Adventure Express 1991

Adventure Express, Kings Island's one-and-only "hybrid" roller coaster, opened nineteen years ago in 1991. Since then, the attraction has undergone countless changes and modifications- the removal of a train, addition of seat-belts, raised minimum height requirement, and the continual loss of themeing elements. While some effects had their time to shine- lighting, fog, etc.- other effects, features, and even scenes never even saw the light of day. Courtesy of R&R Designs, the mastermind behind Express' themeing, here are some rare and unique looks at the concept, construction, and early opening stages of the coaster.

First tunnel

Concept for second tunnel and start of first lift

Rick and Rick, co-owners of R&R Design. In the background is the construction of Express' first lift.

Concept art for ruins segment of Express

Concept art for third tunnel

Beginning of fourth tunnel / second lift-hill

One of the eight Stone Gods (more commonly referred to as "Tiki Men") alongside the track

"Bubba", the head Tiki Man

Concept art for fourth tunnel / second lift; notice the Tiki Men had legs and feet

Ending the Night

Over the summer, when scheduled for a close shift at Kings Island, I always looked forwards to a single thing- the fireworks. Not necessarily because they were impressive or "magical" (and trust me, after a few dozen times watching the same show, they were far from anything special), but instead because they signified one thing- the park was now closed, and after closing the ride and rushing through our nightly doings, we were free to clock-out and head home.

My common viewing-spot for Kings Island's nightly fireworks- the load side of the Adventure Express station.

LeSourdsville Lake

According to RCDB.com, nearly forty Ohio amusement parks have closed their doors and ceased operations. Although the majority of these entertainment complexes faced demolition after their closure, a rare few still stand as links to the past. Included in this list is LeSourdsville Lake, a once-charming amusement park home to family memories. Today, however, the empty amusement park is now home to decay, vandalism, and great photo opportunities.