1987 - 1991

From 1987 to 1991, Kings Island introduced a series of major attractions and expansions. In 1987, Vortex opened at the back of the park on land previously occupied by The Bat. Designed exclusively for Kings Island, it was the tallest roller coaster of its kind in the world and had more inversions than any other roller coaster in existence, turning riders upside-down six times. Its arrival rendered The Demon obsolete, and that ride was retired at the end of the season, making room for another addition the following year. In 1988, Amazon Falls opened and sent boatloads of riders down a 45-foot drop into a pool of water, creating a massive wave. After the summer season, more than 1,300 feet of track on the Kings Island and Miami Valley Railroad was rerouted to accommodate a large park expansion. In 1989, the water park WaterWorks opened adjacent to Kings Island, accessible by pathway or by the park railroad, with body slides, tube slides, a lazy river, and a children's play area. In 1990, WaterWorks expanded with Rushing River, a first-of-its-kind family raft slide that used the area's hilly terrain, while Flight Commander opened in Coney Mall and allowed passengers to control their own ride vehicle as they rotated around a 60-foot tower. In 1991, Adventure Express, a runaway mine train roller coaster with twists, turns, and four themed tunnels, including an enclosed lift hill with nine stone warriors, made its debut.

Mason, Ohio · United States