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Rode Adventure Express after avoiding spoilers and I can say it's getting better than the earlier reviews here. I honestly loved it and I can say the experience is different depending on where you sit. There are so many Easter Eggs, I rode three times and still can't point them all out. I'll just point out some of the bigger changes and not all the new theming or little build ups along the ride which there are a lot of, such as the iguanas leaving the station or thins already mentioned like the broken train with the monkeys. They added an actual switch track at the beginning so people don't have to understand everything going in to know they are on the wrong track. This includes a section of dummy track to the right. Tunnel 1 is the Gem Stone Cave, it replaces the snake tunnel. There used to be a Cobra that stuck out of a barrel at the end of this tunnel that I loved, and luckily it reappears predominantly later in the ride. This tunnel does need to be lit better, I can tell they rethemed a lot of it and it features mining equipment but it's still really dark. Tunnel 2 is the pre lift tunnel with the spears, largely unchanged but it has a great lighting package. The spears or at least more than i've ever seen work were working. When I rode in the front I didn't see a single one move, but in the back I saw more move than ever before. Tunnel 3 used to be pretty empty except for a couple of colored lights, this is now Cobra Caverns and my friend from tunnel 1 is now predominantly featured right on top of the entrance. They've added new speakers and you can hear rattle snakes all around you as well as Cobras spitting and hissing, including some that sound VERY close to you as you go by. It was too dark to really see anything, but I'm sure with the lighting in the other tunnels it will be a thing soon riding in the front row the snake near mis audio queues couldn't really be heard, but they were great in the back. Tunnel 4 finale tunnel is fully refreshed. All of the statues had lights functioning on them with a new multicolor lighting package. All of the statues except one were working and working with full reach and force. The audio sounded clearer then ever so I'm assuming it got new audio hardware as well. The end statue was also fully lit and working when it pours it's bowl. Even the mouth was moving with the right que. This is also the tunnel with the Tomb Raider antechamber monkeys at the entrance now as well as some other statues and things that I'll need many re-rides to really see. There also seems to be an audio queue that explains the train being lost and someone talking to you through the radio as they try to get you back on the right track. Overall I loved it, and I hope they continue to improve it. I hate that it appears it wasn't all ready in time, but it is what it is. My only complaint was the lighting in the gem stone mine and cobra caverns. The back of the train is also the best seat to enjoy the theming.

KI is my home park, and I am super thankful that we have Orion. The first drop is spectacular, the theme is fun, and overall is a fine addition. That said, here are things that I prefer on Millennium Force: 1. The narrow and minimal train design feels scarier and faster. Every seat has basically “air” to the left or to the right. This is especially awesome ascending the lift hill, sitting left. Nothing but a lake 300’ down next to your lap. 2. Tunnels. They increase the speed perception. 3. The queue flybys at the end increase the excitement for those waiting in line 4. Directional changes. Granted, they are not exactly rapid fire, but they are more in number and intensity than Orion 5. The sprawling layout makes me feel like I’ve travelled further. The views change more dramatically. Even the smells change (Asian food to petting zoo in seconds). 6. Station vibe. Cant put my finger on it, but the arrival of empty trains, the retro future music, and the fast dispatch as the lift cable yanks the train increase the excitement for me. Still very happy to have both giga coasters in my home state!

I never said it should’ve been open opening day. Point is it’s been down this long, what’s another few days to get audio correct, gems in a gem mine. Snakes in a snake mine. Area specific retail in a themed retail location. Area themed restrooms. Etc Sone of those were never going to happen, and sone things have probably just been budget or time cut- hence missed opportunities. Things like like rarely make it from “idea for phase 2” to actually ever implemented. That’s all.

The wait is finally over for Kings Island fans anticipating the opening of Adventure Port, the park’s newest themed area, which will officially open this Saturday, June 10th 2023. Two new rides anchor the area, Sol Spin and Cargo Loco, while the Adventure Express roller coaster provides new theming enhancements and experiences for park guests. Enrique’s restaurant and the Mercado Patio Bar deliver an adventure-themed culinary stop for travelers looking to satisfy their appetites and quench their thirsts. “Over the past several months I’ve been truly amazed to see how this area of the park has been transformed into telling an immersive story of adventure and exploration,” said Mike Koontz, Kings Island vice president and general manager. “The rides we’ve added are a perfect complement to the park’s offerings, and we took advantage of the new area to continue to showcase the quality of our food and beverage offering.” Adventure Port’s Backstory - The myths of an ancient civilization, and its mighty city carved out of stone, have lured travelers from around the globe to this bustling port community for more than a century. Resting in the foothills of overgrown mountains and dense tropical terrain, Adventure Port is a hub for explorers searching for the lost city’s forbidden temple, fabled riches and mysterious wonders. If asked, the locals will tell tales of those who came before you and vanished. Did they unwittingly disturb ancient spirits and fall victim to an age-old curse? Adventure Port Rides Sol Spin - This immense golden sun disk may hold the secrets of the lost city. Riders board open-air, suspended passenger vehicles and experience the sensation of flying 60 feet through the air at 25 m.p.h. Learn more about Sol Spin here: https://kicentral.com/rides/sol-spin/ Sol Spin Testing Cargo Loco - Their methods might be a little dizzying, but the Arrow Cargo Company will get your gear from Point A to Point B....eventually. Riders board these shipping barrels where they can manually control the speed of their spin with a wheel in the middle of the barrel. Learn more about Cargo Loco here: https://kicentral.com/rides/cargo-loco/ Cargo Logo in action Adventure Express - Riders will embark on a surprise treasure-hunting mine train expedition in search of a Forbidden Temple. This family coaster opened in 1991 and features a 63-foot first drop with speeds up to 35 m.p.h. The queue line has been relocated and riders will find additional theming in the load station and throughout the ride. Learn more about Adventure Express here: https://kicentral.com/rides/adventure-express/ The best way to experience Adventure Port is with a 2023 Gold Season Pass, which includes unlimited Kings Island and Soak City visits this year as well as special events like Grand Carnivale, Tricks and Treats Fall Fest, Halloween Haunt and WinterFest. Purchase your here: https://www.visitkingsisland.com/season-passes

Not all theming has to be seen by everyone. The plumbing and electrical components are already in place, but to mitigate trash and mosquito control they can just make it a gravel fountain, with appropriate foliage around it, it would be nice. Example:

Just to piggyback off my post with the enhanced theming they could add claw marks inside the station on the walls, floor and ceiling. They can add broken chains to each side of the track at the front of the station. They can add red or orange led lighting that lights up the ceiling like in the Banshee station. They can re route the exit and fast pass to the front entrance area, and bring use to The Beast Canyon Drinks building by turning it into a Photo Booth / gift shop much like Diamondback. Also re routing would clear up a good amount of space for any potential expansion in The Vortex plot.

Kings Island is known for using the terrain for their coasters, would it be that much different for a water coaster? If I recall Jeff Gramke correctly, on The Beast, it actually saved money but having a taller coaster but with less structure. Banshee uses the terrain to achieve the fastest speed on the back portion of the ride and while I don't know if it added speed or thrill, The Bat is built in a tenuous area for terrain and is remote. My personal issue with this location is tree removal. If the park wanted to invest the money, terrain issues can be overcome by construction firms.

A couple issues with that. For starters, I believe there is an employee break area/first aid station behind the Subway building, which would have to be relocated somewhere else. Also, the area you noted as Water Coaster, has some fairly steep terrain (it is a valley in that area). Likely unusable/large development costs. Although I do agree that area of the water park could use an attraction, just not sure on the feasibility of building there.

Sounds like the air quality for the weekend will be really poor due to the Canadian wildfire smoke. From what I'm hearing, we will get some of the worst (that we've had) during Friday and Saturday. It sounds like it's going to be quite the experience those days. One of the haziest ride openings in Kings Island history.

I agree Bacon. We got a new well themed area, two new rides, and AE with some much needed attention to boot. Sure, it would have been nice if everything was done and ready by opening day. Unfortunately it was impossible for almost every park this year. What park had anything new open on opening day besides CP? KI - nope, Carowinds - nope, WOF - nope, Dollywood - nope, Hersheypark - nope.

Yes. It’s way better. Now flickering lanterns in the gem mine and LED lit sparkling jewels and we will be good.Maybe. Need to do one “dark ride” in a few minutes LOL UPDATE: Need Lighting on the monkeys -totally dark. Masks still missing from lift hill 1. They made this post about all the details going on them and they are still MIA. Need lighting on entrance to tunnel 1. Totally dark after nice lighting on track switch. It’s getting there, BUT my 9 year old rode it 3x tonight and wanted to do it a 4th and has spent the whole night telling mom about all the added details SO it is still a win!

So they have fixed the audio on first lift. I could hear the entire thing tonight. Anyone else think they turned it up?

^great idea, @Tr0y with the gravel fountain!

I've been here for last 9 days and it's constantly been broke down and today was the first time we actually got to ride it

If I’m not mistaken nothing has taken the place of the Subway restaurant in Soak City. They could gut it and theme it into a train station. My take on redoing the path would keeping Pineapple Pipeline and removing Tropical Twister. As well as re doing the straw centerpiece.

I kind of hope that Kings Island closes Adventure Express the next couple of days to really work out the kinks with the audio on the ride and in the queue. There is also now audio in Cargo Loco’s queue, but it is very quiet. The speakers in front of Enrique’s still seemed to be off. I unfortunately did not get a chance to see if the speakers were working in Adventure Express’ entry plaza. I hope all the technical glitches get resolved before Adventure Port officially opens.

And CP Wild Mouse is constantly down

Canada wildfire haze in the skies from 265’ Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Because opinions differ. I'm in the boat that found Orion to be a one and done experience. Yeah it's fun, not gonna say it isn't. It just didn't tick the marks I expect out of a 'giga'. Who chose that layout and why?

Thank you, Kings Island, for saving and replanting the redbud trees! That made my day!

WHY???? Plastic plants are are really cheap, tacky add. As we’ve seen with Mystic and International Street, they get the cheapest, non UV protected version that fade before the season is over and never replace them. The water tower really didn’t need plastic bushes shoved in it. Maybe actually buy VINE PLANTS and do it naturally. Adventure Express—please stop live spieling over the pre-recorded spiel it was done for a reason volume needs to be higher and STOP the “ how was your ride?” Adventure port polos with the logo would’ve been great with the khaki shorts

Whatever issue was causing downtime early on has apparently been resolved, as it's been running almost nonstop for some time now.

I don't mind the mist fans in line (I think they're great!); however, misting stations around the park would be great! There used to be one(a Coca-Cola Cool zone, to be exact) near Adventure Express's old entrance/ladder climb game back in the day and I'm not exactly sure what replaced that.

Yeah that’s another thing that leads me to believe that things were rushed to get it opened . Adjustments won’t be made till the park gets some downtime when the regular season ends. I’m a little less critical now that this is an industry problem and not specifically KI related. I’m sure going forward in the seasons to come Cedar Fair will adjust its strategy to mitigate these delays.

That ship sailed a couple weeks ago. They desperately wanted it all open for Memorial Day weekend and they weren’t able to have it all ready. They were fortunate enough to manage to get Cargo Loco and AE opened tho. Even tho I don’t think they spent anytime to adjust Cargo Loco so that it would provide the desired ride experience.

That’s a good idea. They could probably just remove Tropical Twister and that would create enough space to re route the walkway to and from the water park as well as at the same time have enough space to add a station building with more shade and places to sit and wait for the train. …and finally hope this station isn’t built as a Coca-cola freestyle stand. Jeez that was such a boneheaded move by the park.

MF favors speed over the hills and floater air we have on Orion AND Diamondback and I think that is why it is a fan favorite. Orion as a speed demon without all the high hills would have been a better option to separate itself from Diamondback and not be referred to as DB2.0 lol

What exactly would be a missed opportunity?

I guess Saturday is the “really open” date? Should we assume if it ain’t done by Saturday it was just a missed opportunity at this point?

Great ride but lots of downtime. I’m sad to see it go too.

Well it can't be related to staffing shortages since the park's Communication Director tweeted recently that the park has a wait-list for employees. I guess if anything is closed now we should assume it's for maintenance instead of staffing since Chad has tweeted that applying for jobs at KI is now a futile thing to do.

Not sure why specifically this part was not painted as everything else around was on Diamondback, but I’m willing to take bets it was missed and it never gets done. Any takers?

Trust me I'd love to see the return of the water feature at Beast. In fact, back in 2008 I recall The Beast crew fed a water hose up the station and had it running through most of the 4th of July weekend. They also had station music. It was a cool site to see but it didn't last long. CF has gotten better when it comes to themeing but with dynamic theming such as water, mist, or flames until they can prove they can upkeep I'm just not so sure if this is doable. For now that is.

I kinda wish The Beast got a theming enhancement much like The Adventure Express. Maybe add The Beast eyes in the tunnels. Add some sound effects such as adding a chain breaking noise when the train departs the station. Roaring and grunting noises throughout the ride and such, while also keeping the classic music that we have become accustomed to on the lift hills. Also if this horse hasn’t been beaten enough, BRING BACK THE WATER FEATURE! Reference noises:

So far during 2022 and 2023, I rode Orion 29 times and Diamondback 20 times. This year, I've preferred Diamondback over Orion - its back-row airtime ride is hard to beat. If you enjoy Diamondback, but haven't yet ventured to that back seat, you really should. Added bonus, to experience Diamondback's hidden water-ride element, be sure to stick your arm out sideways during the splash down.

I love Vortex it has gotten bumpy over the years but it's still really fun a lot of people que for it and its my favorite coaster of all time.

Landscaping Team has done another fine job this year #KI51 Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Just gotta say I was able to visit the park on Friday for my first time this year. Obviously I missed the opening of a couple rides this weekend. Got to see Drop Tower start new cycles late in day. But I really love all the updates done so far. The park looks great and I lover the atmosphere. Cannot wait until everything opens up and the remaining theming is complete . . referring to Adventure Port. But just all areas of the park look great. Had the Pub Burger at the Brewhouse and it was very good. Stayed away from Grain and Grill until those issues iron out from comments here on KIC. But love the new updated street front of that building. I know some may disagree but I think the next theming upgrade should be the kids area. Starting to look a little dated . . just my opinion. I do not have small kids anymore so great stake on my part. We mostly go there because my wife likes buying all things Snoopy in the Boutique over there. I want to support the park in buying food and merchandise. Love my home park.

Sounds like I really need to ride at night and/or in the back. Not had that pleasure yet. In terms of the Millie comparison, I still have to give Millie the nod for a few reasons. The sprawling cloverleaf layout makes all those long fast turns cover so much real estate and really get you turned around so that it's hard to keep track of what's next. Just this year (1st rode in 2002) was I finally able to remember the order of each element. A big reason why I've always loved The Beast. It is also smooth as glass after all these years-I don't think I'd feel comfortable hopping right back on Orion after getting off. Could ride MF all day. Also, despite having a lower ride height that allows my 7 year old daughter to ride (her new fave), the 2-seater trains with that little lap bar give such an exposed feeling and connection to the track. JMO of course.

I don’t know the answer to this question but I do think some slides should be retired. I posted this on another thread but I think Pinapple Pipeline and Tropical Twister should be removed or at the very least relocated. They could allocate the lifeguards to other water attractions and use that area to redo the train station so people aren’t being funneled through the way they currently are.