16 Sep 2019
Cincinnati fun park to focus on water experiences at the expense of amusement rides
BY Andy Knaggs
Providing guests with more of what they want – this is the rationale behind Coney Island's decision to remove its amusement park rides and replace them with additional water park experiences.
The Cincinnati attraction opened its renowned Sunlite Pool in 1925 and has added a variety of water-based experiences, including slides, over the years, in its Sunlite Water Adventure area. Over time, it has also added traditional amusement park offerings – such as bumper cars, shows, games, ferris wheel and carousel rides.
However, the Sunlite Pool, which has been the world's largest flat-surface recirculating pool for more than 90 years, has always been the primary reason for families to come to the park, it said.
"All of our consumer research, all of our consumer feedback, and all of our in-park data shows that the vast majority of our guests come to Coney Island because of the fun they have while in the Sunlite Pool area," said Rob Schutter, Jr., president and CEO of the park.
The work to be undertaken is expected to culminate in the 100th anniversary of the opening of the Sunlite Pool in 2025, added Schutter.
"Since 2016, we have invested more than US$6m (€5.4m, £4.9m) into the Sunlite Pool. To celebrate the iconic pool's 100th birthday in 2025, we will kick start a new multi-phase renovation to grow Coney Island into the region's premier swim and play destination."
In place of the amusement rides, there will be new water features and amenities, enhanced facilities, new park services and special events, including additional space for its popular Appalachian Festival and Summerfair Cincinnati events. Guests will be able to use the park's amusement rides until 21 September at its annual Fire Up the Night event.
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