KIfan73

This is the first season I've missed since '03, and I'm really sad that there's no Winterfest. If they light up the Tower, I may make the three hour round trip just to drive by and see it.

Wow, that was a blast from the past. I rode it the first time in May of 2000, and the last time was during Haunt 2007. It was roughness on a whole other level, for sure. I still can't believe that massive structure was built, and is completely gone already.

That is a truly fascinating story. Love reading that kind of stuff. Also, just as fascinating, if not more, I've always wanted to see the land that KI is sitting on before it was built. I had no idea there were satellite photos on ODOT!!! Thanks @TombraiderTy!! Usually I'm only thinking about getting home once I'm at that end of the parking lot, but a few years ago, I got out and took a few pics (2015):

This. I think Vortex was a much more integral part of Kings Island than the average coaster that gets removed. I would put it along the lines of The Beast and the Eiffel Tower. I believe Cedar Fair has finally discovered the true value of nostalgia (KMAA, Winterfest, and I would argue MT). I will actually be surprised if whatever takes Vortex' spot won't be called "Vortex", or have that as part of its name.

Thanks for sharing!

To really celebrate Kings Island's 50th anniversary, it would be great for them to finally reveal what Mike designed for the park.

Love it when they post things like this! I've always wanted to see a pic of the undeveloped field that Kings Island sits on now.

I sure hope that's temporary. One of my favorite things at the park, and I seek it out every visit.

Those videos are fantastic. I have some family members that haven't been to the park since the 70's, and pics don't do the park justice. The videos really give the feeling of what it's like being there.

I haven't been through my KI stuff for awhile, and came across a couple more items with the original logo...two of everyone's favorite items to remember their Kings Island visit: a shot glass, and an ashtray. Also, it doesn't sport the first logo, but the map pictured is from, what I understand, the opening season.

Just wanted to share a few things I have with the original KI logo...the glass and the salt and pepper shakers are vintage. The shirt was sold at Kings Island just a few years ago that lists original attractions. I've worn it to the park a few times. I've had associates ask me about it; a few thought it must have been vintage. it does have 70's vibe to it. Since the original logo was from the Coney/Kings Island continuation era, I scanned a Coney brochure that is from its final season. It doesn't have the KI logo, but it does reference the "new park".

Slightly off-topic, but after all these years (decades), seeing the Eiffel Tower "towering" behind the entrance gate like that still gets me every time!

Those were absolutely fantastic photos. Some of the best views of the park during the early years I have ever seen. My parents took me once in 1975 when I was too little to remember (didn't start going regularly until 1992), so these views of the park always fascinate me. The early years of Kings Island were definitely its most beautiful, and I definitely think its currently much closer to its original condition than it was 15-20 years ago.

Another from Haunt 2007:

Haunt 2007: