Timeline: Difference between revisions

From Adventurelandians - Adventureland Iowa Encyclopedia (Unofficial)
Jump to navigation Jump to search
 
(236 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 2: Line 2:
A timeline of the park's history.
A timeline of the park's history.


'''NOTE:''' Some information on this page comes from an old website called "Mike's Adventureland Page." The text was archived in the Wayback Machine from [https://web.archive.org/web/19981206214437/http://homepages.opencominc.com/mawilson/Adland/adland.html 1998 version of the site]. I will note the content that was lifted from Mike's site.
'''NOTE:''' Some information on this page comes from an old website called "Mike's Adventureland Page" by Mike Wilson. The text was archived in the Wayback Machine from [https://web.archive.org/web/19981206214437/http://homepages.opencominc.com/mawilson/Adland/adland.html 1998 version of the site]. I will note the content that was lifted from Mike's site.


== Mark A notes ==
'''See also:''' [[Ticket Prices]] over the years.
Mike A Wilson: I really don't know much about the park prior to 1990; that was the first year I went there. But since that time I have collected gate maps each year and they give a pretty good picture of what has changed each season. This information comes from studying those handouts.
 
{{AlertBox | THIS IS A WORK-IN-PROGRESS! | If you can help fill in any gaps, please contact me. Thanks! -''Allen''}}
 
== Mike A Wilson Notes ==
'''Mike A Wilson:'''
:''I really don't know much about the park prior to 1990; that was the first year I went there. But since that time I have collected gate maps each year and they give a pretty good picture of what has changed each season. This information comes from studying those handouts.''


== 1973 ==
== 1973 ==
Mike A Wilson:: The park opened its doors in 1973. I've been told it started out as a private corporation, issued public stock for awhile, and has now been taken private again. Some of the attractions, like the carousel and a now-defunct haunted house are reputed to have come from a shut-down amusement park in Des Moines called Riverview Park. This information comes from a source that I consider reliable, but I haven't been able to confirm it yet.
'''Mike A Wilson:'''
 
:''The park opened its doors in 1973. I've been told it started out as a private corporation, issued public stock for awhile, and has now been taken private again. Some of the attractions, like the carousel and a now-defunct haunted house are reputed to have come from a shut-down amusement park in Des Moines called Riverview Park. This information comes from a source that I consider reliable, but I haven't been able to confirm it yet.''
* Adventureland established and construction begins. This is where the "Established 1973" date comes from on the worker name badges and merchandise. There was nothing to "open" until 1974.
* Correction to the above: Adventureland established and construction begins. This is where the "Established 1973" date comes from on the worker name badges and merchandise. There was nothing to "open" until 1974.


== 1974 ==
== 1974 ==
* Main Street area opens on July 28, 1974.
* July 28, 1974 - Main Street area opens.
* Adventureland rides open on August 16, 1974.
* [[A Salute to Iowa Music]] show in [[Palace Theater]] opens.
* August 16, 1974 - Adventureland rides open, 10am to 10pm. (Des Moines Register ad 8-16-1974)
* [[Bavarian Scrambler]] (???) - "Bavaria" didn't open until 1976.
* [[Caterpillar]] - ? Alex reports this as listed in a 1975 ad, but we don't know what it was.
* [[Der Flitzer]] opens.
* [[Der Flitzer]] opens.
* [[Flying Scooters]] opens.
* [[Flying Scooters]] opens.
* [[Frantic Freeway]] opens.
* [[Frantic Freeway]] opens. (DMReg ad)
* [[Helicopters]] opens. (?)
* [[Infant Ocean]] opens.
* [[Infant Ocean]] opens.
* [[Lady Luck]] opens.
* [[Jaunty Jeeps]] opens. (DMReg ad)
* [[Lady Luck]] opens. (DMReg ad)
* [[Lighthouse]] opens.
* [[Lighthouse]] opens.
* [[River Rapids]] opens.
* [[Poppy's Place]] opens. (DMReg ad)
* [[Rallye Racers]] opens. (DMReg ad)
* [[River Rapids]] opens. (DMReg ad)
* [[Queen Riverboat]] opens. (What was the real name?)
* [[Queen Riverboat]] opens. (What was the real name?)
* [[Round Up]] opens.
* [[Round Up]] opens.
* [[Toonerville Trolleys]] opens. (? Official name ?)
* [[Silly Silo]] opens. (DMReg ad)
* [[Toonerville Trolleys]] opens. (DMReg ad, listed singular as Trolley)
* [[Silly Silo]] opens.
* [[Silly Silo]] opens.
** Ice Cream Parlor opens.
** Live Musical Reviews
** [[Soda and Sounds]] opens.
** [[Wee Critters]] petting zoo opens.


== 1975 ==
== 1975 ==
* Official grand opening held on May 31, 1975. Congressman Neal Smith, Altoona Mayor Lloyd Sievers and Adventureland President John Krantz spoke at the opening ceremony.
* May 31, 1975 - Official grand opening. Congressman Neal Smith, Altoona Mayor Lloyd Sievers and Adventureland President John Krantz spoke at the opening ceremony. The operator of [[Professor Bellows]] noted "Instead of cutting a ribbon they cut a rope to a hot air balloon that had the Adventureland logo and was Adventureland orange and yellow."
* [[Sky Ride]] opens
* [[Wheel of Fortune]] (Chance Morgan Rotator Company)
* [[Professor Bellows]] Old Time Photos opens.
=== Video ===
* https://youtu.be/yQWPqxQW8cE - 1975-1976 home movies.


== 1976 ==
== 1976 ==
* Alpine Village (aka [[Bavaria]]) added.
* Tickets: Adults $7, Children (4-12) $6, Under 3 free.
* 10am-8pm Sat & Sun in May. 10am-10pm daily starting May 29.
* Nearly twice as many rides in 1976 compared to 1975 according to newspaper ads.
* [[Alpine Village]] (aka [[Bavaria]]) added, including the [[Sky Ride]] "clock" building.
* [[Der Flinger]] opens.
* [[Der Flinger]] opens.
* [[Lady Bugs]] opens.
* [[Ladybug]] opens.
* [[Super Screamer]] opens.
* [[Super Screamer]] opens.
* [[Tea Cups]] opens.
* [[Tea Cups]] opens.
* Nearly twice as many rides in 1976 compared to 1975 according to newspaper ads.
 
== 1977 ==
* [[Dolphin Show]] added. (As shown on the "Adventureland Fun Club" 1977 brochure.) Need more info and official name. There was a later [[Dolphin Sea Lion Show]] added in [[1988]].


== 1978 ==
== 1978 ==
* The [[Tornado]] opens on July 4, 1978.
* July 5, 1978 - [[Tornado]] opens.
* Nearby [[Riverview Park]] closes.
* [[Red Baron]] opens, replacing the [[Helicopters]].


== 1979 ==
== 1979 ==
* [[County Fair]] area of the park opens. (??? Wikipedia lists 1978 Tornado then says "two years later" followed by "also in 1979"... Which is it?)
* Adventureland buys [[Riverview Park]] with plans to keep it open and use it for corporate events.
* [[Riverview]] section of the park opens, incorporating items acquired from the purchase of Riverview Park.
* [[County Fair]] area of the park opens.
* Riverview Himalaya opens.
* Haunted House dark ride opens.
* Carousel (original) opens.
* Weight Guessing booth opens.
* Hi-striker (original)


== 1980 ==
== 1980 ==
* [[Kiddie Kars]] opens. (Aka, Hampton Cars).
* Hi-Striker (original)
* [[Mirror Maze]] opens. (??? Not in 1979 with the Riverview section ???)
* [[Antique Cars]] opens, replacing the [[Jaunty Jeeps]] (same track, different vehicles.).
* [[Galaxy]] (Riverview Himalaya) opens.
* [[Kiddie Kars]] (aka, Hampton Cars) opens, replacing the [[Happy Horses]].
* [[Mirror Maze]] opens.
* [[Riverview]] section of the park opens, incorporating items acquired from the purchase of [[Riverview Park]].
* [[Haunted House]] dark ride opens.
* [[Riverview Carousel]] opens.
* Weight Guessing booth opens, with Jean from [[Riverview Park]] still working it.
* [[Adventure Theater]]... When did it open?
=== Video ===
* https://youtu.be/HLmVI2x-2MA - Clown Diving 1980 video.
 
== 1981 ==
Items listed in the 1981 brochure:
* [[Clown-A-Round]]
* [[American High Diving Team]]
* 50's musical review at [[Sheriff Sam's Saloon]].
* Old bumper cars were still being used.


== 1983 ==
== 1983 ==
* [[Raging River]] opens.
* [[Raging River]] opens.
* [[Jack Krantz]] buys out other owners and becomes sole owner of the park. (http://www.parkworld-online.com/adventureland/)


== 1985 ==
== 1985 ==
* [[A-Train]] opens, replacing the Trolley.
* [[A-Train]] opens, replacing the [[Toonerville Trolleys]].
* [[Galleon]] opens.
* [[Galleon]] opens.
=== Video ===
* https://youtu.be/Dpqrr0B1DHU - 1985 TV commercial.
== 1986 ==
* Adventureland looked in to a western Iowa location for a new amusement park. (https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1926&dat=19860926&id=0lgrAAAAIBAJ&sjid=s9gEAAAAIBAJ&pg=4385,8734348&hl=en)


== 1987 ==
== 1987 ==
Line 65: Line 112:


== 1988 ==
== 1988 ==
* [[Dolphin Sea Lion Show]] opens. (1988 map says "new", but there was also a [[Dolphin Show]] added in [[1977]]).
* [[Festival Picnic Area]] opens. (1988 map says "New Festival Picnic Area")
* [[Rainbow]] opens.
* [[Rainbow]] opens.


== 1989 ==
== 1989 ==
* [[Convoy]] opens?, replacing [[Haunted House]]? Not sure of the year, but Convoy first opened on Riverview where the Dragon queue is now.
* [[Falling Star]] opens, replacing the [[Rainbow]].
* [[Falling Star]] opens, replacing the [[Rainbow]].


== 1990 ==
== 1990 ==
Mike A Wilson: The Dragon first began operating in 1990. This custom-designed $2.5 million ride is a double-looping steel coaster that climbs to a height of 100 feet and drops through two 70-foot loops at 5.5 G's before slowing through a double reverse spiral. The Dragon occupies a spot formerly held by a children's ride, the Convoy (moved to a new location), and reportedly, the haunted house walk-through.
'''Mike A Wilson:'''
 
:''The Dragon first began operating in 1990. This custom-designed $2.5 million ride is a double-looping steel coaster that climbs to a height of 100 feet and drops through two 70-foot loops at 5.5 G's before slowing through a double reverse spiral. The Dragon occupies a spot formerly held by a children's ride, the Convoy (moved to a new location), and reportedly, the haunted house walk-through.''
Mike A Wilson: Also in 1990, the "Chinese Acrobats of Tapei" became the featured show at the Palace Theater.
:''Also in 1990, the "Chinese Acrobats of Tapei" became the featured show at the Palace Theater.''
 
:''The brochure also lists the U.S. High Dive Team performing in the Aquatheatre, but I don't know if this was a new show that year or a continuation.''
Mike A Wilson: The brochure also lists the U.S. High Dive Team performing in the Aquatheatre, but I don't know if this was a new show that year or a continuation.
* '''Tickets:''' Adults $14.95, Children $13.95, Seniors $10.95, Second day $7.50. Parking?
* [[Chinese Acrobats of Tapei]] show begins in the [[Palace Theater]].
* [[Dragon Island]] opens, replacing Riverview.
* [[Dragon Island]] opens, replacing Riverview.
* The [[Dragon]] steel roller coaster opens, on May 12, 1990, replacing the [[Haunted House]].
* May 12, 1990 - [[Dragon]] steel roller coaster opens, replacing the [[Haunted House]] or original [[Convoy]] location.


== 1991 ==
== 1991 ==
Mike A Wilson: The Giant Skywheel opens on the former site of Der Spritzer. This had been a small roller coaster with an Alpine boblsed theme. Like some of the other original rides, this one seemed to be only semi-permanent. It looked like it could be folded up and trucked away. It was a nice little ride. Its loss, along with some other changes have weakened the "European" theming in this part of the park.
'''Mike A Wilson:'''
 
:''The Giant Skywheel opens on the former site of Der Spritzer. This had been a small roller coaster with an Alpine boblsed theme. Like some of the other original rides, this one seemed to be only semi-permanent. It looked like it could be folded up and trucked away. It was a nice little ride. Its loss, along with some other changes have weakened the "European" theming in this part of the park.''
Mike A Wilson: The Skywheel itself cost about $1 million and rises to a height of nearly 100 feet. It is the largest open gondola wheel manufactured in America since George Ferris built his wheel for the Chicago Exposition (1898?). At night, the wheel glows with a computerized show light show using over 6000 bulbs.
:''The Skywheel itself cost about $1 million and rises to a height of nearly 100 feet. It is the largest open gondola wheel manufactured in America since George Ferris built his wheel for the Chicago Exposition (1898?). At night, the wheel glows with a computerized show light show using over 6000 bulbs.''
 
:''"Celebrate Freedom", a Broadway-style musical, replaces the Chinese Acrobats as the act at the Palace Theater.''
Mike A Wilson: "Celebrate Freedom", a Broadway-style musical, replaces the Chinese Acrobats as the act at the Palace Theater.
* [[Celebrate Freedom]] show begins in the [[Palace Theater]], replacing the [[Chinese Acrobats of Tapei]].
* [[Giant Sky Wheel]] opens.
* [[Giant Sky Wheel]] opens.
* [[Puff Dragons]] opens.
* [[Puff the Dragon]] opens.


== 1992 ==
== 1992 ==
Mike A Wilson: No major new rides opened in 1992. The only real change in the park was that "Adventures On Ice" began running in the Palace Theater in place of "Celebrate Freedom". "Adventures On Ice" would run for three years, ending after the 1994 season.
'''Mike A Wilson:'''
''No major new rides opened in 1992. The only real change in the park was that "Adventures On Ice" began running in the Palace Theater in place of "Celebrate Freedom". "Adventures On Ice" would run for three years, ending after the 1994 season.''
* Tickets: Adult $15.95, Children $14.95, Seniors $14.95, Second Day $8.
* [[Adventures on Ice]] show begins in the [[Palace Theater]].


== 1993 ==
== 1993 ==
Mike A Wilson: The 1993 season marked Adventureland's 20th Anniversary. And there were lots of changes and updates. For starters, the entire 12-acre Outlaw Gulch area of the park was opened. This major expansion featured the Outlaw, a brand-new wooden coaster, the Wrangler, which is a traditional "Scrambler"-type ride, and the Chuck Wagon, a ferris wheel for small children where they ride in covered gondolas shaped like Conestoga wagons. A new street show also begins running in Outlaw gulch and features a comedy-western skit five times a day starting at "High Noon".
'''Mike A Wilson:'''
 
:''The 1993 season marked Adventureland's 20th Anniversary. And there were lots of changes and updates. For starters, the entire 12-acre Outlaw Gulch area of the park was opened. This major expansion featured the Outlaw, a brand-new wooden coaster, the Wrangler, which is a traditional "Scrambler"-type ride, and the Chuck Wagon, a ferris wheel for small children where they ride in covered gondolas shaped like Conestoga wagons. A new street show also begins running in Outlaw gulch and features a comedy-western skit five times a day starting at "High Noon".''
Mike A Wilson: Every Thursday during June, July, and August, the "Family Fun Zone", a locally-produced TV game show, tapes episodes in the park in the Aquatheatre. The program was hosted by Adventureland magician Ben Ulin, who was also the show's co-creator. Guests could either watch the show being produced or be a part of the studio audience.
:''Every Thursday during June, July, and August, the "Family Fun Zone", a locally-produced TV game show, tapes episodes in the park in the Aquatheatre. The program was hosted by Adventureland magician Ben Ulin, who was also the show's co-creator. Guests could either watch the show being produced or be a part of the studio audience.''
* Tickets: Adult $17.50, Children $16.00, Seniors $13.50, Second Day $8.75.
* 1993 brochure read "20 YEASR OF FUN / COME CELEBRATE WITH US!"
* [[Chuck Wagon]] opens.
* [[Chuck Wagon]] opens.
* [[Outlaw]] opens on April 24, 1993.
* [[Family Fun Zone]] TV game show hosted by Ben Ulin records on Thursdays in June, July and August at the [[Aquatheatre]].
* April 24, 1993 - [[Outlaw]] opens.
* [[Outlaw Gulch]] area opens.
* [[Outlaw Gulch]] area opens.
* [[Puff Dragons]] relocates.
* [[Wrangler]] opens.
* [[Wrangler]] opens.
* Western Comedy Show opens. (What was the real name? I saw it somewhere.)
* Western Comedy Show opens. (What was the real name? I saw it somewhere.)
* Ice show in Palace Theater was back.


== 1994 ==
== 1994 ==
Mike A Wilson: After the major changes in 1993, not much happened in the park in 1994. All of the same rides and shows are listed on the gate map, including the "Family Fun Zone" taping and "Adventures On Ice".
'''Mike A Wilson:'''
:''After the major changes in 1993, not much happened in the park in 1994. All of the same rides and shows are listed on the gate map, including the "Family Fun Zone" taping and "Adventures On Ice".''


== 1995 ==
== 1995 ==
Mike A Wilson: This was also a quiet year, the only major change was the closing of "Adventures On Ice" at the Palace Theater and its replacement by the "Chinese National Acrobats". It's unclear if this is the same troupe that performed at the park in 1990 as the "Chinese Acrobats of Tapei", but the picture on the brochure is the same and the wording of the descriptions is almost identical.
'''Mike A Wilson:'''
 
:''This was also a quiet year, the only major change was the closing of "Adventures On Ice" at the Palace Theater and its replacement by the "Chinese National Acrobats". It's unclear if this is the same troupe that performed at the park in 1990 as the "Chinese Acrobats of Tapei", but the picture on the brochure is the same and the wording of the descriptions is almost identical.''
Mike A Wilson: The "Family Fun Zone" continued as a live show for another season.
:''The "Family Fun Zone" continued as a live show for another season.''
* [[Chinese National Acrobats]] begins in [[Palace Theater]], replacing [[Adventures on Ice]].


== 1996 ==
== 1996 ==
Mike A Wilson: This season saw the opening of the Underground, the first major new ride since 1993. It is a relatively mild indoor dark coaster that takes riders past several animatronic scenes of what was supposedly a maze of coal shafts turned into an outlaw hideout. To my knowledge, this is the only ride in the park that has had any kind of a "back story" written for it. The tale is related by an old miner figure as you wait in the interior line to board the ride.
'''Mike A Wilson:'''
 
:''This season saw the opening of the Underground, the first major new ride since 1993. It is a relatively mild indoor dark coaster that takes riders past several animatronic scenes of what was supposedly a maze of coal shafts turned into an outlaw hideout. To my knowledge, this is the only ride in the park that has had any kind of a "back story" written for it. The tale is related by an old miner figure as you wait in the interior line to board the ride.''
Mike A Wilson: The Underground is built on the site of the former "Aquatheatre". I'm told that original diving pool is still in place under the ride.
:''The Underground is built on the site of the former "Aquatheatre". I'm told that original diving pool is still in place under the ride.''
 
:''Also in 1996, "Unbelievable Magic and Mysteries" began running in the Palace Theatre. Since this show was performed by Ben Ulin, who normally works in Sheriff Sam's Saloon, the Saloon got a new show called the "Rootin' Tootin' Wild West Review".''
Mike A Wilson: Also in 1996, "Unbelievable Magic and Mysteries" began running in the Palace Theatre. Since this show was performed by Ben Ulin, who normally works in Sheriff Sam's Saloon, the Saloon got a new show called the "Rootin' Tootin' Wild West Review".
* [[Unbelievable Magic and Mysteries]] show opens in the [[Palace Theater]].
* [[Unbelievable Magic and Mysteries]] show opens in the [[Palace Theater]].
* [[Rootin' Tootin' Wild West Review]] opens in [[Sherif Sam's Saloon]].
* [[Rootin' Tootin' Wild West Review]] opens in [[Sheriff Sam's Saloon]].
* [[Underground]] opens, replacing the [[Aquatheatre]].
* [[Underground]] opens, replacing the [[Aquatheatre]].


== 1997 ==
== 1997 ==
Mike A Wilson: This year saw the introduction of two major new rides and a completely new show. The two rides were the Mixer and the G-Force. The Mixer is only the 4th ride of its kind in the country. Riders are secured in open cars and twirled around every rotation axis simultaneously. It occupies a spot between the Galleon and the Tea Cups. The G-Force is unque in the U.S. It is similar to a "Scrambler"-type ride, but much faster. It sits in a formerly empty area near the Dodge 'Em Cars.
'''Mike A Wilson:'''
 
:''This year saw the introduction of two major new rides and a completely new show. The two rides were the Mixer and the G-Force. The Mixer is only the 4th ride of its kind in the country. Riders are secured in open cars and twirled around every rotation axis simultaneously. It occupies a spot between the Galleon and the Tea Cups. The G-Force is unque in the U.S. It is similar to a "Scrambler"-type ride, but much faster. It sits in a formerly empty area near the Dodge 'Em Cars.''
Mike A Wilson: The new show was the "Royal Hanneford Circus". It claims to be one of the oldest and most renowned circuses in the world and to have toured the U.S. and Europe for decades. It stayed the entire summer in a big top erected near the Southwest edge of the park beyond Outlaw Gulch doing three shows a day.
:''The new show was the "Royal Hanneford Circus". It claims to be one of the oldest and most renowned circuses in the world and to have toured the U.S. and Europe for decades. It stayed the entire summer in a big top erected near the Southwest edge of the park beyond Outlaw Gulch doing three shows a day.''
 
:''The Palace Theater did not have a show running in 1997, but Ben Ulin returned to Sheriff Sam's Saloon with his "Magic and Comedy Review".''
Mike A Wilson: The Palace Theater did not have a show running in 1997, but Ben Ulin returned to Sheriff Sam's Saloon with his "Magic and Comedy Review".
* Tickets: Regular $19.50/$29.50, Children (4-9) $18/$28, Senior Citizens $15.50/$25.50.
* [[G-Force]] opens.
* [[G-Force]] opens.
* [[Magic and Comedy Review]] returns to Sheriff Sam's Saloon, replacing the [[Rootin' Tootin' Wild West Review]].
* [[Mixer]] opens.
* [[Mixer]] opens.
* [[Royal Hanneford Circus]] opens in Outlaw Gulch (behind the Tornado).
* [[Royal Hanneford Circus]] opens in Outlaw Gulch (behind the Tornado).


== 1998 ==
== 1998 ==
Mike A Wilson: Despite the fact that 1998 marks Adventureland's 25th year, there were few changes to the park. The Corner Arcade was replaced by "State Fair Mini-Donuts", The Shooting Gallery was removed to make way for a remote controlled car arcade, and a new Shooting Gallery was installed in Outlaw Gulch.
'''Mike A Wilson:'''
 
:''Despite the fact that 1998 marks Adventureland's 25th year, there were few changes to the park. The Corner Arcade was replaced by "State Fair Mini-Donuts", The Shooting Gallery was removed to make way for a remote controlled car arcade, and a new Shooting Gallery was installed in Outlaw Gulch.''
Mike A Wilson: The Royal Hanneford Circus returned for a second year of shows.
:''The Royal Hanneford Circus returned for a second year of shows.''
 
:''Once again, the Palace Theater had no show this season and the Outlaw Gulch comedy show is no longer running.''
Mike A Wilson: Once again, the Palace Theater had no show this season and the Outlaw Gulch comedy show is no longer running.
:''Sinclair now sponsors the "Convoy" ride and a 10-foot brontosaurus is added nearby for the kids to climb on.''
 
* Parking $2, General Admission $19.50, Kids 4-9 $18.00, Kids under 3 Free, Senior Citizens $15.50.
Mike A Wilson: Sinclair now sponsors the "Convoy" ride and a 10-foot brontosaurus is added nearby for the kids to climb on.
* 25th anniversary of the park (but not the anniversary of the park opening to guests).
* [[Mini Donuts]] opens in [[River City]], replacing the [[Corner Arcade]].
* [[Speedway]] RC cars opens, replacing the original [[Shooting Gallery]].
* [[Outlaw Gulch Shooting Gallery]] opens.
* [[Outlaw Gulch Saloon]] becomes a food counter and begins offering food.
* Sinclair becomes the new sponsor of [[Convoy]]. A 10-feet brontosaurus statue is installed nearby.
* www.adventurelandpark.com registered, but it wasn't owned by the park. Somewhere I have e-mail from whoever had it; if I recall, they were going to be making the site for the park, but it didn't get worked out.


== 1999 ==
== 1999 ==
* www.adventureland-usa.com website opens (?).
* [[Space Shot]] opens.
* [[Space Shot]] opens.


== 2000 ==
== 2000 ==
* A new [[Himalaya]] opens.
* A new [[Himalaya]] opens, replacing the [[Riverview Carousel]].
* [[Inverter]] opens, replacing [[Super Screamer]].
* [[Inverter]] opens, replacing [[Super Screamer]].
* A new [[Carousel]] opens, replacing [[Daniel and the Dixieland Diggers]].
* A new [[Carousel]] opens, replacing [[Daniel and the Dixieland Diggers]].
* [[Adventureland Band]]
* [[Country Music U.S.A]] show.
* [[Count Down to the Millennium]] show. (sounds like it would have made sense in 1999. correct?)


== 2001 ==
== 2001 ==
* Garfield the Cat appears in the park.
* [[Garfield]] the Cat appears in the park.
[[Image:Garfield2001.jpg|right|thumb|Garfield in 2001.]]
[[Image:Garfield2001.jpg|right|thumb|Garfield in 2001.]]
* [[Wired for Sound]] show.
* [[Rock the House]] show.


== 2002 ==
== 2002 ==
* Tickets: Regular $26/$39, Children (4-9) $22/$35, Senior Citizens $22/$35, Season Pass $55.
* [[Adventureland Inn]] expands.
* [[Adventureland Inn]] expands.
* [[Saw Mill Splash]] opens, replacing the [[Wrangler]].
* [[Saw Mill Splash]] opens, replacing the [[Wrangler]].
* Season Passes introduced.
* Public School used to process Season Passes.
* [[Re-Wired]] show.
* [[Rock the House]] show.
* www.adventurelandpark.com now becomes the official website (www.adventureland-usa.com still works). New website design.
== 2003 ==
* Tickets: Adult $26, Children (4-9) $22, Senior Citizens $22, Season Pass $65.
* [[Adventureland Celebrates 30 Years of Family Fun]]
* [[Bandstand Blast]] show.
* [[American Band]] show.
* [[Singing Sweet Country Music]] show.


== 2004 ==
== 2004 ==
* Tickets: Regular $27/$40.50, Children (4-9) $23/$36.50, Senior Citizens $23/$36.50, Season Pass $80.
* [[Sidewinder]] opens.
* [[Sidewinder]] opens.
* May 1 - TV commercial footage of Sidewinder recorded.
* May 1 - TV commercial footage of Sidewinder recorded.
* Same three shows on website archive as 2003...???
== 2005 ==
* [[Hole In One]] opens, replacing [[Speedway]].
* [[River Rapids]] on-ride photos added.
* [[Let Liberty Ring]] show at the [[Chapel]].
* [[Radioactive]] show at Soda and Sounds.
* [[Shaking Up the Country]] show at Soda and Sounds.
=== Minor Changes ===
* New fencing around [[County Fair]] and [[Sky Ride]].
* New fence and railing around [[Round Up]].
* New railing along [[Last Frontier]] walkway.
* New fence near [[Public School]] on Main Street.


== 2006 ==
== 2006 ==
* Park founder [[Jack Krantz]] passes away on January 7, 2006.
* Tickets: Regular $29/$43.50, Children (4-9) $25/$39.50, Senior Citizens $25/$39.50, Season Pass $75.
* Park opened on April 29.
* Park opened on April 29.
* [[Splash Over]] opens.
* [[Splash Over]] opens.
* [[Frog Hopper]] opens.
* [[Frog Hopper]] opens.
* [[Shakin' at the High School Hop]] show at Soda and Sounds.
* [[Country Classics]] show at Soda and Sounds.
* Or: Soda n Sounds will present three different sets "[[Bandstand Blast]]", "[[American Band]]" and "[[Singing Sweet Country Music]]". ???
=== Minor Changes ===
* Crunch Cream added to [[Sno-Cones Shakes]].
* [[Let's Play Fetch]] game.
* [[Derby Downs]] uses pigs instead of horses, with pigs as the prize.
* [[Bushels of Fun]] ball/basket toss game.
* [[Jack the Giraffe]] tree carving appears near River Rapids.
* [[Subland]] opens, replacing a hot dog location.
== 2007 ==
* Tickets: Regular $29, Children (4-9) $25, Senior Citizens $25, Season Pass $85.
* [[Hats Off to Iowa]] show at the [[Chapel]].
* Season Pass processing center moved to outside building.
* [[Bernie's Great Adventure]] show.
=== Minor Changes ===
* [[Animaland]] stuffed animals added.
* ATM installed outside front gate.
* Cookies BBQ sauce.
* Drink machines appear near some restrooms.
* Espresso-Etc! coffees added to [[Mini Donuts]] and [[Iowa Cafe]].
* [[Iowa Farm]] windmill uncovered from behind all the vines.
* Ticket Booth courtyard remodeled to include "A" in concrete.
* [[Jack the Giraffe]] tree carving gets spots (sometime between 4/28 and 6/02).
* T-Shirts: I (heart) Corn Dogs and I (heart) Funnel Cakes, 10% off if you bring your food receipt.
* Fence around [[Infant Ocean]] rebuilt.


== 2008 ==
== 2008 ==
* Tickets: Parking $5, Regular $31, Children (4-9) $27, Senior Citizens $27, Season Pass $85.
* [[Kokomo Kove]] opens.
* [[Kokomo Kove]] opens.
* [[Royal Hanneford Circus]] is relocated behind [[Saw Mill Splash]].
* [[Mini Melts]] added.
* Park goes No Smoking.
* [[Bernie's Birthday Bash]] show.
* [[Friends Forever]] show at the Chapel.
=== Minor Changes ===
* Fredrichs Coffee added to park.
* [[Giant Sky Wheel]] hub logo changed from Fuji to Adventureland.
* Scanners for Season Passes being used at the Front Gate.
=== Video ===
* https://youtu.be/CgbLXGZWAZI - My 2008 video of every ride operating in the park that year.
== 2009 ==
* Tickets: Regular $31, Children (4-9) $27, Senior Citizens $27, Season Pass $85.
* [[Boys Rock]] musical show performed on the streets in Bavaria.
* [[Hy-Striker]] installed. 1 play for $3, 3 plays for $5.
* [[ICEE Mix It Up]] opens.
* [[Post Office]] becomes day glow shop. (? Was it still the Post Office in 2008 ?)
* [[Summer Breeze]] show at the [[Chapel]].
* Website redone.
=== Minor Changes ===
* [[A-Train]] entrance and exit reverses.
* Miller Lite beer signs appear throughout the park.
* [[Kokomo Kove]] expansion - Tropical frozen drinks (Pina Colada, Strawberry Daiquiris, Rum and Coke). Snowies. Water Wars (like the one that used to be across from Yacht Club). Big Squirt refill station.
* New [[Fool the Guesser]] signs.
* [[Outlaw Gulch Stage]] construction (to become [[Chuck Wagon Soda]]).
* Season Pass discounts begin at [[Iowa Cafe]], a game, and [[Water Wars]].
* Sports Shop on [[Main Street]]. (where?)
* Turkey Legs added to [[River City Foods]].


== 2010 ==
== 2010 ==
* Fire destroys the left half of Main Street / Bavaria on February 20, 2010.
* Tickets: Parking $5, Regular $35, Children (4-9) $30, Senior Citizens $30, Season Pass $95.
* February 20, 2010 - Fire destroys the left half of Main Street / Bavaria.
* [[Adventure Bay]] opens.
* [[Chuck Wagon Soda]] opens.
* [[Fun Foods]] opens, after original location next to Bingo was lost due to the 2010 fire.
* [[Kevin Adair Master Juggler]] at the [[Chapel]].
* [[Professor Particle's Science Show]] at the [[Chapel]].
* [[Tornado]] on-ride photos added.
* [[Toy Box]] opens in the Public School.
* [[Rockin' in the Country]] at Soda and Sounds.
* [[Captain Bernie and the Pirates of Adventureland]] at Soda and Sounds.
* [[Wonder A Tribute to Stevie Wonder]] at Soda and Sounds.
=== Minor Changes ===
* Animated buffalo head above Shooting Gallery gone (destroyed in the fire). Replaced by skull.


== 2011 ==
== 2011 ==
Line 174: Line 346:
* [[G-Force]] relocates to inside the new [[Main Street Arcade]].
* [[G-Force]] relocates to inside the new [[Main Street Arcade]].
* [[Wrangler]] returns as the Scrambler, in the spot formerly occupied by G-Force.
* [[Wrangler]] returns as the Scrambler, in the spot formerly occupied by G-Force.
* [[Bixby's Rainforest Rescue]] show at [[Sodas and Sounds]].
* [[Kevin Adair - Juggling Sensation!]] show at the [[Chapel]].
* Fire destroys the [[Rally Round]] corn dog stand on December 15, 2011.
* Fire destroys the [[Rally Round]] corn dog stand on December 15, 2011.
== 2012 ==
Are these correct? Did they both re-open the season after the fire?
* [[Chicken Shack]] moves to a new building where [[Rally Round]] used to be.
* [[Rally Round]] relocates to the old [[Chicken Shack]] building.
* 25,000 square foot wave pool added to [[Adventure Bay]].
* Kids activity pool added.
* [[Pint Sized Pub]] opens.
* [[Adventureland Store]] adds museum displays of past park history.
==2013 ==
* [[Jan Krantz]] passes away on August 13, 2013.


== 2014 ==
== 2014 ==
Line 180: Line 366:


== 2015 ==
== 2015 ==
* Tickets: $40 / $35 / $130
* [[Abita Bar]] opens.
* [[Bier Garten]] opens.
* [[Bier Garten]] opens.
* [[Oktoberfest]] was held for the first time on October 3.
* [[Dragon Island Bridge]] rebuilt, widened and lit.
* [[Palace Theater]] completely remodeled.
* [[River City Smoke Shack]] rebuilt.
* October 3, 2015 - [[Oktoberfest]] was held for the first time.


== 2016 ==
== 2016 ==
* [[Cookies and Cream]] opens.
* Tickets: $42 / $35 / $135
* [[Live Local Solo Artists]] performance area opens.
* April 30, 2016 - Opening day was scheduled, but due to weather, the park was closed and the first day of operation was May 1.
* July 11-16, 2016 - Monster was closed for preventative maintenance. Some replacement parts had to be machined and installed for the lift hill to prevent premature wear.
* July 19, 2016 - Park closed early due to weather.
* [[Cookies and Cream]] opens, replacing some Football toss game.
* [[Golden Nugget Shooting Gallery]] opens, replacing the [[Golden Nugget Arcade]]. It was the old [[Outlaw Gulch Shooting Gallery]], refurbished and upgraded.
* [[Live Local Solo Artists]] performance area opens at the [[Iowa Beer and Wine Shop]].
* [[Monster]] opens on June 4, replacing the [[River Rapids]] log ride.
* [[Monster]] opens on June 4, replacing the [[River Rapids]] log ride.
* [[Outlaw Gulch Saloon]] relocates next door, replacing the [[Outlaw Gulch Shooting Gallery]].
* [[Outlaw Gulch Saloon]] relocates next door, replacing the [[Outlaw Gulch Shooting Gallery]].
* [[Golden Nugget Shooting Gallery]] opens, replacing the [[Golden Nugget Arcade]]. It was the old [[Outlaw Gulch Shooting Gallery]], refurbished and upgraded.
* August 4, 2106 - [[Oktoberfest]] 2016 officially announced on the Adventureland Facebook page.
* August 21, 2016 - Adventureland's Facebook page hits 100,000 Likes.
=== Minor Changes ===
* [[Abita Bar]] menu TV screens added.
* [[Bier Garten]] gets two new sign posts.
* Change machines added at [[Yacht Club]] and on the [[Dragon Island Bridge]].
* [[Dippin' Dots]] opens near the Monster queue.
* [[Giant Sky Wheel]] gets new LED light show.
* [[Last Frontier]] sidewalk updated.
* [[Rally Round]] adds veggie corn dogs to the menu.
* [[Space Shot]] lighting gets upgraded to color-changing LED spotlights.
* [[Ticket Booths]] gets a new metal queue area, allowing all guests to wait in one line and be served by the next available window (speeding up weight times since you never pick the "slow" line).
* [[Brad Seidenfeld]], [[Brian Congdon]] and [[Tony Bohnenkamp]] perform at the [[Iowa Beer and Wine Shop]] stage.
 
== 2017 ==
* Tickets: $42 / $37 / $125 (did the season pass really drop?)
* Park scheduled to open April 29-30, 2017, but severe rain and low temperatures caused the opening to be postponed until May 6, 2017.
* [[Bernie]] appears with a new look.
* [[Bernie's Klement's Cart]] hot dog stand opens.
* [[Corona Cantina]] opens, replacing [[Abita Bar]], with expanded offering of frozen drinks, including non-alcoholic variations.
* [[Fun Foods]] gets a new cotton candy room with a window facing the street so guests can watch cotton candy being made.
* [[Gyros]] expands inside and out with an order window and serving window. Baklava, Greek Salads and other items added. Extra seating added in front.
* [[ICEE Mix It Up]] offers spiked ICEEs, like they did during [[Oktoberfest]].
* [[Iowa Beer and Wine Shop]] gets a new barn-shaped tent for outside seating. Stage to be added.
* [[Leinenkugel Tiki Bar]] opens in Adventure Bay.
* New website launched. (I believe this is the third incarnation of the Adventureland website.)
 
=== Minor Changes ===
* http://www.adventurelandresort.com becomes the new website for the inn.
* New bridge at the end of [[Main Street]] (built between closing weekend of 2016 and [[Oktoberfest 2016]]).
* Lots of paint, including parking lot stripes.
* [[Saw Mill Splash]] gets a new sign.
* [[Professor Bellows]] sign cleaned up.
* LCD monitors are placed outside the Main Street theater and outside the picnic areas.
* LCD monitors added at [[Bier Garten]].
* [[Sidewinder]] "ride height" sign replaced.
* New colorful sign for Ben Ulin's [[Magic and Comedy Review]] in the walkway.
* Colorful cover over the tunnel between the [[Monster]] and [[County Fair]].
* [[Chuck Wagon Soda]] drops the classic sodas, and changes the type of jerky being served (made in Iowa).
* [[Petunia Pig]] gets a new menu of bacon popcorn and 1/4 pound bacon on a stick.
* New iced beverage refill cups for the alcohol drinks (completely different than the ones used for ICEEs).
* [[Tornado]] and [[Dragon]] get storage bins for rides to stash their stuff before riding.
* [[Scatterball]] game on [[Dragon Island]] replaces a balloon pop location.
* [[Gulch Foods]] receives a menu board sign outside, giving the new location an official name.
* [[Convoy]] gets a new sign.
* [[Flag Pole]] display appeared in front of the [[Giant Sky Wheel]].
 
== 2018 ==
* Tickets: Regular $45/$70, Children (4-9) $40/$65, Senior Citizens $40/$65, Season Pass $140.
* Park opened on Map 5, 2018.
* [[Doc and Leone's Diner]] opens on [[Main Street]], replacing [[Iowa Cafe]].
* [[Iowa Beer and Wine Shop]] expands into a full bar with more beers, cocktails and frozen drinks.
* [[Inverter]] is removed.
* A new area, [[Bernie's Barnyard]], opens. It replaces [[Country Picnic Grounds]], and features two new children rides: [[Junior Jockeys]] and [[Shakin' Bacon]].
* [[Airbrush Worx]] opens, replacing [[Airbrush Avenue]].
* [[The Gift Gallery]] opens.
* [[Fire Station]] becomes [[Main Street Marketplace]]. Stroller/wheelchair rentals move to the former [[Adventureland Store]] location.
 
=== Minor Changes ===
* New food offerings throughout the park, including: Little Smokies Cup, Fiesta Street Corn, Siracha Chicken in a Waffle Cup, Chicken and Waffle Sliders, Outlaw Burger, BBQ Sundae, Oreo Churros, plus a whole new menu at the new diner.
* [[Corner Store]] relocates.
* [[Sheriff Sam's Saloon]] gets new paint, and a new inner wall and flooring. Four horse hitching posts are added out front. Outside speakers now announce that that magic show is about to begin.
* Colorful flags added throughout the park.
* [[Tea Cups]] and [[Rathskeller]] get new signs.
* New fencing around [[Puff Dragons]] and [[Saw Mill Splash]]. Fence removed from lawn around the Carousel.
* [[Red Baron]] gets a new red paint job, and the [[Yacht Club]] island is repainted.
 
== [[2019]] ==
* Tickets: $48 / $43 / $150
* Park opened on XXX.
* [[Phoenix]] coaster opens.
 
== [[2020]] ==
* Tickets: $48 / $43 / $150
* Park opened on XXX.
* Opening delayed due to the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic.
* [[Dragon]] disassembled and teaser announcement for a replacement posted.
 
== [[2021]] ==
* Tickets: $50 / $45 / Bronzer $140 / Silver $170 / Gold $240 / Platinum $400
* Pre-Tickets: Regular $50/$80, Children (4-9) $45/$75, Senior Citizens $45/$75, Season Pass $110/$140/$175/$290.
* Announced opening date for [[Dragon]] replacement, [[Dragon Slayer]].
* Four levels of season passes introduced (bronze, silver, gold and platinum). The bronze level is good just for Mon-Thu admission and does not include parking. The silver pass adds free parking and admission to a concert series. Gold is similar to the previous year passes but includes soda and popcorn refill containers and new discounts. Platinum adds "park hospitality suite" admission, priority parking upgrade, one night stay at the Inn, and an Inn Splash Pass.
* Park opened on XXX.
* [[Coffee House]] opens.
* Circus moves.
* [[Puff Dragons]] moves and is renamed.
* [[Infant Ocean]] removed, replaced by xxx.
 
== External Links ==
* https://www.adventurelandpark.com/about/ - Official Adventureland website history page.
* https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adventureland_(Iowa) - Wikipedia entry (many inaccuracies).

Latest revision as of 19:58, 2 July 2021

This site is a tribute to the Krantz-family era of Adventureland (1973-2021).
Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm. - Ralph Waldo Emerson
DISCLAIMER
Information on this site is unofficial. It is compiled by fans of Adventureland amusement park in Altoona, Iowa (near Des Moines). There may be inaccuracies and omissions. For official Adventureland information, visit the official website.

See Newest Pages or all Recent Changes. | Join my Facebook Group. | About this site. | Blog | Contact me.

This page was last updated on 07/2/2021. Total Pages: 317. Total Files: 327.

Home / History - Timeline

A timeline of the park's history.

NOTE: Some information on this page comes from an old website called "Mike's Adventureland Page" by Mike Wilson. The text was archived in the Wayback Machine from 1998 version of the site. I will note the content that was lifted from Mike's site.

See also: Ticket Prices over the years.

THIS IS A WORK-IN-PROGRESS!
If you can help fill in any gaps, please contact me. Thanks! -Allen

Mike A Wilson Notes

Mike A Wilson:

I really don't know much about the park prior to 1990; that was the first year I went there. But since that time I have collected gate maps each year and they give a pretty good picture of what has changed each season. This information comes from studying those handouts.

1973

Mike A Wilson:

The park opened its doors in 1973. I've been told it started out as a private corporation, issued public stock for awhile, and has now been taken private again. Some of the attractions, like the carousel and a now-defunct haunted house are reputed to have come from a shut-down amusement park in Des Moines called Riverview Park. This information comes from a source that I consider reliable, but I haven't been able to confirm it yet.
  • Correction to the above: Adventureland established and construction begins. This is where the "Established 1973" date comes from on the worker name badges and merchandise. There was nothing to "open" until 1974.

1974

1975

  • May 31, 1975 - Official grand opening. Congressman Neal Smith, Altoona Mayor Lloyd Sievers and Adventureland President John Krantz spoke at the opening ceremony. The operator of Professor Bellows noted "Instead of cutting a ribbon they cut a rope to a hot air balloon that had the Adventureland logo and was Adventureland orange and yellow."
  • Sky Ride opens
  • Wheel of Fortune (Chance Morgan Rotator Company)
  • Professor Bellows Old Time Photos opens.

Video

1976

1977

1978

1979

  • Adventureland buys Riverview Park with plans to keep it open and use it for corporate events.
  • County Fair area of the park opens.

1980

Video

1981

Items listed in the 1981 brochure:

1983

1985

Video

1986

1987

1988

1989

1990

Mike A Wilson:

The Dragon first began operating in 1990. This custom-designed $2.5 million ride is a double-looping steel coaster that climbs to a height of 100 feet and drops through two 70-foot loops at 5.5 G's before slowing through a double reverse spiral. The Dragon occupies a spot formerly held by a children's ride, the Convoy (moved to a new location), and reportedly, the haunted house walk-through.
Also in 1990, the "Chinese Acrobats of Tapei" became the featured show at the Palace Theater.
The brochure also lists the U.S. High Dive Team performing in the Aquatheatre, but I don't know if this was a new show that year or a continuation.

1991

Mike A Wilson:

The Giant Skywheel opens on the former site of Der Spritzer. This had been a small roller coaster with an Alpine boblsed theme. Like some of the other original rides, this one seemed to be only semi-permanent. It looked like it could be folded up and trucked away. It was a nice little ride. Its loss, along with some other changes have weakened the "European" theming in this part of the park.
The Skywheel itself cost about $1 million and rises to a height of nearly 100 feet. It is the largest open gondola wheel manufactured in America since George Ferris built his wheel for the Chicago Exposition (1898?). At night, the wheel glows with a computerized show light show using over 6000 bulbs.
"Celebrate Freedom", a Broadway-style musical, replaces the Chinese Acrobats as the act at the Palace Theater.

1992

Mike A Wilson: No major new rides opened in 1992. The only real change in the park was that "Adventures On Ice" began running in the Palace Theater in place of "Celebrate Freedom". "Adventures On Ice" would run for three years, ending after the 1994 season.

1993

Mike A Wilson:

The 1993 season marked Adventureland's 20th Anniversary. And there were lots of changes and updates. For starters, the entire 12-acre Outlaw Gulch area of the park was opened. This major expansion featured the Outlaw, a brand-new wooden coaster, the Wrangler, which is a traditional "Scrambler"-type ride, and the Chuck Wagon, a ferris wheel for small children where they ride in covered gondolas shaped like Conestoga wagons. A new street show also begins running in Outlaw gulch and features a comedy-western skit five times a day starting at "High Noon".
Every Thursday during June, July, and August, the "Family Fun Zone", a locally-produced TV game show, tapes episodes in the park in the Aquatheatre. The program was hosted by Adventureland magician Ben Ulin, who was also the show's co-creator. Guests could either watch the show being produced or be a part of the studio audience.
  • Tickets: Adult $17.50, Children $16.00, Seniors $13.50, Second Day $8.75.
  • 1993 brochure read "20 YEASR OF FUN / COME CELEBRATE WITH US!"
  • Chuck Wagon opens.
  • Family Fun Zone TV game show hosted by Ben Ulin records on Thursdays in June, July and August at the Aquatheatre.
  • April 24, 1993 - Outlaw opens.
  • Outlaw Gulch area opens.
  • Puff Dragons relocates.
  • Wrangler opens.
  • Western Comedy Show opens. (What was the real name? I saw it somewhere.)
  • Ice show in Palace Theater was back.

1994

Mike A Wilson:

After the major changes in 1993, not much happened in the park in 1994. All of the same rides and shows are listed on the gate map, including the "Family Fun Zone" taping and "Adventures On Ice".

1995

Mike A Wilson:

This was also a quiet year, the only major change was the closing of "Adventures On Ice" at the Palace Theater and its replacement by the "Chinese National Acrobats". It's unclear if this is the same troupe that performed at the park in 1990 as the "Chinese Acrobats of Tapei", but the picture on the brochure is the same and the wording of the descriptions is almost identical.
The "Family Fun Zone" continued as a live show for another season.

1996

Mike A Wilson:

This season saw the opening of the Underground, the first major new ride since 1993. It is a relatively mild indoor dark coaster that takes riders past several animatronic scenes of what was supposedly a maze of coal shafts turned into an outlaw hideout. To my knowledge, this is the only ride in the park that has had any kind of a "back story" written for it. The tale is related by an old miner figure as you wait in the interior line to board the ride.
The Underground is built on the site of the former "Aquatheatre". I'm told that original diving pool is still in place under the ride.
Also in 1996, "Unbelievable Magic and Mysteries" began running in the Palace Theatre. Since this show was performed by Ben Ulin, who normally works in Sheriff Sam's Saloon, the Saloon got a new show called the "Rootin' Tootin' Wild West Review".

1997

Mike A Wilson:

This year saw the introduction of two major new rides and a completely new show. The two rides were the Mixer and the G-Force. The Mixer is only the 4th ride of its kind in the country. Riders are secured in open cars and twirled around every rotation axis simultaneously. It occupies a spot between the Galleon and the Tea Cups. The G-Force is unque in the U.S. It is similar to a "Scrambler"-type ride, but much faster. It sits in a formerly empty area near the Dodge 'Em Cars.
The new show was the "Royal Hanneford Circus". It claims to be one of the oldest and most renowned circuses in the world and to have toured the U.S. and Europe for decades. It stayed the entire summer in a big top erected near the Southwest edge of the park beyond Outlaw Gulch doing three shows a day.
The Palace Theater did not have a show running in 1997, but Ben Ulin returned to Sheriff Sam's Saloon with his "Magic and Comedy Review".

1998

Mike A Wilson:

Despite the fact that 1998 marks Adventureland's 25th year, there were few changes to the park. The Corner Arcade was replaced by "State Fair Mini-Donuts", The Shooting Gallery was removed to make way for a remote controlled car arcade, and a new Shooting Gallery was installed in Outlaw Gulch.
The Royal Hanneford Circus returned for a second year of shows.
Once again, the Palace Theater had no show this season and the Outlaw Gulch comedy show is no longer running.
Sinclair now sponsors the "Convoy" ride and a 10-foot brontosaurus is added nearby for the kids to climb on.
  • Parking $2, General Admission $19.50, Kids 4-9 $18.00, Kids under 3 Free, Senior Citizens $15.50.
  • 25th anniversary of the park (but not the anniversary of the park opening to guests).
  • Mini Donuts opens in River City, replacing the Corner Arcade.
  • Speedway RC cars opens, replacing the original Shooting Gallery.
  • Outlaw Gulch Shooting Gallery opens.
  • Outlaw Gulch Saloon becomes a food counter and begins offering food.
  • Sinclair becomes the new sponsor of Convoy. A 10-feet brontosaurus statue is installed nearby.
  • www.adventurelandpark.com registered, but it wasn't owned by the park. Somewhere I have e-mail from whoever had it; if I recall, they were going to be making the site for the park, but it didn't get worked out.

1999

  • www.adventureland-usa.com website opens (?).
  • Space Shot opens.

2000

2001

Garfield in 2001.

2002

  • Tickets: Regular $26/$39, Children (4-9) $22/$35, Senior Citizens $22/$35, Season Pass $55.
  • Adventureland Inn expands.
  • Saw Mill Splash opens, replacing the Wrangler.
  • Season Passes introduced.
  • Public School used to process Season Passes.
  • Re-Wired show.
  • Rock the House show.
  • www.adventurelandpark.com now becomes the official website (www.adventureland-usa.com still works). New website design.

2003

2004

  • Tickets: Regular $27/$40.50, Children (4-9) $23/$36.50, Senior Citizens $23/$36.50, Season Pass $80.
  • Sidewinder opens.
  • May 1 - TV commercial footage of Sidewinder recorded.
  • Same three shows on website archive as 2003...???

2005

Minor Changes

2006

Minor Changes

2007

Minor Changes

  • Animaland stuffed animals added.
  • ATM installed outside front gate.
  • Cookies BBQ sauce.
  • Drink machines appear near some restrooms.
  • Espresso-Etc! coffees added to Mini Donuts and Iowa Cafe.
  • Iowa Farm windmill uncovered from behind all the vines.
  • Ticket Booth courtyard remodeled to include "A" in concrete.
  • Jack the Giraffe tree carving gets spots (sometime between 4/28 and 6/02).
  • T-Shirts: I (heart) Corn Dogs and I (heart) Funnel Cakes, 10% off if you bring your food receipt.
  • Fence around Infant Ocean rebuilt.

2008

Minor Changes

  • Fredrichs Coffee added to park.
  • Giant Sky Wheel hub logo changed from Fuji to Adventureland.
  • Scanners for Season Passes being used at the Front Gate.

Video

2009

  • Tickets: Regular $31, Children (4-9) $27, Senior Citizens $27, Season Pass $85.
  • Boys Rock musical show performed on the streets in Bavaria.
  • Hy-Striker installed. 1 play for $3, 3 plays for $5.
  • ICEE Mix It Up opens.
  • Post Office becomes day glow shop. (? Was it still the Post Office in 2008 ?)
  • Summer Breeze show at the Chapel.
  • Website redone.

Minor Changes

2010

Minor Changes

  • Animated buffalo head above Shooting Gallery gone (destroyed in the fire). Replaced by skull.

2011

2012

Are these correct? Did they both re-open the season after the fire?

2013

2014

2015

2016

Minor Changes

2017

  • Tickets: $42 / $37 / $125 (did the season pass really drop?)
  • Park scheduled to open April 29-30, 2017, but severe rain and low temperatures caused the opening to be postponed until May 6, 2017.
  • Bernie appears with a new look.
  • Bernie's Klement's Cart hot dog stand opens.
  • Corona Cantina opens, replacing Abita Bar, with expanded offering of frozen drinks, including non-alcoholic variations.
  • Fun Foods gets a new cotton candy room with a window facing the street so guests can watch cotton candy being made.
  • Gyros expands inside and out with an order window and serving window. Baklava, Greek Salads and other items added. Extra seating added in front.
  • ICEE Mix It Up offers spiked ICEEs, like they did during Oktoberfest.
  • Iowa Beer and Wine Shop gets a new barn-shaped tent for outside seating. Stage to be added.
  • Leinenkugel Tiki Bar opens in Adventure Bay.
  • New website launched. (I believe this is the third incarnation of the Adventureland website.)

Minor Changes

2018

Minor Changes

  • New food offerings throughout the park, including: Little Smokies Cup, Fiesta Street Corn, Siracha Chicken in a Waffle Cup, Chicken and Waffle Sliders, Outlaw Burger, BBQ Sundae, Oreo Churros, plus a whole new menu at the new diner.
  • Corner Store relocates.
  • Sheriff Sam's Saloon gets new paint, and a new inner wall and flooring. Four horse hitching posts are added out front. Outside speakers now announce that that magic show is about to begin.
  • Colorful flags added throughout the park.
  • Tea Cups and Rathskeller get new signs.
  • New fencing around Puff Dragons and Saw Mill Splash. Fence removed from lawn around the Carousel.
  • Red Baron gets a new red paint job, and the Yacht Club island is repainted.

2019

  • Tickets: $48 / $43 / $150
  • Park opened on XXX.
  • Phoenix coaster opens.

2020

  • Tickets: $48 / $43 / $150
  • Park opened on XXX.
  • Opening delayed due to the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic.
  • Dragon disassembled and teaser announcement for a replacement posted.

2021

  • Tickets: $50 / $45 / Bronzer $140 / Silver $170 / Gold $240 / Platinum $400
  • Pre-Tickets: Regular $50/$80, Children (4-9) $45/$75, Senior Citizens $45/$75, Season Pass $110/$140/$175/$290.
  • Announced opening date for Dragon replacement, Dragon Slayer.
  • Four levels of season passes introduced (bronze, silver, gold and platinum). The bronze level is good just for Mon-Thu admission and does not include parking. The silver pass adds free parking and admission to a concert series. Gold is similar to the previous year passes but includes soda and popcorn refill containers and new discounts. Platinum adds "park hospitality suite" admission, priority parking upgrade, one night stay at the Inn, and an Inn Splash Pass.
  • Park opened on XXX.
  • Coffee House opens.
  • Circus moves.
  • Puff Dragons moves and is renamed.
  • Infant Ocean removed, replaced by xxx.

External Links

Retrieved from "http://adventureland.parkhopping.com/wiki/index.php?title=Timeline&oldid=3728"