Kings Island is one of the most visited amusement parks in the Midwest. The eight entertainment areas include a 33-acre (13-hectare) water park called Soak City. Take your pick from 13 roller coasters and many more rides, which cater to all ages.
For some of the biggest thrills head to Rivertown with its Wild West theme. Board the park’s adrenalin-inducing roller coaster, Diamondback, reaching speeds of 80 miles per hour (almost 130 kilometres per hour). The Beast’s wooden track is one of the longest in the world with a 540-degree helix tunnel for a final plunge.
More thrills can be found in the aptly named Action Zone. The Delirium lifts you high into the air at fast speeds, as if you were sitting on a giant Frisbee. You’ll find a rotating 315-feet (96-metre) Drop Tower.
For kid-sized thrills, board the Railroad trip, ride dodgem cars or get a scare in Boo Blasters on Boo Hill. And there are many more adventure rides to keep you swinging, rolling, gliding and rattling all day.
Admire a gold-plated carousel dating back to 1926 in International Street. Enjoy views from the park’s replica Eiffel Tower that is one-third the size of the original in Paris. Keep young children entertained with the rides in Planet Snoopy.
Check out Soak City on a hot day. The water park has wave pools and several water slides to cool off in.
There are more than 35 food and drink outlets around the park. Indulge in an all-you-can-eat buffet and blue ice cream.
Kings Island is in Mason, 24 miles (39 kilometres) northeast of Cincinnati. Paid parking is available, or take a Metro bus from downtown Cincinnati. The park is open from late April until late October, with longer operational hours in summer. Opening days and hours vary throughout the year, so check times on the park’s website. You can also get a substantial discount by purchasing tickets online. Be aware that many attractions have a height requirement.
