Florida Family Getaways - 2008 - (Page 23) he word “classic” is tossed around so much today that it’s lost its luster. In an age when a 1986 Hyundai is a classic car and Guns N’ Roses are displacing the Beatles on classic rock radio stations, it’s easy to roll your eyes at the notion of a “classic attraction.” But before you laugh, consider this: The amusement park, like pop music, is one of the few quintessentially American art forms. From the time more than a century ago when tourists first flocked to Florida’s beaches, through the birth of Walt Disney’s dream in the swamps outside of Orlando, Florida has been the epicenter of our national obsession with amusement. Ironic, then, that the relentless pursuit of recreation – the very same that has given birth to these beacons of family fun – is the same instinct that often leads to their demise once they are no longer the new kids on the boardwalk. A fortunate few have stood the test of time. While you’re exploring the Sunshine State’s attractions, consider slowing your sprint to the latest-andgreatest, and take a moment to appreciate these classics. By Seth Kubersky What: Wooden out-and-back roller coaster Where: Cypress Gardens, Winter Haven When: Originally operated from 1963 to September 2004; reopened July 13, 2007 Web: www.cypressgardens.com This ride is actually old. For 40 years, the Starliner thrilled riders at the now-defunct Miracle Strip Amusement Park in Northwest Florida, providing teeth-rattling thrills to generations of adrenaline-seekers. While its 65-foot first drop sounds tame by modern megacoaster standards, the ride’s near-70 mph speed still ranks it among the swiftest of the woody coasters. When the Panama City Beach park closed in 2004, Kent Buescher became the Starliner’s savior, just as he resurrected Cypress Gardens, the original Central Florida theme park, which had closed in the post-9/11 slump. Faithfully rebuilt with fun, floating airtime and tightly banked curves but without intimidating loops, the coaster complements Cypress Gardens’ familyfriendly rides and world-famous horticulture. Cypress Gardens, like the coaster, has had its ups and downs, but it looks like it, and The Starliner, will stay classics. What: Omnimover dark ride Where: Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World, Lake Buena Vista When: Opened October 1, 1971; Renovated September 2007 Web: www.waltdisneyworld.com The Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World’s original park, was a far different place in 1971, with no Splash Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean or Space Mountain. But The Haunted Mansion has been there since before opening day. Because parts for the Florida ride were built alongside the Disneyland original, the attraction was ready six months before the rest of the park. Millions have boarded “DoomBuggies” for a mirthfully macabre open house with 999 “grim grinning ghosts” set to “X” Atencio and Buddy Baker’s haunting song. After suffering years of decline, the Mansion has recently been rehabilitated with new and improved special effects, including a marvelously mobile Madame Leota and an eye-popping attic bride. Be sure to check out the tongue-in-cheek tombstones in the queue – one may be looking back at you! Family Getaways 23 http://www.cypressgardens.com http://www.waltdisneyworld.com
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