40 Facts About Worlds Of Fun

Worlds of Fun: A Thrilling Adventure Awaits

Worlds of Fun, located in Kansas City, Missouri, is a beloved amusement park that has been entertaining visitors since 1973. With a wide variety of rides, attractions, and events, there's something for everyone. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this iconic park.

Historical Highlights

The history of Worlds of Fun is rich and full of interesting tidbits. Here are some key moments that shaped the park.

1. Worlds of Fun opened on May 26, 1973. The park was inspired by the novel "Around the World in Eighty Days" by Jules Verne.
2. The park was founded by Lamar Hunt and Jack Steadman. These two visionaries were also involved in the creation of the Kansas City Chiefs.
3. Originally, the park featured five themed areas. These areas were Scandinavia, Africa, Europa, the Orient, and Americana.
4. In 1995, Cedar Fair Entertainment Company acquired Worlds of Fun. This acquisition brought new investments and improvements to the park.
5. The park's mascot is a Viking named "Vinnie." Vinnie has been a beloved character since the park's early days.

Record-Breaking Rides

Worlds of Fun is home to some record-breaking and unique rides that thrill-seekers can't get enough of.

6. The Mamba is one of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the world. It reaches speeds of up to 75 mph and has a height of 205 feet.
7. The Timber Wolf was the park's first wooden roller coaster. It opened in 1989 and remains a fan favorite.
8. The Patriot is the park's first inverted roller coaster. Opened in 2006, it features multiple loops and twists.
9. Prowler, a wooden coaster, was named the "Best New Ride of 2009" by Amusement Today. It offers a thrilling, high-speed experience through the woods.
10. SteelHawk is a 301-foot-tall swing ride. It offers breathtaking views of the park and the surrounding area.

Family Fun and Attractions

Worlds of Fun isn't just for thrill-seekers. There are plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities to enjoy.

11. Planet Snoopy is a dedicated area for young children. It features rides and attractions themed around the beloved Peanuts characters.
12. The Grand Carousel is a classic attraction. This beautifully crafted ride has been delighting guests since the park's opening.
13. The park hosts a variety of live shows and entertainment. From musical performances to character meet-and-greets, there's always something happening.
14. Oceans of Fun is a water park adjacent to Worlds of Fun. It offers a variety of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.
15. The park holds special events throughout the year. These include Halloween Haunt and WinterFest, which transform the park into a seasonal wonderland.

Unique Features and Fun Facts

Worlds of Fun has some unique features and fun facts that make it stand out from other amusement parks.

16. The park covers 235 acres. This makes it one of the largest amusement parks in the Midwest.
17. Worlds of Fun has its own train. The Worlds of Fun Railroad takes guests on a scenic tour around the park.
18. The park's Eiffel Tower replica is a popular photo spot. This 1/3 scale model offers stunning views from the top.
19. Worlds of Fun has a variety of dining options. From classic amusement park fare to unique culinary experiences, there's something for every palate.
20. The park is known for its beautiful landscaping. With lush gardens and themed areas, it's a picturesque place to spend the day.

Behind the Scenes

Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at Worlds of Fun? Here are some insider facts.

21. The park employs over 2,000 seasonal workers. These employees help keep the park running smoothly during peak seasons.
22. Worlds of Fun has its own maintenance team. This team ensures that all rides and attractions are safe and operational.
23. The park has a dedicated team for special events. This team plans and executes events like Halloween Haunt and WinterFest.
24. Worlds of Fun offers educational programs. These programs provide learning opportunities for school groups and organizations.
25. The park has a lost and found department. They handle thousands of lost items each season, from sunglasses to cell phones.

Seasonal Celebrations

Worlds of Fun is known for its seasonal celebrations, which bring a unique charm to the park.

26. Halloween Haunt is a popular event. It features haunted houses, scare zones, and spooky entertainment.
27. WinterFest transforms the park into a winter wonderland. With holiday lights, ice skating, and festive shows, it's a magical experience.
28. The park hosts a Fourth of July celebration. This event includes fireworks, live music, and patriotic festivities.
29. Oktoberfest brings a taste of Germany to the park. Guests can enjoy traditional German food, music, and entertainment.
30. The park celebrates its anniversary each year. Special events and promotions mark the occasion.

Fun for All Ages

Worlds of Fun offers attractions and activities for guests of all ages, making it a perfect destination for families.

31. The park has a variety of kiddie rides. These rides are designed for younger guests and provide a safe, fun experience.
32. Family rides offer something for everyone. From the Viking Voyager log flume to the Le TaxiTour antique cars, there's plenty to enjoy together.
33. The park has several interactive attractions. These include games, arcades, and virtual reality experiences.
34. Worlds of Fun offers stroller and wheelchair rentals. This ensures that all guests can navigate the park comfortably.
35. The park provides family restrooms and nursing stations. These amenities make it easier for families with young children to enjoy their visit.

Dining and Shopping

No visit to Worlds of Fun is complete without exploring the dining and shopping options available.

36. The park has a variety of dining options. From quick snacks to full meals, there's something to satisfy every craving.
37. Worlds of Fun offers unique dining experiences. These include character dining and themed restaurants.
38. The park has several gift shops. Guests can find souvenirs, apparel, and unique gifts to remember their visit.
39. Worlds of Fun offers dining plans. These plans provide guests with meal options throughout the day at a discounted rate.
40. The park hosts food festivals. These events showcase a variety of cuisines and culinary delights.

Final Thoughts on Worlds of Fun

Worlds of Fun offers a thrilling mix of rides, attractions, and entertainment for all ages. From the heart-pounding Mamba roller coaster to the family-friendly Planet Snoopy, there's something for everyone. The park's rich history, dating back to 1973, adds an extra layer of charm. Don't forget to explore the seasonal events like Halloween Haunt and WinterFest, which bring unique experiences to visitors. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or just looking for a fun day out with family, Worlds of Fun delivers excitement and memories that last a lifetime. So, next time you're planning an adventure, consider this Kansas City gem. You'll leave with a smile, a sense of adventure, and maybe even a new favorite ride.