got there at about 9:45 and waited in the ticket line for a solid 30 minutes just to pick up our season passes. The ticket line was ridiculously slow; however, I did notice that some of the employees were standing around near the ticket booths exchanging guest vouchers so that season pass holders wouldn't have to take their guest up to the ticket booth. Once we got in the park at about 10:30 we went straight down towards Outlaw Run and noticed that the line was all the way past Crossroads, so we decided to just walk around a bit and see what all was new. I was able to get my first ride on Wildfire at about 12, before that everything (but Thunderation and FITH) was closed (because temperatures weren't high enough yet), including OR because of ride issues. There was such a large crowd in line for Wildfire that they had to queue us upstairs. That's the first time I have ever queued up there. After riding Wildfire I went over to Crossroads Pizza to eat. The pizza was good, but not the best. The service was terrible though. They have three different people filling three different pizza orders from three different lines. I sat and watched one lady continue to fill the orders in her line with out even caring about the other two ladies needing to fill their orders from their lines. I ended up getting my pizza after someone else who was farther back in the one lady's line. After eating I made it over to OR at about 2:30 which had a 120 minute wait. I timed it and noticed that it only took 80 minutes to get on. I rode in the back and it was AWESOME!!!!!!!! Easily a 10 out of 10! After riding OR i rode PK which had a 30 minute wait; then rode Wildfire and Thunderation which both had about a 15 minute wait. I finally made it over to FITH at about 5:30, there was absolutely no wait so I rode twice. They ended up extending the park hours to 7 so after about 5:45 the park was pretty much bare because most everyone had no idea they extended hours. I ended up getting 2 more rides on OR by the end of the night. Both those waits were about 10 minutes. Overall, it was an extremely busy day but I still got to do everything I wanted to. I got 2 WF rides, 1 PK ride, 1 Thunderation ride, 2 FITH rides, 3 OR rides, and I still managed to have time to do the Hi-Lo-Silos with my little sister!
Temperatures started in the upper 30s and hit about 47 around 3:00. Rather windy but still nice and sunny!!
Water rides were open and I did see some little kids on the Lost River and saw a family getting on American Plunge! Crazy people!!
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Have been reading reviews here and on 1branson and Trip Advisor. There have been complaints about rides not running even though the temperature was above the stated temperature that rides would be shut down. Reviews have been mixed about Crossroads Pizza. It seems as though more and more folks go to SDC every year during spring break yet it doesn't seem as though SDC is really prepared for the number of people who show up. Your thoughts? (Not sure if this is the right thread for this discussion.)
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I think it is time for SDC to go ahead and do a full blown Spring Festival and be done with it
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I agree. Actually, if I didn't have season tickets, I would have been pretty upset with last week. Nearly all of the shops are closed and they only have two or three shows running. If I were just a tourist that purchased a full price ticket last week, SDC would be bad memory. SDC either needs to commit and open fully, or offer a DEEPLY discounted ticket price.
On a side note, I failed to mention those I saw on the water rides....CRAZY! Saw several people on the Lost River get soaked and I really could not believe my eyes. I about froze to death on TNT!
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We were there today (Sunday 3/24). Very dead. We left at 11:30 (or so). the attendence count I heard then was 100. There were still peeps coming in, so I imagine the final tally was more than 100, but I bet was less than 500.
We rode the train with the crew from Expostion area. About 12 people on the train including Wife & I. We rode Flooded Mine twice. Walked the entire park. Spent lots of time talking to workers in different shops. We did go inside Crossroads Pizza. They just turned the ovens on. They was preparing to just close shop. We didnt eat there, but it sure did look nice. Brand new building and they couldnt get the doors to unlock. They had to push the bar to let us in. Walked up to OR area but never ventured real close to the shop or anything. -- We wanted Pork Rinds, he was closed. Marys was closed. Ribhouse OPEN Lost River was running (WHY????)
Called "Sanddunerider" but he never returned. So I missed him too. Anyway, We can meet up later this year I hope.
--On a good note, we didnt get snow. My Son called me tonite and said his snowfall was close to 10" (He lives north of I-70 closer to STL.).---Called Dad today (he lives 10 minutes from us South of I-44 closer to STL) he said maybe 3 or 4" on grassy areas, roads stayed clear.
Basically our Branson trip was great. Cold dont really bother Wife & I much. We came prepared. Hot Hot Hot really bothers us. We are planning on May 4, but we will just see how that pans out.
--Well I guess i will get off here. going to hit the hay, and head back home tomorrow (Monday 3/25).
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I agree with Biscuit and Swoosh...it is time for SDC to be fully open for the spring. Dollywood has everything up to speed from opening day and SDC should too. I too have noticed how the spring break crowds continue to grow and it seems SDC is always caught off guard and unprepared.
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doug, i think we could easily assune that the people that are posting complaints on the SDC FB page are just .............................WHINERS!!!!!..................... ;D
And you can assume they really dont understand the whole SDC expierience anyway,,
Howdy sanddunerider. While some folks complaining about things beyond SDC's control can be a little ridiculous, there are also legitimate grievances experienced by nearly anyone who visits this park fairly often.
SDC is a great, great place to enjoy many days through the year but the park does not operate without it's persistant faults, in my opinion. I don't feel the need to go into detail, but I've made more than a handful of trips to the hospitality house over the years, and have even written a few letters to the SDC brass from time to time explaining how my wife and I were less than satisfied with an experience in the park.
Sometimes our concerns were addressed by the folks at SDC and sometimes not. We still visit because we like the place in an overall sense, but we've also came to realize that certain things will never change in that park, so we just lower our expectations before our many visits. Thus, we don't complain too much anymore.
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Well sometimes things really are out of SDC control. Sometimes things have been addressed before and the powers that be at SDC may have decided that they will handle those problems in a certain manner NO exceptions. SDC is a "public service business" (entertainment), at the same time they are a "for profit business".
Also consider that Customer Service "everywhere" isnt worth a grain of sand anymore.
Now consider this too. (I can say this since I worked at SFSL for a few years mostly in GR). Lots of guests will complain about "anything/everything" from getting "legitemently" injured to complaining about a child spilling a cup of ice in front of them.
I mean in this economy people will say/do anything they can to get a free ride. That is simply wrong on so many levels. If a person truly deserves a kickback of sort, then please let him/her have it. However sort out the BS and dont give in. ANYTIME there is a free "ride". Someone has to pay for that free ride. And the person or (PEOPLE) that pays for it is "all-of-us" when prices increase.
I see nothing wrong with a "half-opened" park when temps are too cold. I understand that cold temps DO affect the safety of some rides like "THE BOSS" at SFSL. Under 40 and the brakes work erradically. I know other parks including SDC have the same problem.
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1st of all, I aam sorry I missed meeting you all sunday.. we walked throuugh the turnsile @ 9:10 am, I was the # 10 visitor at that point.. headed to the main square and we sttod under the tent in front of the gazebo until opening ceremoney..
i was surprised they raised the flag in the snow and wind,. Was very odd we ere the only people on the square at that point.. we hung around fro a few minutes, but didnt see any one else in the immediate area..
Headed for OR area! wanted to see it! 32 degress and windy at this point, but i wanted to see the area.
Very impressed with that whole area. pictures, and riding the train? NOPE dont do it ANY justice, you have to see it.!
Also i was very impressed with pizza,wax hands area,, I will get 360 pictures next time. (my camera decdied to take a vacation day sunday >:(..
of course over 1/2 the shops and concession were closed, so we said "screw it" and headed for the Gazebo to listen to the Sons of Silver dollar, just to find out they were cancelled as were the homestead pickers..
OH WELL!! we are outta here!! went to town for lunch and movie.. it will be nice in 3 weeks when we return.. ;D ;D
i was told that at noon on sunday, they had only 224 people through the turnstiles :o :o :o :o :o
Last weeks attendence:
Wed........15,000
thursday:..1700... 17 hundred NOT thousand
Friday.......1400....hundred NOT thousand
Sat...........4,000
I will have PICS next time for sure,,
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Thats all right "Sand Dune". It was about 9:10 when I called you. When we woke up Sunday my wife (who is diabetic), was low. We snacked a bit at the Motel till she started feeling somewhat better. Crooked roads really throw her ajar at times, especially when she is low or hungry. She decided the trip to SDC to eat at Mollys, wouldnt be good. We stopped at Golden Corral for breakfast. Then waited for her food to settle and finally start feeling good. It was about 9:00-9:15 when we left Golden Corral. We got in SDC about 9:40 and left SDC about 11:15-11:30 We did have an OK time though. I heard SDC was offering deeply discounted tickets Sunday. (But you had to go to GR and ask for money back) Otherwise the tickets was full price. This is when having a season pass really pays off.
Anyway "Sand Dune" and "How-Do" lets try to pick another weekend. Anyone/everyone else. Lets all have a meet up day at SDC!!!
"Green Trams" We still have BAFs. I will offer them to you first since you couldnt meet up either.
JUNE 9 is my birthday. Can we all meet up on either Saturday June 8 or Sunday June 9??? Would be the best birthday of my life to get to meet up with everyone on this forum. Can we plan on that weekend?
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WooooHoooo!!! Congrats to Silver Dollar City on the Outlaw Run coaster. My wife and I arrived at the park around noon on friday and was able to ride three times in one hour, from front to back, and I must say that is quite a wild ride, we loved it. The front seat was by far our favorite, but it's great no matter where ya ride. The ride attendents were actually allowing folks to dump their belongings on and around the barrels and the floor on the far side of the loading train. We decided to use a rental locker to store our backpack and hats, and it was actually quite handy since we rode three times.
The crowd in the city was surprisingly light yesterday. SDC had two trains running on Powder Keg, which surprised us, and we rode that twice. One train on Wildfire, but not much of a line. Also snuck in for a quick ride on FITH.
Unfortunately we were unable to ride the Giant Barn swing as the overflow from OR had the line for the swing out of the barn. Looks like it's gonna be tough to get a swing in nowadays with the crowds in that area; and my wife loves that swing.
We watched the gospel bluegrass group at the gazebo while waiting for the Homestead Pickers to play. Those younguns do a fine job with their music, I think their bandname was Southern Raised?
Walked down to the picken shed for the 2:30 Pickers show and nobody was down there??? So we walked back to the front porch and nobody was out there??? Turns out they were all crammed inside of the homestead watching the Pickers play while it was 65 degrees outside and beautiful. Maybe they wanted to keep some folks out of the sun or something? But I hope it doesn't become a trend, because we really like the Pickers and can't tolerate being packed in that little cabin elbow to elbow. We hope to see 'em outside more in the future.
We grabbed a couple of drinks, our old dollar mugs were still honored, and swung by the candy place for some fudge, and were out of the gates and heading for the car a little after 3:00. Looking forward to the WorldFest and Bluegrass Festival and all the shows and music around the park during those times.
And looking forward to more rides on the Outlaw Run! I'm glad that ride is short, as it packs plenty of punch and it really keeps the line moving for those waiting to board. Great job by Rocky Mountain Coaster (I think that right?) and SDC. Two thumbs up!
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Great review HikerDan. Have you hiked around the Paul and Ruth Henning Overlook off 76 a few miles south of SDC? We try to do that at least once a year on one of our SDC trips.
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Howdy Duelist! Yes I've hiked around that area twice I believe, but it has been several years so I can't remember a whole lot about that place. I'm pretty sure that once I hiked in from the backside of that conservation area from a little county road off of Hwy.248.
I remember a very nice creek with maybe a small waterfall, and lots of giant Sycamore trees. Seems like there was more than one trail as well. Jane and I need to walk around there again sometime this spring; thanks for reminding me of that place. I spend most of my hiking time in Arkansas, but do frequent some areas around Missouri as well.
Silver Dollar City can even be a fairly decent workout if ya walk up "heart-attack hill" enough times in a day!
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Got to the City around 11AM due to rain. headed right to Outlaw Run and had only a 8 minute wait. What can I say "AWESOME".
Got back immediately and had to wait 30 minutes as the lines began to fill up. Second ride was "AWESOME". Had to compare to two ride photos and the results are in my avatar. There is alot of airtime no matter which end of the train you ride at. Took the Grandkids to GG and then GE, the headed to the FM and the Train. They changed the robbery skit some but it was funny as always. Tried to get my Grandson to ride TNT but he wouldn't. 3 year old Grandaugther wanted to but she is still to small. K[ds went to Brown's for chocolate covered strawberries and we decided to leave about 4 PM because the wife was having some health issues. Otherwise it was a great day at the City. Got to get back soon to make up for lost time.
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Hope your wife's health issues weren't too serious.
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Got to the City around 11AM due to rain. headed right to Outlaw Run and had only a 8 minute wait. What can I say "AWESOME".
Got back immediately and had to wait 30 minutes as the lines began to fill up. Second ride was "AWESOME". Had to compare to two ride photos and the results are in my avatar. There is alot of airtime no matter which end of the train you ride at. Took the Grandkids to GG and then GE, the headed to the FM and the Train. They changed the robbery skit some but it was funny as always. Tried to get my Grandson to ride TNT but he wouldn't. 3 year old Grandaugther wanted to but she is still to small. K[ds went to Brown's for chocolate covered strawberries and we decided to leave about 4 PM because the wife was having some health issues. Otherwise it was a great day at the City. Got to get back soon to make up for lost time.
I have a kid that isn't very pro coaster yet loves any and all waterslides, he prefers things that spin and go around in circles. The other kids loves coasters and is scared of water slides. One year and 3 months difference in age. Strange stuff. It's a bit of a problem. Come May, we have a wedding at Hot Springs to go to at the Chapel at Garavan Gardens . Plan was for the wife to go to the wedding with her sister an I take the kids to Magic Springs for the day, He's 10 and I feel uncertain leaving him alone even at the exit of the ride while sis and I get our coaster on but I guess he's going to have to start doing it or join the fun.
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oldsdcer -- hope ya'r wife is doing ok. great review! i like ya'r shirt!! :D
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She basicly had the same hypoxic syndrome that keep us from coming opening day. Turned right into the ER as soon a we got back home, she was admitted to the hospital again but is dueing better now. Hope this dose not happen again this weekend when we go to Nashville to see Elton John and the Opry.
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I have an attendence update,,,sunday the 24th, my b-day it was windy, snow cold.......
daily count...525 people!!!! :o :o :o :o :o :o :o
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525 people on March 24.... WOW. Well I did say in another post somewhere that I thought it would end up being under 500. I was perdy close!
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I havnet heard any numbers from this last weekend (30 &31)... Anyone there or heard?
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The weather has not been kind this year. Great days with lousy days. Friday and Sat of this week looks nearly perfect. I'll be there on Sat.
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I was there Thursday, March 28th and was told the crowd was 5,800. Went back on Friday the 29th, did not hear a number but the crowd was very similar...maybe a tad less. Although it did pick up a little in the afternoon when the weather cleared.
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Well, nice day outside for a change.. 76 degrees here and windy, about the same in Branson,,,
Who was @ the city today? crowd? pics?
I know it was Youth christians weekend....
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Ew. Young Heathens Weekend is a horrible time to be at the park.
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LOL!! Swoosh, SDC [posted some pics today on FB... looked like there were a few people there.... pic of echo hollow full for afternoon "show"...
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Great day at the city. Wait for. OR isn't bad. 20to 30 minutes.
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Of course for the third trip in a row, powder keg went down before my daughter got to ride it. She mad. She rode OR but it'll be a while before she gets on it again, but she will. That sideways airtime hill is certainly different
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A very chilly "good morning" from here at SDC! Enjoying a cinnamon roll at Eva & Delia's right now, we'll be enjoying Opening ceremonies soon, then on to Outlaw Run (when it's warm enough). Crowds seem low so far, we'll see if they pick up.
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i would not expect much of a crowd today..(thursday). But I am sure it will start picking tomorrow... BIG weekend planned @ SDC..!!!
Hope weather straightens up everyone there,,,,, SDC has had a bad styart of the season with bad weather!!.. SUpooes to be NICE sunday...
HAve fun
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Had quite the time at the City yesterday (Thursday the 11th). The purpose of our trip was to get in as much of Outlaw Run as we could now. We knew lines for it would be horrible this summer and saw this as our chance to enjoy it.
After opening ceremonies DH and I made a bee-line to Outlaw Run. Unfortunately due to the cold the ride wasn't running yet. We waited around for about half an hour before deciding to check out the rest of the park. Wildfire and Powderkeg were both closed due to temps as well, but Thunderation and Fire-in-the-Hole were not.
Headed back to Wilson's Farm at about 11 am when we thought we heard OR running from across the park. Made it over as they were dropping the rope. DH and I were on the second train to go out for the morning, sitting mid-back. WOW!!! I spent the entire ride saying "Holy Cow!" As we came in to the station the entire train applauded. It was a wonderful experience! There was practically no line, and we had the locker for 2 hours, so we took advantage. We rode it 8 times in 85 minutes (including a 10-15 min Gift Shop break in the middle). As we left one of the ride attendants told us that the forecasted attendance for the day was 2000, but they has just hit an actual 460!
We went to Crossroads Pizza for lunch, sharing an 8" Outlaw Run pizza. Not gourmet, but it was still good. Went on the train after lunch. All four cars where the old style. I couldn't tell you if anything new was added to the train spiel: either the speakers were turned down or the cars were especially noisy, because I didn't catch but a few words the entire ride. Hobo Junction has still not been rebuilt yet. :( We walked around the park, taking it all in. Rode Wildfire once before deciding to hit Outlaw Run again.
Got our locker for another 2 hours. There were no lines. And by "no lines" I mean that sometimes DH and I were the only people on the ride! We had our timing down perfectly. We knew exactly how many beats from full-stop until the restraints released and were able to slip out quickly and make it around the the gates again, all in the time it took for one train to go around. Time was running short, but we decided we wanted to make it to 20 rides and then we would call it a day. We made it to 18 times (total) and were getting ready to depart for our 19th trip when the ride malfunctioned. The restraints in car 6 wouldn't lock. They shut the ride down for at least a half an hour while they worked on things. We stayed around and got our last 2 rides in! We had a good time with the ride attendants the gift shop people. We weren't sure if they were having fun with us or making fun of us, but we enjoyed ourselves, and that's what mattered!
We don't expect to ride again until this Fall (unless we come for extended ride time for Season Pass Appreciation), but hopefully our 20 times will last us for a while!!
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Ozarks Gal - 18 TIMES???? ;D WOW! ALL I CAN SAY IS WOW! YOU ARE DIEHARD! ;D
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:o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o
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I forgot to mention the speakers on the train in my review Ozarks Gal! I had the same problem.... I couldn't hear anything on the train. Even during the hold up skit it seemed pretty weak.
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Great review Ozarks Gal!
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SAND DUNE----I think you was at the city today (Apr 14). Talk to me. Did you ride OR? How was the crowds? Any Pics?
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Went to Silver Dollar City today, and had probably my worst day ever....but not completely the fault of Silver Dollar City.
Got up early, and left around 7:00am and took a new route from Broken Arrow to the City and arrived in less than 3 hours. Drive was great.
Got to the park and walked out of the hospitality house right in time for the pledge and national anthem.
Proceeded to walk to Outlaw Run, and when we got there, line was already past the Barn Swing. But the ride hadn't opened yet so the line was a little deceiving. The ride opened about 10:10 and sent about 4 trains through the course, before it was closed again to add a second train to the track (why it didn't open this way I'm not sure). While waiting for the second train to get placed on the track my daughter begin to feel sick...so I had to leave and we went back to my truck in the parking lot...and that's where her and I stayed.
I left my son to ride, and after another 40 minutes, was one train away from riding when the ride broke down again on the lift. He was going to wait it out, but they made everyone leave. He went to Powder Keg and it was closed too. Around 11:30 he finally got a ride on Wildfire, then about 12:30 he was able to ride Outlaw Run. We left the parking lot at 1:30.
Anyway, we'll try again....soon. I can't believe I drove 6 hours today and didn't get to ride anything, but there will be another day...I hope.
Jay
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Wow Cowboy...What was this new route from BA to SDC in less than 3 hours? I'd love to shorten my drive some. I'm in Cushing so I'm about an hour west of BA. I've got outlaws...I mean INlaws...in Bella Vista Arkansas, so sometimes I have to take that route and the kids ALWAYS seem to get car sick on the drive from Bella Vista to Branson. Pretty hilly drive through there....
Sorry about the trip.....been there, done that. It's always a crap shoot with kidos, but still, a bad day at SDC is better than most other days! LOL!
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Seems to be lots of piddley stuff with OR, I don't recall it ever being down last Sun. As for Powder Keg. I'm getting a bit miffed. I was down on our trip last harvest fest and OTC and down last Sun. Three straight trips. I'd forgo anything for two year if they debug that darn thing and fix the theming where the water once was.
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I took I-44
Exit 302 to US 60
Turn right onto Missouri Z
Turn right onto MO-39
Turn left at State Highway EE
Turn left onto MO-76
Turn right MO-13/MO-76
Turn left MO-76
I was able to fly down the road.....traffic was non-existent today.
This route is 185 miles compared to the 223 miles when going through Springfield.
Jay
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Visited the park today for the third time this season. It was cloudy when we arrived, but the sun came out and it was a beautiful day. Parked at Stop 5, close by the loading station. Crowds were light to moderate. First ride was Thunderation about 11:30 AM. Line was short, one train running. Next stop was Lost River of Ozarks. There was a relatively short line. They were only loading and releasing two rafts at a time, so there were lengthy gaps in between. Water very cold. Followed-up with Great American Plunge, then kettle chips and on to pizza at Crossroads Pizza, which was busy. Went next to Outlaw Run, but it was out of service for some kind of problem. Workers said it would be down at least an hour. Rode the Giant Barn Swing, short line and maybe 10 minute wait.
Afterwards, our group split in two. One group to the kiddie rides, the other to the roller coasters. Wildfire was first. There was a moderate line, and it was building up. Only one train running. Wait time was 20-25 minutes. Powderkeg had two trains running, only about a 10 minute wait. Made it back to Outlaw Run, which was up and running this time. Two trains in use, with a wait time of about 15 minutes. The new law enforcement memorial is very nice.
Before we knew it, 6PM had arrived. Grabbed a funnel cake on the way out of the park. It was a wonderful trip.
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My wife and I walked through the gates at 10:15 Sunday morn for our third visit of ’13. We briefly stopped and caught a few minutes of the music act at the Gazebo. I think it was Roy Rogers Jr. We wanted to stay and watch more but thought we’d better head on down to Outlaw Run early.
The waiting line at OR was a bit longer than I had anticipated, so we decided to cruise around the park and ride everything else, then take time for OR later in the day.
My wife Jane loves the Giant Barn Swing so we immediately started our day there. It was a very short line but the wait was made quite longer by the three male ride attendants strolling around chatting with each other, leaning against the wall when it was time to secure the riders, and trying to make small talk with some riders when they needed to be giving the “thumbs up” signal to the operator. We did ride twice in about 20 minutes and enjoyed seeing the rafts from the river float under us as we swung backwards.
As we were ready for our second go on the swing I noticed a train from OR stuck at the crest of the lift hill; not good. We left the swing and headed for Powder Keg; and on our way we overheard a couple talking about how the OR was stopped after initial opening to add a second train, and then the ride broke down directly thereafter. Over the years my wife and I have always suspected that the effort put into the SDC daily pre-opening thrill ride startup is less than stellar, and we’ve always speculated that the first test trains to leave the stations are just minutes before the first patrons arrive. I really have no idea how the startup process goes, but it's frequently around 11:00 to noon before some rides are ready to run smooth.
Anyhow, on to PK.
And PK was not running. I always feel sorry for the families and kids who don’t get to visit often, and when they get a day at the city, it’s like this. So on to Wildfire.
We rode WF twice, front and back. Like all of SDC’s rides we just never grow tired of riding WF; a fun, fun coaster. Now we made a trip over to check on OR, and noticed that there were TWO swings operating at the barn swing. Wow, we haven’t seen that in a couple of years (we never visit on saturday). So it’s another swing for us with both running, and the attendants have been changed, and it’s much more efficient now.
Time to check on PK again, and on our way we noticed that the Saloon Show was about to begin, so we dart into the Saloon and made our way up into the balcony. I always sit in the balcony now, as I’ve had the honor of participating in my fair share of Saloon shows over the years and I really don’t care to be picked out of the crowd anymore! lol. Alright!, it’s a new show with Mean Murphy back in action. I thought the show was better than the last couple of years, but my wife liked the previous shows more. I heard another couple talking about the show on the way out of the Saloon and it was the same opinion with them, the man liked the new show and the woman the old show.
Hey! Did I just hear that familiar “poof” of a Powder Keg launch? Yes I did, so it’s off to PK; and they just opened the chain to let riders in. While taking two rides on PK we noticed that Outlaw Run was also operating. And it’s off for a couple of rides on OR.
That OR is one wild coaster. It’s even fun standing in line and watching the expressions of the riders as they roll back into the station. It looked like one woman was hyper-ventilating! That ride is so much fun, and it seems so original, we’ve never rode anything quite like that one.
Time to go see the Homestead Pickers play their hillbilly tunes. There were a couple of the traditional Pickers missing yesterday, but the show was still very enjoyable. A man in overalls, whom we were unfamiliar with, was playing with Danny and Greg Becker.
After the pickers we got a few drinks and a bag of chocolate cashews from the candy factory, watched the cowboy show at the Gazebo for a minutes and walked out the gates heading home to Nixa.
The day started a little slow, but it turned into another good visit in the City.
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There's a good spot on the way back to OR when you overlook Lost River and Outlaw Run is in the background. It's a nice shot but I didn't have a camera. It'll be gone after this week as the leafing out begins.
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Good review, Hikerdan. I've always wondered why the rollercoasters in particular seem to break down so often. Having formerly worked at SDC, I can tell you the older rides did have pretty good pre opening prep and inspection, but don't know what they do there now. I suspect the inspection for the coasters is much more intense, as the other thrill rides. Safety is a top priority to the park folk, I was there working on that unhappy day when there was a fatal accident at FITH, and I know the park never wants to repeat that day ever again.
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Well we made it in for the opening ceremony after using BAF's to get Paige and her right hand (man) LOL, (Cherie) in the gate,,
For some reason no volunteers to help with flag raising. several people help say Prayer and sing the Anthem.
Lotsa of folks more worried about the ropes and getting downhill to OR!!! ..LOL
Headed down hill with everyone else... BUT we fooled them.!! I had decided to check out the new saloon show 1st, then check out OR after that.. Got in line, and then the girls slipped down real quick and hit FITH!!..Saloon show is fun! enjoyed all the changes.! Mean murphy was picking on charlie real BAD, But the girls handled him! ;) ;) Make sure you see it!
Lets head over to wilson farm and see OR!!. Checked website, had a 45 minute wait... headed over there.. got there and wife didnt know if she wanted to stand in line or not... OR was not running at this time, Had the wife go up and talk to 1 of the ride assistants... about that time we got the word..ride is DOWN, and they asked everyone to exit the queue area? ??? ??? wow!! ::) ::) so we gave up there and headed over to PK.. Got there and the chain was up and ride was CLOSED>>>!!!!! HMM!! DARN!!! 2 big rides closed!!! Darn!!.. :o :o :o
No problem, time for lunch anyway.. went to the pizza joint and ordred the 14 Outlaw Run Pizza... HMM??? NOT a 20.00 pizza!! lots of sauce, lots of cheese.. toppins were a little scarce.. Althought i saw others with sausage pizzas and the calzones and they looked great. we will try them next time..
Headed over and listend to Sons of Silver Dollar, talked ti Jime Ellis a little while ( he joined them last year,).
Hit a few shops, ended up back on the main square, Time to head for town, had afternoon and evening shows to see. Guess the wife will wait unitl may to ride OR>> that's ok.. it aint going anywhere.. ;D
I did get a few pics, and will get them downloaded in the nextr day or 2..
I did get a series of 360 degrees on the riverfront area in front of pizza joint so all can see it...
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Couple of more things.....
NO i did not see Tiff @ the Saloon... I looked though!!..LOL..
ALSO could NOT find the Apple Dumplings?? Website says they are @ "watertower concessions".. I check at cokes and floats...they sent me to the berries and cream in front of the saloon..NOPE... They sent me up the hill...NOPE!!...So if anyone finds them let me know!! I am having withdrawels!!!!!
here is my link to pics...hope it works..
https://www.facebook.com/lorrie.crumb#!/lorrie.crumb/photos?collection_token=1578260143%3A2305272732%3A6
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Visited the park today for the third time this season. It was cloudy when we arrived, but the sun came out and it was a beautiful day. Parked at Stop 5, close by the loading station. Crowds were light to moderate. First ride was Thunderation about 11:30 AM. Line was short, one train running. Next stop was Lost River of Ozarks. There was a relatively short line. They were only loading and releasing two rafts at a time, so there were lengthy gaps in between. Water very cold. Followed-up with Great American Plunge, then kettle chips and on to pizza at Crossroads Pizza, which was busy. Went next to Outlaw Run, but it was out of service for some kind of problem. Workers said it would be down at least an hour. Rode the Giant Barn Swing, short line and maybe 10 minute wait.
Afterwards, our group split in two. One group to the kiddie rides, the other to the roller coasters. Wildfire was first. There was a moderate line, and it was building up. Only one train running. Wait time was 20-25 minutes. Powderkeg had two trains running, only about a 10 minute wait. Made it back to Outlaw Run, which was up and running this time. Two trains in use, with a wait time of about 15 minutes. The new law enforcement memorial is very nice.
Before we knew it, 6PM had arrived. Grabbed a funnel cake on the way out of the park. It was a wonderful trip.
Thanks for the review and welcome to the site!
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great reviews folks!!
sanddune -- sent u a friend request on FB.
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Pics added to My FB Album...got pictures of saloon, 360 degrees by the pizza joint, "new"construction by Pizza place, and other misc. check 'em out
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.5000836430192.177276.1578260143&type=1#!/media/set/?set=a.10200470602479102.1073741830.1578260143&type=3
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Sanddune: the link says "content currently unavailable."
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checked my settings.... should be ok.... I hit the link and it went to pics...???
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I can't get in either.
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OK..guys and gals!! here a few more... couple of pics of Mean Murphy and the girls.(still no Tiff)..(lol)... also the raw construction near the pizza joint...(bathrooms?)..just footings nothing else.
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What a beautiful day at SDC. It was sunny and just the right temperature. The park was really crowded around noon. Long lines out the loading stations at both Thunderation and Wildfire, with only one (1) training running at each. The crowd certainly justified running two trains. Can't understand why they don't when lines are so long. Powderkeg was down most of the day, if not the entire day. I saw empty trains running the track, but no riders in them. The "CLOSED" sign was up when we walked over. Several people were commenting that Outlaw Run had shut down because one of the trains having stalled going up and that riders had to come down the stairs. I never made it over there to see for myself. Same group told us that the Giant Barn Swing was experiencing malfunctions as well. Not a very good trip for the thrill riders in our group. Fire in the Hole had a long line out into the street, but at least it had two (2) trains running. The water rides had shorter lines with little wait time. Crowds dissipated significantly by about 4 PM. No line at all at the Flooded Mine. Had lunch at the "English Isles" station in the food barn. It was just OK. Noticed that Jack's Sandwich Shop was closed down, just as it was last time. Wonder if that's permanent? Buses were running promptly between Stop 5 and the entrance. Very little wait time for transportation.
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So we were down for a couple days the 24Th-27Th and made it to SDC on the 25Th which was the best pick for weather. A little cool in the morning but sun was out and warmed up nicely. We got to the park around 8:30 not very many people there yet. So our first stop was Molly's for breakfast. All was very good they did changed the sausages from links to patties. What was fun is that my 5 yr old son notice this and asked the waitress she looked at him and said actually those were the links they just decided to smash them down and flatten them this time. He looked at me and then her said OK then. Then when we were finished with breakfast she came by and asked how the sausages were he told her he still like the links better, she told him then next time he comes by she will roll them right back up. You have to love the citizens where else can you get such great interaction. Also which I had not had these before hillbilly rolls. YUMMY.
After breakfast watched the opening ceremonies and then headed down by the train was going to hit outlaw run but decided might be better to let some of the food digest first. So did the train first the show was good as always. I love when who ever they ask is ma says yep I am their ma, I think the skit gets so much funnier.
After that headed to the flooded mine all looked pretty good and seemed to be working very well.
We then headed to outlaw run, it was great no line they had two cars running and we waited no more the maybe 5 minutes. All I can say is wow what a ride. Granted my coaster experience is limited but that has to be the best one I have ever been on and so smooth for a wood coaster.
Then headed over to half dollar hollar, after that headed to crossroads pizzeria I got the calzone and the rest of the family just got a pizza. I thought both were excellent and not bad for price wise either.
We then headed over to GE for a couple of kiddy rides for the kids. Not sure who they were they had 3 musicians over there that were playing in the street, they were great they would follow people around and play the jaws theme music or if someone wanted to by the were get in front of them and start doing emergency music it was Great probably stood there and watched them for twenty minutes.
We then headed over to GG on the way over ran into terry sanders he was drawing directions for the train. I mentioned to him that he had been writing the words up side down from where I was standing and he went into a big production with within and everyone around got a big kick out of it.
GG looked in good shape seems that they added or fixed some sound effects when the geyser blows. I know some do not like it but it is definitely a kid favorite I know my son and daughter could probably send all day there if we let them.
About 4 we decided it was time to go but wanted to hit outlaw run one more time. Got over there no line and thought awesome. Got in the car and the. Had to get back out apparently issues. The car behind us they had to manually remove all the people.
At that point headed out stopped at the mill for waffle mix and Cinnamon bread and headed out. I thought everything looked good at the park and was please with everything.
I did see that they were doing some more construction over by crossroads pizza,they had a concrete pad laid and what looked like plumbing lines of some sort.
Hoping on going back this Friday.
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So this is the 2013 trip report spot?
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We took a little day trip today for the last day of Worldfest. The weather was cool but dry. It was certainly nicer than the rain and snow we just had.
We saw the Argentina show. It was pretty fun. We did kiddie rides and FITH. Since we had our toddler with us, we didn't try to do any coasters. We tried Outlaw Run previously. We also watched Ecudor Manta at the Gazebo. We always enjoy them. Maybe it's just me, but it seems there is a little less for this festival every year. We did see the Viva Italia people. I don't know, but it really just felt like another day at SDC to me, which is still a good day. I just don't feel the need to visit as often, I guess.
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Was at the city on Friday weather sucked and I did not get up there till about 4:45 hardly anyone left. Most everything was either closed or closing at 5:30. Apparently they were doing a soft closing because of foot traffic. Though the fun part was that the train was still running and I and 8 other people were on it. It conductor and the hold up was I think better just because of that. Then went to Molly's for dinner,everything else was closed. Again they were great even though I was the last one not sure how many times I was told take your time we are in no hurry. Also I found out at dinner they do not give out the pre packages dinner rolls anymore but now slices of bread that they bake. Very tasty.
Went also on Sunday went to breakfast good as always, then rode fire in the hole, outlaw run maybe a bout a 20 minute wait, I will say I think the very back is better then the front, after that went on wildfire, no line what so ever. Also I found this out I was told at the front gate that one can make a copy of there drivers license put it on the back of your season pass and then do a cold laminate on it. Was wondering if anyone else had heard or tried it. Kinda saves a little effort.
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What a great idea.....anyone try this?
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Also I found this out I was told at the front gate that one can make a copy of there drivers license put it on the back of your season pass and then do a cold laminate on it. Was wondering if anyone else had heard or tried it. Kinda saves a little effort.
IF you do so, don't cover up the barcode by mistake on the back.
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Our family made it down to SDC this weekend to attend ACE’s Outlaw Run Premier event. First I’d like to thank all the ACE members who visit this site. Joining ACE has been a blessing for our family, especially the events they’ve hosted at SDC. We drove down to Branson on Friday in time to visit the park for a couple of hours and then attend the ACE ice-cream social. We heard from several ACE and SDC speakers including SDC General Manager Brad Thomas, HFE COO Jane Cooper, and special guests Pete and Jody Herschend. The social featured the new Outlaw Run flavored Ice-Cream (Vanilla ice-cream with chocolate chips, caramel and sea-salt. They also have an Outlaw Run Taffy with the same flavors.) There were patches of snow on the ground when we arrived at SDC Friday afternoon and Saturday morning, but no real accumulation. It continued to snow throughout the day on Saturday with temperatures hovering in the 40’s brrr.
On Saturday we arrived at the park at 8:00am for breakfast at Crossroads Pizza (Coffee, Orange Juice, Hot Chocolate, Danishes, Cinnamon Rolls, Biscuits, Bacon, Sausage, and a pig-in-a-blanket-type sausage.)
After breakfast we were supposed to have ERT on Outlaw Run, but alas it was too cold. So we got ERT on Fire-In-The-Hole with LIGHTS ON. (Awesome!) And a behind the scenes tour of FITH. At 11:00 we were treated to special seating at the Amamos Argentina Show in the Opera House. I skipped this show, but the wife and kids (and Grandma) said it was really good. I wanted to see the Island Fire show, but when we got around to it on Sunday, the line for the show (which was playing at the Riverfront Playhouse) stretched all the way back to Riverblast. So needless to say I missed it.
On Saturday afternoon it finally warmed up enough that the kids were able to ride Outlaw Run. They loved it. They rode it twice. First time wait time was about 45 minutes. The second wait time was about 30 minutes. They had two trains and the lines moved pretty good. The coaster was down for a bit later in the day and then once on Sunday. Not sure why. I didn't ride this time. I’ll get there eventually, but not this weekend. The water rides (AP, LRO, RB) were closed on Friday, but they were open on Saturday and people were riding them. I couldn’t believe it. Forty degrees, snowing and these idiots are riding water rides. My idiots, oops, I mean children, rode the water rides on Sunday in fifty degree weather, but they had to ride them back-to-back and then they changed their clothes.
We left the park around 4:30pm on Saturday to go to Sight-and-Sound theater to watch Joseph. I enjoy the technical--how’d-they-do that-aspects of the production. But it really wasn’t worth $225 it cost me to take my family to the show.
On Sunday, the weather was better, but cool. Crowds were moderate--to low. But being that this was the pick day of the weekend we had a few short lines. (Except the line for the Island Fire show which was really, really long). We started the day by attending the Worship Service (11:00am) at the Wilderness Church and I was proud that my son, Caleb was asked to sing during the service (this had been arranged months in advance).
We did the train on Sunday. It was great. The conductor blew some of his lines, and “Ma” riding the train claimed Alphie and Ralphie which really threw them off. It was funny and it took them a while to make the “shot”. The conductor said he was sorry they got off script so much, but I told him those of us who ride the train on a regular basis enjoy those moments. The kids rode PK (moderate line but they were running 3 trains) WF (very little wait) and TNT (short wait) a several times.
All in all the trip was a good one. ACE and SDC do a great job putting these things together. My only disappointments were the weather (of course--but what are you going to do) and the fact that I DIDN’T GET AN APPLE DUMPLING. Any management person reading this need to be aware that many of us LOVE your Apple Dumplings. A trip to SDC without an Apple Dumpling is unacceptable. I found two stands that were selling Apple Dumplings (Tastes of the World in the Frisco Barn and the stand by the exit to FITH) and they were both Sold Out by 3:00pm on Sunday. If this happens again, I will be forced to let the Baldknobbers out of FITH!
Of course we had a great stay at Homestay Inn. It was great to see Paige and her crew again.
Attendance at SDC this weekend: Friday-1,000; Saturday-7,000. I didn’t get Sunday’s figures.
Hopefully we’ll be back in 6 months.
Here is a Facebook Link to some pictures. I hope this works, I haven’t had much success with pictures on this forum.
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.4938796911765.1073741825.1353910028&type=1 (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.4938796911765.1073741825.1353910028&type=1)
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The water rides (AP, LRO, RB) were closed on Friday, but they were open on Saturday and people were riding them. I couldn’t believe it. Forty degrees, snowing and these idiots are riding water rides. My idiots, oops, I mean children, rode the water rides on Sunday in fifty degree weather, but they had to ride them back-to-back and then they changed their clothes.
This always cracks me up
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iyy4ixum-Ds
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Great review!
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Swoosh there is no bar code on the back of the SDC pass. Unless you know something I do not
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didnt want to start a new thread for this.. I just received mobile announcement the park will stay open extended hours tonite! Staying open until 7:30!!!!!!!
WOW!! Must be a super nice day with a good crowd.!!
I see it just posted on FB also!! Lucky people!!
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didnt want to start a new thread for this.. I just received mobile announcement the park will stay open extended hours tonite! Staying open until 7:30!!!!!!!
WOW!! Must be a super nice day with a good crowd.!!
I see it just posted on FB also!! Lucky people!!
Some rare good weather on the weekend in these parts and some pent up frustration..
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just heard the number 17,000 people on saturday :o :o :o :o
If that is right, that would be the 2nd highest attendence this year.!
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Went to the park on Saturday, May 11 for Bluegrass and BBQ. Lines for shows, lines for food, lines for rides, lines for bathrooms. Shows at the Opera House are now an hour instead of 30 minutes. I thought that was a great improvement. Saw the 2 Nothin' Fancy shows and the 2 Rhonda Vincent shows. Cell phones rang during all 4 shows. Maybe because no announcement was made about turning off cell phones prior to the performances. Attended part of IIIrd Generation -- left because of several folks talking loudly to the people in their groups or talking loudly on their cell phones. Also saw Driven at the Gazebo. A new to us group that we hope to hear again in the future.
Less merchandise for sale in the Frisco Barn. Also, bottles of BBQ sauce for sale have gone up in price by $1 to $2 over last year's prices.
Did not ride anything due to the long lines. The weather was great Saturday and we enjoyed our day. But the lines made me remember why I don't like going to SDC on Saturdays.
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10,000 people there last sunday... nice crowd.
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We were blessed to be as SDC this Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, and I have to say that the park has never been more beautiful. We rode everything multiple times, and never waited more than 45 min for any ride including Outlaw Run. (The sign boasted 80 min at one time, but we timed it at just over 45.) My tip to everyone riding Outlaw Run is sit on the right side if you plan on putting your hands up. The start of the double up after the first inversion will slam you against the car and leave a nice bruise above your rib cage. If you ride with yours hands on your lap, then your arm catches the forces. I also noticed that no loose article idea was not working. I never saw a train not stopped in the ready blocks, which makes 2 train operation pointless. We also caught the saloon show, Mean Murphy was my favorite show when I was a kid, and I could almost quote it word for word as the 100% new saloon cast performed this classic SDC show. We saw a lot of old friends behind the scenes, and even drove by Jack and Pete's office to see if they were in. Unfortunately they were not, but we chatted with the staff that was there and really enjoyed our visit. We will leave SDC in those hands of you that will be able to visit throughout the year, we just ask that you be easy on the staff and trust the ones who are trusted to operate it on the back end. You all are really blessed with a beautiful property, and reading some posts in these threads really shows how much you take it for granted.
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You all are really blessed with a beautiful property, and reading some posts in these threads really shows how much you take it for granted.
I disagree. I think most of the people who visit this forum care deeply about the park. I know I do.
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I will have to agree with you, Parson. I've never gotten the feeling that anyone on this forum takes the park for granted. That being said, everyone is entitled to their opinion, and we don't always agree. I would consider that a healthy discussion - not "taking the park for granted!" Personally, I wouldn't waste my time on here if I didn't have a love for the park. I assume most members feel the same way.
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Here's my two cents worth...I love the place. Was thrilled to work there, and now I have a season pass for the third year in a row. I have really enjoyed escorting family to the park in the last few years, and taking most of the grandkids for their first trips. The magic has lasted over 50 years, and here's my wish it lasts for at least another 50 years to come! :D
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You all are really blessed with a beautiful property, and reading some posts in these threads really shows how much you take it for granted.
You think the posts here by "fans" are bad? Do yourself a favor and never visit a "Disney fan page/forum" the "rants" here are mere child's play compared to full out meltdowns that occur on those pages/boards on any given day.
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No place this side of Heaven is perfect but I trully believe SDC tries harder than most. Sure there are some things I'd like to see change but the beauty of it is most of the things I have asked them to change or bring back (such as the Mean Murphy Show and the Salute to the Great American Cowboy) they have done! I think most big corporations do different things and will only change if it ends up costing them too much money not too. As my signature line says I've been enjoying SDC since 1969. We have made multiple visit trips there almost every year since then and have not missed a year since 1988 and have been SDC Season Pass Holders since 1990. So we definitely don't take our City for granted.
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Swoosh is SO right. The Disney forums are CRAZY.
We may disagree on here about what changes are too much or too little, but we do it politely and often SDC ends up listening to feedback. I mean, Mean Murphy came back!
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We may disagree on here about what changes are too much or too little, but we do it politely and often SDC ends up listening to feedback. I mean, Mean Murphy came back!
I completely agree. Most posts on here are polite and generous. That is one of the things I really like about forums in general. Everyone has an opinion!!! Everyone is different by design, therefore our ideas/likes/dislikes/OPINIONS/ETC are going to be different and unique to us.
The main thing about THIS forum that I like is the POLITENESS.
Now from a owners point of view (from basically any company, but especially a place like SDC). They have to try to please everybody. We all know that is impossible. But as a whole-older folks like different things than teens, teens like things that most young young kids dont. Girls like things that alot of boys dont, ETC. It would be very hard to decide (at what point) to say "OK lets build something for this specific Genre/age group/ETC" and ignore the others till we decide to build again.
I think a forum like this is very important - if not VITAL - to SDC. Im willing to bet the PTB reads these posts. You can tell because they listen to them. Unfortunetly, the readers/posters to this forum is very small compared to the # of people that visit SDC, but a small amount of input is certainly better than zero input. Keep it up!!! I think this is working.
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Checked in to the Homestay and had a nice chat with Page before unloading and heading to Tanger. I had a day to squeeze in B&B so I drove up Saturday night and hit the park half a day on Sunday. We started the weekend shopping and a run by Best buy to see what new shiny things they had to tempt me with. We had some Freddys Chili Cheese Fries and went back to the room. My travel mate hit the bed and I took my dog and drove down to the Pizza World near Andys, from there we walked the strip. Looked at White Water through the fence, peeked in the doors at Riplies. We really enjoyed just walking at night looking at all the lights.
Up Sunday at 8 am and a quick shower we were off to the city. We got there just after the chain dropped and made it down to OR with a 15 min wait, I was happy with this. After the ride I bumped into a buddy of mine that is a citizen and we chatted. As we did a guy walks by carrying a toy poodle. I am thinking to myself ( why didn't I bring my dog?). I know it s against the rules and I completely understand service animals but before someone jumps to this dudes defense telling me that maybe it was a psychological assistance dog or some garbage like that I saw the same dog 10 minutes later standing on a dining table at Crossroads Pizza with 2 women sitting at the same table talking.
ON THE TABLE !!!!!! I would love to be able to bring my little dog in for a walk on a Christmas season evening but I know there are rules. Things like this make me want to go to ebay and buy a service animal vest for my dog and walk her on in. ( stepping carefully down from the soap box now) YOU DONT PUT YOUR DOG ON TOP OF A TABLE!!!!! Now I am really stepping down.......
OR is a great ride but as I age I find once is enough. We walked around to a few stores. The candle shop was having a great sale I took advantage of and we stopped in the bakery for some cookies. Up next was Thunderation, this was my first ride of the year but it felt smoother than usual, if they have done something they have done it right! We looked around the Christmas store ( standard stuff there) and made our way down to the BBQ. The brisket was just nothing to get excited about, it wasn't bad, it wasn't good, it kind of tasted like pot-roast and I think it fell off the back of the truck headed to Ryans or the Golden corral. But I ate it anyway. The beans were spicy and good, the potato salad was the mustard type. I was a little let down by the entertainment, or the lack of it. We ate at noon-12:45 and Pure heart was the entertainment, they played maybe 3 songs while I was there. I drove to hear the bluegrass, in all the years past while you ate they had little groups playing for you. This year they put in one of the standard SDC groups. One that I do not associate with bluegrass. I was disappointed, I did not hear a fiddle or any tenor bluegrass as usual. I think its more about the BBQ and less about the bluegrass this year. Basically more about what they can charge you for and less about what they do not see direct revenue from. I have always thought the magic of the festival was happening upon a set or a band and not sitting down in a theater to hear a show. There is a spontaneity that is lost when it becomes too structured.
I decided that we had had enough for the day so we hit the candy shop and went back to pick up my little dog that was waiting in the room, NOT standing on a table at Crossroads Pizza where there would be someone eating soon.
Some people just slay me............ Overall a great day, temps were just right, no crowds I found unmanageable, they were 2 trains on OR. BTW I found it interesting that it takes longer to unload and load a train than it does to actually make the loop. Watch next time you are there.
Had the BBQ, didn't hear the Bluegrass still had a good time but I am adaptable. Not everyone is.......
BTW, cheap key chains that say SDC on them in the hospitality house on the way out. I grabbled a few for those extra keys I make just in case I need to loan on out.
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I don't think any of us take SDC for granted, but what we are somewhat guilty of is a sense of ownership. ("Guilty" is not here being used in a pejorative sense.) We may over do it at times, and we are usually passionate, and we feel that SDC is "our" liitle slice of heaven in the Ozarks.
My first trip to SDC was in 1966, and it has been my ideal of recreation ever since, even during those years when I could not go. I'd pay to go to SDC before I would be paid to go to SF or Disney-Anywhere.
That doesn't mean I can't quibble about some of the details! Changes and breaks in theme trouble me because they interfere with my idealized recollections of childhood visits, but I understand that the ideal isn't practical. I understand that SDC has to appeal to a broader audience than me. If I note minor disappointments and lament changes that eliminate some of my favorite activities--I miss the stagecoaches!--it's because I care. If I didn't care, I wouldn't bother. And if my tendancy to think it "my" place looks like taking it for granted, what I really take for granted is the sense that the PTB might even listen to us here because they know that we are passionate, even if we sometimes overdo it.
There will come a time when either the City or I will no longer be around. But, until then, I'm going to do my best to enjoy every minute of it I can get and constantly remind myself how important each visit to the Great Past Ahead of me is.
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Made a quick, unexpected trip to Branson today. No SDC visit, but here are a few observations: town was busy! Saturday, holiday time, go figure! We tried to go to Joe's Crab Shack at the landing about 7:30pm this evening, but there was an hour and a half wait! We took the side roads to Starvin' Marvin's and enjoyed the seafood buffet there. No lines, but the place was packed. Traffic was heavy all over town, and did notice the "Ozarkland" sign was now above the building that has been erected there post tornado. Saw a huge crane on the scene at Branson Inn where they are currently demolishing the buildings to make way for a new Mercy Clinic complex. Music shows seemed busy, all the tracks and putt putt golf places were filled with families. After eating, we moved westward toward Branson West and out of the area to head home. Traffic fell off significantly after passing Shepherd of the Hills Expressway intersection with Hwy. 76. It is that time of the year when Branson booms, and boy, it was today! Anyone hear how SDC park capacity was today?
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I am in branson this weekend also...an YES their seem to be a LOT of people in town! Lots of traffic.. LOTS of kids!!?? wow :o :o :o :o
Saturdays attendence. 13,000. I am sure the PTB were hoping for bigger numbers with the nice weather and the 3 day weekend... we will see what sunday brings.
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Extended hours today (sunday) to 7:30, @ 1:00 there were a little over 12,000 people in the gate.!
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Hit the city early today before heading home! WOW!! what a line of cars for early in the day.. any way in picked up a couple of things, listened to sons of silver dollar and out of there about 10:45.. traffic was backed up to 465 at that point!...
I checked and they had 10,000 people in there by 12 today.. expecting about 10 for the day..., had ,13,000 @ 3:00 today.... So the park finally got a full weekend in..
sat 13,500 and extended hours
sun 13,500
mon 13,500
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We also hit the park for a bit on Memorial Day. Came in just before 9:30; we were glad to be coming in from 13, because what we could see of 76 looked crazy. Stop 2 was practically full when we came in (we parked in what I would call "upper 2") and they were already sending to 3. The place seemed full but not crowded when we left at 1. I'm glad the park had what sounds like good attendance this weekend for once.
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Here is our PTR from Bluegrass & BBQ
http://midwestinfoguide.com/migcrew/2013/SDCbbq/
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Good pics Swoosh, wonderful report! Thanks.
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I was there Monday also. Got there about 9:00 A.M am and parked within spitting distance of stop 2. We followed the morning run down the hill to OR and had a 10 minute wait. This was my first ride on it and I was impressed. Total excitement from start to finish. The only disappointment I have is the length of the ride. It really takes them longer to load the coaster than run the loop. They were enforcing the locker policy in the morning. We then did walk ons on PK, WF and FITH. Saw the 11:30 saloon show and when we hit the exit you could tell the park had been hit with a surge. Did the train( ho hum )and the FM then hit some shops. Walked over to the BBQ and Bluegrass but decided to try Danna's after we left. We did do one more ride on OR and it stated they had a 45 minute wait. It actually took just over 30 minutes though. This time they were letting people walk on the ride with cups and backpacks and the same ride attendants that were there in the morning were placing the items on the barrels for people. I really do not like the no cubby hole concept, but just keep it consistent is all I ask. If I know the rules I can play by them. We made our way to the exit and had some great BBQ at the place I mentioned above. Kind of disappointed that Reeds Springs Pizza was closed Monday, but that just gives me a excuse to go back.
Branson as a whole for the trip was a little less impressive. A lot of empty real estate and it is really starting to look dated. I hope they get the new project to redo the strip on the fast track soon.
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didnt want to start a new thread.. SDC just announced on FB, they are extending hours this sat. will be open until 8:00!
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I am supposed to be there this Saturday, they are also unfortunately calling for rain.
But many a time I have gone to SDC in the rain and had a great time. Sometimes the rain lets up and the rides open and you find yourself in a very empty park with short lines. I am keeping my hopes up.
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I used to love rainy days on park. The crowd thins out, only the hardcore stay. Short lines, usually pleasant attitudes. Weather is cooler, you don't care if you get soaked on the water rides 'cause you are already wet. Memories. Ahhhhh! :)
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I have been to SDC in the rain-even-SNOW (urgh) and have had some of the best visits then. When I worked at SFSL, I always liked seeing the rain for the reasons mentioned. Mainly because it was cooler. Of course SFSL keeps the coasters running in rain. (Not in high winds or lightening-but rain doesnt shut down rides there). So basically the park didnt really slow down that much in light rain. In a downpour-the place was empty.
Go ahead MHGUY you will still have fun.
Only thing keeping from SDC is lack of funds after a long slow spell at work. AND on a good note. My DW has to babysit 3 kids Sat. I hate that, but it is much needed money right now Soooooo. I will be 3 hours away from SDC this Sat.
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We're back from a week in Branson. We spent three mornings at SDC and one at White Water.
Day 1 at SDC was last Sunday. We were there at park opening. DH and my two girls (I've got three teens... the boy isn't a rider) ran down to Outlaw Run and rode it. They were slowed down because on the tram in, the man said there were cubbies at Outlaw Run, so one of my daughters had kept her purse. Then at the ride they told her she'd have to lock it up. They would have been in the first train, but were scrambling for change for the locker when luckily my son and I walked up to watch them and she was able to pass me her purse. After OR, they went over to ride PowderKeg, but it was down, so they went over to Wildfire. Back to Giant Swing, a ride through the Lost River and then over to Grand Expo, where the swings weren't running so they did the ship. At this point, it was 11ish, so we headed off in search of food. We had some tater twisters and then stopped at one of the places up the hill and got some calico potatoes and some had chicken strips. We then floated through the Flooded Mine. Wanted to ride the train but the line was really long. Walked across the swinging bridge, stopped at the mill and bought some cinnamon bread. By that point, we were starting to get cranky and hot (and we were still wet from Lost River) and we were ready for some pool time... so we headed back to our resort and relaxed poolside.
Our second trip was on Tuesday. We arrived for Season Pass Holder Ride Time. I used our BAF for a coworker and her family (it was their first time in Branson and her kids loved SDC). DH and girls were able to go in right at 8:30 and got 2 rides on Outlaw Run before I was able to exchange our BAF vouchers and get the rest of the group through the gates and down to Outlaw Run. We'd missed Thunderation on Sunday, so we went over so DH and the girls could ride that. Since the flooded mine was right there, we rode it and then went ahead and got in line for the train. We were on the first train of the day, then booked it over and were able to almost walk right into the Saloon Show. We waited maybe 2 minutes for them to open the doors. We really enjoy the return of this version of the show. It was the one we saw on our first trip 12 years ago and DH was the "cousin" that got to be part of the show. Of course, it was Jamie Haage as Bart back then. After the show, we decided we'd go over to the Ribhouse and eat some lunch because it's our traditional favorite place. We had some issues here. First, I asked if I could get just a sandwich. Yes, but I'd pay full price because they only sell the sandwich with one side. So I decided I'd just go grab a BBQ skillet for me and then get one with no pork for my vegetarian son. This seemed to be an easy request because I watched them serve the skillet and the pork was added onto the potatoes separately. I asked if they could hold the pork (and at this point, I was willing to pay full price) and I was told "not this year." So I walked back to my family, who was checking out and said something about the lack of vegetarian options. I was told by the cashier I could get roasted corn or a side salad. We ended up eating in shifts... dh and the girl had already ordered their food at the Ribhouse. My son and I got some chips at another stand... chips were cold, cheese sauce was cold and it was just a really bad experience. SDC accomodates something like 8 food allergies. I just don't see where it would be that difficult to make some vegetarian options with all their wonderful skillets. (We were able to get the calico potatoes without meat the day before up by the Flooded Mine.) I was irritated enough to write SDC to specifically ask about vegetarian options. I did get a call from customer service within 48 hours saying they had asked food services to list the vegetarian options and get back to me. That's been 4 days ago and I still have no email from customer service. My guess is that other than pure vegetables, they have few (the only one I can think of is cheese pizza at the new place... maybe spaghetti up at the place across from the Mill). I did make a few suggestions -- cheese and fruit packs, hummus and veggie packs -- that they could just keep on hand in the counter service places. We like to eat as a family and we often go to theme parks, etc. and we've never had this much trouble finding a vegetarian entree for my son. Anyway, by the time we managed to get everyone fed, we were all frustrated and the lines were starting to build so we decided to leave the park.
Went back one more time on Thursday. Everyone but me went in around 9 am and got in line for the cave tour. I went to Eva and Delilah's and bought a pecan roll and a pop and sat outside, people watched, and read my Kindle while they did the cave tour. I did it once a few years ago but I hate heights and I was terrified the whole time. When I finally got back up, my legs were so weak I could barely walk (because I'd been shaking the whole climb down and back up). I wanted my family to have a tour where they weren't worrying about me having a panic attack, so I sent them down. We were all thrilled with how it turned out. We left after their cave tour and headed back to the resort to sit by the pool some more.
Although I was really frustrated with the eating situation, we did have a good time. We'll be back during Moonlight Madness, and we can't wait.
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i heard today crowd was much smaller than the park expected, only had 12,000 people today.. heard they were hoping for over 15,000 with the extended hours..
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Just got back from three great days at SDC:
Friday May 31st left central Ark at 7:15 and got to the City at noon. Rode Flooded Mine first ( a tradition for us and if it's closed boy does that throw us off) then headed over to Outlaw Run. The wait time was 20 minutes so we got in line. As you can guess from my past posts I'm obsessed with the Old West so the theming suits me right down to a T! We listened to themes from different westerns while waiting in line (I remember hearing "The Cowboys" "The Magnificent 7" and "Silverado"). As many have posted you can't really imagine the intensity of this ride by the commericals. It's saying something when you realize the 160 ft 81 degree first drop is probably the mildest part of the whole ride- well except for the lift hill of course. My Stetson's off to SDC for this one! We then went over to Fire in the Hole for a quick ride then went and saw the Mean Murphy show at the Saloon. I'm so thrilled they brought this show back. Went to ride the train and bought 3 frozen lemonades and a large $6 popcorn to split between the 4 of us while waiting on the train. Took daughter on Thunderation while wife and son rode Wildfire then we all went and rode Powder Keg. Lines were pretty short for these rides. Went and looked inside a few shops then had supper at the Lumbercamp. Rode Fire in the Hole and Thunderation again then stopped to talk to a couple of employees. One whose name will be withheld to protect the innocent and because I can't remember their name-LOL- told us the new 2015 coaster would replace the old Waterboggan tower. Days 2 and 3 reports to follow...
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Must have been a better day at the city today, sound like they had a little better crowd.!! good for them, !!
15,000 today!
best day in the last couple of weeks! and on a sunday!
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Was at the park Memorial Day weekend and had no issues with using a copy of my drivers and season pass laminated. It was actually very handy all day.
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Anybody been the last couple of weeks? how was everything..
I know the traffic count can't be what the PTB was hoping for.. they averaged 11,000 per day last weekend, Friday and sat this weekend they had about 11,000....
AND only 6500 today (sunday).. >:( >:( ??? ??? Sure wish we were there today..only 6500, that would almost be empty!!
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What's the average attendance this time of year? Maybe 650 is typical.
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I was just at the city this past Tuesday. Everything was awesome and the park looked great! From what I have heard the typical Projection for a Tuesday during the summer is 8,500. If I remember correctly they hit right around 10,500 or 11,000. Didn't get to stay the entire day cause I was with a bunch of killjoys that had never been there. They didn't want anything to do with the history or what makes SDC what it is... Such as the cave, saloon, FM, FITH, or the FSDL.
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gilligan, they expected 9000 on sunday, only had 6500.
You know they are expecting bigger number with a new 10,000,000 coaster!! :o :o
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I'm curious. How do you find out about attendance projections for the day? Are they publishing this info somewhere, or are the employees just telling you when you are on park and ask? Back when I worked there, nobody asked about projections. We employees didn't volunteer the information. We did have a projected daily attendance chart the "head shed" had worked up based on the previous years attendance. We did refer to it regularly as we prepared for staffing, and to know what kind of onslaught of people to expect for the day. I do remember a day when 20,000 people came...that was an exceptionally high number at the time. It was a crazy day, hard to walk the streets cause they were so crowded, and we all hustled to get our jobs done. It was a hot day, too, and we all were worn out. I also remember a few rainy week days in the late fall when it was cold and wet and there were only a couple thousand on park. It was a much more relaxed pace. They even sent some employees home in early afternoon. Kind of boring, really.
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Summertime usually gets real busy for me at work and I just don’t get many days off from the job this time of year. However, yesterday (Sunday), was one of those rare days off from the job.
My wife, Jane, and I mulled over several options of how we could spend the day together and SDC won out. We wanted to get in one more trip to the city before the weather gets really scorching hot out there on that asphalt around the city.
The forecast was for 50% chance of scattered storms and some rainy, stormy stuff did indeed pass through the Nixa to Branson area in the morning hours. So we packed along some raingear and got off to a bit of a late start, arriving at the gates around 10am. I was helped along by some amazing luck with the stop lights in Nixa, Hwy.160, and Branson West…don’t think I’ve ever rolled through all of them green, but I did yesterday.
The plan was to try and catch a few thrill rides in the hour and a half before attending the stunt dog show at 11:30 in the Red Gold Hall. Then we planned to do a cave tour, as we had not done a tour at this point in ’13. And I figured the waterfall would be running good in the cave.
So which thrill rides to try before the show? Things were wet and misty, rainy…so we decided not to head for Powder Keg as we were certain that ride would not be operating anytime soon, if at all on Sunday. I always hear it won’t run in the wet. I really didn’t want to spend 45 minutes waiting in line for Outlaw Run, but the crowds seemed very light yesterday morn, so we decided to try the Run and the Swing.
As we walked past the Swing we noticed that they had both swings running; I couldn’t believe my eyes. So we took advantage of that and rode the swing twice. We really enjoy being on the side where, on the back-swing, we can look down on the Lost River and see the rafts floating by with all the leafed out trees around the river, pretty. And on the forward swing looking back directly behind and seeing the other swing on its back-swing; or the Outlaw Run if you’re on the other side.
Now we’re on to Outlaw Run, and three rides in just under 30 minutes. So far we’re two for two with the rides being open and running. I noticed you can really hear the metal track on the Outlaw whining, or singing, in a few turns of the middle portion of the ride; either from the friction of the wheels on the metal or maybe the stress on the track as the train speeds by. Man, I love that ride. I don’t think it’s too short at all; as wild as it is, a minute or so is plenty for me. While on the ride we also noticed that Powder Keg was running at that time, wow, this day in the park is looking great. So off we go for PK and hopefully a couple of blasts on that before the show.
Upon arriving at PK we were quite surprised that more people were in line for PK than there were for OR. Figure that one out? It took about 15 minutes to ride, and when we were on top of the lift-hill we saw a train from Wildfire making its way up that lift-hill. I waved to the people on WF from my turning PK train and got a few waves in return. We swooped down the track, take the sharp turns to the left, and made it back to the station with plans of heading over to WF.
We talked about the rarity of a day like this at SDC nowadays. What with all the rides running at the same time, and with them all running multiple trains, on a Sunday even. We also noticed a lot of staff around the park and working the rides; lots of employees we had never seen before, training and helping with the rides and what not. We decided to take advantage of the day that was happening here and skip the dog show, concentrating on the thrill rides while we had the chance. The park still was not getting very busy and you could ride anything you wished. I think the weather forecast must have kept a lot of people from the park yesterday.
It’s on to Wildfire now. And can you believe that, two trains running for WF. We almost were able to walk right onto the front seats of WF, one train wait. We rode front and back one time each. I noticed that the operator was letting the off-loading people a little time to gather their things from the cubbies before opening the gates for the on-loaders. A nice move, I thought, as there were no lines for the ride.
Well, we may as well take a spin on Fire-in-the-Hole. The seats on the train were pretty wet, so we knew there would be a good splash at the end…and there was. Got a good spray to the face, from riding in the back. Fire in the Hole!
Now across the park and onto the Flooded Mine. Made the bird tweet, set off the TNT, and made the bull’s skull grunt, and we decide to take a ride on the train.
There was a new actor playing Alfie; or one we had never seen before. A young black guy who was maybe in his early twenties. He really put a lot of effort into the role and did a fine job, we thought. He got a quarter off of me and my wife during the train robbery. People were really handing over a lot of coin to Alfie and Ralphie yesterday; that’s good to see. The woman claimed them as her sons.
We then rode FM one more time and it was on to Thunderation. I always love speeding into that tunnel. One train running on that one, but there was no wait. We decided to make the walk back around again and ride up front one time on TNT. Great fun up there at the head of that runaway mine train.
The sun had popped out by now and things were getting fairly warm. We entertained the thought of completing the ride sweep and getting on the Plunge and Lost River, but I chickened out and decided to save the water rides for our next visit in a few weeks.
We stopped by the candy store, got a few samples, and bought some kind of fudge for Jane. After a couple of refill drinks we sat around the gazebo/main street area for a bit and decided to end our day at SDC.
We went to Branson Landing for a few beers (my wife had tea) and pizza at Old Chicago. We walked along the riverfront for awhile and eventually took Hwy. 65 to Ozark and home to Nixa.
Great job on Sunday SDC! Keep up the good work!
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Great review. :)
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Hiker, sounds like a great day, and with only 6500 people there, i am sure the park was easy to get around.!
love the cold beer at old chicago..!!
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My crew will be there on Friday. You've been warned. :D
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What a great review and a fine day for you and your wife! Did you notice if you could hear the horses clopping across the bridge? I didn't hear it the last two times I was there. I'm hoping it just wasn't operating those days. I love that sound! Always have and always will! Isn't it crazy how it's the little things that intrigue us?
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What a great review and a fine day for you and your wife! Did you notice if you could hear the horses clopping across the bridge? I didn't hear it the last two times I was there. I'm hoping it just wasn't operating those days. I love that sound! Always have and always will! Isn't it crazy how it's the little things that intrigue us?
Thanks Gilligan! Yes, a fine day happened at SDC for my wife and I on sunday. Great visits can happen at SDC in a variety of ways: if it be the festivals and all the fantastic shows, the nostalgia and tradition of the city, or the thrill of the variety of exciting coasters, and such, around the park; it can be a great place to spend a 'lil time.
I know that clopping of the horses across the bridge, and like you, I haven't heard it in awhile.
Sometimes we'll hear music, bluegrass or old-timey mountain music, playing through the speakers while waiting in line for the coasters; but some days we don't hear any of that traditional music at all in the park near the rides. We think maybe it just depends on wether particular employees remember, or care to, turn on those audio devices.
I sure enjoyed hearing the group "Asleep at the Wheel" as we waited to board Thunderation back in the day.
And I loved hearing "David Davis and the Warrior River Boys" while waiting to get on the Powder Keg last year.
Fortunately, the sounds of the Flooded Mine always play as we're floating through that working prison mine; I always have to rock the boat a bit during those short miner-music laden stretches.
I think the sounds, and the music, and the themes, play a huge role in the atmosphere of this park; and sometimes maybe the PTB lose focus on that fact.
I hope to hear the clopping of hooves upon that bridge in the near future.
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I am pretty sure the clopping was working on memorial weekend..?
I always listen for it, If it doesnt play I notice it immediately.
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yep...I heard them on Monday and Tuesday of last week. It's working again! ;D
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Yay for the horses clip clopping on the bridge!!
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My dad always suggested that the clopping hooves should have sleigh bells added during the christmas festival.
HikerDan- enjoyed the review, glad to see others out there that enjoy the ambiance of the park. I can get a multi-million dollar roller coaster at any park, but it's the magic touches- old timey music, friendly citizens, ozark hills, train show, food and craftsman that make SDC special.
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The bridge does have sleigh bells during OTC. And, Kentucky, you are right. It's the magic touches that make it so special!
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Ah the hooves on the bridge! When we noticed it wasn't working we were more than shocked. Glad to hear the horses are up and running this year!
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Clearly I need to get back to Ozark Mtn Christmas ASAP! Since we moved out of state we've only been for week long trips in the fall. I need to get my facts updated, I guess the PTB liked my dad's sleigh bell idea.
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Pretty sure the sleigh bells have been around since the original "12 Days of Christmas" event
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I'd like to see them put the sign back up about the reason you hear the horses: ie that the posse chasing the Baldknobbers caused the bridge to collapse. I think they had the date February 7, 1882?
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I'd like to see them put the sign back up about the reason you hear the horses: ie that the posse chasing the Baldknobbers caused the bridge to collapse. I think they had the date February 7, 1882?
I'm all for it. Seems kinda silly without that sign. Also, I'm for a more historically accurate portrayal of the Baldknobbers. Who they were, and who they weren't. A lot of new guests to the park assume that they are associated with the KKK and that just isn't true at all.
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Howdy!!!! I'm Back! I have been absent for several reasons (see the thread on WITC-where in the city 2012 for details) but I am back!
My wife , 1.5 yr old daughter, and I headed out to the area on Friday afternoon for a quick weekend, and had a great time.
We were supposed to have my parents there to help with toddler duty, but my pops went back into the hospital (battled cancer liver, colon, heart attack, sleep disorders...basically everything was wrong, but is hanging in there) but is getting better slowly, so it was just my immediate family, the 3 of us.
We headed to Springfield first for the whole purpose to our trip, we had to pick up our race packets at Ridge Runner Sports (more info on this in a minute). We headed to The landing first, and caught the end of the Talent Show put on by one of the country stations while perusing the shops. We hit up the Olive Oil shop and the Salsa /Hot Sauce shops for samples, while visiting other stores, and as usual, got out without spending a dime. I did see a man who might have been scamming people asking to break a large bill....got turned down, so he headed towards the parking lot, but then saw him again later in another section... :-\ Gonna happen anywhere that people are though.
Headed to get food and unfortunately had to grocery shop at the Wal Mart on 76...silly me, their grocery was, umm...petite to say the least, but we got our necessities, but cannot wait for Jubilee to return. Made dinner and turned in early because...
We were entered in the Dash to the Splash 5K @ White Water, we got there early, warmed up, and ran the race at 730am. It was MC'd by Pete Herschend, which provided for comic relief, and a heartfelt thanks for attending to all of us who entered. The race ran the perimeter of the WW lot, and then the perimeter of the Red Roof Mall (x2) and up 76 to the White Water and back into the WW lot. I pushed a stroller, and finished in a descent time (I am a former NCAA runner, so anything lately is slow!) but my wife won her age, and was 2nd overall. Perk to the race was a ticket to WW for a day, so thats what we did on a whim!
My first WW visit was 32 yrs after both my birth, as well as the park opening, so I was eager to see what was the place all about. We mostly corralled my little one in the kiddie pools, but were able to hit a slide or two (yes I did the big ones!)
We headed to SDC for the afternoon, but due to rain, most things were closed during our time there, followed by Reed Springs Pizza, and Andy's on the Strip.
Hit up SDC again today, and rode, and browsed shops...but unfortunately not enough hours are in the day to do what we have!
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Rube, sounds like a great weekend.. got to do a little bit of everything it sounds like.
Low attendence counts over the weekend, 8,000 on friday, 9500 on sat, 6500 on sunday..
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I was there both Friday and Sunday. Yesterday was nice. But I was there early and u think the weather moved in after I left.
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We did not get wet at all! went to get cleaned up after White Water (which closed right after we left due to lightning)...rained when we were eating lunch, didn't even realize it, drove home and missed all of it!
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Glad to have you back, Rube! We love seeing your comments, and glad to have the Where in the City game back, too! :)
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I went yesterday to SDC and the biggest complaint about Outlaw Run that I heard was run checks after park opening. We went directly to it like most people do and had to wait an hour before anyone got to ride. There didn't seem to be a problem with the ride just mandatory run checks for precaution. Everyone was talking about why they didn't do these run checks an hour or so before opening so it would be ready to ride at chain drop. On this same note we went to FITH at around 11 that same morning and they were already adding another train. We also went last week and the same thing happened. That's a great idea but isn't there enough planning to realize they might need this train at the start of the morning or soon thereafter? Would it not be easier to take a train off than to add one? I got to admit it doesn't take that long but it does take time and that is annoying to the people that are waiting in line. Heard a lot of complaints on that! At 1 in the afternoon could walk right on RB and at the same time had a 45 minute wait at LR with everything running smooth.
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Why is it that every time I plan a trip to Branson my wife has to get sick and in up in the hospital? She really is sick now that she knows
the whole suprise of this trip was to take her to see Tim McGraw.
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Sorry to hear that oldsdcer. Hope she's better soon.
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My wife and I went to SDC on Monday. No crowds at all. It was enjoyable talking to the employees. Outlaw Run was down, upset people all around. I also noticed several food locations closed. One concern even on a slow day is the conditions of the bathrooms. Many are pretty sad.
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I myself have always thought they did a great job on the bathrooms. Seems like they are always very clean. Maybe someone or a group had just come in and trashed it at the time.
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^^^^^
I agree. I have never seen the bathrooms trashed at all. Maybe in the rain or very cold. There may be paper towels thrown around, but still basically clean.
Sorry to hear that your bathrooms was not in ship-shape.
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Have you tried out the NEW bathrooms yet?
http://midwestinfoguide.com/silver/2013/06.14/
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Thanks for the photos, Swoosh. I've wondered how the building looks...it looks good. Appears to fit in well with the surroundings.
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Passed right by these and did not realize they were the facilities
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For some reason they have not updated the maps in the Pathfinder yet to notate that they are in fact open.
They are SUPER nice and the AC in there is SUPER cold. So if you need a place to beat the heat, go sit a spell in the new potties and do some paperwork. ;)
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good idea swoosh.. i will stop in tomorrow to check out the facilities!
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My parents visited on Saturday, June 22. They said that the crowds were lighter than they expected. Dad got in a couple of rides on Outlaw Run and waited 30 minutes the first time, but only 10 minutes or so the second time. They enjoyed the Saloon Show.
I don't know that we will visit during KidsFest this year. We may just wait until the fall. It may be that I just have a child who is too young right now, but I just remember last year's Fourth of July visit and how hot it was. The only way to cool her off that afternoon was to let her play in one of those garden sprinklers in the "street." She can ride Lost River, but in the afternoon, the line is often pretty long. She would probably like the dog show, but I have seen so many incarnations of it so many times. We even watched one at Celebration City one summer.
I am looking forward to next summer to see how things will change, even if it's just a little. Some new shows that the whole family would enjoy would be great! I really wish there was a summer stage show like they used to have in the Riverfront Playhouse, known as the Gaslight in my memories. I enjoyed shows like Timothy Turnbuckle. Heck, I even liked the circus on ice show.
I saw a Victorian-themed Barnum and Bailey circus once in Dallas. I've always wished SDC would do something like that. Everything was themed, and the circus was a one-ringed show. I remember the ladies in the pre-show with their long velvet dresses with bustles. In the pre-show area, you could walk around watching small juggling acts and such while eating popcorn or peanuts. The front row seating in the main show was red velvet couches. Though the show was Victorian-themed, they did modern things with lighting and sound. It was just beautiful. But I digress...
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I was there last Friday. My mom and sister went too. We started the day off at the saloon (LOVE the new show by the way). Then we had lunch at Flossie's Fried Fancies. I got a corndog, just like old times. But the corndog was a little burnt. My sister's was perfectly fine tho. I rode TNT by myself. No lines! But the rides were closed most of the day because there was lightning close by. We did manage to squeeze in a train ride right before closing time. I was going to ride OR but I decided to wait til I brought a friend with me. My sister doesn't like wooden coasters and my mom doesn't do rides and my dad had to work so he couldn't go with us. I was too scared to ride by myself. But I told everyone it was just closed for lightning ;) The GAC show was good, but it was better in years past. One of the performers is pregnant, but they still let her perform. She sat instead of danced, and for the dancing numbers, they had a different girl come out in her place. The songs were good, but Clint (the funny guy) didn't do a cover of a Tim Hawkins song like in years past. Jessica, the comedian lady, was a cowboy and they had a cowboy set in honor of OR.
Overall it was really good day, minus the humidity :)
Facebook album, should be public:
https://m.facebook.com/tutterrow1?v=photos&cps&album=a.10200273918879380.1073741829.1495599105&__user=1495599105
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Well I was at SDC during my trip to Table Rock last week and I'm finally getting a chance to post. Sorry if it's long and windy but I want to give a full account. I'll put things we did in Branson on the Branson scrolls.
First thing, I got engaged last Monday night on our boat at sunset on table rock lake. This is the first time my fiancee has been to SDC in a long time and her first time with my family.
I left Nebraska when the woman got off work at midnight and headed straight for Table Rock. Met my parents and sisters at the resort at 7:30 a.m. then headed to SDC. Megan and I decided to have breakfast since we just arrived and haven't ate yet. I haven't been in the mill restaurant for breakfast in years and I was just a kid last time and let me tell you, the selection was nothing huge but it didn't need to be...that food was GREAT. Real bacon, good sausage, good country style hash browns, excellent ham, but the biscuits and gravy topped them all. I could have lived off those. Worth the money, will do it every year now. Anyway...
SDC was near empty last monday, probably on account of the dreary weather forcast but as you all know those are some of th ebest days to go. Not too hot and it only rained a little. Rode FM, TNT, PK, WF, and then took the nieces and nephews for the American Plunge and the Lost River! It was fun and its great to see the kids having fun just like my sisters and I did at that age on those same water rides. It was nice riding them as I do not do it every year now that we are all older...but with the kids getting of age I'll be riding again. We didn't hit many shops but the financee and I hit the Saloon Show...And....
Best show I've seen in years. Excellent (and nice lookin) dancing girls, the piano player that's been there for years was in good spirits and was great as always, but the new show was something great. Mean Murphy was great and the guy playing him had a great baritone singing voice. Charlie was played by the taller, slightly older, short white-haired gentleman and that guy can act and he is funny and there is never a dull moment. Great, great show and the fiance didn't expect it to be that good.
Rode the train and we enjoyed it. My mom was "ma". Didn't claim them.
Walked around a little more and left at 3:00. Great day even though I had gone on no sleep. I have complaints that I'll address later but it was great being there with the kids.
Went back on Wednesday. Hotter weather. Had a pecan roll at the bakery. So good. Got to ride Outlaw Run and words really can't describe that ride and how excellent it really is. IF you are reading this and are wondering whether it is good or not, just know that it is and nothing can prepare you for what you will experience. WOW.
Rode FITH. Best roller coaster in the world. There, I said it. And I mean it. Never gets old. Then I walked around with the woman because she wasn't wanting to do rides. We watched Ray ( his knives are worth buying, btw...we love ours for hunting) then we caught only one song from homestead pickers (love those guys..sad I couldn't see more but you just never have time there's too much to do!)....went to Wilderness Church. The preacher in there is a gentleman. Found out we were engaged and gave us a very nice talk about marriage. Woman said she almost cried. He is a good man and loves his job, and we talked a little about how great it is SDC hasn't taken religion out of the city just because of the politically correct haters that seem to be everywhere in our country now.
Went in all the cabins, shops, glass blowers, etc. and it was nice to see the magic of the city was really getting to my finance. We had a great time together. We did Marvel Cave at 3 and it was great despite the punk kids that needed a good slappin'. We bought numerous jams (and they were good), taffy, and headed out until next year.
Time for my complaints. First of all, I realize that things happen and no operation that large could run perfect. Also, I don't go to SDC for rides...I love them but the themes and aura are what get me there. Nevertheless, I'm very disappointed in the handling of Outlaw Run. If you aren't going to be open, don't advertise. It was not open on Monday and the employees talking to people were less than sympathetic and were quite annoyed that people weren't happy about it. If it were my only day there I would have felt jipped. On Wednesday they did test runs for 45 minutes. As was stated before on this board....GET THERE EARLIER. People come to your park, eat breakfast, pay money, etc. and they don't want to go down a hill to see you just getting started. Especially if it has been acting up lately and was shut down for a whole day. Don't you think you'd get there sooner? No excuses for it, I'm sorry. And while I don't need rides to come back, many people are visiting the city for their first time because of the new ride and we need to keep them coming back with a good impression. Powder Keg had it's usual morning down time as well. The other thing was that FITH was closed for a long time both days. In all my years I have never seen that ride closed, ever. I'm not mad about that one, just something negative I noticed. It's not normal for that ride. Some places were closed Monday and weren't as many demonstrations. Why? Because people weren't there? Well I was and I paid money. I'm not a number, I'm a customer. And if we can't complain, things will deteriorate. (forgot to mention that Wednesday seemed quite full and cheery).
Having said that, I loved it and would have done it all again in a heart beat. Overall it was a great trip and memories were made again. You just can't beat SDC. The best thing was that my fiance started saying "next year" more and more throughout the trip...so it looks like she will accept this as an annual trip! Praise the Lord! I knew she was a good woman!
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Forgot to mention we hit the dog show Monday and it was excellent. Also the new facilities that were mentioned are very nice.
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Parson Lee at the Wilderness Church is a dear friend and excellent pastor. :D
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I didn't do a trip review of our trip, however, one thing I did want to mention is that I met Brad Thomas. He was on the observation deck of the Outlaw Run. The new restroom facilities were extremely nice. The family enjoyed the Outlaw Pizza. We didn't feel like it was too expensive and we got our food very quickly. I had the calzone and it was delicious. I am sad to see more and more of the black asphalt being replaced with concrete...just seems to take away from the charm and unique smell of the park.
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Pastor Lee at the church is a former (from my time of employment on park 78-84) singing bartender from the saloon. I had a good talk with him and his partner at the church, a woman, who visit with guests. This was a few years ago. He and the woman both are good people and will minister with people should there be a need.
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Josh, I am also noticing more concrete, less asphalt. :(
Had a calzone a couple of weeks ago.. Like it alot, still not happy with the way they are making their "OR" pizza... :-\
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Finally got a few rides on OR. It definitely lives up to the hype. I'll post more details when I'm at a keyboard, but right now I'm trying to decide what to do now that half the major rides are closed down. Never seen so many closed rides at sdc... Luckily there's more to do here. Guess I'll go see the homestead and shop for awhile.
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Today was pretty great. I got in a half dozen rides on OR, as well as rides on PK, Wildfire, TNT, TGS, Electro Spin, FiTH, the Train, and the Flooded Mine. I also saw the new Saloon show. The only down part of the day was when several of the rides went down at once, as I mentioned earlier. There were a number of grumpy people to be seen as they walked from ride to ride only to find them closed. Fortunately, SDC staff always do what they can to get things running again, and before long all the closed rides were open again. OR went down at least twice during the day though, and at one point it was closed for probably a good two hours or more during the middle of the day. Wildfire was even down at one point, but it wasn't ride-related (I'm assuming somebody barfed).
Seeing all the downtime today really opened my eyes to how dependent the park has become on the ride attractions. We talk about this all the time, but it's kind of sad to see in person that so many people are there just to ride rides. When I saw a number of the big rides go down, my first thoughts were to head up to the homestead and then do some shopping, but a bunch of people just got mad and were loudly wondering if they should just leave the park. Maybe SDC should try to advertise some of the other park features again. I'll bet less than 10% know that there's an authentic 1800's schoolhouse in the park anymore.
OR definitely lived up to it's reputation. Out of all the coasters I have ridden across the U.S. and the U.K., it is easily the most intense and out of control experience I've ever had. I definitely am no longer complaining about the short length - any more and it would probably give most people a heat attack. I can't remember ever going 'whoa whoa whoa' all the way through a ride before. Every little piece was just so well engineered to give the most out of control feeling possible. I guess you guys have probably heard all this before though, but it's good to be up to speed.
Random note: I saw two armadillos by the tracks during the train ride.
One other thing, for those suffering from celiac or related to those that do, the park has apparently gotten even worse at dealing with food allergies and the like, at least when it comes to gluten. I wasn't there to see it for myself, but apparently when my parents tried to order food at a couple of places the staff didn't really know how to handle it, though they did their best. SDC is big enough that you expect them to have this sort of thing managed better, seeing as so many people have celiac or something similar these days.
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shave, sounds like you had a good day, and with a little `11,000 people there on sat, it wasnt super crowded for you. Your right about the larer percentage of people seem to be there for the rides, not the city as we know it.
I know when i see people looking around "lost", i ask what they are looking for, 90% of the time it is a ride. Not candle shop, woodcarvers, glass blowers or anything "city" related.
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Well I agree it is sad that the rides have taken over (at every park) these days. Guess it just proves how times are changing. People of every age are used to electronic gadgets now and in turn, getting used to "INSTANT GRATIFICATION". or better known as "impatience". Rides give us that (instant satisfaction) Unfortunately, candle shops do not. And basically "Money" rules and "Value" doesnt mean much. In other words People will gladly spend $25 on a cheap ready made (can buy anywhere) toy, but will complain to pay $40 on a quality handmade toy from a craftsman who will make it right in front of you. (Thats just one example). Part of the reason is as I said Money VS Value. Another reason, its faster for the kids to pick out a cheap toy off the shelf, than a toy that a kid has to wait a 1/2 hour or longer to hand make. "Impatience". Im sure our parents made similar comments about our generation too. Maybe they were right. The World is going downhill at a high rate of speed.
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QUOTE: The world is going downhill at a high rate of speed.
REPLY: Read Matthew Chapter 24, it's like reading the headlines in a newspaper.
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Naw, I think it's just that an 1880s Ozarks mining town is such a specific theme for a park, that it takes a lot to bring in new people. That's why people go to places like Disney and Universal, etc -- more themes in a single park. SDC really is a unique park all its own. Are there really any other parks out there that are as detailed in theming as SDC but only have a single theme to the entire park?
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There is no other park that provides the overall experience and atmosphere that SDC does. It is so unique and family-friendly and there is so much to do and see that you can't get it all in one or two days.
Rides are what is going to bring new people to the park. Whether people like it or not, new folks, especially younger families with kids, are going to come for the rides. We just need to hope that the theme of the 1800's and the overall park experience will catch on and get them to come back.
There's nothing wrong with wanting to ride rides. You can ride rides and still get in everything else. I just did. It's too bad these people didn't have families that took them to SDC "in the old days". We can't hold that against them and just hope that the magic of the park catches them as it did us. I'm sure it will with many and won't with others.
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Yup, new rides are what bring people in; the theming, atmosphere, shows, etc are what keeps 'em comin' back. :-)
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Had another really good day at the park today. Got to ride OR at least another half a dozen times as well as a few other things, and saw the Saloon show again just for the heck of it. Personally, I liked the old show better, but the saloon performers are the best and are always worth seeing. I also saw the Second String band and enjoyed it. I also got to say hello to tinmann, which was great.
Not much comes to mind to report that you haven't heard already. They weren't able to do the opening ceremony due to technical difficulties, and after they opened the gates and everyone flooded to OR, it wasn't open yet, which was a bit of a double buzz kill. I know that SDC staff always does their best and a lot of things simply go wrong in the operation of a major attraction, but I don't think the park put it's best foot forward this weekend, at least from the perspective of a new guest. They still handle break downs pretty well and can typically be counted on to get stuff up and running again ASAP, but I'm just not used to seeing so much stuff go down or not be open on time at SDC. I don't know what I could suggest here without knowing more about their operations, but it seems like operations in general could be improved somehow.
Nitpicking aside though, my visit was great, the staff were great, and the park looked great as always. Couldn't ask for better weather either.
I didn't take a whole lot of photos this time, but I'll try to post a few later this week and test out the new gallery feature some more.
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you did seem to pick a good weekend. weather seemed to be perfect for your visit. attendence seemed to be modest again this weekend. 11,500 for sunday.
Anxious to see what pics you took, you alwway have good pics.
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JUNIOR: You are right about Matthew 24. I wasnt really thinking about Matthew though when I was writting my last post. I was thinking more in the lines of Revalation (and more specific REV 2:6)
But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, which I also hate.
However I think Matthew 19:24 would fit well here too. (I wasnt really thinking of this either though and the "greed" displayed by most today-this verse should be a staple these days just like John 3:16)
Matt. 19:24 (KJV) And again I say unto you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.
In all honosty I didnt really intend for my post to turn in to a SERMON, I really was just pointing out the changes the general public are displaying.
I know the youngins just HATE when I start talking about how the times are changing for the worst. But us older guys know, the World is in the final days and the to the youngins, well I understand "to you-the World is just great" because you dont know of better times. We watched an 8 yr old girl for a while today. We have watched several times in the past, she is a really good girl. Fun to spend time with. She about blew a gasket today when it took nearly 1 minute for my internet to load on my old computer. I explained how it used to take several minutes back in the dialup days. She told me in no uncertain terms that she absolutely would NOT deal with that today. She said on the internet, 2 seconds is too long for a web page to load, and things like a text message should be answered within 3 minutes or you better have a real good excuse. And any cellphone that doesnt get service EVERYWHERE should be discarded and the supplier should be sued. (These were her words) I explained to her that we didnt always have cellphones. (Seriously I believe that she had never been told that before) She was absolutely paralyzed after I told her that.
And you wonder why I say "TIMES ARE CHANGING" and "people are getting spoiled".?
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Part of me wishes text messaging was never invented. As a teacher, it sickens me to see kids have conversations on cell phones. (not during class, they don't get to do that...just outside of school when I see them, etc.) Pick up the phone and call someone! Or just have a conversation. You know....verbally...in person!
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Qwed.. Well there is an 8 year old that has some shocks in life coming...!!! LOL..
AND 1 of my pet peeves is why does an 8 year old even have a phone? let alone worry about if a text is not respoonded to within 3 minutes.. ??? ??? ??? ???
Now dont get me wrong, kids having to walk somewhere (although that doesnt happen much), or teenagers driving? Ok maybe a cell phone for emergency use or contact famiy members yes.. BUT other that , I dont see it!!! :o :o :o
OK. stepping down off soap box. NEXT!
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I don't think this discussion warranted going into what's wrong with the world, nor is this the right topic for it. All I have to say about it is to point to this: http://xkcd.com/1227/
Getting back to the discussion of the park: I have to laugh when I see comments pining for the old black asphalt. It may have become characteristic of SDC at this point, but you have to admit the new textured concrete looks more classy. I really like the way the new crossroads area looks and I think it would have looked tacky with asphalt.
Here's hoping the numbers increase for the rest of the summer. I couldn't believe how dead it was this weekend with such nice weather. I mean, there were something like 11,000 people there, but with the new coaster and temps in the 80's you'd hope it would come closer to breaking records.
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My delightful, lovely wife and I made it down over the weekend as planned, and I thought I'd share some observations.
1st: NEWSFLASH: Paige had a Friday ngiht/Saturday OFF! We missed seeing her but were glad to hear she got a break during the busy season.
Weather was as near perfect as no matter on Saturday. The city expected about 11,000 guests and was right on track to meet it. I know the PTB would probably have liked to have seen half again as many, but the City was much more pleasant to walk through than it wold have been. Lines were very short.
There seem to be two distinct crowds nowadays: those that go to the Flag Raising/Veteran's Recognition/Opening and those that march straight to the line for Outlaw Run. I'm trying to avoid drawing too much conclusion from too little evidience, but my observations back in March were repeated this past weekend: most of the ones in line for the coaster showed little or no respect for the flag or the vets. I hope they eventually come to realize what they are missing.
Speaking of OR, it was apparently down for some time. We didn't hear much complaining, but we were tickled to see that, when the ride went back into operation, a City-wide alert hit the Citizens' pagers. We were talking to Terry, and he made a point to let folks in the area know that the coaster was up and running. The PTB and the Citizens are doing everything they can, it seems, to make sure those who want to ride it get the chance.
We rode the train twice, the second time being the last trip of the day but one. Since the crew was less pressed for time, the boys claimed a Ma--the first time we'd seen that in almost 3 years. They all must have been tired, as the lines took a beating, but it was all great fun, especially for those of us who knew the lines were taking a beating.
There's a new conductor on the line, a young fellow named Devan (the spelling is a guess). He was obviously a bit inexperienced, but he did a VERY good job.
Tried the Prickly Lime for the 1st time--good stuff, but Habanero Zest is not for the Faint of Heart. The OR ice Cream is *very* good as is the OR Taffy.
The Stunt Dog show was pretty good, but the pounding music and the strobes gave me a real headache. Can't we enjoy the dogs without the phoney effects? I wonder if it gives THEM a headache. . . .
We saw mean Murphy for the first time and really enjoyed it. My wife let the girl organizing the line borrow me, and I have a pic to prove it ;)
We listened to the Pickers both at 9:30 and at 11:30, and my wife asked for "Ghost Chickens," so I got voluntold to do the rooster. I hope I didn't scare anyone off! I like the new guy, Walt. He has a great voice and fits in pretty well. If you see them, get them to do the "Hillbilly Wrap." If it doesn't have you rolling on the ground, check your pulse.
My wife was delighted: she snagged two employee pins. She needs another lanyard, now: one for keeping and one for trading.
We got there about 8:00 (giving us time to talk to Jill the photgrapher) and left at 7:00, so it was an all-day Great Past!
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Palallin,we were able to ride the train twice on out last visit, and both time we got to meet "ma".
I had the opinion as your palallin about the dog show.! do they really need all those effects?
Shave, interested statement about the concrete versus asphalt.. Yes the Crossroads area looks great, I guess IF the "decorated" all the concrett that way it might be a little easier to get used to. But when they pour a slab, like they did last year over by the saloon there is no ambience or character. It just looks like it was "added" without thought.
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A friend was there on Sat, he said a older lady right behind him in line on PK fainted and it took some time to get emts there. They had to clear the que and that closed PK down and later in the day, someone, somehow dislocated their shoulder on it and came in screaming on it.
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Hey Pallalin! Sorry I missed you....I know a new schedule for me! (My wonderful staff put it together...still getting used to it). Next time let them know you are here and if avail I would love to come down and say hello! ;D Glad you had a great trip and who knows maybe able to meet you all at SDC sometime this year! ;)
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Hey Pallalin! Sorry I missed you....I know a new schedule for me! (My wonderful staff put it together...still getting used to it). Next time let them know you are here and if avail I would love to come down and say hello! ;D Glad you had a great trip and who knows maybe able to meet you all at SDC sometime this year! ;)
Not to worry! We were really delighted to hear that you got a break! We will be coming back down soon--we have a break in our reenacting schedule.
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A friend was there on Sat, he said a older lady right behind him in line on PK fainted and it took some time to get emts there. They had to clear the que and that closed PK down and later in the day, someone, somehow dislocated their shoulder on it and came in screaming on it.
We thought we heard sirens, but we were over by FM at the time so didn't see anything.
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An 1880's mining town that made its money digging up bat manure probably wouldn't appeal too much to my kids generation, so they have done an excellent job with what they had to work with.
My problem is I'm getting too old. There are too many spoiled little brats that don't know how to act and desperately need a whoopin'. They cut in line and talk back and don't show respect to their elders. >:(
When did I become my father.... ???
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Ah, don't worry...we all turn into our fathers or mothers. Ya know what? They were right! ;)
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Some day I will get my Kidsfest PTR up. Sorry guys, been super busy trying to get moved to California.
Maybe this coming week?
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trying to get moved to California.
Wow, that's a long was from the Midwest. This is going to put a damper on your SDC trips.
Did you get a new job out there?
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Nothin personal but I couldn't be paid enough to move to the coast. Leave me here in flyover country and leave me alone and I'm happy.
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trying to get moved to California.
Wow, that's a long was from the Midwest. This is going to put a damper on your SDC trips.
Did you get a new job out there?
If he works in Moniteau county then he's just moving to California, MO (I'd wager). ;)
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trying to get moved to California.
Wow, that's a long was from the Midwest. This is going to put a damper on your SDC trips.
Did you get a new job out there?
If he works in Moniteau county then he's just moving to California, MO (I'd wager). ;)
California isn't far from Mexico. ;)
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Was anyone at the city on July 4th? How were the festivities.. ?
Looks like the 4 day weekend may be helping attendance this week, with Thursday @ 14,500, and today (Friday) also at 14,500, the PTB have to be looking forward to sat/sunday!! Lets hope for a BIG crowd on sat.. SDC needs it!
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Was anyone at the city on July 4th? How were the festivities.. ?
Looks like the 4 day weekend may be helping attendance this week, with Thursday @ 14,500, and today (Friday) also at 14,500, the PTB have to be looking forward to sat/sunday!! Lets hope for a BIG crowd on sat.. SDC needs it!
We were there from 9:30 to 3:00 on Thursday the 4th, mostly just to see the Pickers play 3 times, because they don't play during our Sunday trips anymore. We also did our once per year cave tour on Thursday; watched some glass blowing; caught the science show.
Went back on Friday figuring maybe the place wouldn't be so crowded and we could ride some rides in the morning. Watched the Pickers at 9:30 and went down to Wilson's Farm at 10:00 and the Outlaw "No" Run. Big line of disgruntled vacationers. Did ride the swing twice.
Set off for Hugo's Hill Street, passed the Saloon, started up the hill in front of the Opera House and discovered the Powerless Keg. Turned to check out the FITH, but overflow from the Powerless Keg had overran that area.
So off to the almost always reliable Wildfire (glad I won't have to call it "Mild"fire, since it always seems to be operating.
Rode the train, watched part of the science show in the playhouse (the dog show was way to packed to even try), and caught most of the second Pickers performance on the front porch of the homestead.
We left at noon because the city was just gettin' too busy for a couple of local geezers like ourselves. Just not much to do between noon and 2 pm when you don't eat at the city, there are no shows during those times, and the rides are swamped or not operating.
My wife and I are leaving in fifteen minutes to try the city again on this Sunday morn. We think we might like to get really wet today, as it looks to be very warm in the Ozarks!
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WOW! hiker! Really? """"""""Outlaw No Run?"""""""""...................."""""Powerless Keg"""""""" LOL>. Oh my!!!
Yes the city had another 14,000 on sat, so they have a great weekend run going. Being the end of a 4 day weekend , It wiwll be interesting to see what todays number is.
ENJOY!!!
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We made a quick trip on the afternoon of the 4th. Parking lots were full and plenty of transportation. We rode an employee bus in (there was an employee town hall meeting the evening of the 3rd -- read the flyer taped up by the driver) and a tram back to stop 5. Quickest trip we have ever made -- less than an hour from arrival in the parking lot until we left.
Would have loved to have stayed longer but had to much to do that day and had to be elsewhere by 5:00 pm.
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Seem they are having lots of issues with the coasters this year.
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Walked through the turnstiles at 9:35 this morn for what my wife and I determined to be an all out "thrill ride" day at the city.
Had a couple of days where we experienced other attractions around the city and now we're ready to launch, drop, speed, spin, swing, roll, and flat out get wet!
First stop was-- Powder Keg-- as on our thrill ride days we always want to check this one first to see if there's any effort at all being put forth into opening this ride anytime soon...it was the absolute Powerless Keg early on. No test shots being fired at all during park opening. So on to the Wilson Farms area.
Outlaw Run just opened at 9:45 and was running patrons with two trains. The park personnel failed to chain the ride waiting area properly and many folks are stuck waiting outside the covered area of the line and are standing directly in the baking sun on the concrete. The covered waiting area isn't being utilized at all and many people are baking on the outside concrete. After 30 minutes or so...and when we are in the loading area... a ride attendant actually working the loading area of the ride leaves the loading area to properly chain the waiting aisles for the crowd, causing a lengthy disruption/pause of the loading of trains.
However! There are now two stands of newly constructed "cubby holes" being used on the off-loading side of Outlaw Run! Yes! The PTB have finally succumbed to the pressure. Score one for the people. Outlaw Run is an amazing ride...rode twice...awesome, just awesome. Once again, HUGE thumbs up to SDC for providing such a thrilling coaster experience.
After the Run we traveled from one ride to the next, riding everything in the park with short to intermediate waits. There was a good crowd in the city today, and with the fact that every ride was operating on multiple trains/swings, and with most of the ride attendants really being efficient (except for the slow, lazy guy named Jeremy on the Swing) SDC was operating at near optimal thrill ride pleasure on this Sunday in July.
The atmosphere in the park today was very, very positive with a feeling of fun all around (although some of the ride attendants looked understandably tired). Lots of smiles, laughter, and good times from the visitors and even the park employees.
As my wife predicted, the Powerless Keg suddenly became the Powder Keg just after noon-to-1pm lunch rush was completed in the park. Not a coincidence when you have witnessed this common occurrence a half-dozen times or so. Must be a labor/cost decision on weekdays and Sundays, or so we speculate. Anyhow, through previous experience, we made the point of checking in on PK after 1pmish. We calmly waited on a bench nearby for SDC to suddenly open the Keg at that strangely magical afternoon hour. Got two rides in before word spread like "Wildfire" through the park that PK was running. Front seat ride even. Sometimes it pays to be a veteran in the City.
Left the gates just before 3pm. I have to give the City a very solid B+ today for our experience with our "Thrill Ride Day". Fine job everyone at SDC! We splashed (got absolutely drenched), swung, twirled, shot targets, sped through tunnels, went upside down, barrel-rolled, sang along, rocked the boat, screamed "Fire in the Hole!, and eventually launched from 0-to-60 in less than three seconds...all in a matter of 5 hours.
There were two pleased and smiling faces driving home via Hwy.160 to Nixa,MO this afternoon.
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hiker, congrats sounds like a great day, and with only about 8,000 people there today, lines should not have been a problem!!!! ;)
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Great review HikerDan, glad ya had fun! Just reading it got me all excited for July 22nd. ;D
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It was a gorgeous day in the city. It wasn't very crowded, but still had to park in the very back at stop 3 about 2:30pm. This trip was my "fun" for the long holiday weekend, as I had to work the entire remainder of it. Took advantage of some of the coupons I got in the mail a couple weeks ago. I used the $1 off tater-twister, the apple turnover for $2.99, the 30% off peanut brittle, and the $2 off take-home cinnamon rolls. Also had the pulled pork and beans at the rib house. I guess all I did this trip was eat, lol.
No lines at Outlaw Run by 5PM. Just step right on, plus two trains were running......partially empty ! Enjoyed a Frisco train ride before leaving. There was a different actor playing the part of "Ralphie". I'd never seen him before. "MA" claimed the boys as being hers on this run. The city was clean and looked great.
It'll probably be a few weeks before I can make it back. Keep up the good work SDC.
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Better late than never, right? Here is our Kidsfest PTR
http://midwestinfoguide.com/migcrew/2013/SDCkidsfest/
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Thanks, Swoosh! :)
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Thanks for the trip review warp9p65! It sounds like you had some incredible deals, and hardly any long lines to boot! :)
Those were some awesome pictures Swoosh! I see there were plenty of smiles to go around. For whatever reason, the decorations in the Town Square is giving me a beach vibe. 8)
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warp9, sounds like a positive trip!!!
swoosh great pics as always.
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Great pics swoosh...the front of the outlaw is the best...really enjoyed the science show on our visit...thanks for the updates everybody
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Like the pictures Swoosh. Keep up the good work
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As usual, the pics are great Swoosh. Thank You for the constant updates.
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Well, we're home.. The wife couldnt sleep last night, so we left about 4am this morning. Anyways.. We are very tired so we will let the video do the talking. My brother just got married the day before we went. Please excuse our sillyness & over excitement in the video. My brother just gets us alil' out of hand sometimes. Plus, i am not used to narrating a video like this. I wish there was more excitement, but when ya cant take cameras on the rides, whats the point? Kinda ruins the moment. I may have to make a second video because my wifes YouTube channel only allows her 10 minutes because she does not have enough videos published yet. This first video is the the first part of the day.
Like i said, PLEASE excuse all the mess ups on this video.... Enjoy!! :D
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-2Wh_3CvEk
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One of my daughters and her husband went with a church group last Saturday for a SDC visit. It was her first time, and she loved it. There was rain in the area and so about 3pm the big rides closed due to lightning in the area, so they did not get to do Powderkeg, Outlaw Run, or the Barn Swing. They ran from ride to ride, ate at the Springhouse and enjoyed it, but did not see any shows. They managed to miss an entire area of the park, though, The Grand Exposition area. They had two handicapped people with them and got the special passes for them, so wait time in lines was short. She said the park was great, and there were no negative encounters with citizens or guests. My son in law also said as the rain broke, an employee was encouraging folks to stay on park as the rides were opening back up. However, they had gotten to the park before or right at rope drop, and by three they were ready to head home. I asked how the crowds were, and she said it was a very busy day on park.
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Like i said, PLEASE excuse all the mess ups on this video.... Enjoy!! :D
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-2Wh_3CvEk
Hey, that's a fine video!
Are you twins? You sure look alike!
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Thanks KBCraig. I did my best for ya all on the video, thought about SDCFans Forum the whole time.:D No, we are not twins, we are 2 years apart, he is older than i.
Second 1/2 of the day is uploading on YouTube as we speak.. It was fairly busy for a Monday, but i forgot to ask what the attendance number was.
Here is the other half of our day. Enjoy!! :D
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xsMdN5PB5U
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Well? who was there today 7-27-13? Who were the lucky ones to be present on a record breaking day> (or almost anyway).... .... Tell us, just how crowded was it? and how far away did you have to park?
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I was there Saturday. It was crazy. I parked in preferred parking. Lines were crazy and the line far OR was out the front door with crazy long delays to send out the trains. The wait advertised on the apple app for outlaw run was 75 min. The sign out front said 62 min. It took 90 min to get on the train. Not sure what was going on. It seemed as if they were allowing a full " circuits " time between dispatching trains. The trains would load up and then they would let the folks sit there ( with a full train behind them waiting to unload) for a full minute if not more, then dispatch. This was not once but every time. They also had the rides attraction manager there at the ride all day. Not sure if this was because of the TX indecent or in they were rebooting the computer between each train but it was really not a good day to be taking this kind of time between rides. Basically is was the same as having 1 train running and waiting a minute for some unknown reason before you dispatched each time.
I paid full for 3 guests to get in only to be able to ride 3 rides the entire day. While waiting for an hour and a half for OR I had several people cut in front of us, let me repeat several. I am sorry if this is an unpopular opinion but " my Mom is saving my spot" holds no water with me when I have already invested an hour and 20 min with restless kids waiting for a ride. I finally had a grown man come up behind me on the ramp with 3 kids in tow and say " excuse me". This was a well dressed man in his 50's that I decided knew what he was doing. I turned sideways when he said this to me facing him and held up my arms to block the way and said " what do you think you are doing?, he replied he was meeting his wife. I looked him in the eye and said " I and all the people around me have invested an hour and a half in the line and you think your time is more important than ours?, no sir" The man then made a call on his cell phone from where he stood and dissapered back into the crowd. ( I was really upset that all these folks were not obeying the rules and by the time you get near an employee they are lost in the crowd, you cant turn them in.) The other guests in the station started to approach me shortly following this to thank me for what I had done. I actually had grown men 2 times my size walking up to me after the ride and asked me what the mans excuse was and thanking me for standing up for what was right. I didnt do this to be cool but I was really pissed that this was going on and I was going to face it head on and deal with it. I will say that the kids with me learned a very important lesson, you don't cut in line and you stand up for what is right. Others will back you most of the time. So after my " confrontation" we made our way down to WF, truly a people eater and were able to ride after 30 min. 3 rides in 7 hours and no shows, shopping to speak of or eating. I stay away from Midnight Madness days for this very reason, it isnt fun to stand in line. There is a reason they are giving out $20-30 tickets for this event.
I did note while walking through the city I often cut across mid town to avoid having to climb hill street. The area around Jacks and the tree house candle shop is a ghost town. I dont want to see the charm of SDC lost but they need to do something in this area to revive it. The line for AP was out of the Q and all the way back across the bridge and into the splash down area when I walked off WF but this area midtown was just vacant, crickets chirping vacant. Time to do something PTB. The kidsfest stuff was still all over the square.
Taffy shop was making taffy and they had a line longer than I had seem in very long time to buy. I stood close and listened to the amounts people were spending. $95 on taffy! $23 on taffy!. They were raking it in and some were specifically asking for the taffy the machine was spitting out. My adult companions and I agreed that just running that machine made the sales double. The minute you walked into the shop they were yelling the flavor they were making and tossing you a piece to try. Very smart move and they were reaping the profits because of it.
We made our way out of the park and jumped in the car, I didnt note where they were parking people but all the lots were full including the sliver of the lot in the middle of the " loop" I hardly ever see anyone parked there.
I always enjoy my day at SDC, even when confronting cutters at OR but this Midnight Madness needs to be revamped. I think they need to come up with some stuff that eats up people besides the rides. It could be a special guest concert on weekends in Echo Hollow or some other special event that would eat up the crowds while making them feel they got there moneys worth. It now feels like they are maximizing the park to the point of not being able to provide the entertainment you paid for.
I think its the difference between having repeat customers and having guests leave feeling disappointed. I am concerned with the current state of Midnight Madness affairs.
1. Fix the rides or show up early so they open on time.
2 Run all the trains you have to maximize the throughput of the rides.
3 Train the employees to understand that they must QUICKLY and safely load and unload the rides to maximize hourly
capacity.
4 Come up with some form of entertainment that will relieve the rides of some of the congestion.
5 With the numbers of people in the park the shops should remain open. The admittance certainly justifies the labor cost.
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good review mhguy77, too bad ya had to confront somenone like that, that is never fun or easy to do. we had 2 ladies do that to us on Powderkeg, at night, when we was there. AFTER we heard their friends tell them on the cellphone that they was almost to the front. & the line wasn't even that long!
it is great to see the park so busy this year tho', last Mon. was even busy.
so, how was our videos, folks? was we stupid, different, or what? make me laugh, we KNOW we'r dingbats! :D
c'mon people, ya all aint that mean!! ??? remember, we go just to ride stuff.
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Just watched your videos How-Do. Those were hilarious! Sorry it rained on you but sometimes that's better than 100 degree heat. I loved the still pictures of the animals, especially the squirrel. we have "beggar squirrels" get right in our face when we eat at the back of the lumbercamp near the waterfall. I wonder how many of them have high chloresterol from eating too many fries :D Congratualtions to the newlyweds and thanks again for posting those! Also thanks for obeying the rules and not using the video camera on the thrill rides- you're a true SDC Fan!!
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Mh- what a day!? looks like it was a full one, I hope your company will come back some time when it aint so busy..
as far as midnite madness goes, according to "rumor" (or is it fact), they are going to have extended hours during the whole "new" festival next year.. so there will be 2 months or more of late hours, that will take some of the pressure off.
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I always avoid parks (any of them) from Mid-July through Mid-August, and especially on the weekends. This is the period of time that my group of friends has labeled as season of "guilt trips" -- what is a "guilt trip" you ask? This is when the lazy parents finally realize that the summer is quickly coming to the close and they have done jack squat with their kids all summer. So, because they feel GUILTY, they take a TRIP to the local amusement park, along with the other families filled with parents that are doing the same thing.
While at the park, which is a lot busier than normal thanks to all of the "guilt trippers" -- they complain about the long lines, high prices, warm temperatures, and other things that you really cannot control all the while making lives miserable for anyone, and everyone, around them. They (guilt trippers) feel that they are above park rules, cut in line and are just plain out obnoxious - BUT, because this IS their ONLY trip this summer, they are ENTITLED to this preferential treatment.
We'll (my group) be visiting SDC again once we get to Fall Festival and the park is back to normal. I love that time, because the AP holders come back out of the woodwork and actually KNOW and APPRECIATE the park and see it other than a "last minute trip" like a lot of the General Public.
Also -- like it has been said on here numerous times. Avoid Moonlight Madness like the plague. There is a reason it is call "Madness"
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thanks alot Duelist! next time i go i will have better ideas for the video. i atleast need to show some action!!
never thought of it that way, Swoosh. good post!
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I've only been to Moonlight Madness once. The only thing I really remember a out it is the street dance. THAT WAS FUN! Several employees were on hand to dance. I remember Thriller, the electric slide, maybe polka, current music...something for everyone. Lots of people enjoying themselves.
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Good post MHGuy. I agree with all your points. But like Sanddune said, it should be better next summer when they spread the Madness out over a longer time frame. I know I'll catch heat for saying this but...one of the things (and there aren't that many) that frustrates me about SDC is the fact they do not handle large crowds well...they just can't seem to keep the lines moving (with the exception of a couple of rides). Unfortunately, with my work schedule, sometimes I have to visit during busy times and it frustrates me to see rides not ready to open on time, only running one train on a coaster, shops and restaurants closed, workers taking forever to load a ride, etc. But it seems they are going to take MM more seriously next summer (now if we could just get them to take spring break more seriously) and offer a better effort. From what I have hear the "Great American Summer" has worked pretty well for Dollywood.
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I dunno, man. This past Wednesday was a really nice day for Moonlight Madness. We didn't get into the park until 6:30pm-ish, and we still managed: two rides on Outlaw Run; Wildfire; FITH; American Plunge; Lost River; and I think the other people in my group rode Thunderation a few times while I was in line for my second OR ride. It was the best time I've ever had during MM (except that Thunderation's crew decided to be playing non-country modern music).
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We were there two days (all day) during Moonlight Madness and had a great time!!!!!! Lines weren't that bad last week Sunday and Tuesday.
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I always avoid parks (any of them) from Mid-July through Mid-August, and especially on the weekends. This is the period of time that my group of friends has labeled as season of "guilt trips" -- what is a "guilt trip" you ask? This is when the lazy parents finally realize that the summer is quickly coming to the close and they have done jack squat with their kids all summer.
I don't know about guilty parents. Most families don't have the flexibility to just pick up and go whenever they want or the kids are bored -- not everyone is a teacher with summers off, yanno. ;)
Also, summer vacation varies a lot regionally. In the South, schools let out early to mid May, and start back in the middle of August. In the Northeast, school runs until almost the end of June, and doesn't start back until after Labor Day. In northern New England, family vacations are just getting started in the middle of July.
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Eh. We go towards the end of July not out of guilt but because we like to take a trip to end summer and sort of celebrate it. However, this was our first trip during Moonlight Madness. We went Saturday July 20, the first day and found that by noon it was too crowded for our enjoyment. We waited 20 minutes to get on The Flooded Mine after lunch and that was enough to have me ready to leave the park. We went back on Wednesday of that week and the crowds were very low and my family seemed to either walk right onto everything or they waited through only one cycle of the ride. Unfortunately, we had a group of 10 which is never the best situation for park touring because you've always got someone who wants to do the opposite of everyone else, someone who needs to use the restroom, someone who won't eat at a certain restaurant... We ended up leaving in stages that day and I was among the first to leave. Just not enough shows going during Moonlight Madness for me.
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I don't know about guilty parents. Most families don't have the flexibility to just pick up and go whenever they want or the kids are bored -- not everyone is a teacher with summers off, yanno. ;)
Yes, because most people don't work just 5 days a week either... oh wait.
The fact of the matter is most wait until the last minute to go on a trip and then wonder why everything is so busy -- well because everyone else did the exact same thing
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Got to the park at about 2:30 yesterday. We took the kids to GE to knock out those rides while waiting for the last dog trick show of the day. The line at the kiddie coaster may have been the longest wait in the park so my coaster shy Son finally decided it was time for Thunderation which was walk on. Well, now he's coaster boy. Finally over his fear of lift hills he was ready for the others and then the rain started. Got toOutlaw Run just in time to watch it close. Seems restraint issues were going on as in not releasing at the end of the ride. It hadn't reopened as of 8pm. (Read on Screamscape they were rejecting lots of riders on Sat with suits watching, may have been the size of the crowd there but its speculated they adjusted the restrains tighter which seems to fit with the issues they had on Sun). So kids hit Lost River several times, there was no wait. I've now been to the city 5 times this year Outlaw Run was open twice and PK once. The rain stopped it yesterday whichwe all know about its issues there. It was a great visit due to the fact my Son is ready for the big boy coasters after not having any fear of a water slide of any size for two years.
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Swoosh- Im having a bad day, so guess what?
Not everybody gets paid to go places and try different parks on their family vacation either. Some people cant always plan their trip weeks (or months) in advance either. Sometimes things happen in daily life that takes money that would normally be spent on vacations also.
What Im trying to say is, most people over the age of about 18 realize that "people have zero control over anything" even though everyone wants to think they can control everything. We didnt even get to pick what we would be on earth (meaning person or animal, male or female, ETC) We dont control weather, nor do we control unforseen circumstances.
Oh yeah one piece of advice NEVER say NEVER!!!! You just might find yourself on a family vacation during (your admitted) taboo time.
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Yes, because most people don't work just 5 days a week either... oh wait.
I didn't know we limited park attendance to people living within 150 miles. That's pretty much the limit (and pushing it) for people to make a weekend trip.
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I always thought June through August was the traditional time people took summer vacations. Maybe I'm showing my age. ;)
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A lot of people where I live don't go on vacation until late July/early August because our school has two weeks where sports are not allowed to have summer practices. So most of those families wait until that time to vacationso their kids don't miss practice.
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;D
Swoosh- Im having a bad day, so guess what?
Not everybody gets paid to go places and try different parks on their family vacation either. Some people cant always plan their trip weeks (or months) in advance either. Sometimes things happen in daily life that takes money that would normally be spent on vacations also.
What Im trying to say is, most people over the age of about 18 realize that "people have zero control over anything" even though everyone wants to think they can control everything. We didnt even get to pick what we would be on earth (meaning person or animal, male or female, ETC) We dont control weather, nor do we control unforseen circumstances.
Oh yeah one piece of advice NEVER say NEVER!!!! You just might find yourself on a family vacation during (your admitted) taboo time.
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I was at the park on Sunday and saw Peter Herschend walking around by himself. That was pretty neat to see.
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A lot of people where I live don't go on vacation until late July/early August because our school has two weeks where sports are not allowed to have summer practices. So most of those families wait until that time to vacationso their kids don't miss practice.
Further, all the school systems hereabouts hold summer school in June. My son took Driver Ed this year, which limited our June flexibility.
No guilt here: we do things with our kids year-round--about the only month we don't have a reenactment activity is January, and we go to the City starting in march or April and end up at OTC. It's nice to take them to the City in July so that we can do water rides.
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Pudgy, next time you see Jack or Pete walking the streets, go up and introduce yourself. They will be glad to speak with you. Do it the next time you see them, they are at retirement age now, and may not be with us many more years. I had the chance on opening day, 2011, to approach Jack and tell him how much it meant to me to work at SDC and how I have carried things learned on the job at SDC with me through my life, and he really seemed to appreciate it. Later that same day I saw him again in the Hospitality House, and asked if I could have a photo with him, and he said yes. Brad Thomas was with him, and Brad took the photo I have posted on my Flickr site. Jack told me that he discussed our first visit with other SDC executives while they were at lunch that day. It will be a memory of the park that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
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I did speak with him. He was very gracious and seemed genuinely glad that I stopped him. He was "incognito" and looked like any other tourist. He was even carrying a bag of kettle corn! I think he was surprised that I recognized him. In fact, he asked me how I knew who he was. I told him that my family has been coming to SDC for four generations now, and that we consider it the happiest place on Earth even though another place makes the claim! It was truly an honor for me to get to shake his hand and personally thank him for creating the place that has meant so much to my family and me.
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Anyone planning to be at the park till midnight on Saturday?
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Pudgy: Good for you! Hope you enjoyed the encounter. The Herschend family, though wealthy and with much power, were all brought up in Branson and went to public schools. I went to high school with Bruce H. I feel that is why they are all well grounded folk. Jack's son Ron was my supervisor for a couple of years, and he was a decent guy, although at the time as a spirited teen I did not always treat him as well as I should have. As an adult, I have regretted my immature behavior at the time. Bruce H runs Talking Rocks and his wife and he have the Butterfly Palace. Chris H. operates Ride the Ducks. Some family members work on the parks or in the offices, some work in other fields not related to the family business. All have turned out well, to the best of my knowledge. Not a bad one in the bunch as far as I know. Again, I hope if someone at SDCFans.com sees Jack or Pete on the streets of SDC they will approach and engage in a short conversation. They will appreciate it, and it will keep them connected to how patrons feel about things.
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The only complaint I would have about my visit on Friday, other than being kickedoff OR, was the guy at the guard shack telling us there was no handicap parking at the front gate and putting us in lot A and then after walking up there finding several spaces open.
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Olds, here is a trick for you... When I have my monster in law with me, If they tell me the lot is full.. I ask thme if I can drive up and let everybody out up by the trams... ( you all know the spot). that way I can verify for myself lot is full.. if it is, I kick them out and go park the car.. If I see a spot, I snag it.. About 80% of the time there is a spot open.. Just an idea for you........
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My wife says I should do the same thing.
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Olds, here is a trick for you... When I have my monster in law with me, If they tell me the lot is full.. I ask thme if I can drive up and let everybody out up by the trams... ( you all know the spot). that way I can verify for myself lot is full.. if it is, I kick them out and go park the car.. If I see a spot, I snag it.. About 80% of the time there is a spot open.. Just an idea for you........
Yes I do the same thing. Especially since my wife gets car sick real bad if she aint driving. She can not ride in anything enclosed at all. She can ride the open trams a short distance. If we get to park in preffered, she can ride the open tram. Otherwise, I drop her off/pick her up at the gate area, then she takes over.
Yes it is sometimes a challenge dealing with her constant motion sickness. No! Motion sickness meds do not help her one little bit. I think she had a very bad ear surgery when she was young, and it messes with her balance now. Another surgery might help, but it might be even worse.
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Well the Aug 10 weekend trip to Branson/SDC was great.
1-first stay with Paige (Homestay). Friends she is awesome and her place rocks.
2-met Duelist (and his family) in the city Saturday, we all rode the train, had a blast Wonderful family-we must meet up again
3-met Sanddunerider (and his family) Saturday nite at Homestay. Great bunch of people. next time we must do a little more together. Had a good time with them.
4-finally got to see "Mean Murphy" at the saloon show. He is also the emcee at Echo Hollow Show. Enjoyed both shows.
5-finally got to ride OR YIPEEEEEEE !!!!
6-The Car Cruise----What can I say? "Hey Man-Rev It Up" (Sanddune will know what that means). Great times
Had a wonderful time 8-10-13 Cant wait till next time.
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I finally go tot meet duelist and his posse.. nice bunch of people, we rode the train with them early, but apparently "ma" missed the train because there was no mention of her..
since this was a "no festival" weekend there were very few shows/entertainment options...
We headed down to see the saloon show since we had not seen it for a couple of months... NOPE 10:30 was cancelled, no reason just cancelled.... WELL FINE! we hit FITH which actually had a lline, and then we started shopping/looking arounds and head for train..
rode the train, 1st round, done just in time to catch 11:30 salon show, so we hustled over there..........AND.......................wait for it.......................... YEP CANCELLED!!, this time we were told there was a "humidity" problem and the floor needed worked on...?? really.// I am guessing that when it rained ealier in the day water got on floor and they were trying to dry it out..?? maybe?/ maybe not?/
anyway more looking, checked out shops, jacks sandwhich appears to be deserted completely and not being used for anything..
not much else to say, nice day with about 10,000 in attendance..
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I finally go tot meet duelist and his posse.. nice bunch of people, we rode the train with them early, but apparently "ma" missed the train because there was no mention of her..
since this was a "no festival" weekend there were very few shows/entertainment options...
We headed down to see the saloon show since we had not seen it for a couple of months... NOPE 10:30 was cancelled, no reason just cancelled.... WELL FINE! we hit FITH which actually had a lline, and then we started shopping/looking arounds and head for train..
rode the train, 1st round, done just in time to catch 11:30 salon show, so we hustled over there..........AND.......................wait for it.......................... YEP CANCELLED!!, this time we were told there was a "humidity" problem and the floor needed worked on...?? really.// I am guessing that when it rained ealier in the day water got on floor and they were trying to dry it out..?? maybe?/ maybe not?/
Humidity problem sounds awfully like a leaky roof and wood stage buckled type situation. There's been persistant rain for several weeks now.
Good thing our family farm land is high land over in the delta. Our irrigation has been nill this year. That sure helps diesel costs. ;D Just north of our hunting land, 14 inches in the last week. As it stands, we don't know when we'll get to brush up the blinds, The L'anguille rises fast and drains slooooooooooooow. And........ hoping like hades that our beans don't get fungus or rust. Bad news.
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My wife and I usually avoid visits to the city on Saturdays during the summer but I was looking at the entertainment schedule on the SDC website last week and saw that the Horse Creek band would be playing at the Gazebo on Saturday, not Sunday (our usual day to visit), and with the Pickers also playing on Saturday, not Sunday, we decided to make a quick trip to the city just to see a few sets from those two groups.
Got to the park early enough to see the Pickers from 9:30 to 10:00, and wow talk about convenience, Horse Creek began playing right at 10:00 over at the Gazebo. We've always enjoyed listening to Butch and Larry over the years and personally wish SDC would put those guys on the stage more.
Well it was a Saturday in August, so we didn't have any grand plans on riding any rides, but we did have an hour to kill before the Pickers at 11:30 and Horse Creek at noon. I wanted to merely take a peek at the Wilson Farm area of the park to witness the madness and sure enough it was swarming with kiddos back there. Hopefully all those younguns got to ride OR and the swing a few times as the lines were heavy early on.
I was also curious if PK was up and running on time on a Saturday, and upon arrival was actually a bit surprised that the chain was open and people were walking in for rides. The ride must have just opened within minutes of our arrival as the waiting line was just at the stairway over the track. Alright!, lucky timing by us, we haven't gotten to ride PK much in the last few visits. We took the little extra time to get a ride in the front car, since we knew it would be our only ride of the day; love the PK up front.
A little complaint here: An old-timer fella, whom I don't think I've ever seen before, was operating the ride and on the mic for us folks in line and boarding the trains. He was more interested in trying to entertain all us folks around the boarding area than efficiently operating the ride. Every fourth train or so he would ask the whole group if anyone there had a birthday today, and agonizingly a few did raise their hands while we were waiting, and when the birthday people were on the train, our emcee there would lead the entire congregation in singing happy birthday to them while holding up the train for the serenade to finish. He was horribly inefficient with the opening and closing of the gates to board the ride, and the second train was usually waiting on the boarding train to be released before it could enter the station. If SDC feels it's OK for its ride operators to jack around that much then they should just go ahead and run a third train on PK to keep 'em busy. After we finally took our one ride, the line of folks waiting was completely out of the main entrance to the ride and stretching down the asphalt hill. Best of luck riding that one folks!...and please don't raise your hand if it's your birthday.
The crowds were obviously getting fairly heavy through most areas of the park now, so we took the quiet route through the center of the city up the spiral, flowered walkway and past Grandfathers Mansion. A young girl exited the mansion just as we were walking past and shouted, 'That place was weird!'
We crossed the swinging bridge, and were the only ones on it, so I had to jump around on it and cause my wife to bounce her way off of the bridge.
I thought maybe we could catch a quick float through the Mine just before going to see the Pickers, but saw there was no chance of that happening as the train station was BUSY, and when the train is swamped the Mine is flooded with post-train riders.
Now across the horse bridge and to the Candy Factory for some samples of brittle and our occasional bag of some variety of fudge or whatever strikes our fancy. The air conditioning and smell of chocolate always seems so refreshing in the factory during the summer, and sometimes I'll linger a bit looking around.
Off to the Homestead for the next show...and the Pickers were their usual entertaining selves. Danny tried to get a young boy from Illinois to join them and play the rooster for 'Ghost Chickens in the Sky' but the lad was too shy, so the boy's father donned the rooster cap instead and did a laugh-out-loud job of roostering along with the Pickers. Danny gave the much deserving Illinois man a free CD from the band with that particular recording on the CD. And holy cow!, wouldn't ya know it, the Horse Creek band is ready to play again at the Gazebo just as the Pickers finished up at noon.
Butch and the guys had a blonde woman playing the fiddle with the band on Saturday. She played and sang some very good Bluegrass songs with the group and meshed very well with Larry on the mandolin. Very entertaining...thanks SDC! for bringing them together on that day. Butch does a great job as emcee for the group and really informs his audience of whats going on around the park and also informs on the festivals which will soon be happening in the city.
Well things were really getting hectic in all areas of the park, and I had a lawn to mow, a backyard beer to drink, and some burgers to grill, so we were off to the exit gates and the crowded parking lots a few hundred yards away.
It was a short but GREAT morning at the city!
We noticed today, Tuesday, that the Pickers will be playing all day on Sunday the 17th, probably because the park is closed mid-week, so we agreed to visit again on that day and hopefully get to ride some coasters as well. Would like to catch the saloon show once more as well, as we've only seen Mean Murphy a single time this year.
See ya'll on Sunday!
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We also saw the young lady play with Horsecreek when we were there in May. She's supposed to play with them all the time now, at least Steve ( the bass player) told us. We like the Pickers too, always bring them WI. cheese. Bailey has a standing order for extra cheese to take home.
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Great review HikerDan!
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nice review hikerdan, sounds like most of our trips... jump in see some shows, couple fo rides or so, and out before the crowd gets too bad. also why we don't go on sat..
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Great review! Glad you had a good time :)
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Hello, newbie here. I actually joined last year some time, but I never seem to get around to writing post trips. The family and I go to SDC several times a year -- we just love the place.
Friday, August 9th:
We left Tulsa around noon and arrived at SDC around 3:30. We were concerned about some flooding on the way up, but we checked MODOT and everything was good -- and it was! So, we made pretty good time.
When we pulled into the parking lot, we noticed it did not seem that busy for a Friday, so we were excited. Since we have the season parking pass, we parked in the preferred parking area (in one of the close spots) and started our 5 minute walk to the entrance.
We brought some friends along with us (they were new to the city), so once we exchanged their vouchers for tickets, we entered the park. Our first stop was at Eva & Delilah's... we just like to stroll through there and smell the cinnamon rolls. We didn't buy anything since it was so late in the day, but again, we just like to look and smell everything. I think I put on 5 lbs just walking in that place!
We then stopped by the cave and of course, they said it was flooded and only offering half-tours. We FULLY expected this to happen. We were really hoping the cave would dry out by our last day (Monday), but alas, mother nature had other plans.
Once in the park, we hit Thunderation a few times -- walked on every time. We then took the kiddos back to the Grand Exposition where they rode "Dumbo", the frogs, tea cups, etc. We stayed until about 5:45 before heading off to check-in at our hotel/condo located down Indian Point Rd.
Once checked in at the hotel/condo, we went into Branson and ate at one of our favorite places -- Pizza World. On the way, we noticed chairs out along Shepard of the Hills. We asked our waitress and she said "Oh, that's because of the Cruise.." She went on to explain how 20,000 people descended on Branson to view the old cars and partake in a parade. We had no idea. We knew it was going to be a busy weekend.
Saturday, August 10th:
We know better, we stayed away. We spent the time on Saturday taking the kiddos to the Butterfly Palace, then to Branson Landing and the Downtown area. Was it ever busy! Our waitress was right. Not to mention that on our way, 76 was backed up for over 1.5 miles. Looks like everyone was headed to SDC. We heard someone later in the day say that SDC was expecting 24,000. We have no idea if that actually happened. But from the looks of the traffic, it is very possible.
We ate dinner at Joes Crabshack -- just because my dad wanted to eat there. We have one in Tulsa, so we would have preferred something else, but he's in his 70's and cranky. Sometimes you just have to suck it up and appease the parents.
After dinner, we walked around Branson Landing a little more then headed off to Ripley's -- battling traffic all of the way. Then it was back to the hotel/condo where daddy had a beer and watched some NFL preseason football.
Sunday, August 11th:
We arrived at the park at 8:40 and again, exchanged our friend's vouchers for tickets. We were pleasantly surprised to find the gates open already so we went in to the park and immediately to E&D where we ate Kalackis, cinnamon rolls, and turnovers. Needless to say, everyone was happy.
Once we stopped by the cave (again to find it flooded), we went to "main square" where we took in the Pledge of Allegiance and flag ceremony. We then decided to check what time the train was going to run. At first it said "10:30", then was moved to "10:45", then to "11:00." We decided we had time so we took a few trips on the flooded mine (just stayed on for two more rides). Everyone loves that ride because of its simplicity and the fact that the animatronics are really cool to look at. The last two times, I just sat and watched everything. It never ceases to amaze me, as much as I have been on that ride, I always find something new -- some detail -- that I have never seen before.
We then took the kiddos over to Half Dollar Holler where they had fun on the carousel. The net/bounce area was closed. I suspect because it was wet from the previous night's rain. We then jumped on the first train and took the kiddos for their "required" train ride.
After the train, we made a stop by the Christmas shop and bought some ornaments, a cross, and a few other items. Our 2 y/o is definitely a liability in that store. She HAS to touch everything.
After that, we went over and road the Lost River of the Ozarks two times, took the kiddos over to Geyser Gulch where they had a great time in the "ball room". I must admit, dad finds it fun to shoot those air cannons too! After that, we went back over to the hamburger and hot dog places outside of LRotO and grabbed a burger and a couple of hot dogs. Wife and I had the Super Nachos -- they are big. Neither of us could finish them.
The kiddos then went over to the Grand Exposition where they rode the roller coaster, butterflies, tea cups, "Dumbo", and swings. Dad and mom like to go there too because while we do like the big rides, some of those are fun for us!
We left the park around 4:00. We finished our night with some swimming at at the hotel/condo and dinner at Outback Steak and Oyster.
To sum up the day, the park was "busy", but really not bad. It was sort of odd because while there were a lot of people in the park, the ride waits really weren't too bad.
Monday, August 12th:
After checking out of our hotel/condo @ 8:30, we went over to the park. And again, after exchanging our vouchers, we went to E&D's for breakfast. Again, we had the assorted items: turnovers, kolackis, ham and cheese rolls, chocolate covered cinnamon rolls, etc. We just love eating there.
As usual, we checked the cave and still flooded -- we knew it would be since it rained every day were there there, at least some point in the day.
After the flag ceremony, we went to Fire in the Hole. My daughter's friend that came along with us found it quite scary and huddled with her grandmother afterwards. My daughter and I went on it another time -- we noticed that there was a LOT of water. People were walking out soaked -- as did I. I never really had that before. I asked one of the guys running the ride and he said "We can turn the water on or off. Today we have it on." Not really sure what that meant, maybe someone can explain that. Sure they've always had water, but the amount was surprising.
After FitH, we headed over to the American Plunge. Kids loved it, and of course, we bought a photo. We purchased it on the USB drive, so while it costs a little more now, it saves about $8 for every subsequent photo. I don't honestly know if it was a good deal or not considering we don't buy the photos too often, but it is nice to know what it will be greatly discounted in the future should we decide.
After American Plunge, we went and did some more shopping. We stopped into Hillcreek Pottery. We like the place. Some of the stuff is quite expensive, but really nice. After that, we headed to the kiddo area (Grand Expo). While waiting in line for the frogs, a strong wind came through, temperatures dropped about 10 degrees, the clouds darkened and thunder started rumbling. I checked my phone and found it was about to POUR, so we picked up the kiddos and tried to find a place that we could take cover. The rain/deluge started about 5 minutes later, around 11:00 or so. We were lucky and were able to huddle under the awning of Heritage Hall. Once the rain stopped, we decided to call it a day and head back to Tulsa as the radar showed more rain coming within the hour or so.
On the way out, we stopped by the blacksmith and Hazel's. At Hazel's, the kids got to watch them craft a pitcher. It just amazes me every time I watch them work with glass. Really cool stuff. Stopped by E&D on the way out. Unfortunately, they didn't have any chocolate chip cookies for some reason (it was around noon!), so the kiddos settled for the white chocolate/macadamia nut ones.
And of course, the final stop was the Ozark Marketplace where I picked up some Hot Dill pickles, and the kiddos and wife picked up a couple of shirts.
All in all, a really good trip. Our friends had a really good time. As usual, it was not long enough. It was a little busier than we expected on Monday, but still not bad. We were at Disneyland earlier this year, and I must say, while you can't compare the two parks because they are so different, our level of excitement and the memories we have with SDC are actually higher/better. ...
We will be back in the fall and around Christmas -- our favorite time. In our third trip this year, we still have yet to try the new pizza place, and a coke float. We have those slated for Fall and/or Christmas.
Maybe next time we are there, we will meet up with some of you.
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After the flag ceremony, we went to Fire in the Hole. My daughter's friend that came along with us found it quite scary and huddled with her grandmother afterwards. My daughter and I went on it another time -- we noticed that there was a LOT of water. People were walking out soaked -- as did I. I never really had that before. I asked one of the guys running the ride and he said "We can turn the water on or off. Today we have it on." Not really sure what that meant, maybe someone can explain that. Sure they've always had water, but the amount was surprising.
Thanks for the Trip Review, enjoyed reading your post.
When we rode FITH in July, we noticed the LARGE amount of water too, I can't ever remember a time that we walked out so soaked. I think maybe its the amount of water that they can control. There is always water, its part of the breaking system for the ride (correct me if I'm wrong).
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wow!! sounds like a good weekend..
there were a few of us there this weekend also.. next time you go , check in on the "meet up" thread.. we love to meet new members...
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Good review Hiker Dan. I too got very frustrated with the PK operator who kept wanting to sing Happy Birthday every third or fourth train. Unload, load and move the train out is what I say. Keep the line moving!
Also enjoyed your review Doug from Tulsa. Sounds like you had a good time despite the rain.
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The happy birthday thing is great...but please limit that line activity to once an hour or so.
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Now THATS a review DougFromTulsa!! ;D
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They could just as easy do the b-day thing while they are loading the cars, couldn't they?
OR would that be too much "multi-tasking"???? LOL.
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I think the ride op wanted everyone's undivided attention. Thus, hold the train hostage for a bit.
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My son turned two today, so we braved SDC on a Saturday! I knew it would be busy, but it was packed! With the pleasant temps and people trying to squeeze in one more trip before school starts, it shouldn't be a surprise that the lines were longer than I have ever seen them on most rides. The line for the train was out if the station and all the way up the hill! I am relieved to find out I still got the green light for OR, however it was "temporarily closed" most of the day. PK line was out of the building and most of the way down the hill. I heard several other park guests grumbling about OR and the lines elsewhere.
Little man got a birthday ribbon. We rode the frogs and insects more times than I can count. My daughters rode the kids roller coaster, little boats, big boat, TNT twice, FITH, & big swings. We had the geese eat out of our hands at the petting zoo. We ate more frozen lemonade and root beer floats than necessary. Lunch at Crossroads Pizza was a very nice break. We had a blast shooting foam ball cannons and I even shot one of the employees who was yelling at everyone for throwing balls. We were there from 9:30 until 4 and although the kids didn't want to leave, they were all asleep not much after leaving the parking lot. Even though we didn't ride near as many rides as usual, it was another very fun-filled day with my family at SDC.
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sounds like a good day, I am surprised at the lines.... there were a little of 14,000 people there today, but with OR down, that puts the pressure on PK & WF,,,
glad all went well.. happy birthday to the little one..
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great review STEPHEN D!
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glad you had a good time Stephen. BTW -- welcome to our little club here
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Welcome Stephen! good review.
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Made a quick trip up on Friday August 23. Got to the park a little after 3 and was picked up at stop 5. We didn't ride anything or see any of the shows. Just bought a frozen lemonade and walked around the park. At 3:30 there was already a line for the 6:00 pm Echo Hollow show featuring the Booth Brothers. The picnic tables by Echo Hollow were full, too. When we walked over to Outlaw Run, one train was running and the wait time was 45 minutes. We had hoped to see the saloon show but missed the last performance at 3:30.
Unfortunately this has turned out to be a year in which we haven't been able to make full use of our season passes and have full days to spend at the park. Our July visit was about an hour long, too. Hopefully, we'll have more time to spend in September when we make our next trip.
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Biscuit-Im sorry your year at SDC has been (well lets say) not the best ever. I have only been twice this season myself. First time-late March, SNOW, basically park was closed. We stayed about 1 hour.
Second time-Mid-August, nice weather, heavy crowd, medium line for OR. Was able to see Saloon show, Cajun Connection, Echo Hollow....Rode Train, TNT, FM, and OR.
We plan a trip in Oct, Nov, and "maybe" just maybe Dec.
Sure hope your year works out good in the end.
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Biscuit, glad you made It to the city, even for just a little but, most of or visits are 4 hours or less...
Maybe you will get the chance as weather cools off..
my 2 favorite festival are coming up...!! ;D
unfortunately, so is the end of the year >:(
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8/25 - Arrived around 9:30 - Church already nearly full for 10AM service. Enjoyed the sermon. After church went to GE, cause the wife wanted to ride the swings. Had a funnel cake, and then headed to the Lost river. Rode Lost river, (10 minute wait) then headed to The Giant Swing and Outlaw Run. First time for me riding the giant swing, it was ok, but my daughter loved it. OR was down but the music started so we figured they were about to open it. So we got in line 1 car load made it through before it broke down again.... GRRR. From there we headed to River Blast. As always it was a little too wet for my tastes and almost no one was on it. After that, we headed to the train. After the train headed back to HS to change and get ready to ride on the BRanson Belle.
8/26 There at open, Tons of Vets today and the wife wanted to shop so no Opening Ceremony for me. At rope drop headed directly to TGS, and OR. No line on either. Got to ride OR with Allie (my 9 year old). She loved it. Then to Saloon Show. Doesn't start for 30 minutes. Rode FitH (which she hates, cause its in the dark) Then Powder Keg in the front car. No line at all. Went to Saloon Show, Mean Murphy show. It was a lot of fun. Then PK again this time in the back. Followed by 2 times on AP, before heading to the mine ride to finish up the day. Always sad to leave but had to get back to work today. :(
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My wife and I made a quick trip to the city on Sunday the 25th hoping to get some ride time in and catch a few of the gospel groups, as well as the pickers.
The Homestead area was VERY crowded with folks at park opening for the Pickers at 10:00. We noticed that there were very few families and youngsters around the park early on, so we decided to try out some rides, figuring them to be deserted.
We were quite surprised to see the entrance to PK open at 10:05, and it put a smile on our faces to see the ride attendants waiting on us, and a few others, to board and get the riding under way; first train of the day!
After PK twice the plan was to ride a few more rides and catch the 11:15 Three Bridges show at the Riverfront Playhouse, and also catch 12:15 Nelons show at the Opera House.
While riding PK we did notice that an empty train on OR was stopped at the top of its lift hill and didn't appear to be moving any time soon. So strike the Run off the early riding list.
After a few rides on the other various thrill attractions around the park we stopped for a couple of dollar refills in our old faded mugs and strolled our way towards the Playhouse a few minutes before 11:00. Wow!, BIG crowd was lined up for the show, and we had considerable doubts of getting seats in the Playhouse.
No big deal as we're really not gospel music people anyhow, but we like to see any kind of professional music groups which play at the city. So, it was on to plan B and the Pickers at 11:00.
Another good sized crowd was ready for the guys to play at the Homestead, but we sat on the rock rimmed landscaping off to the right of the Homestead and enjoyed 30 minutes of entertainment. Geez, it was getting very hot at now, sweating in the shade hot. It was time for a front seat ride on WF to catch some wind in our faces.
We only had to wait two trains to get on the front, most people seemed to be at the city for the gospel shows. After WF twice we set out for the Opera House area and maybe the 12:15 show; and WOW again, the waiting line was backed up to heart-attack hill. Is Rhonda Vincent in town? There was a chance we still could have gotten into the Opera House, but as I wrote before, we're just not that into the style of music to make a point of attending. The Bluegrass Fest is the one when we make sure we'll get into the shows.
We've attended the Southern Gospel Fest a few times in the past, saw several of the shows, and just don't remember the crowds being like they were on this Sunday in August, 2013. That's great for SDC, it looks like the Gospel fest is a hit this year with the folks who like to enjoy those shows. I bet we'll see this Festival return in late August for years to come.
Now I was positive, with all those people over in the Opera House from 12:15 to probably 1:00-ish, that we could easily catch the 12:30 Three Bridges show at the Playhouse. We hadn't ridden the train in awhile, so off towards the station and hopefully a train ride.
Luck would meet up with us, as the train was in the station when we arrived and we walked right onto it with seats to spare. I don't know the fellas name, but there is one particular guy that plays the role of Alfie often and he does the best job with the part. He robbed the train that day and my wife was the one which Ralph called a "blockhead" while trying to get her "gold and silver". Trains for the Outlaw Run were now running and riders were on them.
We hustled from the train station at about 12:23 heading for the Playhouse and most certainly available seating for the show. Holy mother of sellouts!, the doors are all closed to the playhouse as the place was once again full. Wowzers, the Opera House and the Riverfront Playhouse jammed full at the same time. Now that's impressive. If anyone wants to see a gospel show on opening weekend of the Southern Gospel Picnic, you need to get in line fairly early and make it a priority to catch the shows. Once again, great for SDC and this festival.
No big deal to us as we had just witnessed Outlaw Run up and running from our seats on the steam train; so we're off to hopefully a few rides on that wild coaster. As we passed the swing and approached the OR area we noticed it looked fairly quiet around the OR building, and upon further inspection we saw several of the ride attendants, dressed in their cowboy outfits, walking together away from the building. NOT a good sign. The ride was down again and all of the ride employees were leaving the building. So much for that idea.
Boy, it's was HOT walking along the paved area through Wilson's Farm and past the pizza place. After a ride and the FM, and a spin on TnT, we stopped in the air conditioned Candy Factory for some samples and chocolate covered almonds to eat on the trip home to Nixa.
Congrats to SDC and the Gospel groups for the packed houses on Sunday; and once again, if anyone really wants to see those shows (at least on opening weekend), get in line early!
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sounds like another good visit....congrats!!
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great reviews!!
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HikerDan that was a fabulous review! We are headed there this weekend to take in as much as we can. :) Off to pack.
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Had a good visit yesterday (sunday), beautiful cool weather in AM, sun came out and it got pretty warm in tha afternoon with no breeze, light crowd of about 8,000 people.
I thought he park overall looks great, lots of"hands from misouri" all over the park and on the square.
got several performances throughout the day,
started @ 9:20 with the horsecreek band.
we then headed down to see buck Taylor , he was in the shop across from the pizza joint last year. He is no there, he is located over in the frisco barn this year with various other artists. he was not there this weekend, but will be next weekend for the rest of the festival..
while we were in the area it was time for the Stunt show, so I slipped up to the berries and cream and......YES!!, they did!! the Apple turnovers are back for the rest of the year!!!!, YUMMY!!!!!!!
Stunt show appeared to be the same as last year... LOTS of action for only 25 minutes, and don't forget the sons of silver dollar do a 15 minute preshow...
After that we checked out the Trick riders, a little disappointed with that show, they trick rode about 10 minutes, did some trick Bull Whipping, and some Trick roping. the roping lasted probably 10 minutes.. the performers were all very good, but I was expecting all horse trick riding... But make sure you see it once anyway.
Got done there just in time to see a little gal playing guitar and singing right there in front of the hall, her name escapes me but she did a fine job,
Time to listen to Kent Rollins and his cowboys stories around the chuck wagon, I love hearing his stories and sampling his food or coffee..
Well time for lunch, the pathfinder had a big ad for Mary's Springhouse and their Ham and Beans, And Catfish, sounded GOOD to me, so we headed that way.... Guess what?? closed! yep CLOSED!!! Darn the luck.. headed for lumberjack and had the pork tenderloin sandwhich.... Good stuff.!!
Ok, back to watch the stunt show 1 more tme, sun was high and bright and it was HOT!!!>>>>>
Headed for Gazebo, watched Kerry do some folk songs, very nice, relaxing,,,,
Next right there at the Gazebo we listened to Home Rangers, another above average group.
Done there.... it was hot, and I was tired.. I was planning on GAC, decided I will see them in 2 weeks..
All done!!, headed for the car,,!!
All in all great day, great music, good sights, good food...............
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Thanks for the review, sounds like a fun trip.
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So, travelers, how has the weekend gone at SDC? Reviews and photos posted, please!
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Its been rather slow the last few days. Saturday the crowd levels were rather low considering it was beautiful and the weekend. The craftsman are wonderful and the music really hit the spot. But it always does. It has been a great time to visit the city. So if you get the chance come on out!!
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shooting for next sunday and again at Christmas and we have decided to take a break from the city next year vpass wise.
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We arrived before Opening Ceremony, Saturday, and walked straight to OR. We stood in line and were to be on the third stage for our first ride on OR. The railroad nearby was experiencing maintenance and that stalled OR for a moment since they were working so close to the coaster track. I would have managed it differently, but it didn't delay us for long. The restraints weren't a problem us. As for the ride itself, I consider it a unique experience - unlike any coaster I have ever ridden - and it is my new favorite, beating out TGS, but maybe just because TGS doesn't last long enough. I must admit, I was looking for OR to disappoint me, but it did not. Perhaps people just think the lines have been long, this summer, since the clocks in the queue tend to chime every few minutes instead of on the hour (and yes, I realize it's just a sound effect and not the actual clocks). I was also pleased with the ambience of the queue, and noticed that even the big industrial fans were covered with wood and slats to keep them from being glaringly out of theme.
The crowd was barely over 10K, and we walked onto any ride we wanted with very little wait time. The only thing we didn't get to see (that we wanted to see) was the trick riding. I did not want to wait in line that long for a 20-minute show. Instead, we crossed the park to see Sons and Brothers 45-minute music show in the Opera House. The show would have been more enjoyable if they hadn't stopped after every song to introduce the next song and try to be funny. I would have like the more in a 30-minute presentation.
I have let the toy store get by with out-of-theme merchandise in the past, but the Girls Just Wanna Have Fun music attracted me to the One Direction stuff. I hope the Citizen standing nearby heard me when I expressed my disgust!
At one point, we were in GE and found ourselves hungry. I noticed a new skillet being touted in the Path Finder, one with pulled pork being offered at the rib house. I had seen and smelled it earlier and made up my mind that it was calling my name. Crossing the park, my mouth was ready, and my guts were preparing to pay the price. Alas, the skillet was covered and fireless. Upon asking about it, we were told there were not people in the City to keep this skillet running. I was highly disappointed. I realize it was a business decision, but this was the one food advertised in the Pathfinder, and I felt like they didn't follow through with the advertising that said it would be available for lunch and dinner. We ended up eating in the Mine with no other diners in the room with us.
We haven't stayed around for the evening show in several years, but decided we would. I enjoyed the first half, but did not like the second half nearly as much, though Holy, Holy, Holy was absolutely beautiful and tasteful (not overblown like the rest, in an attempt to keep crescendo-ing to the end). I am not, and never have been a Tracy Heaston fan (Don't hate me.) since I can't even identify most of the tunes he plays due to all the pounding notes in between the melody. He does fine on playing with the band, though, and I recognize that he has a talent that few of us could ever dream of. Besides, he does not appear to be enjoying himself; again, I realize that perhaps that is his schtick. The comedienne also seems to try pretty hard, but I saw pretty much the same show when I was at a chuckwagon show in South Dakota, last year - almost to the letter.
Exiting the City was easy since the crowd had been so low. One thing I noticed: years ago, after the Branson Brothers or the Rodney Dillard shows, the long walk to the parking lot was done in virtual silence, with very low voices if any, while we listened to the crickets and frogs, but now the crowd loudly talks on the way to the front. I wonder what is different to cause that.
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Was anyone at SDC yesterday during the power outage? How was it handled by the park?
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A lot of people complaining about the power outage sunday... lasted a couple of hours or so midday... with all the booths, and the singing continued acapella, I think it would have been nice for a change to walk around with no background noise.. There would be so much to do this time of year... :-\ :-\
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Was anyone at SDC yesterday during the power outage? How was it handled by the park?
It wasn't handled well at all.
Negative experience?
Arrived at the city with Brother and Sister in Law with Buddy in tow. Pulled in 10 min to opening. Paid for 2 showed 2 seasons passes and stopped in the breezeway between the HH and SDC to the anthem. EVERYONE stopped and put their hands over their hearts. I was impressed, not a soul in sight moved during this few moments. Maybe during our times of national and world tribulations trials we are taking our liberty and freedom seriously.
Walked in into the park and decided to get the OR out of the way. Walked down and see people leaving from the path near the ride. They said " Its all down, every ride in the park is down, having electrical problems." At this time I looked over at the Lost River to see it was not running at all. I decided we would wait it out so we walked around and looked at the crafts, talking to the vendors about their wares. It was very enjoyable. 12:00 PM, no rides running and now shops are saying that they are being told to turn down the registers as the power may go out 100%. We continued to walk and look and enjoy present company. 1:05 Lets eat. Stopped at the rib house and ate lunch lingered and finally heard the whistle blow on the train. I said 'Guys lets go see if they are firing up OR. None of our guests had been on the ride and this was the main reason ( and crafts festival) that we were there. We walked up and met 2 employees at the entrance to the walkway and they said 3 rides are up, they are slowly bringing the rides up on line, I asked if OR was going to be up they said no"
We decided that 3.5 hours of waiting was enough. The train and riverblast were running, That was all.
Call me a mastermind but I would think to open a kids ride and then open the ride most people had as #1 on their list, in fact the ride voted #1 best new ride would be second, but that was not the SDC plan. We were not not happy and decided to leave the park, the coments were,' they got my preferred parking money, they got my lunch money and I got nothing in return.'
On our way out we stopped by the Lye Soap booth and I asked how long ( in the season they would have lye soap, The response was " Probably the end of this booth in 2 weeks" “There are only 3 people that know how to run the booth and after the main lady ( retiring in 2 weeks) is gone that will probably be it, closed for good.”
You better buy your Lye soap now!
It’s really nearing the end of the SDC I know. It has become so corporate that they are losing their roots.
After buying a few logs of lye soap I talked to the Guest relations. They said they did what they could and the power outage caught them by surprise. I asked why when I was entering the park I was not warned. 2 of us had passes and the others had paid. They said they were just really in a jumble trying to communicate and they didn't know what was happening at the time. They were notably displeased with my questioning to their less than valid excuses. I asked where the signs were that told what would and would not be running that day and they said at the front where the tickets were sold, I asked why they were not up that day. Again they said " we will try to do better next time, " This made me feel dismissed. The person behind the counter said '" well bring me your receipt for lunch and I will give you a coupon for a replacement meal, I responded I didn't keep my receipts from meals. She wote me up a Good Neighbor Policy Coupon that said " Power out, was unhappy, was told right away" I have no idea who was told right away or how she even thought she would know but I walked away thinking I know this park is changing quickly and not for the better. Frankly the folks in Customer relations didn’t have their heart in it, there was no empathy at all.
I said ' you know you took our money and did not say a word and at 10 min to park opening the rides were or should have already been firering up and had had the trial runs.' Somebody; many people knew of this problem at that time but you took our money and didn't say a word. They looked at me in confusion, I explained that where I am from when you are taking the money for the movie ticket you tell the customer that the speakers do not work in the theater.
This was a badly mishandled problem that I think showed that the morale and trying to do the right thing by the customer is really down at SDC. I am not feeling the love.
Not one time this year have I gone to the park to ride the new coaster that there hasn't been a problem with a ride, every time there has been a significant disruption with OR if it has run at all. If they are changing the park to a 6 flags format they better figure out how to keep the rides going, without the lye soap lady ext. they will have nothing to offer.
So the seasons pass I have held for the past 15 years are in doubt. I am seeing a great departure from the things that made SDC special and made you feel like you were welcomed and taken care of. I am quickly losing interest in a once great experience.
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Yeah I had a problem with not a single citizen mentioning that the power was out. We arrived a litte before 11am. Got a cinammon role before going to check out the stunt show and trick riding show. We didn't realize that the power was out until we got to thunderation on our way to echo hollow. I think the staff did a nice job explaining the situation, it's not their fault but it would've been nice to be told as you are walking in. I think TnT opened shortly before 2. The stunt show was entertaining but the trick riding show was pretty lame. Outlaw run opened around 3:30. While in line at that time they announced that powderkeg was open. It probably helped that it was a gorgeous day and tempers weren't as short as they are on hot days. Ona side note regarding OR. My 6'8" frame fits with room to spare.
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Well I am glad it wasn't just me. They are offering a product and they are responsible to stand up and tell you when said product is not available. It taints the shine on the park when you spend half of your day waiting around for something that doesn't occur.
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MH, sounds like a poor trip all around for you!
PTB for sure could have handled it better, you have given the best example of how it was NOT handled right..
The worse part is there is no way for them to follow up on paid tickets and try to offer them "reimbursement", and for sure no way to make it up to SP holders wanted to ride and enjoy the other benefits..
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Well Sandune you hit it on the head. They could have handled this differently. The previous member experienced the same thing I did by not being told. I cant help but think they just " didn't" say anything. Hoping the power would come up soon but they lost that bet.
Good customer relations should at the forefront include telling the truth to your customers so they know what to expect. They did not do this at all and then got snarky about it when called on the carpet. No it is not the citizens fault the power was down, not even the PTB fault. But ultimately the way this was handled was the fault of the PTB. I frankly would have probably been ok to walk around and just look at crafts had I been told that the amenities were not being offered. I would have been warned what to expect. The fact that this was not disclosed makes me think I wasted half a day instead of going into Branson and shopping or whatever my guests wanted to do. Because we were not told there was admission money waisted.
As I say this is a sign of things to come I am afraid. SDC needs to go into PR mode and start to take care of their customers and also there employees, its showing that these folks are not being taken care of.
I would like to be specific about what I was told by employees but this might put some of the minimum wage jobs in jeopardy and I don't want to effect these folks negatively.
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I have only had to use the Customer Relations at the little house a few times. Each time was a bad experience. I don't know what it is about that place, but it is v.e.r.y. slow, and I haven't run into anyone exceptionally friendly working there. Have never met an unfriendly citizen anywhere on the park.
Sand, you're probably right - there isn't anyway to follow up on paid tickets, but if someone takes the time to make a complaint to Customer Relations, then I don't see why those people couldn't be handed a free ticket for another day. Or, comp a dinner ticket to The Mine Restaurant, etc. for SP holders. Not everyone is going to take the time to make a complaint - they will just leave the park unhappy. I think they should at least try to fix it for the few.
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Well Sandune you hit it on the head. They could have handled this differently. The previous member experienced the same thing I did by not being told. I cant help but think they just " didn't" say anything. Hoping the power would come up soon but they lost that bet.
Good customer relations should at the forefront include telling the truth to your customers so they know what to expect. They did not do this at all and then got snarky about it when called on the carpet. No it is not the citizens fault the power was down, not even the PTB fault. But ultimately the way this was handled was the fault of the PTB. I frankly would have probably been ok to walk around and just look at crafts had I been told that the amenities were not being offered. I would have been warned what to expect. The fact that this was not disclosed makes me think I wasted half a day instead of going into Branson and shopping or whatever my guests wanted to do. Because we were not told there was admission money waisted.
As I say this is a sign of things to come I am afraid. SDC needs to go into PR mode and start to take care of their customers and also there employees, its showing that these folks are not being taken care of.
I would like to be specific about what I was told by employees but this might put some of the minimum wage jobs in jeopardy and I don't want to effect these folks negatively.
At least they spoke English, there's was a time around 07 an 08 that there were quite a few eastern Europeans and Asians working that had a minimal grasp of english. Several of the ride operators in the GE were hard to understand.
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Ok chittlins, you opened the door... Now I am going to walk through it..
The last 3 times I have been at the park, except for Terry and the little blonde gal greeting the trams.....
The first person I saw/met is a little oriental lady, probably in her late 40'-50's, dressed properly holding a camera. Asking if you want your picture taken.... Problem: Very hard to understand.. '
Here is my problem, if she cant speak fluent English, have her work somewhere else in park.. not the very first person I see.. I don't think there were very many oriental people in the Ozarks in the 1880's ???. could be wrong, but that just seems to be the wrong person greeting everyone headed into the city...
OK! let me have it.. I am sitting down and ready.!
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Apparently there were Asian folks in these here hills...but only during certain weeks in April and May.
;D
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Ok chittlins, you opened the door... Now I am going to walk through it..
The last 3 times I have been at the park, except for Terry and the little blonde gal greeting the trams.....
The first person I saw/met is a little oriental lady, probably in her late 40'-50's, dressed properly holding a camera. Asking if you want your picture taken.... Problem: Very hard to understand.. '
Here is my problem, if she cant speak fluent English, have her work somewhere else in park.. not the very first person I see.. I don't think there were very many oriental people in the Ozarks in the 1880's ???. could be wrong, but that just seems to be the wrong person greeting everyone headed into the city...
OK! let me have it.. I am sitting down and ready.!
Okay, I will bite. (Sarcasm on) The camera in her hand was probably a dead give away that taking pictures was her gig. Isn't it irritating when someone trying to get a foot hold on the "American Dream" puts a damper on our entertainment...the nerve.(sarcasm off)
My take, and I am not blasting you Dune, but a little broken English from an obvious immigrant who is not above an entry level job is great. She is doing things right. She is working the job she was assigned, with a pretty great attitude I might add. I would much rather her learn English on the fly while greeting and taking pictures that rifling through the safety manual while loading me on the "Outlaw Run" to my impending doom.
Also, if Silver Dollar City had been a real city in the 1880's and the "Frisco Line" had actually been built through it, you can bet there would have been Asian and Irish people that stayed around after they build that sucker at slave wages. Not that I am defending her need to be in theme as she is a real person in an imaginary theme park city.
On a side note two of my kids are Korean and love going to the park. I hope they aren't throwing off the theme. I know that isn't what you meant, but we need to be careful and not lose sight of the fact it is just a form of entertainment.
You can stand up now. ;D
Mhguy, I hate it that your day was bad. Businesses in general lose out on a chance to take a bad day and make it into an opportunity to show they really care about their loyal customer base in cases like this far too often. The PTB should have realized that MAJOR damage control protocol was in order, and IMO if refunds for the paying guests could not be handled, then extra "bring a friend" passes were definitely in order.
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That lady is super sweet and if she doesn't know an answer to your question she will try and find out; plus she doesn't even work for SDC. You try hiring a workforce that big from a population of mostly retirees- they try to get local and American citizens, but sometimes they have to go elsewhere; and that lady is an American citizen. The Christian teen programs in the summer really help SDC out; I don't know what they would do without them.
I read and re-read my posts before I put them out for others to read. I would advise others to do the same- some are just plain mean.
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Back to the complaining subject -- we had a bad experience earlier this year and I wrote an email to SDC to explain my frustrations and suggest ways they could make some changes to make our visit better. They called immediately (like we were still on vacation when they called) and offered us a $25 credit. Then -- somewhat comically -- the credit got sent with no signature on it, so I had to contact them again and they had to resend it. They sent me a postage paid envelope to return the unsigned credit. They do listen. Not sure they made any changes (that we saw on our following trip) but I felt my complaint was heard.
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IMO if refunds for the paying guests could not be handled, then extra "bring a friend" passes were definitely in order.
Very true
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Saturday was a great day to be at the City. we got there around 11. our only glitch during the day was riding Thunderation. it broke down at the bottom of the lift hill and we were escorted out the side door of the "mine". we had to wait and ride a shuttle back to the employee entrance at browns candy factory and we're given a free pass to go to the front of any ride line. we were going to do that at outlaw run because the wait clock said 40 minutes but couldn't find anyone to show the pass to and were on and off the ride in around 15 minutes anyway. but it was nice of them to give us the pass. we got to the city around 9:00 on Sunday and ate breakfast at the Mill. watched the opening ceremony and went straight to the flooded mine. the very nice girl working there told us the power was out for all the rides and wasn't sure when it would be on. she said we could probably get a refund at the ticket gates but we told her we were seaon pass holders. we then went to the frisco barn to buy something from Buck Taylor (note to Junior: i didn't get a chance to ask him about his dad and grandpappy dugan because there was a pretty long line forming behind me and he was trying to get to them before the power went out in the Barn. Sorry, I'll try again in Ocotober). after leaving the barn we went and looked at the different craft shops set up for the Festival. I guess I looked at the power outage from a different perspective. it wasn't too warm or too cold that we needed to be in a building to be comfortable, we were told what was going on very soon. my son and i watched the Mean Murphy show at the saloon and got out about 0ne oclock and most of the rides were up and running.
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The worse part is there is no way for them to follow up on paid tickets and try to offer them "reimbursement", and for sure no way to make it up to SP holders wanted to ride and enjoy the other benefits..
They know when every SP holder visits. Remember those scanners? An on-the-ball custumer relations department would send some vouchers or credits to everyone who visited on those days, and giving a partial credit to every card used to pay for a paid ticket.
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I dropped by Buck Taylor and he said he could not be 100% sure it was his dad. But he did say if it was it would have been done in California and it would have been a voice over. He also said that it sounded like something his dad would have done. He was very nice and friendly but busy. Many folks coming to see him.
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Well, I appreciate you speaking with Buck. I knew that his father's role was simply a voice over. It was done in California. It probably was a job that only took part of a day. It was probably such a quick, minor job, that he never spoke with Buck about it. This does not surprise me. I'm sure to get any deep details about this job, one would have to probe Dub's manager or agent at the time, and then maybe there would be some notes in a file about it. So thanks very much for checking! I will admit something here I have never discussed before. Slim Picken's role was also a voice over job, and it probably only took a few days to do. However, the developer of the diving bell told me in 2010 that Pickens blew some lines while doing the work, and that he (the project developer) had a reel of tape in his files of Picken's blown lines, along with some rather funny, explicit comments made by Pickens when he messed up. That would be a real gem to get a hold of and hear! ;)
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I dropped by Buck Taylor and he said he could not be 100% sure it was his dad. But he did say if it was it would have been done in California and it would have been a voice over. He also said that it sounded like something his dad would have done. He was very nice and friendly but busy. Many folks coming to see him.
Same-same, though he wasn't very busy when we were there.
I wonder how many of us asked :D
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Our Saturday was a VERY pleasant visit right up till about 3. Then the bottom fell out of the clouds.
We hit the lots at Stop 2 about 8 and got our own personal tramride to the gate. There, we had a long talk with Jill, one of the picture takers--whom we have gotten to know over the past couple years. Wonderful person!
The normal breakfast at Molly's preceded my wife grabbing a couple pins to trade. (One of the pins broke while still on the card, and the folks at HH were very helpful in exchanging it for her.) She went to trade at the Apple House--we again got to talk with the lady there, who is another wonderful person. We also resupplied with fruit butters.
Then the Pickers. Poor Walt broke a guitar string in the middle of a number and had to borrow :D
We saw the Stunt show and the Trick Riding show. The boys--as expected--loved the Stunt show. The Trick Riding show didn't have very much riding at all--just one act. Seems like a nice group of kids trying to keep a family tradition alive, but they ought to revisit their priorities.
We rode the train twice. The first time in the morning, there was no line, and the train (4 cars) left without every seat filled. The Bolin boys drew the skit out--Ma disavowed them--and the conductor didn't know what day it was, either. We could easily tell they had a lot of fun with that performance. It took longer than usual and was much appreciated! Unfortunately, by the second ride in the afternoon, the rain had started, and the boys just waved at the train as it went by.
The one trip on FM was uncrowded. They didn't even use the que inside. Music and animatronics all seemed in fine fettle.
We bought two bottles of Black kettle seasoning at the Culinary School as my family really likes it, and they say their supply for next year is not secure.
There is a new consession in the wing added to Christmas Hollow--it's some sort of girlie, sparkly place with frilly stuff for little girls and a halo hairdo. We did buy a hair band for the sister of our godson whose B-day party is next week.
When the rain started, my boys regretted the fact that they had left ponchos in the car. The younger one has a cold, so we decided to skip the last turn thrugh the crafters--a BIG disappointment, though they were covering up their crafts, anyway--and headed out about 4. Along with 90% of everybody else.
We stopped in OM so that the younger boy could buy an instrument at Cedar Creek; the older one bought another set of hammers for his dulcimer.
The attendants had the tram loading line back up underneath the roof, and they were pushing trams and busses through there as fast as they could load them--a good attempt to handle the sudden crowd as quickly and dryly as possible. But once we got on the tram, is was like riding a submarine--a very FAST submarine. No hope of staying dry, but the exposure time was cut to a minimum.
I really wish we could get another day of Harvest Fest thsi year, but it isn't to be--next time will be during OTC. But at least it was a mostly good day for it--beautiful weather up till it wasn't beautiful anymore ;) Park wasn't crowded at all.
Oh, and see the Lye Soap thread for my report on that visit.
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The FM queue has been changed so the line no longer reaches the far wall. As soon as riders are in the loading area, they are directed into a mine cart slot. In much the same way, FitH was changed a while ago to keep the majority of the queue outside. Is there an advantage to this.
In other news, I had to look up the word fettle. Thanks for the new word.
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Palallin: Thanks for speaking with Buck, as well. I wonder how many DID speak with him? ;)
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I talked to Buck on Sunday.. he looked at me and made some comment popular question, because he had been asked about his father and the recording thing.. he was busy the 2 times I went by his booth.. but made sure to ask.. it was humorous to see the look on his face, " mr taylor, I have a questions for you".... funny.
Back in 2 weeks for my last fall festival trip..!!
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Well we ran in to the terrential downpours while on the road Saturday. We didnt get to Homestay till after 10AM. Then after a bite to eat, we finally made to a "soaked" SDC about 12:30. We darted in and out of every shop between the front gate and the Red Gold Watched the Trick Riders. The cancelled the Stunt Show because of the heavy rains.
After that we "waded" thru the floods over to the OR area. (Well we made a quick stop at the Boatworks to watch the last 10-15 minutes of Pure Heart).
Much to my surprise ---- "Outlaw RAN" So of course I had to ride. I walked right on. No wait whatsoever. It was incredibly cold (since it was only about 50) and that hard hitting "ice" cold rain hitting you in the face. So I only rode 1 time, but still had a blast.
We then was planning on buying some Pork Rinds (closed), and heading up to the Gazebo. Instead we noticed the Saloon had one more show, so we watched that, I rode Wildfire, and we left SDC (about 5PM).
Rain or not. Still had a great time at SDC and in Branson in general.
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The FM queue has been changed so the line no longer reaches the far wall. As soon as riders are in the loading area, they are directed into a mine cart slot. In much the same way, FitH was changed a while ago to keep the majority of the queue outside. Is there an advantage to this.
I really, really like the way they're doing the FitH queue now. It was always such a mess of people inside trying to figure out what line they were in and how many people were in front of each other and whether or not people in groups would make it on the same train. The new system makes it really easy to ride with your group and it's all very organized inside. I like it a lot.
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The problem is that the history that is missed by not spending enough time inside. I like to spend time showing my children the mural inside and educating them about the ride. They are not scared of the ride because they understand the history. Now, we get only a moment before we are whisked away on the ride. On FM there is no confusion about where to sit, so it's a completely different situation. I don't know if they just don't want that many people in the loading room or what.
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The problem is that the history that is missed by not spending enough time inside. I like to spend time showing my children the mural inside and educating them about the ride. They are not scared of the ride because they understand the history. Now, we get only a moment before we are whisked away on the ride. On FM there is no confusion about where to sit, so it's a completely different situation. I don't know if they just don't want that many people in the loading room or what.
Couldn't agree more. I wish fith was the way it used to be. I was saddened by it this year because I couldn't check out all the cool stuff on the wall. I'll always remember looking at the framed "wanted" photos of the baldknobbers on the wall and being freaked out! awesome stuff
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Well...shoot! I haven't seen the new queue setup, but I like being inside and looking around also. I don't think I'll like the new setup either. Some things shouldn't change.
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I have not had a chance to see / notice the new queue line yet. What happens if a lot of people want to ride on a rainy day? Are folks just going to get wet waiting outside, or can the lines be altered?
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I have not had a chance to see / notice the new queue line yet. What happens if a lot of people want to ride on a rainy day? Are folks just going to get wet waiting outside, or can the lines be altered?
GOOD QUESTION!! :o
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I didnt ride FITH last visit. I can say this though. It was raining (hard at times), and the FITH line was certainly outside. (There may have been folks inside though. I didnt go look).
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If anyone going to SDC this weekend also has a chance to visit Sh. of the Hills on its last night, Saturday, PLEASE post pictures and give a detailed report. I wish I could be there!
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Paige told me she was going to the funeral . I am here in Branson. I think the balloon festival is still going on today. I'm headed down to eat breakfast and then head out to the city .
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Sitting under the gazebo in the GE right now, it's a fantastic day. OR and Giant swing already down. I can still barely ride. It's all about the length of your legs from the knee down if you are thick but with little overhang (hehe). Will hit the water rides around 2.
And when I say down, that means already rode a couple of times each. It was one of the few times I've been in recent years that all rides were up.
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Beautiful day in the city, if a bit chilly in the morning. Some of the leaves are starting to turn. The 10AM service at The Wilderness Church was wonderful and uplifting. Seemed like a rather light crowd in the city today. Had lunch at the lumber camp, with an ice cream float later for dessert. Lots of wandering around and taking in the sights. I really like Harvest Festival time, except for the clutter and congestion from all the temporary buildings set up. Had a great time, and I'm looking forward to going back in November.
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We came down for a few hours on Sunday (Oct 20). Got to the parking lots at 11:30. There was no one out pointing which lot to go to, so we thought they were parking down at stop 5. Turns out we were wrong, so had to do the loop of shame to come back to stop 3 (along with 3 or 4 other vehicles who thought like we did_.
Got to Outlaw Run at 11:45 ish, just as the training going up the lift got stopped. Left to ride Wildfire and FitH instead. By the time we came back around they were finishing their test run with a maintenance worker and the ride was open again. Only about a 20 minute wait. Today they had a worker stationed at the railings, only letting in enough people for each train. Hubby and I didn't notice any differences in the restraints, but 3 people in our train ended up not riding because of them. On the lift hill there was a massive swarm of wasps! The PA was announcing periodically that if you had a bee or wasp allergy you might not want to ride today. I'm hoping that it's something they take care of now that they're got a few days of down-time.
Made a loop around the park, nothing else really to report.
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We came down for a few hours on Sunday (Oct 20). Got to the parking lots at 11:30. There was no one out pointing which lot to go to, so we thought they were parking down at stop 5. Turns out we were wrong, so had to do the loop of shame to come back to stop 3 (along with 3 or 4 other vehicles who thought like we did_.
Got to Outlaw Run at 11:45 ish, just as the training going up the lift got stopped. Left to ride Wildfire and FitH instead. By the time we came back around they were finishing their test run with a maintenance worker and the ride was open again. Only about a 20 minute wait. Today they had a worker stationed at the railings, only letting in enough people for each train. Hubby and I didn't notice any differences in the restraints, but 3 people in our train ended up not riding because of them. On the lift hill there was a massive swarm of wasps! The PA was announcing periodically that if you had a bee or wasp allergy you might not want to ride today. I'm hoping that it's something they take care of now that they're got a few days of down-time.
Made a loop around the park, nothing else really to report.
You could tell the person at OR that you wanted the last row and he'd put you there. And FITH is as advertised, A lady was at the door assigning riders to cars and she wasn't keen on a single rider with a seat empty next to them. For old timers and newbies it looks like the line is out the door and long, I bet prompting folks to pass it by. Still needs my idea of a track redo at the bridge with a vertical track drop and launch into the finale. Water was low and barely a splash, already OTC mode. Off soap box now. One more visit and I'll be anticipating see whats new in 2015.
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Seemed to be a large crowd tonight for Old Time Christmas. The lights and decorations are outstanding again this year. The fall leaves are beautiful and colorful on the trees in the park. It seems like it should still be Harvest Festival instead of Christmas. Didn't stay too long. Grabbed one of the new burgers at the Lumbercamp. The roll/bun was hard as a rock......not a fan at all. Probably go back next again next weekend.
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We arrived at the park on 10/7 at 3:30. Parked in lot 3. Walked straight to Red/Gold and walked right on in for the 4:15 "It's a Wonderful Life" show. Show ended up being full with people turned away. Show is pretty much the same as last year, and I imagine it will be around for a few more years due to the large investment that has been made in the production. Much of the discussion I heard afterwards was that it was good but there was room for improvement in the storyline and in the singing. My husband and I agree, and won't be seeing it again on our next visit to OTC.
From there we walked straight over to the Opera House and got in line for the last Dickens show of the day. Theater was full in the middle with just a few folks on the sides. New 3 piece band this year as well as a new Tiny Tim. If it all goes well we will catch it again on our second visit to OTC. On that visit we plan on seeing the saloon show, the Living Nativity, and Pure Heart.
We also rode FITH, Flooded Mine, and the train plus watched the 8 pm parade. Very light attendance in the park in the evening. Shops and food stands closed early. Went to the old school to get our ornaments. We're still debating on buying season passes for 2014. When we asked for our ornaments we weren't asked if we going to renew our passes. There was one citizen on duty and a supervisor who was doing some additional training with her. Heard some folks say the hot chocolate was good this year but the wassail was not good. We didn't get any food. Did notice that potato soup in a bread bowl was offered at $7.99 at the Tater Patch near the Skillet Cookery.
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Good report biscuit! Is the water on in FITH or is it dry right now for the season?
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Good report biscuit! Is the water on in FITH or is it dry right now for the season?
Very small amount of water -- no fear of getting wet at all other than a few drips.
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Some water is essential for FITH braking system. But as biscuitcreek said, you don't get wet, just a few drips, small splash.
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Good report biscuit! Is the water on in FITH or is it dry right now for the season?
FITH has two different versions - "summer mode" and "normal mode"
Summer mode includes 2 water cannons that shoot water into the air as the train goes by
Normal mode just uses the water as a braking system
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Good to hear. Thanks all.
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Here is what my brother said on his FB page....
Me and my wife went to silver dollar city Christmas yesterday, n branson. Very touching I must say, on the train ride they stop where the robbery usually happens and grandpa tells the story of the meaning of Christmas, brought tears to my eyes. The Christmas lights make that place so beautiful, we watched them light the huge Christmas tree, it flashes along with the Christmas music, very touching too. If you have never been to silver dollar city at Christmas time, it's a must c. Ur children will lov it, and adults too. It runs thru the end of December I believe. The most beautiful thing I've ever seen at Christmas time I must say. There's so many memories I have of that place and that ranks right at the top, thank u for so many beautiful memories silver dollar city, ur the best amusement park n the world, n my opinion, stay true to ur values, and keep god first.
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Just verifies what we all know................... SDC is real special during OTC!!!!
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Here is what my brother said on his FB page....
Me and my wife went to silver dollar city Christmas yesterday, n branson. Very touching I must say, on the train ride they stop where the robbery usually happens and grandpa tells the story of the meaning of Christmas, brought tears to my eyes. The Christmas lights make that place so beautiful, we watched them light the huge Christmas tree, it flashes along with the Christmas music, very touching too. If you have never been to silver dollar city at Christmas time, it's a must c. Ur children will lov it, and adults too. It runs thru the end of December I believe. The most beautiful thing I've ever seen at Christmas time I must say. There's so many memories I have of that place and that ranks right at the top, thank u for so many beautiful memories silver dollar city, ur the best amusement park n the world, n my opinion, stay true to ur values, and keep god first.
Excellent review by a first timer!
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I have to say that I have conflicted feelings about SDC at Christmas. I'm not a huge fan of really cold weather. I love the crisp fall mornings in Branson, but by December its a little too cold for me. I'm old school. SDC used to close by the time it got dark outside, and it still seems strange to be there when there are not any leaves on the trees. But I love the lights, and the music and the shows. Don't really want to go on rides, cause I would freeze, but there's still no place I'd rather spend my time.
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Was to the City last Friday night, Saturday, Sunday and yesterday.....going today, tomorrow and Sunday.....can't get enough of the lights.....this has to keep us SDCified until May next year.Staying close to the Cabin and the PICKERS.
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Was to the City last Friday night, Saturday, Sunday and yesterday.....going today, tomorrow and Sunday.....can't get enough of the lights.....this has to keep us SDCified until May next year.Staying close to the Cabin and the PICKERS.
Remember to leave room for new arrivals. The problem with the Pickers is that no one leaves between sets, and that prevents others from seeing them.
I tried to get in one night a couple years ago, and a guy actually blocked the door so I couldn't get in. My niece was inside and told me about the door blocking - nearly knocked me down as I was halfway through the door.
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Cheeseheads, sounds like u are enjoying yourself as usual.....
Have a safe trip home, happy and uneventful holidays to you both..!!
see you next year!!
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Okie, Its OK if you just dont like cold weather. There are a whole big bunch of folks that just hate winter. Its OK. Really. I "on the other hand" absolutely despise summertime HOT HOT.
By all means though, if the cold weather is really that hard on you, stay indoors, we do understand. Thats why we dont usually hit SDC (or Branson in general) during the summer. We hate heat. We usually go camping in the summer where we can stay close to water or inside the camper in the A/C.
Whatever you decide, (everyone) just please stay safe&healthy, and have fun.
BTW--we should be at the ol Homestay, Friday morning (after Thanksgiving). and will be in the city Fri & Sat
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Thanks Sanddune......always have a good time in SDC and at Homestay....don't really want to go home, it's colder and snowier there.
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Here is our quick review. Video #1 of 2 is processing as we type. I will post them when they are done.
Friday the 22nd. It was around 33 degrees, we had our coveralls on to stay warm. Got to the park around 3pm. Got a cinnamon roll with raisins & a hot cocoa right off the bat. Then decided to ride Thunderation. It was funny to see everyone bundled up with clothes on a rollercoaster. Then we just strolled thru the park towards FITH. The park was so empty, we were in awe how empty it was. We rode FITH all by ourselves!! That was a first.. Roamed around some more, OR - PK - & Wildfire were all shut down, but thats ok. It was getting close to lighting up the tree on the square, so we went in the Hospitality House & looked around. The tree lighting ceremony was fabulous! Kinda puts ya in the mood for the Holidays & makes ya think of family, friends, & past trips to SDC.
I wanted to film the lights as we went thru the park, so off we went.... It started to get real cold!! You could feel the cold thru the coveralls, & even with gloves on, my fingers started to get numb. So we watched the Parade of Lights & headed out. We were there till about 7pm. I dont see how people could walk around in jeans & a jacket. I would of been froze!! Anyways..
I have to admit, i think we couldnt of picked a better time to go. It may have been cold, but we were ready. Not many folks in the park, we never asked what the attendance was. But, it was calm, quiet, & relaxing. The wife got a little emotional during one stop, thinking about her deceased parents from years ago. We went in the church & said a prayer & we both felt better. Like Preachin_Bill said in another topic, SDC is just a special place that holds special memories for certain folks. And that is something you dont get out of alot of things these days. Thanks SDC! Another great memory i hope to repeat again soon, with family, friends, or even strangers around me. We even helped a elderly couple on electric scooters back to the front of the park to return their scooters. Because some people kept cutting them off. So we walked next to them so they could have more room. Life is good.... :)
1st video. Enjoy!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTGPkuaLwn8
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how -do nice trip.. we have been before when sweatshirts, coveralls,gloves,stocking caps were not enough..!! FUN aint it..!!!??
I think they should put air horns on the little scooters~ ::)
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Excellent review How-Do! The Wilderness Church really is a great place to have a moment and a prayer.
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THANKS FOR THE VIDEO! It's been awhile since anyone has posted video or photos from their trips. We hope to be at the park in a couple of weeks if everything goes as planned.
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That was nice to watch, HowDo! Looking forward to the next one! I've been to the park once when it almost empty - it's kind of magical.
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Thanks everyone! I do it for you all. I may not be the greatest video filmer, but its fun. The next one is downloading to YouTube, it is more like a lot of quick shots of stuff walking around the park. The end of it is funny, someone got in trouble.. Not me though. :-X
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My lady and I arrived at the park on Friday for our first time ever at OTC. All I can say is "WOW". From the moment we got in the gates we were really in awe. I expected it to be good but there's nothing like being there. We walked around the park and then to some shops and then decided to go to the Opera House for Dickens. Man what a show! Really did not anticipate THAT much quality. The story, the set, live music, singing, acting, etc. etc. the whole production was top quality and spectacular.
We hit the train ride and this was our favorite part of the entire trip. Goosebumps. I will never forget this train ride. What SDC is all about.
Walked around some more, when to the tree lighting which was really cool. Stepping into Wilderness Church is always a good moment. There was no late parade due to weather. It was cold and sprinkling, but I must say it may have been the best time I've ever had strolling the park. The lady and I walked around at night amongst all the lights and we felt like the town was ours. There was no one there, and it was wonderful. We left late with big smiles on our faces.
Got there today (sunday) at 1:00 and went down to the Christmas barn and planned to try our first apple dumplings then hit "It's a Wonderful Life". Was disappointed to find that the apple dumpling place wasn't open yet...and when someone got there at 1:15 she said she had to get stuff set up then would open. Well, 1:40 rolled around and the dumplings STILL weren't ready so we decided they did not deserve our business and went into the play. This is my only complaint of the trip. The park opens at 1:00, why can't you be open and ready by then? It's afternoon for heaven's sake. But it was a teenager and I suppose I did teenager things at that age too. So I didn't get to try these famous dumplings...next time.
It's a wonderful life was good, not as good as Dickens but it was good. (goes to show you the talent of SDC as most actors and the director for Dickens are SDC regulars). Hit the Living Nativity--it served it's purpose. Watched the lights parade and that was nice. Wanted to go to the Pickers but it was packed with people; a few grumps gave us the stink eye for even trying to come in, so we decided to wait until summer. Walked around, bought some Christmas gifts, froze our butts off and left.
It was cold. But I'm used to it and it added to the "Christmas" theme. Did not ride a single ride. Also did not get to see the saloon show--seems as all the shows are at the same time--so it will have to wait until next time. Not enough time for SDC!
Overall an impressive first trip to Old Time Christmas! The Lady kept mentioning "next year". yes!! ;D ;D
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nice trip.. yes all the shows are either at the same time, OR you cant get between them before the next one starts.. I am sure they do that on purpose.. scatters out people between all the shows... Does make it real hard to see everything in 1 afternoon. (almost impossible in fact).
for sure have OTC designed as a multi-trip event..
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Sounds like a great trip! Sorry you didn't get to see the Homestead Pickers. It's much nicer in the winter when they play in the cabin than in the summer. Different Experience! I understand about the "stink eye". I mentioned somewhere else that I almost got knocked down as I walked through the door. Someone was blocking it so I couldn't get in. See your show and leave! There are hundreds of others that would also like to see the show.
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Great review Preachin_Bill!! Did ya happen to see 2 people in coveralls? My wife & i were the only 2 that had them on, i think.. :D Never saw cheesehead57 either. :(
Had trouble uploading the 2nd video, it was at 80%, & we started watching the wifes footage & it froze! I knew i should of know better. >:(
Here is the wifes video that she put together if ya wanna see it. Enjoy!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DshrF3_BNE
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VERY NICE! Thanks for posting.
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How do....I was by the Cabin wearing a big fox fur coat.
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What did the fox say? ;)
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That's funny Junior! I needed that laugh today.
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Fox said....don't bite me Bonnie Jean (the mule pulling the carriage)
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Ha! ;D
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http://s772.photobucket.com/user/tim_m_2010/slideshow/branson (http://s772.photobucket.com/user/tim_m_2010/slideshow/branson)
Thought I would give you all some pics.
the weekend was basically good. Unfortunetely, we didnt meet up with anybody. Was really lookin forward to it too. Paige told me that lots of us was at Homestay, but stopped short of telling me what rooms. Guess thats kinda good though. She really does have to keep some sort of privacy act.
Anyway it took about 7 hours to make a 3 hour trip down there on Friday. Kathy (wife) ended up getting sick in Waynesville and we had to make several stops along the way. Spent over an hour in Springfield because she was too sick to travel.
(OK though just blood sugar dropped too low real fast). Ended up getting to Homestay about 1. She spent the rest of the day sleeping. Thank God she started feeling better about 5. We went to eat (Plantation steak for 2-not bad for the price), then went to Presleys. Great show as always. (Not sure if I will buy passes for Presleys next year. I think we will switch it up some). Back to Homestay afterwards. Kathy was pretty worn out by then.
Saturday off to SDC. Got there about 11. Very surprised, the lots was empty. Walked right thru the turnstiles, all the way to "Its A Wonderful Life". Very few people in the park. We was like 20-30 in line for "LIFE". When that show let out --- WOW, what a difference an hour makes. Park was so busy, couldnt walk hardly. We watched the last few minutes of Frosty. Went on to see the Live Nativity (Love a public place that still tells the greatest story of all). Anyway, we then headed up to Marys Springhouse for some Catfish (IMO a bit pricey and not much flavor, but not too bad). Then we hit the saloon show, watched the first parade, back to Homestay. Kathy is feeling pretty good still, but kinda gettin tired. Thats OK though. I brought a plastic model of a 67 Mustang Fastback. I painted it green, and turned it in to an original Bullit mustang. I finished it up during Kathys downtime.
Its now Sunday night. We got back home about 2. Great trip home. about 3 hours. We brought the car this weekend, which gave us an AVG. MPG of 36. GREAT WEEKEND all-in-all. Its all over for 2013 now. Cant wait till March 22-24 2014 when it starts all over again.
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Hope your wife is feeling better. Glad you were able to make the trip, and thanks for the photos!
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Qwed, the photos were really nice. Thanks for sharing! I got sick, and we had to come home early, also. We had to leave before we made it to the park so I really appreciated the pics. Hope your son made it down.
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Im sure my Son and his girlfriend will make it down to SDC. They are still waiting for the passes right now. Does seem kinda long for a piece of mail to take 7 days+ to go a couple hundred miles or less.
Sorry you got sick Gilligan. I know Kathy needs sleep when her blood sugar drops. She got sick around Waynesville, and from there to Springfield, Mo. was a stop to (get sick) every 10-15 miles. Then she couldnt go any farther. She slept in a gas station lot for about 2 hours (while stayed on guard). Finally we moved from there to Branson. Went straight to Homestay where she slept for another 4 hours (while I toured Branson solo. and worked on my plastic model car). Saturday she felt good though. It ended up being good.
God didnt want us in SDC on Friday. I dont know why, but I know it was for our own good.
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Im sure my Son and his girlfriend will make it down to SDC. They are still waiting for the passes right now. Does seem kinda long for a piece of mail to take 7 days+ to go a couple hundred miles or less.
Sorry you got sick Gilligan. I know Kathy needs sleep when her blood sugar drops. She got sick around Waynesville, and from there to Springfield, Mo. was a stop to (get sick) every 10-15 miles. Then she couldnt go any farther. She slept in a gas station lot for about 2 hours (while stayed on guard). Finally we moved from there to Branson. Went straight to Homestay where she slept for another 4 hours (while I toured Branson solo. and worked on my plastic model car). Saturday she felt good though. It ended up being good.
God didnt want us in SDC on Friday. I dont know why, but I know it was for our own good.
Wow! Glad she is better!! Those passes were mailed Monday morning about 7:30. There is no excuse for that! Crazy!! Let me know when he gets them. My mailman said there was a way to trace a piece of mail - I'll ask him about it if necessary.
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Gilligan, the passes arrived today at his house. I think he is planning on going this Saturday, or next. We was thinkin about joining them if its next weekend, but I found out today that I will be working overtime next 3 weekends. Thats good news. I certainly need a little extra $$$$ right now.
Anyway, once again. Thank You Gilligan for those passes. The 2 of them cant wait to go.
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Gilligan, the passes arrived today at his house. I think he is planning on going this Saturday, or next. We was thinkin about joining them if its next weekend, but I found out today that I will be working overtime next 3 weekends. Thats good news. I certainly need a little extra $$$$ right now.
Anyway, once again. Thank You Gilligan for those passes. The 2 of them cant wait to go.
YAY! They arrived! Nine days in the mail to go 150 miles. That's nuts!!
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thus the saying "snail mail"....
LOL!! WOW!!! :o :o
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Mail to our town from someone in our town usually takes a week. I can send a letter to my sister 4 hours away and it only takes 2 days. Our postal system here is awful.
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Gilligan-I think the kids are going this weekend 12-14. I forgot, I cant go this weekend. This is the weekend of our Church play "Walk Thru Bethlehem" Hey Parson. If your not doin anything this weekend (evenings), come on out! http://www.mmbc.net/wtb.htm (http://www.mmbc.net/wtb.htm)
It is out in Jeffco past House Springs. Take HWY 30 to HWY B, (Cedar Hill). Go left on B and about 3-5 miles. We will be packed and ready for more. I think I have to work Friday nite. I "should" be at Church Sat & Sun nites working as a CPA (car-parking-attendant). I will likely be the one standing right at the road directing folks in. Ask for Tim. They will get me.
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Our family had planned on attending Ace's Coaster Christmas, but mother nature had other plans. Due to in-climate weather, the event was canceled. But SDC graciously offered complimentary weekend tickets to anyone registered for the event. So with the promise of free SDC tickets, vacation days already requested off for work, and knowing this weekend would be our only opportunity to see OTC this year, we decided to go anyway. The Interstate from St. Louis to Springfield (I-44) was in really good shape, as was 65 from Springfield to Branson. I usually take the Ozark Mountain High Road, but given the amount of snow and the fact that so much of that road is elevated, I decided to take Shepherd of the Hills Expressway in to town—that road was a mess. It was snow-packed all the way to Homestay Inn. By the time we hit it, Highway 76 was mostly clear out to the city. There were a few slick-spots, but no real problems. We arrived at the City at about 4:30pm. It was right about dusk. As you have seen by some of the pictures (I will try to post some more soon). The city was just beyond gorgeous. Given the small crowd (around 2,300 on Saturday) they only used the one lot for parking, but we parked in the preferred-parking lot. It was cold (21 degrees) and we didn't want to have to wait for a tram. We actually lucked out and had a bus pull up at the disabled drop-off and he had room for us. He commented (tongue-in-cheek) that some folks had complained that they were only using buses and not any trams! We picked up a Pathfinder to check out the show schedules. It's a Wonderful Life was getting ready to start, so we walked right in and sat center stage. By the time the show started, I'd say the auditorium was bout 1/2 – 2/3 full. The show was good. The production, given the small space, was quite impressive, the use of scrims, video and smoke was very effective. One song that really stuck in the kids heads was (Monty Python's) “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life”, sung by Clarence the Angel. The kids broke into a chorus of the song during a trip through The Flooded Mine (one of the only two rides open that weekend, the other was the carousel). Since we were the only people on the ride at the time it was no big deal. But, it was rather humorous listening to the two boys singing “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” at the top of their lungs while floating through The Mine.
I'd say about 1/3 of the park was shut down due to the snow and coldness. The park was offering the general public discounted tickets ($30) if they came over the weekend. The Grand Exposition was completely roped off as was Wilson's Farm, Midtown, the path to Wildfire/AP, and the path up the hill to Powder Keg. The Skillets were closed as were many of the food stands. Some shops were closed, most notably the Woodcarvers and Christmas Hollow. Seemed ironic to have Christmas Hollow closed, but I'm thinking that it might have had something to with snow on the accessibility ramps. Geyser Gulch was open on Saturday but roped off on Sunday; and Half-Dollar Holler was closed (with the exception of the carousel).
The sing-along-steam train was also open both days (though it was shut-down for a time on Sunday due to ice in the brake lines). We rode Saturday night. We were able to walk right on and sit in the middle car. When we stopped we were right in front of Grandpa. Best seat ever. But when the train moved, it was ccooolllddd, with snow blowing in your face off the roof of the train car in front of you. It started sleeting when Grandpa started telling the story. But it was as beautiful as ever.
On Sunday we arrived in time for the 2:00pm worship service. We (our family) were the only ones there, other than the Parson, Linda (piano) and the guest speaker and his wife. Grandma is always bragging about how well her grandsons are able to sing, so they were invited to sing “Silent Night” as a special during the service. After the service we rode the Flooded Mine, and then saw the new Frosty show. It is much better than the previous one (IMO). Shorty Hatfield still plays “Chris” and the same girl plays “Holly” but the new program features a new character-- the Sugar Plum Faerie. If you've seen the city's rendition of “A Christmas Carol” the new Faerie is very similar to the “Ghost of Christmas Present,” and she adds another dimension of humor to the show. In the new show, the Sugar Plum Faerie helps the kids bring Frosty back to life. It was really a fun show. Though, if they ever asked me, I'd still tell them to bring back TINKER!!! After Frosty we went to see “A Christmas Carol”. Walked right on in, sat center stage, best seats ever. And the show was fabulous as usual.
Well, I've got more to share, but I'm home now and I have to work tomorrow so bed-time beckons.
To Be Continued....
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Very nice review, Parson. Thanks!
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Great review Parson!!
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Sounds like a nice trip.
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good for you, sounds like u were able to see the show and the city! nice job. I would like ot have gone down sunday. but that didn't work out...
We may fly down there this weekend. time/weather will tell the story,,,,
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Great review, Parson. Looking forward to the rest of it!
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That was fun reading, Parson! Glad to hear you had a good time.
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We thought we saw Joel Manby at the admission turnstiles when we arrived at the City, Friday. This man was standing nearby and ducked into the Marketplace before I made it through the ticket taker. Can anyone confirm that he was or was not there?
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Headed down to Branson on Friday morning (12/13). Hoped to hit the City in the afternoon and evening before spending all day Saturday on park. Mother Nature clearly had other ideas. It rained most of the day Friday so we just made the most of our time at the hotel and hoped for better luck Saturday. Our group of 15 arrived at the park shortly after 1:00, bundled up and optimistic for a great day. Within two minutes of passing through to gates, we learned not a single outdoor ride would be operating for the day due to cold. I believe it was about 33 or 34 degrees when we go there, not to mention a breeze of about 15 mph. I was crushed as no one in our group with the exception of my wife and son had ever experienced SDC during OTC. Fortunately, the seven kids (all six and under) were almost oblivious to the fact that we wouldn't be hitting rides all day. We did our best to make the most of the extremely cold temps regardless. Hit the Frosty show, rode the train (only engine #13 running last night), dropped into FITH and FM, took in the parade and tree lighting show and sucked down plenty of hot chocolate in between warming our backsides in several shops along the way. Gotta say, it was downright blistering cold there yesterday. The park looked deceivingly busy. Would be very interested to know what the actual numbers were. I commented to my wife on the way back to our hotel that had the rides been operating as usual, the place would likely have felt pretty empty.
Under the circumstances, it was a successful day in the City. Just wish the rest of our group would have been able to enjoy the full offering of SDC fun during OTC. Guess it gave us one more reason to do it again next year. Have a holly jolly Christmas SDC fans.
P.S. I tried to give the OR queue building a look as we passed by on the train. It was pretty dark at the time, but didn't get the impression that anything major was disrupted from the fire. Again, it was pretty hard to get a clean look though.
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It seems we had the same idea. On Friday night, we made our way, through the drizzle, to the Opera House for the last Dickens show. The middle seating was full, but the sides were virtually empty. The actors' timing seemed a little off to me.
When the show was over, we headed to see Santa. There was no one in line, and Mr. Claus was just standing in front of his chair, waiting for us.
Afterward, we put out the fire at FitH, before heading up the hill to watch the tree, hoping to see it again on Saturday, when all forecasts said it would be warmer and drier. :P
Saturday, we arrived after noon and went straight to It's a Wonderful Life. It is a great show, but doesn't have the same "authenticity" as Dickens. I was impressed with the scope of the production, though. The Times claims this is a million dollar show. I was struck with the idea that it really wasn't very Christmassy. I suppose the movie wasn't either, except that it happens to happen at Christmas. I really enjoyed the music and the fact that it looked like an old Crosby/Kaye movie.
We rode FM, which has not really been changed outside of updates and maintenance.
Then we sipped our hot chocolate while watching the glass blowers.
We made the Frosty show, which was extremely disappointing. Outside of the brutal cold, the new show is not very good at all, and the Sugarplum Fairy/Genie character is an embarrassing rip-off of the Ghost of Christmas Present. Bring back the old show if you can't make meaningful changes.
We had to go underground with about 57 other visitors (some of whom were quite rude). Some of them did not seem capable of listening to the guide. I could only understand every third word our guide said, since she seemed to have trouble enunciating. This was my first time in 40-50 years that I've ever been in the cave at Christmas.
I took some pictures of both days, but the family tends to rush me, so I didn't get as many or get to frame the shots like I would have liked.
We put out the fire a couple more times before getting back to our condo. As I said before, I think Manby was at the turnstiles when we arrived on Friday. I wonder if anyone can confirm that it was him.
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Here are some pictures from last weekend, December 7-8, 2013.
https://www.facebook.com/bryan.ready.3/media_set?set=a.10201351189885759&type=1 (https://www.facebook.com/bryan.ready.3/media_set?set=a.10201351189885759&type=1)
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Nice pictures Parson.
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Parson, great pics.!! I sent you a FR on FB......
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It's been a busy week. But here is the rest of my “review”, though it is a bit dated now.
Even though much of the park was shut down, it was still a great weekend. We had the best seats that we'd ever had at Dickens, It's a Wonderful Life, and the train. I loved virtually having the park to ourselves. One of my favorite things to do at OTC is to just walk alone through the park and enjoy the music and the Christmas lights. There were some places where I could stand, and I was literally the only one there. It was so peaceful...so refreshing.
We visited Santa Claus and his assistant Clarence Peabody (AKA Terry Sanders) twice. The first time we got a “family” portrait with Santa. This time Grandma (my mom) got to sit on Santa's lap. That was interesting. The second time the youngest two got to see Santa and I got some adorable pictures of my six-month old and Santa.
Culinary speaking we were able to enjoy Hot Chocolate with the Works (marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate chips, and a candy cane)--OMG! One thing I don't understand is why they they only have certain stands that have “the works”. Why can't they do that at all of the hot chocolate stands. I feel sorry for those who may not even know that “the works” exist. Some people have complained about the quality of the Hot Chocolate. Every cup we had was delicious, except for the last one on Sunday night—it was a bit watered down. I'm not sure why it wasn't as good. More importantly, I was able to enjoy an Apple Dumpling on Saturday and Sunday. They looked at me a little weird when they asked if I wanted Ice-cream with my Apple Dumpling and I said yes, even though it was only 17 degrees!
The only real disappointment for me (other than going home), was that I was hoping to see the Gifts of Christmas Parade one last time. SDC has advertised that this will be the last year for the parade. I was hoping to see it again, but understandably it was canceled due to the weather.
Of course we stayed at Homestay Inn. Sunday night we were the only guests there. I thought it was fitting that a member of SDCFans was the last guest to check out for the season. I'd like to thank Cherie and the staff for taking care of us. They had the full spread out for us for breakfast, even though we were it. We were disappointed that we weren't able to see Paige, but we understand that she was sick, so hopefully next year.
Even though it was cold, and the weather was disagreeable, it was still a great trip. Looking forward to next season.
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Gilligan-I think the kids are going this weekend 12-14. I forgot, I cant go this weekend. This is the weekend of our Church play "Walk Thru Bethlehem" Hey Parson. If your not doin anything this weekend (evenings), come on out! http://www.mmbc.net/wtb.htm (http://www.mmbc.net/wtb.htm)
Qwed94--thanks for the invite. I hope your event went well. Unfortunately, I didn't see the post until it was over. But thanks for thinking of us.
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WELL?? how about it... city was open an extra day today..... anybody here go....????
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WELL?? how about it... city was open an extra day today..... anybody here go....????
Not me, but I wish it was! The weather forecast didn't look to bad for Branson - a high of 58.
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We didn't, but had some friends who made it there on Wednesday. They said the crowds were pretty light (which didn't surprise me at all). We'll be going down with some friends tonight (Thursday). Weather should be perfect.
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I'm sorry for the PTB but we were there Saturday and it was great! Cold rain but small crowd let us walk right into A Christmas Carol and sit on the 5th row. Same thing happened for my wife and kids at It's A Wonderful Life. (I chose to ride and see the Saloon Show during that time). We ate the buffet with the ham and got free prime rib for the lower price. They were seating everyone in Reunion Hall. The only outdoor ride running was Thunderation and i rode it 4 times. Once I was sitting as the person farthest back on the ride and I was in the third row of seats :D. Rode Fire in the Hole twice and the first time we were the only four on the ride. Only got to 37 for a high so it was cold but festive. We arrived a little after 12 and stayed until about 8:45 so we were there for a full day. Beats last Christmas when we went on a day with a crowd around 25,000.
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duelist.. glad you had a good visit.. sound like you were able to do whatever you wanted to... nice long day for you....
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Havent completely decided what Im going to do yet. Im off till day after Christmas, then I have to work Thurs & Fri. Then Im off again till Jan 2. Kathy cant go, she will babysit most days. Im debating making a one day trip to the City. just me. I really want to see what the weather is supposed to be like next Monday. If its warm enough for the coasters to run. I might try to go. Otherwise---there is next year.
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We went the evening of 12/20. Got to parking lot 3 about 5:40 and made it to the 6:00 pm saloon show. We really enjoyed this year's saloon show -- a combo of Charlie Brown Christmas and How the Grinch Stole Christmas adapted to the SDC theme. Thought it was much better than this year's regular saloon show. I would say the saloon was full although there were a few empty chairs here and there.
From there we walked in the cold, light rain to the Riverfront Playhouse for the Living Nativity. The newest member of the Sons of the Silver Dollar was the singing narrator/angel. Our favorite singing narrator was playing a wise man. The middle section was about 3/4 full. After that we made a brief -- very brief -- stop by Frosty and then left. Most of the food stands (including hot chocolate stands) were closed. My husband was going to get a hot chocolate with the works but out of the 2 stands we found open, neither had the works.
I think the outdoor theaters need some flaps to roll down on the sides to help protect people from the wind and rain when it's really cold. Would also help to have flaps on one side of the trams. It's not so bad to sit on a wet seat when the weather is warm but definitely unpleasant when the temps are below freezing.
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Great weather today with a big crowd. Surprise surprise first one up to the power keg and broke down again.
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WHEW! This is a SDC first for me! Projected crowd according to a citizen I asked today: 26,000! Actual on park as of 7:30pm tonight: 23,100! I personally have never been on park when it has been that full! (And I have been going to SDC since 1970.) About 2:30pm wife and I left Branson to go to SDC. When did we make it to a parking space? About 5pm! Did a quick walking tour of the park, saw the last 5 minutes of Frosty at The Boatworks Theater...actually thought it was cute for the kids. Saw the tree lighting thing, and the parade. Everything very nice. Long wait in line for a hot dog, chips, and Cokes, poor gal at the concession was working alone, and was running out of supplies! We parked in Lot 6, had a contracted bus service from Springfield helping bus people to the front gate. Never in my life had I been transported to the gate by a non SDC person! On the way out about 8pm got to where the old Wooden Nickel Restaurant is at Notch, noticed the overflow parking lot filled with cars and portable lighting set up...don't know if it was being used as employee parking or guest parking, but the whole pasture was full! A big conference of some sort in Branson and traffic was heavy Friday night when we got there, hard to find motel rooms too. Overall, everything busy on the last weekend of the season...watch out, 2014 is just around the corner! ;D (Did not have a chance to get photos ready, but will try to post some next week.)
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I also heard there were large crowds at the shows in branson also.!! Sounds like a great weekend for the whole area/......
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WHEW! This is a SDC first for me! Projected crowd according to a citizen I asked today: 26,000! Actual on park as of 7:30pm tonight: 23,100! I personally have never been on park when it has been that full! (And I have been going to SDC since 1970.) About 2:30pm wife and I left Branson to go to SDC. When did we make it to a parking space? About 5pm! Did a quick walking tour of the park, saw the last 5 minutes of Frosty at The Boatworks Theater...actually thought it was cute for the kids. Saw the tree lighting thing, and the parade. Everything very nice. Long wait in line for a hot dog, chips, and Cokes, poor gal at the concession was working alone, and was running out of supplies! We parked in Lot 6, had a contracted bus service from Springfield helping bus people to the front gate. Never in my life had I been transported to the gate by a non SDC person! On the way out about 8pm got to where the old Wooden Nickel Restaurant is at Notch, noticed the overflow parking lot filled with cars and portable lighting set up...don't know if it was being used as employee parking or guest parking, but the whole pasture was full! A big conference of some sort in Branson and traffic was heavy Friday night when we got there, hard to find motel rooms too. Overall, everything busy on the last weekend of the season...watch out, 2014 is just around the corner! ;D (Did not have a chance to get photos ready, but will try to post some next week.)
The lights at the Highroad is backing it up bad. Is a light to turn north on it really needed since there's no traffic coming off the nonresistant south. Another fix would be better light timing at the 76/Indian Point light. Once you wait all that time to turn off it's like you are nearly alone on the road till you get the preferred parking area. A completed High Road would do no good with the light bottlenecks still two lane 76 from there to 265. There should be a second lane from the High Road to the 265/Wilderness light and a two lane turn at SDC itself. If someone was smart and got caught in the traffic from Branson, once they hit 265 light get in the right lane and go past the SDC light and turn around at the maintenance entrance and double back 8) It might be, and this is a novel concept in today's America, is it may in SDC's best interest to help fund 76 road work itself. You think a first time visit by a family with a 4 year old or 6 year old hung up in traffic for two hours yesterday left a completely positive image for them to come back with what was likely a frustratingly long wait through the gift shop and tram loading area on the way out. Corporations are always asking for the gov to do for them with tax breaks and all.
The secret is that If you are coming from NWA/OK and you think it's going to be busy, ditch the 412/65 route and go through via 21 off of 412 to Berryville then to Blue Eye to Kimberling City to SDC. There was no back up what so ever till you are on park property.
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The NW Arkansas route we take is Garfield to Gateway to Seligman to Cassville to Cape Fair to Reeds Spring to Branson West. Most of the traveling is on Hwy. 76. Barely any traffic, plenty of scenery, get to see a few deer here and there and glimpse the lake. The short route from Reeds Spring to Indian Point is all the real traffic, and it is usually not too bad. Guarantee travel time about an hour and a half.
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Had a great time at SDC this past Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Going all three days allowed us to do everything we wanted despite the large crowds. The park stayed open an extra hour Friday the 27th (in addition to staying open later on Saturday), closing at 10 due to the good crowd. Also on Friday all performances of "It's a Wonderful Life" were cancelled due to illness of several cast and crew members. They had cancelled the final show on Thursday the 26th as well. Was very crowded on Saturday, largest crowd I have ever seen at SDC and I have been caught in some big ones. I saw some people get in line at noon when the park opened on Saturday for the 2pm Saloon Show. Lines for the shows were long and formed very early.
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Went on Saturday and Sunday this weekend. Saturday was a mad house especially around the Saloon trying to get people in and out. We were at the park from 12:30 to 10:00 on Saturday and had a great day. My son said he had to do the upstairs queue line for Wildfire the wait was over an hour. At the end of the night, things cleared out and we were able to ride everything we wanted. As far as parking was concerned. The park opened at noon, we got there about 12:15 and the preferred lot was almost already full, we parked down by Shuttle stop 1 and the lot was pretty full just about everywhere else. Shuttle Stop 1 had it's own little shuttle running that day. Speaking of parking, the top free lots were already closed and we saw they were already directing traffic to the Notch lot when we drove by at 12:00. Here is a picture of the crowd:
(http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb279/jaycobb71/087.jpg) (http://s208.photobucket.com/user/jaycobb71/media/087.jpg.html)
Jay
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Never saw so big a crowd there in my life on Saturday. Left an hour after the 7:30pm parade, much easier getting out than getting in.
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WOW! Craziness! A note from the hubs (the Hubs! Not me!!) "Even a good fart wouldn't help clear that crowd!"
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They really really need to do something about the bottle neck there by the Saloon. I have talked to the PTB before about it but as you can see it still remains an issue.
What needs to happen is this
1. Remove all ODV buildings that are not permanent buildings. (especially the one in the middle of the main path)
2. Move Saloon queue to cemetery area - remove queue line area from in front of the Saloon
3. Remove PowderKeg Outfitters, PK arch and Sweepstakes Building
4. Create a new PK arch right next to Lumbercamp fence and a dedicated path up to PK entrance.
5. Create a new arch entrance for Opera House queue area.
6. Configure Opera House queue area better to allow for more people to fill the area before shows - completely fence this area off from PK path so that they are very very distinct.
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My daughter and I just jumped ship in that area....we crossed over a small rock wall and bailed into the Lumber camp....then took the "back roads" to the American Plunge area and out of that mess.
Jay
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Made it to the last day events.. not much to report.. low attendance and COLD.. supposed to summy and 40.. LOL!!! never happened.! was overcast and less than 34 all day... TNT did run for a bit... nothing else outside ran.. (except train of course)... The line for scrooge was backed up past the smores stand in front of lumberjack... my mission was to see the saloon show at 2.. no problem doing that. everyone headed for OH ;D. Did the saloon show.. was impressed, nice little skit flowed through pretty well... headed back out over to do the living nativity scene... stood in the shade of the building and waited patiently.... did I mention it felt COLD?? LOL... anyway nice day, FM and FITH was working overrrtime.... the shows were full and lots of standing and waiting.... but we made it said to good bye to the city for the year along with a little over 9000 other people....... Hard to believe in 75 days we will start all over again.
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Hey, even a day without SDC is like a day without sunshine! ;)
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Finally got the photos edited and online
http://midwestinfoguide.com/migcrew/2013/SDCchristmas/
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Finally got the photos edited and online
http://midwestinfoguide.com/migcrew/2013/SDCchristmas/
I think you'll see the tower incorporated into whatever finally goes there like Dollywood keeping some of Adventure Mt. towers for their new family coaster.
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Finally got the photos edited and online
http://midwestinfoguide.com/migcrew/2013/SDCchristmas/
I think you'll see the tower incorporated into whatever finally goes there like Dollywood keeping some of Adventure Mt. towers for their new family coaster.
;) yathink?
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Finally got the photos edited and online
http://midwestinfoguide.com/migcrew/2013/SDCchristmas/
I think you'll see the tower incorporated into whatever finally goes there like Dollywood keeping some of Adventure Mt. towers for their new family coaster.
;) yathink?
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They could do everything you just mentioned Swoosh without concern to me minus the demolishing the cemetery.
I think they could even relocate the berries and Cream and keep it around in the general area.
the Sweepstakes building could be the location of the next fire as far as I am concerned. I am appalled each time they try to hock that crap to me.
A redo of the opera house waiting Q is a must, including designating a real path to the restrooms instead of jumping a chain each time you have to go. I guess there is always room for improvement. I do wish I would see some holes opened up in the pavement with some oaks planted. This could easily be done on the outsides of the walking areas not creating congestion but complementing the aesthetics of the park with the feeling of the " woods" we are loosing. They are being removed and they play such an important role as far as shade and the intimate canopy the leaves provide. I think the perfect example would be the G.E, its like a slice of Six Flags with its pavement beating sun and heat.
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Well Swooshs ideas sound pretty good. Although, they could improve that area even without all that. It could be "a start anyway" to just move those carts, move the benches around the saloon, have the people waiting for the saloon to be limited to the existing que lines ONLY. If you dont fit in the que line. Then wait over by the cemetery, "or somewhere".
-----Basically, relocating all those carts around the saloon would help abundantly. Worst case. They could cut in to the Lumbercamp seating area, and make the path a bit wider in that area, along with the removal of those carts.
Now then-Opera House and PK que lines. Most definitely we need to improve on each of those lines. Also - now that the FITH line is basically outside (and may I say-adding to the congestion in that area). Maybe we should "RETHINK" that too.
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They could do everything you just mentioned Swoosh without concern to me minus the demolishing the cemetery.
I think they could even relocate the berries and Cream and keep it around in the general area.
the Sweepstakes building could be the location of the next fire as far as I am concerned. I am appalled each time they try to hock that crap to me.
A redo of the opera house waiting Q is a must, including designating a real path to the restrooms instead of jumping a chain each time you have to go. I guess there is always room for improvement. I do wish I would see some holes opened up in the pavement with some oaks planted. This could easily be done on the outsides of the walking areas not creating congestion but complementing the aesthetics of the park with the feeling of the " woods" we are loosing. They are being removed and they play such an important role as far as shade and the intimate canopy the leaves provide. I think the perfect example would be the G.E, its like a slice of Six Flags with its pavement beating sun and heat.
They went with maples in the GE. They grow faster, leaf out earlier and provide better fall color. They are really going to start shading better here real soon as they grow more columnar as young trees and then start to fill out. I noticed the last trip that they are going to have to prune them some as some limbs are pushing up to the Tea Cup structure.
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They are really going to start shading better here real soon as they grow more columnar as young trees and then start to fill out.
I guess I need to go back and check out the growth, it surprises me its taken this long to start to fill out.
I am guessing they are not getting much water because it sure isn't a lack of sunlight.
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Finally got the photos edited and online
http://midwestinfoguide.com/migcrew/2013/SDCchristmas/
Excellent pictures as always Swoosh! Thanks!
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Finally got the photos edited and online
http://midwestinfoguide.com/migcrew/2013/SDCchristmas/
Excellent pictures as always Swoosh! Thanks!
Thanks. I was afraid my post was going to get lost on the last page.
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Appreciate you taking the time to get those pictures up Swoosh. Nice pictures as always ;D
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Another good set of pics swoosh, Never get tired of OTC lights.... ;D