At both Disney and Cedar Fair loyal guests often questioned changes to the parks. It seems that every ride or attraction we removed was someone’s favorite childhood memory.
Some of the changes were dictated by modern safety and accessibility standards. Some were removed because the cost to operate them was disproportionate to the ridership demand. And some were removed to make room for something determined to be bigger or better, often involving new technology.
Taking a step back, I believe there is what I call “genetic vacation behavior.” This is the desire to share what you did as a youth with the generations that came after you. This is why so many of the rides and attractions that are decades old are still very popular. Their secret is not in great technology nor is it in their genesis from animated films, as many have their own backstory. Their power is in the memories that were created as families and friends experienced them together. For the record, even fifty-five years later I believe my brothers and I can sing the Country Bear Jamboree chorus, “blood on the saddle and blood all around…”
When I was challenged by guests regarding such changes, I explained to them that we believed it was important to respect the history but not to revere it. I know Webster will disagree with my use of revere, but for me that implies more of a religious devotion. Admittedly, finding that balance can be difficult but the only thing that guarantees that these parks are still here in the future is that changes are in fact made.
It is hard not be impressed by a new muti-zillion dollar attraction or the speediest coaster on the planet. But to be honest, changes that require more imagination than dollars are higher my radar. The best creativity comes not from limitless boundaries. Brilliance comes from solving the puzzle that has borders. Soarin’ Over California is a famous example of just that. Ghost Town Alive at Knott’s Berry Farm is another.
So, changes will happen and that is mostly a good thing. I just hope the rumor is true about the Country Bear Jamboree!
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2wLooks like we got two buildings in this photo The Springs at Lake Oswego and The Springs at Bozeman. Both opened the same month five years ago.