^Why would the train tracks need to be pushed back?
I'm guessing profits will likely remain flat. This doesn't seem to be one of those "destination" projects, but of course, there is history of this ride at DW and other parks. Someone must like it. My family will more likely be the ones in the distance who are trying to stay out of the way.
Think they'll make a lot of cash from rented lockers and family dryers?
Profits will probably remain flat, but hopefully attendance spikes a little next year. As for a lot of cash from rented lockers and family dryers, probably as long as they're themed well. Wink In all seriousness, I agree with Steve, the dryers will be pretty profitable, especially if they're in an easily accessible location from both THRB and LRotO.
^You do realize how hard it is to relocated a wooden coaster, right?
If anything goes there it will probably be Roaring Falls, but with a more turn-of-the-century theme that goes along with the GE
"You do realize how hard it is to relocated a wooden coaster, right?"
This is true but its still cheaper than building one from scratch especially considering its already so close to SDC.
The great CC plan- Sell off/relocate/redistribute... and make room for the White Water relocation.
Did hot air balloons ever really fit with the Sawyer/Finn theme? I don't remember.
A new white water on the cc prooerty would be great. The could keep Ozcat and the tidal wave ride and the fountain in front of ozcat and bulid a wave pool on the great lawn
put in new flumes and slides. A water coaster with the uphill runs would add a new element to the park as well.
A random stranger was talking to his friend as if he knew all the plans of the park (Maybe it was even one of you.). He was talking about how all of Geyser Gulch was going to be removed - the ball pits, everything - to make room for the Celebration City rides. "The wooden roller coaster," he said, "will be the first ride to be moved, since it's the easiest one to move." ;D Yeah, I thought that was funny, too. I mean most of the CC rides just fold up, attach to a hitch and are pulled to a new location within a week, aren't they?
As I understand it, only Splash Harbor is going bye-bye, and probably to clear the way for something grander and more pleasing-to-the-eye than carnival rides. Hopefully this guy was just blowing smoke and didn't have any legitimate information. Was he one of you? Well, was he?
Well could the Diving Bell be used to find underwater treasure or do underwater mining?
Then I guess it would fit in well with the new mining area theme and they should bring it back ;D
Then I guess it would fit in well with the new mining area theme and they should bring it back ;D
You holding info back on us? Has someone confirmed a new mining area, or are you just pontificating?
It scared you??? I thought it was so cool when I was a kid. Just make sure you sit near the back otherwise you'd get wet.
Then I guess it would fit in well with the new mining area theme and they should bring it back ;D
You holding info back on us? Has someone confirmed a new mining area, or are you just pontificating?
To quote Sgt. Schultz from Hogan's Heroes
"I Know Nothing..."
Rube Dugan's Treehouse OR Miners' Treehouse:
Huck's Treehouse is revisioned and repositioned. The miners have taken to the trees to throw claim jumpers off their tracks. The new treehouse is complete with spy gear and defensive capabilities (built from items available in the 1800s). Visitors who trespass in the treehouse will see their living quarters, kitchen, and even restroom facilities (outhouse in the sky, placed above a sidewalk in the populous Silver Dollar City).
Miners are working their mines during the day, but a may return at any time for a snack or a nap.
A room laden with special effects gimmicks will serve as the Silver Room, where each miner has stashed his findings.
This concept could pay tribute to the defunct Diving Bell as parts of the facility would be built to resemble the bell, now salvaged from the depths of Lake Silver.
This concept could also take advantage of some of the recent additions to other Herschend parks and could include a zip line and ropes course elements.
I'm not a fan of the roughness of the old woodies, but I do like the way they look - as long as they are left looking natural.
GCI wooden coasters are FAR from being rough, if it is in fact what it is going to be.
Sadly, the kids play area is gone, few knew it was leaving, too.
wait, who said anything about a wooden coaster?
wait, who said anything about a wooden coaster?
Pretty much everyone who is speculating? ;)
but the more I think about it the more I think the more obvious plan would be to build back the back of the park with Roaring falls and acouple ofone of the more popular CC rides.
Hey Guys,
This is a rendering that can be found on the Great Coasters International website. It shows individual sections of track and terrain of a possible new ride that they are working on. I noticed that the terrain is very similar to Silver Dollar City on the East side of the park where Thunderation is located. I added the orange areas as accurately as I could to show where Thunderation and Echo Hollow are located.
Let me know what you think of it.
Does it make sense placing it in this location?
I could also be way wrong on this.
Happy Valentines Day!
Matt Hamm
(http://i932.photobucket.com/albums/ad169/matthamm/FutureSDCGCI.jpg)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa109/Dustijn/random/untitled-1.jpg)Swoosh, I LOVE that speculative rendering. I would love, love, LOVE it if that's what the 2012 map gave us. :D
Joy
and if eveything goes to plan it is going to make Dollywood quite jealous
Now, by what name would RF go by at SDC?Quoteand if eveything goes to plan it is going to make Dollywood quite jealous
Why would a MM make Dollywood jealous if they already have one? Are they giving us theirs?
Has anyone been by to take any more photos of the WaterBoggin demo..... Just wanted to know it if was all gone yet.
Does anyone have a small morsels of info about the next attraction?
A bunch of additional rides in that area would just be another big nail in the coffin for the park's remaining atmosphere.
Watch for, I mean, notice, the markers where Waterboggan used to be, when riding by on the Frisco! :)
Looks like a good idea to me, many have pointed out that there's not much to do at SDC for young kids other than the two rides in GE.Actually, our daughter did not have to wait very long to be able to ride every ride in GE with the exception of Electrospin.
And I would LOVE to see the half dollar holler come to fruition. But maybe without the weird animalsIs that the name? I love it.
Nah I'd rather them hide it (Roaring Falls) back behind GG.
EXCEPT... Adventure Mountain is NOT at ZipLine Course -- it's a ROPES course.I am in Pigeon Forge on a trip and I will share with you that AM is much more than a ropes course, its a rope, beam, rocks, water, an obstacle course that is very very extensive and a really people eater. You are climbing between 4-6 towers on different levels reaching some towers more than 1-2 times on switchbacks.
Two completely different concepts
WE DON'T WANT AN OBSTACLE COURSE! We want a highly themed, very fun, Mystery Mine style roller coaster. ;D
Besides lots of older people come to SDC to experience the music, shows, etc. AnAdventure MountainMYSTERY MINE wouldn't be of much use to them, or families with smaller children.
^^They billed Powderkeg as a family roller coaster and this wouldn't be any different.
^I appreciate the logic, but some folks don't want to sweat that much. AM requires physical dexterity; MM requires you to be tall enough.
Yes they are but I still wish they would go ahead and make an announcement. I really am no good at waiting........
LOL. Clues are there if you know where to look.
I am officially calling your bluff
I've been around the industry long enough to know that you don't spill the beans before the park is ready to announce.
I'm goin ALL in!!! ;D
except for the section between the 2 lift hills the ride is extremely smooth and a lot of funI agree, unfortunately that part is the " Joiner" to the start and end of the ride, the effects of the ride are great, the upside down is smooth as silk. The second drop was also smooth as it could be but that middle part.
Swoosh I am sure you have been on more of this type of coaster than I have. I do believe the shortness of the cars and the height you sit off the track gives it more of an opportunity to be physically demanding ride if they are not carefull.
Whatever they do I am sure they will learn from there first lesson.
So is everybody thinking that a new coaster would go in somewhere near the old Splash Harbor area? Or would it be closer to the old Waterboggan?
this style of coaster CAN be very successful and a lot of fun without the snappy movements.You nailed it, " snappy" yes that's it.
Now as far as Waterboggan... that sure is a nice open tract of land right there.
...Also, in an earlier response, somebody had made a comment about Roaring Falls being brought to SDC from CC...hopefully not to replace American Plunge...Surely there is no way American Plunge would be replaced...It's been there forever....
I was told a couple weeks ago Roaring Falls was for sale :) , leaving only the shot tower & Wildcat left NOT for sale
I was told a couple weeks ago Roaring Falls was for sale :)
Still New for '11!I love the truth in that......
Do any of you think we'll be watching something being built next year. I don't think we necessarily get something new every year. I really think we will see the old Still New for '11! campaign.
But, Roaring falls is a waste of space, all it does is take you up a lift turn and go down a drop, it's pointless when you already have American Plunge just like when DW got Daredevil Falls, Country Fair falls was removed. I would say one of these will go if you do get roaring falls.
I think it would be wonderful if they could revitalize the American Plunge! Silver Dollar City used to be famous for their quirky gags along the Jim Owens’ float trip,Absolutely, if they could utilise more of the old track and legthen the ride they could fit more boats in per cycle.
has anyone given any thought at all to the possibility that HFE is slowly transitioning to a point where Dollywood becomes the main cog in the chain? It is located near the entrance to the most visited national park in the country.
But Branson is one of the most popular vacationing spots in the US...Surely HFE would never consider letting SDC slip to mediocrity...I am also a fan of refurbishing AP and sprucing up the ride with some alternate paths...
I was told that an announcement will be coming in a couple of weeks. ;D
I wouldn't mind if they unveiled a new coaster that wouldn't even open until the 2012 season.
They'll have to make the tower more handicap accessible if they want to have a major ride connected to it. I think it'll end up coming down as it was built for Waterboggan. Then again, it could always remain a random mysterious tower, much like the towers in the Tom and Huck area.
Whatever they put in the WB area needs to be an all-seasons ride. With all the water rides in that area, that part of the park doesn't have a lot to do in the cooler times of the year.
I must admit in my trip to SDC last Sunday I was surprised at how much territory around the train tracks had been developed over the years. It used to be wilderness out there once you got past FITH.
Not sure the date on the thread you are talking about, but RB was to open last year and MM was to open this year for the 50th.
@backintime: I'm giddy with excitement. I posted that video on YouTube and figured no one would ever see it. Sweeeeeet.
Not sure the date on the thread you are talking about, but RB was to open last year and MM was to open this year for the 50th.
Last thread under Construction/Rumors section. October 23, 2008 was the last post on that thread.
With all the land that they own they built towards 76.
With all the land that they own they built towards 76. I would have thought they would have been concerned with keeping the park hidden.The only expansion that became visable from 76 is the GE. They were heading twords the fire department and not away, I think that alone makes sense. The land beyond Wildfire and below Powder Keg are very steep. if you consider the land behind FITH its fairly flat, I believe they will utilise some of the employee parking lot at some time in the future, they are going to have to make some adjustment for the employee parking anyway. I think they park employees in 3 spots right now.
some sort of uniquely themed lift/transport system to access that area of the park without having to scale steep hillsI am gonna call in the citizen son this point.
We went yesterday and it sure didn't look like anything at all was going on in that area.
Well we just back from sdc and I noticed while riding the train that there are orange marker flags in the woods where WB used to be.
Well we just back from sdc and I noticed while riding the train that there are orange marker flags in the woods where WB used to be.
Oh my goodness! Oh my goodness! ;D
Sorry, I know that they are just marker flags, but they are the start of things to come!
Oh and on a side note the park was really slow today and I rode the flooded mine and got the to turn the house lights on. It was pretty cool.
how did you get them to do that.
I asked nicely :)
The lights they use when they are working on the ride. They are in all of the tunnel and some flood lights in the areas with scenes. It was pretty cool and all I did was nicely ask the dispatcher is "if I come back at closing will u let me ride through with the house lights on?" And he said sure.
I guess what caught me off guard is that I did not know you could just ask to ride through with the work lights on; albeit it with special arrangements made prior to. Interesting! ;)
Y the heck not? The worst that could happen is they say no then u say ok thanks and move on. If u never ask u will never receive and I wouldn't want to miss out only to find out later all I had to do was ask.
Considering the amount of people bemoaning the loss of various kid's attractions at the park and complaining that the happy frogs are the only thing their small child can do, this looks like just the thing for the park.
they must continue to add thrill rides if they're going to be able to keep the park thriving.
People who are "looking for thrills" really only visit during June-August. The rest of the year, March-May. Sept-Dec, that is really not the case. Thrills are pretty under control right now... in all honesty, the park doesn't "need" anything. It is very well rounded as is.
If you look at any amusement/theme park in the country...
Had it not been for a lousy economy, I would argue that we would already be riding a new coaster at SDC. After all, RB was originally supposed to open in 2008 or 2009, was it not?
See there is the problem with the way you are thinking, SDC is NOT just "any amusement/theme park in the country" -- you would be better off comparing it to a Disney park. You'll notice that those parks don't go crazy adding thrill ride after thrill ride every year as well, and they are doing quite well. SDC is Disney of the midwest and they need to stick true to who they are and not just plop in a thrill ride because "that's what the thrillseekers want"
No disrespect, Swoosh, but SDC and the Disney Corporation shouldn't even be mentioned in the same breath. Disney is and always will be in an entertainment stratosphere no other amusement/entertainment company can touch. And they "don't go crazy adding thrill ride after thrill ride every year" because they don't have to. They have more equity in their brand than anyone in the world of entertainment. Not to mention multiple parks and experiences within all of those parks in multiple locales. They're in the enviable position of not having to chase anyone. They continue to set the theme park standard.
I would be shocked if half of the population outside of the greater midwest has even heard of our beloved SDC. But that's okay. I have no problem at all with it being our diamond in the rough.
I would be shocked if half of the population outside of the greater midwest has even heard of our beloved SDC. But that's okay. I have no problem at all with it being our diamond in the rough.
Be shocked then, since there was a huge list of current country star celebrities that paid "birthday wishes" to SDC (with almost all of them reliving a memory or two of visiting the park when they were younger) at the 50th celebration earlier this year.
Something a little more definitive would be refreshing.
I would think that the earlier the better. I know funding can come into joepardy, but what better way to pre-sell season passes than to announce the "coming attractions"? To me that would be a great way to get the $ now for next years attendees AND it would generate funds needed for the new additions during the off season.
I was told that an announcement will be coming in a couple of weeks. ;D
Everyone keeps banking on November, but according to Swoosh we should know something this week, or so. :)I was told that an announcement will be coming in a couple of weeks. ;D
During the 2007 new ride survey, a Huss Frisbee concept was featured alongside a topple tower similar to TT and the Screamin Swing which ended up as the chosen ride for 2007. Here's how the Frisbee was described:QuoteSilver Dollar City’s new Grand Exposition has just gotten bigger. Standing behind the Red Gold Exposition Hall is the Exposition’s newest ride, one of the most exciting rides ever built at Silver Dollar City, The Amazing Pendulum Swing. This new ride is the featured attraction at the Grand Exposition of 1882, standing nearly 75 feet tall, with a giant pendulum arm that swings riders back in forth while rotating over 110 degrees. This unique attraction is not for the faint-of-heart as it reaches speeds of nearly 60 miles per hour as it swings back and forth, high above the grounds of Silver Dollar City’s new Grand Exposition. The ride soars out over cascading water and shooting fountains that spray bursts of water onto some of the riders, adding yet another element of thrill and suspense to the attraction.
So it seems like it could be a strong possibility that SDC will go back to this concept, as it was definitely an attractive one. I personally hope they do, as Huss Frisbees are excellent rides, and are usually regarded as favorites among enthusiasts. The only problem standing in the way of such a ride would be the Herschends distrust of Huss. If it came down to it, the Herschends could always go to Intamin for a similar ride, but they don't make frisbees as well as Huss. Really, Huss has only ever had major problems with their topple towers, and they do have a good reputation, especially for their frisbees, but will the Herschends see this?
Sorry, this is more of a want rather than a prediction.
I just hope it's not a freakin Zip Line. But looking at the area and terrain and the fact the bogin tower would make a good launch point.
Branson already has too many of these, I just hope it's not a Zip line.
I am tired of waiting for an announcement myself.
I watch this thread but see notihng new.
Has anyone asked at the park while they were there?
I was in Dollywood this summer and was told that the swing was coming next year, before this was announced publicly just a few weeks ago.
Maybe they need to be asked.
ohhh... something will be returning next season, but I don't want to give anything away.
Gasp! You've said too much. It's all a big government conspiracy, and cover up. New ride? At Silver Dollar City? There‘s no such thing as Silver Dollar City. Who are you? Who am I? I am nothing more than the figment of your imagination. :-X
Gasp! You've said too much. It's all a big government conspiracy, and cover up. New ride? At Silver Dollar City? There‘s no such thing as Silver Dollar City. Who are you? Who am I? I am nothing more than the figment of your imagination. :-X
So do I take the red pill or the blue pill? ???
I was never a big fan of the balloon ride myself. Though I rode it plenty, I was not a big fan of the round and round motion as I became older. I thought at one point when it was removed that it would resurface in the park at a later time.
Nothing official at least. There are folks around here who claim to be in the know, but no leads, or leaks. It’s all in hiatus for the moment at least.Thanks for the response...I guess I just need to learn to be patient...but it so hard...I dream about the new attraction...Hopefully we'll see a mystery mine type of ride someday..I was sad to see the waterboggin' go, but it was broken down a lot when my family was there...
Think of other places in the park, maybe places that haven't been discussed!
Think of other places in the park, maybe places that haven't been discussed!
^That's possible, they've certainly been trying to branch out more with shows and festivals. Considering DW did that for 2009, maybe we're due for the same treatment.
On the other hand, The Giant Swing wasn't announced until October 18, and GE wasn't announced until November 6. I don't recall there being any construction noticeable before hand in either case, especially TGS.
Silver Dollar City should take a year off, and use that year to spruce up the park.
QuoteSilver Dollar City should take a year off, and use that year to spruce up the park.
I agree with Ozark BBQ. If I was given a choice between a brand new roller coaster or for SDC to restore/update all the park's attractions and rides, then I would vote for the latter. It would be great to rediscover old favorites like FITH, AP, and LROTO.
Maybe I'm just naive, but when it comes to competition I don't see SDC as having that much.From a business standpoint SDC is in competition with the local redbox as well as any other entertainment. The money you spend at both of these as well as a CD from Wal Mart is discretionary income. SDC is in competition with every other company in that category. We have just so much discretionary money to go around. SDC has to seek out this money. If they shut down the advertising and additions they would tank.
This years Riverblast was BIG as in it took several years to accomplishNow Rube you know it took a cpl years cause they didn't want to spend the cash.
My question is who saw undercover boss? Who looked at what the front gate guy built using roller coaster tycoon? Who realizes it kindof takes up the space of what has been shut down?
FYI, I hate being told things, then being asked to keep my mouth shut, the 2 of you on here know who you are ;) Latest rumor mill, keep your eyes open on the area between Wildfire & Powderkeg...
Probably remove the American plunge line from the street and re route it through the old float trip station.
Avid fans who like to wish, imagine and remember...nothing more. Even those who maybe claim otherwiseOn that line we were all looking for posts that were in the ground earlier this season. If you read back through the threads the claims and " Look here and theres" have changed now, without any warnings of change from anyone "in the know".
Sometimes I wonder if the people on here who claim to know something really do.
I can personally attest that there are at least three of us (myself included -- and there maybe more) on here that do know what is coming next year. Do we like to miss with you and send false hints every so often -- of course we do. However if you look back through this thread all three of us have said to keep an eye on the Wilderness Waterboggan area in one form or another.
Just be patient. Marketing clues should be coming out any day now.
Well then why didn't anyone have the marbles to tell us the Waterboggan area was in fact the next site for development from day one? It's not as if that's letting the proverbial cat out of bag.
Just left the park and I saw no markers of any kind...anywhere. The ones that were so prominent around WB are gone. Maybe they have served their purpose....whatever that was.
I'm at the point of being disappointed with the whole mess. It appears that they are reading our posts here and then doing just the opposite of what we express. In that case, maybe they should start doing rocket launches, have NASA put on a display, and discuss alternative fuels! Say, around October 20th. That would fit sooo well with the theme and wouldn't ruin my experience at all.I'm with you, HB!!! I'm sick of all this talk about new thrill rides like that dopey and far-too-scary Mystery Mine ride at DW. I say let Disney have all those highly themed dark rides and animatronic figures! What SDC needs is more merry-go-rounds! Put one in every corner of the park. Then how about adding an all-night dance party with music by Michael Jackson and Lady Gaga!
Swoosh...Is anything going to be added for next year? Please say it's so...We've got to have something new for next season...
I have always thought an old time circus under a big top tent, with sawdust on the ground, three rings, and acts like clowns, trained chimps, trained horses, trained dogs, an acrobat, trapeze artists, and such would go over well. As a side show attraction prior to entering the tent, have a sword swallower, rubber faced man, jugglers, magicians, and so on. Maybe some caged animals like apes, lions, tigers, bears...oh my! Maybe call it the Herschend Brothers Three Ring Circus and Sideshow Attractions!?!? Maybe it could be placed in the Grand Exposition Area, or around Lake Silver...it would be perfect as a limited attraction for say, Kidsfest. Whadda think?
Don't think you will see an Adventure Mountain any time soon st SDC.OOPS....I didn't mean adventure mountain, I meant half-dollar-hollar
Uh, okay. So where exactly is this new site? I'm not sure I understand the point of withholding info about something any of us could conceivably go to the park at any point right now and learn for ourselves? Problem is, many of us don't live close enough to SDC to be able to do that, so if you would be so kind, please enlighten us, Swoosh.
No the walls are new. They were not there last weekend.
If you look at the post above yours you will see a link to photos of the new walls
Isn't that by the train station? I'm trying to orient myself but I'm having a hard time.
I did tell people to think of other locations... Also, remember that blueprints are not always set in stone, they can change.
Photos of the new work wall.
http://www.midwestinfoguide.com/silver/2010/oct20/
Hmm, now that I think of it, is it possible the swinging bridge is in danger of being taken out soon? It's another non-ADA attraction, and I'm sure it's considerably more expensive to maintain and insure than it's worth to the park.
Thanks for sharing the pics, Swoosh. I'm still not biting though. If this "new location" is in fact the site of "the" 2011 project, why would HFEC specifically tell me WB was dismantled to make way for an "exciting adventure" in 2011? Who's to say we won't see a couple re-purposed rides added to the fenced area, as well as an entirely new attraction at the WB site in 2011? Heck, at this point, they could be adding a 300 ft. hyper coaster that towers over the entire park. Mass collusion I tell you.I got the same message as you just a couple of weeks ago from an HFEC rep....
Yes....don't take the Swinging Bridge. Not EVERYTHING has to be ADA compliant. If it was, stairs would not exist. We simply have to make an alternate route that is ADA-Compliant...which SDC has plenty of.
Still think it's going to be much ado about nothing. Rehashed rides....exciting? Don't think so. Like I'ved said it was going to be a minimum of a capital out lay this year. The real money went elsewhere. After all, look at all the money they spent on the anniversary year...lol.
The Swinging Bridge, Grandfather's Mansion, Flooded Mine and a few others were "grandfathered" in so they do not have to be ADA-compliant. Now if they make MAJOR changes to them, they they will lose the "grandfathered" status and will have to become ADA-compliant.
I heard that they are going to bring roaring falls to sdc.
Yes....don't take the Swinging Bridge. Not EVERYTHING has to be ADA compliant. If it was, stairs would not exist. We simply have to make an alternate route that is ADA-Compliant...which SDC has plenty of.
With all due respect, I think this is a very insensitive statement. It's not like the swinging bridge is JUST a walkway - it's an attraction. Yes, they DO have other walkways, but they DON'T have ADA compliant swinging bridges (I'm certain that such a thing doesn't exist for obvious reasons). It's an ATTRACTION that many people cannot enjoy. Imagine that you are a child in a wheelchair. You go to SDC with some non-disabled friends. Imagine that you had to sit there and watch them running, jumping, laughing and having fun going across the bridge. Wouldn't you feel a little left out? Most of the attractions at the City ARE ADA compliant - and the ones that aren't, I fear might get the axe (GF Mansion, for example).
I certainly don't want to see the bridge go any place, but I can also completely understand their reasons for doing so if they did. And I think saying, "there are plenty of other alternate routes that ARE ADA Compliant" is very insensitive. No offense... it just bothered me. :-*
I heard that they are going to bring roaring falls to sdc.
I also wonder that if whatever project goes in that area, if the swinging bridge just wont overlook it.. much like the ramp walkway on the south side of rb.? That would be nice view assuming it is a kids area, to be able to have a birdseye view of all of them having a good time.. :)
I can see that cave tour now.....ramps in the same design of stairs......whoops I accidently let go of auntie henrietta! Oh no someone catch her before she hits that rail! *Auntie goes flying over the rail with because of the sheer speed and force of the hit* AHHHHHHHHHHHHH! there goes silver dollar city. :-\
A smaller version of the "Hollar" for kids is going in by the depot;possibly 2 former rides will re-surface next spring...
It's going to be such a let down if all we can look forward to are a couple of refurbed rides. Sure, the economy has been unforgiving, but I would be willing to bet HFEC is still seeing profits at SDC. And if DW continues to get new attractions, we should, too.
For me though, simply bringing back a couple of older rides couldn't be more underwhelming news. And unfortunately, like many here have speculated, their track record of spacing out more costly attractions does suggest we're more than likely due for something smaller for 2011, with the possibility of something more significant for 2012. If that's the case, I think HFEC would be smart to announce both of those plans in one unveil this fall. That type of PR move would generate a lift in season ticket sales for 2011 and sustainable buzz throughout the course of next year with the anticipation of a big addition coming in 2012.
Announcing the big ride in the fall for an opening in 2012 could be great PR, but could backfire for guests "on the fence" about buying SDC passes.
2000.....Red Gold Heritage Hall
2001.....Wildfire
2002....."For the Glory" Civil War Musical
2003.....Water Works Water Toboggan
2004.....Power Keg
2005.....Bluegrass & Barbecue Festival
2006.....The Grand Exposition
2007.....The Giant Barn Swing
2008.....The Culinary and Crafts School
2009.....N/A
2010.....River Blast
2011.....?
The simple fact is, nobody here is going to know squat until we read the official press release from HFEC with our own eyes. Hate it, but that's the truth.
QuoteThe simple fact is, nobody here is going to know squat until we read the official press release from HFEC with our own eyes. Hate it, but that's the truth.
You obviously have no idea that someone that posts on this forum works for the park... And They have posted on this subject.
QuoteThe simple fact is, nobody here is going to know squat until we read the official press release from HFEC with our own eyes. Hate it, but that's the truth.
You obviously have no idea that someone that posts on this forum works for the park... And They have posted on this subject.
That wasn't my point. I'm simply saying whatever is being discussed is nothing more than speculation until we receive official word from HFEC.
If you don't think that SDC competes with Six Flags and Worlds of Fun, you're seriously mistaken. And, if SDC is going to continue to raise ticket prices, but not deliver on expected additions, then people WILL go elsewhere to buy their season passes... especially if they can get a family of 4 season passes at Six Flags for about 1/3 less than it would cost them to buy SDC season passes!
QuoteThe simple fact is, nobody here is going to know squat until we read the official press release from HFEC with our own eyes. Hate it, but that's the truth.
You obviously have no idea that someone that posts on this forum works for the park... And They have posted on this subject.
That wasn't my point. I'm simply saying whatever is being discussed is nothing more than speculation until we receive official word from HFEC.
Does that mean that simply because we don't KNOW for a fact what it is, that we SHOULDN'T guess, speculate, discuss and hope?!
I agree. One would be ignorant to think that SDC isn't competing with Six Flags for St. Louis area dollars. However, I believe three major problems are preventing SDC from winning that battle.
1) Proximity. It's an obvious one, but Six Flags is simply far more convenient to get to for St. Louis area residents/visitors.
2) SDC is a niche destination. Many people around STL know that SDC is a mix of demonstrations, shops and shows with some rides sprinkled in. While it's right in the wheelhouse of many, I would argue that there are an equal number of folks who have no interest in driving four-plus hours to visit a park that isn't simply full of rides. As much as we love it, it's just not for everyone.
3) Misconception. I can't tell you how many people around STL are baffled when I tell them my wife and I went to Branson and SDC for the weekend. Many have either never been, or have not been for a very long time. They don't realize how much both have to offer for everyone and how vastly different both are now compared to several years ago, much less a couple of decades ago. This is a marketing/advertising issue as far as I'm concerned, but a real world barrier that's keep many from many from even dabbling with the thought of making the trek to SDC once a year, let alone bucking up for season passes.
I know what you are talking about But will let others guess first.
She's right here too. Another example was Bass Pro. A unique enough sporting goods store to get people from the other side of the country...Just to shop!
Branson has Bass Pro, Shows, SDC, Table Rock Lake, and more. This place is great. Beats Vegas hands down
"Tis' a privilege to live in the Ozarks"
-Harold Bell Wright
Going this last weekend, the place was packed, but the ride lines were short and they were not even running to full capacity. So that shows that Silver Dollar City is much more than just a ride park, and that the majority of people that go, do not go for the rides.
What's the difference between an amusement park and a theme park? I'm guessing that any park that's fun is an amusement park, but if it fits a theme, it gets to be a theme park. Am I wrong on this?
plan on a new kids area.. they need it! and the kids will love it.. they can add something they need and wont have to spend millions to do it... IMO LOL
Is there a great need for more kid areas? I feel like everywhere I turn there is kid attraction. If anything I think it is time for an attraction catered more towards adults. SDC should add an area with more crafts, a new show, and a major ride.
Complete 100% letdown.
So basically we have a perfectly good (albeit closed down) tree, and tree house just around the bend, and yet they are going to build another small tree house?
I thought they were gonna restore the exsiting tree. Why Hollow out another perfectly good tree, or clear out real trees to make room for a fiberglass tree wanna be? Epic Fail!
So basically we have a perfectly good (albeit closed down) tree, and tree house just around the bend, and yet they are going to build another small tree house? Eh, I'm luke warm at the moment about the attraction. I will have to see it after it is built before I completely disown it. ;)
What's perfectly good about it? It's dilapidated, non-ADA accessible, had very low capacity, and is structurally unsound (apparently). We all have good memories of it from back in the good ole' days, but there's no way they could fix that thing to meet the demands of their current customers. This project gives the kids of today a chance to have the same SDC experiences we all cherish from our childhood.
There's no 'Epic Fail' about it. There's no way this is cheap or a cookie cutter attraction. What other parks have things like this? Just wait till you see it in person.
Why must everything that was already previously in existence be ADA compliant, always? Heck, they might as well install a new elevator into Marvel Cave while they are at it.
Sure, I am a bit sentimental about the old tree house, and I choose to be. However, it’s hard to warm up to this “new kid on the block” that I have only seen an artist interpretation of. I truly hope that I am pleasantly surprised by this new attraction! :)
Unless you have kids this age, you don't really understand the importance. We bought passes this year and have used them twice. The first time we went, the kids couldn't do anything. See it rained the night before and they weren't allowed to go into Gyser Gulch until at least noon. There are 4 rides they can ride in the kid area.
Before you consider this an epic fail, think about the population it serves. It's not here to serve as a play area for those that are able to ride the rides. It will be there so that FAMILIES with YOUNG children can have a good time when they go and not have to worry about their children getting bored. Deal with it!
Way to go Silver Dollar City! This will be a great addition to the park. I, for one, am very happy with your decision. We will be buying passes for next year because we know that our children will have something to do when we go.
from: Nate65807 on Today at 01:08:07 AM
I thought they were gonna restore the existing tree. Why Hollow out another perfectly good tree, or clear out real trees to make room for a fiberglass tree wanna be? Epic Fail!
Consider that the playground at Tom Sawyer's landing was taken out, as well as the Treehouse. Geyser Gulch is really the only major playground left in the park. Sure the Grand Exposition is geared towards kids, but it is all rides. Not everybody wants to get wet, or wants their kids to get wet at Geyser Gulch. If you're going to a nice restaurant after SDC and don't have a second set of clothes to change into, do you really want to tell your kids "No playground for you!?"
I have reluctantly accepted that the Treehouse is a relic of the 70's and 80's, when people didn't sue someone every time they skinned their knee :( but there needs to be a 2nd playground that's up-to-code and dry for kids to play on.
Plus, back by popular demand, our hand-carved carousel returns in a whole new way!
I'll be interested in seeing how big this attraction will really be and how they handle the slope of the land.
dwfan, I would for one like to see some christmas pics from DW.. having never been there i think it would be interesting,
In my opinion, I think Half Dollar Hollar is a sign that something big is coming soon. Not 2011 but maybe 2012 or 2013. I believe River Blast and Half Dollar Hollar are replacement rides for Geyser Gulch. They need to open these attractions first before Possibly building a fence across the entrance to Geyser Gulch in November 2011. I predict Geyser Gulch area will be redeveloped into something great--possibly a new "land" with major ride and maybe new restaurants and shops. 2012 is a fence around Geyser Gulch and spring 2013 is a "new area with major ride.
Back to the project and away from the speculation about what could/might have been...
It mentions a mini-waveswinger. Is this "Twirl and Swing" from Celebration City making its way over to the park and "repurposed" ?
Looks like the announcement was made today on their Facebook page.Could you get us the link for this...I've tried to find it but can't...
I was really hoping the new project would NOT come close to the swinging bridge. I like the idea that the bridge was an isolated spot in the middle of the city.
HFE supports the efforts of Gift of Green and embraces its philosophy. Inspired by this program, HFE makes it a policy to plant two trees for every single tree cut down on HFE properties.
On a similar, but different note...I was at the city on Wednesday, and sat by the waterfall in the Lumber Camp area and noticed a couple of orange flags on the upper end of that area, behind the little shops that are along the walkway up to PowderKeg. I don't know if they mean anything, but I thought I would mention them.Very interesting...I'm still a bit dismayed as the email I received back from a rep at SDC had said that there would be something going in at the old Waterboggin' site for the 2011 season. Why did they take the Waterboggin' out until they were ready to replace it with someting else? Also, what about Splash Harbor? Is something going in there? Swoosh seems to know a lot of these details. Is Half-Dollar-Hollar all we are getting? Not that that is a bad thing if it is. I have a two year old, six year old, and ten year old that I know will enjoy the area AND I like the fact that it is replacing a smoking area. Nothing against people that smoke, however, the smell gives me a headache...The area by PowderKeg is really bad.
Any new development on the Half Dollar Holler area? Some of you that have visited in the last week or so, can you give us an update?
We talked to Becca and Joe at Becca's Weaving on Saturday (really nice people) and I asked them if they were staying at the same place once Half-Dollar opens and they said they were moving to the building where they're giving out the SDC Christmas Ornaments. The old Butterfield Stage Depot they're in now will be incorporated into Half-Dollar Holler.
Are we talking about the old taffy shop across from the depot? I haven't been o SDC since summer, and have yet to see photos of the "wall". I was envisioning more of the area of the smoking section-formerly the outdoor tin typery
I think they should put the Taffy Shop back in.
It will allow for a much larger space with an area for classes and demonstrations for the existing store. Also the heat/ AC is better in there so that is a good thing for this time of year!
Speaking of the Carousal, as I recall, it has been in several different locations over the years.
Three locations I remember it being:
1: Middle of Tom Sawyers Landing (across from ball pit)
2: Moved to where the old petting zoo location was
3: One Christmas season, MANY years ago, it was on The Square
If anyone else has any other locations, please feel free to post
Now the only question that remains is where did the Baloon Ride go?
Also I would love to see the small snack shop in the HH be removed to open up more room. There are plenty of options nearby out in the City that there is no need to take up that space with another. If need be they could build another stand out there to accomidate the loss of this one. That alone would help with the flow of traffic.
SWOOSH, they are removing the Refreshment Stand, very happy about that!
These pictures don't look anything like the concept art yet.
If they paint over those murals they WILL hear from me next time I visit.
Too close to the bridge! Too close to the bridge! Too close to the bridge!While it may seem too close to the bridge, at least the bridge wasn't taken down...That would have been a tragedy...Just trying to focus on the positive I guess....
I'm glad I took several pictures, last Spring, of the Dogwoods blooming between the bridge & mill, knowing this area was going to be "cultivated"...
If this has been asked before, forgive me, but do they really not care that you're taking these pics and posting them?
Seeing the size of HDH, is it time to talk about the ultimate demise of GG?
It gets sent to the female of the house if there are multiple AP holders.
If you are a single male living alone chances are you will not get one.
It shouldn't take long to get the carousel installed. I'm sure it's not much more than sticking tab A into slot B. Most of it will be prefab.
Who isn't pleased that they've renamed it Hugo and Mary's Carousel? Is there an old H & M carousel story to go along with it? Did Hugo purchase the ride with Mary in mind? Did they like to ride the carousel after hours in a romantic moment? Why the carousel and not some other feature of the park?
something that has not been mentioned for HDH, is the original "ads" stated something about sandboxes.? have not seen any mention of that.. Hopefully they just have not mentioned them...
I am hoping the sandboxes in HDH will replace the sandboxes on the main square during kidsfest....
something that has not been mentioned for HDH, is the original "ads" stated something about sandboxes.? have not seen any mention of that.. Hopefully they just have not mentioned them...
I am hoping the sandboxes in HDH will replace the sandboxes on the main square during kidsfest....
Maybe some of the teachers on here would like a part time summer job.
Same here...no, no, no......QuoteMaybe some of the teachers on here would like a part time summer job.
Make that a big "no" for me. :P
Pictures: For some reason, I can't upload them, here. I have a new album on fb "Spring 2011", that all my friends on here that have me on fb can see them. My profile pic is me in front of the HDH entry. I'll try to add some to the sdcfans on fb?
tinmann620
Is the small pond still under the bridge?
I thought connecting Wildfire and Powderkeg with some sort of walkway and putting HDH somewhere in between would have been a great idea.I agree, that would be a great area for a playground. That ground is relatively flat compared with other areas on the outskirts of the park. Maybe they will connect those area at some point.
lines for WF for the balloon ride, which would fit the Doc Harris flying machine stuff...just thoughts...Amen Bruthu.
n homage to the stagecoach, they could theme the area between Wildfire and Powderkeg as "Butterfield Trail" or "Stagecoach Lane" or something of that nature, and put up a few old stagecoach signs or something.Thats a great idea.
From the pictures, I just don't like the way it blends with the rest of the park structures that surround itI side with you on this.
From the pictures, I just don't like the way it blends with the rest of the park structures that surround it, and the tree houses just don't seem to fit with the "City".
I think it will beat GE hands down.
I worry that Swoosh will get his way, but I think more rides ruins the purpose of HDH - a one-entrance, small-people place where some parents will drop their young'ns and then hang out at the exit to make sure they don't escape.
GE is designed for the entire spectrum of the family whereas HDH is a very small specific group.
^^Really? Because TPTB seemed to think they only need two rides in there THIS YEAR. You said it yourself:QuoteGE is designed for the entire spectrum of the family whereas HDH is a very small specific group WHICH THE ADDITION OF THE SWINGS CONTINUES TO CATER TO - AS WOULD THE ADDITION OF OTHER SMALL KIDDIE RIDES FROM CC.
Yes, you're correct, as far as the rides go. But still, I think most people see that as a place to let their kids ride rides. On the other hand, the design of HDH comes much closer to fitting in with the SDC ambiance than GE, which is straight out of any modern day carnival midway. The inspiration for GE may have come from the 1904 World's Fair, but it fails to capture the feel, IMO.I think it will beat GE hands down.
We'll have to agree to disagree there. GE is designed for the entire spectrum of the family whereas HDH is a very small specific group.
We'll have to agree to disagree there.
I have no kids, but I want to see the new stuff! Maybe I can rent a few for the couple minutes to pass through the area! I am short, but not short enough to pass for anything under middle or high school!
Me and my wife went on opening day and were lucky enough to be the first to purchase a stuffed animal at Bears At the Hollow. A large animal is $12.99 and a small $9.99, with an option of a noise maker which is inserted inside the animal for $3.50. We purchased a bow for the top of the head which was 50 cents and a shirt which was $5. In all it was around $23 total but of course you can keep adding things to boost the price up. Very Reasonable!