Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park in Denver has successfully reopened two of its prominent roller coasters, signaling a bright moment for the park. Meanwhile, Lakeside Amusement Park, another historic venue in Denver, continues to face challenges in reviving its main attraction, the Cyclone roller coaster.
On August 21, 2023, Elitch Gardens reopened the Twister III: Storm Chaser wooden roller coaster after a year-long closure for maintenance. Originally built in 1964 at Elitch’s previous location in northwest Denver, the ride has undergone numerous renovations over the years. The latest upgrade includes a thrilling 90-foot drop and a 100-foot darkened tunnel, offering riders an experience that simulates the sights and sounds of a tornado.
In addition to the Twister III, the park has also resumed operations of the Sidewinder coaster, which had been closed for two years. With all roller coasters at Elitch Gardens now operational, the park is poised to continue attracting visitors. The property is owned by Kroenke Sports Enterprises, which has plans to redevelop the area into residential and commercial spaces in the future. However, no specific timeline has been established for this redevelopment.
In contrast, Lakeside Amusement Park is grappling with significant hurdles. The park has been unable to reopen the Cyclone, the oldest wooden roller coaster west of the Mississippi River, despite two years of efforts to recertify it following an accident and a related lawsuit. Operations manager Brenda Fishman, who manages the park alongside her mother, Rhoda Krasner, indicated that while the Cyclone is set to reopen, there is currently no confirmed date.
Lakeside remains committed to hosting events, including the upcoming Denver Film Summer Scream fundraiser, but operational and staffing issues have affected the availability of other rides this season. The park emphasizes its dedication to ensuring safety and compliance with regulations, a priority that has delayed the Cyclone’s return.
As the summer season progresses, the contrasting fortunes of Elitch Gardens and Lakeside Amusement Park illustrate the varying challenges faced by historic amusement parks in Denver. While Elitch Gardens celebrates the reopening of its rides, Lakeside continues to work toward the safe return of its beloved attractions. The future of both parks remains uncertain, but their commitment to providing memorable experiences for visitors endures.
