Buescher: Cypress Gardens' future lies in its past

Posted | Contributed by Jeff

As Central Florida's oldest theme park prepares for its 70th anniversary celebration Monday, the revamped attraction is going back to its roots. Owner Kent Buescher said he wants a new generation of visitors to be introduced to the park's trademark items this year when the park opens a children's ski school and reintroduces the Junior Belle program.

Related parks

Legoland Florida

In summary:

Ski school, winner, definitely a hit (can we get one for the over-30 crowd?). Waterski shows, likewise. Junior Belles, I dunno, not under the impression that the little girls will be as excited as grandma will be. Then again, grandma's the one carrying the purse, er, handbag, whatever... ;)

First thing Kent can do for the future is lower the admission price to his park. I know $40 bucks is cheap compared to the other parks in the area but IMO it's still to high for what it is.

I thought $40 was reasonable for the park. I spent 8 hours there and rode several new flat rides that are hard to find at other parks, especially here in the Mid-Atlantic.

It's good to see the positive press. The park has a good atmosphere, with all the history that still hangs in the air. It's the locals that can keep it alive and growing until it becomes a (hopefully) must visit for the Disney crowd.

Then again, I won't visit this year on my annual Florida trip. Next year for sure, but right now it's not worth $40 each year. I'll be heading to Busch...

You must be logged in to post