Excalibur was added to Funtown Splashtown USA in 1998. This wooden roller-coaster was ranked in the #10 worldwide at its inception, and continues to be popular for coaster enthusiasts across the United States. I must say that the back seats are far more exhilarating as physics have dictated front seats feel faster going uphill, and rear seats downhill.
When the snow clears, I will be able to get into the castle that houses the ride entrance.
The Thunderbolt is a classic ride at Funtown Splashtown USA. Night-time makes this ride even better, as the 1980’s style lights really take over the park. The Astrosphere really becomes the Astrosphere when ELO begins blaring over the loud-speaker. What would be the perfect iconic song for this ride?
The weather policy at Funtown Splashtown USA has seen a great improvement over the past few years. I must say that this is a step in the right direction for providing optimal guest service.
Side thought: Grand Prix Racers. I must admit I learned how to take the quickest route through the course my first summer here, and have yet to deviate from that in over a decade… Stuck in a rut, are we?
Does Grand Prix Racers have a car that you feel outperforms the others? Perhaps you just have a favorite color. Let’s hear your input!
When I (the author of this blog) first moved to southern Maine in 2001, Funtown Splashtown USA became my home with its staff my family. This photo in particular reminds me of a few very fun days spent at Splashtown USA. In 2001 though, there was no Pirate’s Paradise, Mammoth, and the batting cages were still there. I must say though, I love the direction the park has taken.
Funtown Splashtown USA has changed its appearance many times over the course of its history. One would assume this based solely on the fact that Funtown Splashtown USA was Marvel Drive-In once upon a time. Marvel morphed into Funtown USA in 1967 after forming a partnership with Andre Dallaire. Funtown USA eventually became Funtown Splashtown USA in 1996 after Mr. Cormier purchased Cascade Water and Amusement Park, creating an entirely new image. The most recent face-lift came with the introduction of the three Mt. Olympus Water Slides: Amphitrite’s Challenge, Poseidon’s Plunge and Triton’s Twist.
These slides added a new dynamic to the water park, which created an even larger public following. We have a fairly good idea of what the public wants for our next expansion, but are always open to suggestions. What do you think?
One ride of lesser notoriety inside of Funtown Splashtown USA is Tempest in the Teacups. This ride is very similar to the Astrosphere based on movements alone; it is a traditional “scrambler” ride, with a twist: it allows you to control the rotation of your own teacup. The Astrosphere is inside of a pressurized dome with loud music and a light-show. Tempest in the Teacups is an open air ride without the loud music and spacey visuals. Tempest in the Teacups truly is an exciting ride, but often falls below the Sea Dragon, Thunderbolt, Astrosphere and Excalibur on the popularity meter. It must be pointed out though, that despite the perceived notions of this not being a thrilling ride, it is anything but boring. Have you ever wondered why there is a teacup scrambler at seemingly every amusement park across the country? We will let you draw your own conclusions!
Between the Astrosphere and Tempest in the Teacups, which do you prefer?
(Please include an explanation why!)
Days until season opener: 46.
Funtown Splashtown USA 