originally posted on 2/18/2020 4:44:20 PM
It was recently learned that small parks and family entertainment centers were approached with a list of rides for sale from Indiana Beach (Monticello, Indiana) and Fantasy Island (Grand Island, New York). Both properties are operated by Apex Parks. A few of the rides will be moved to other Apex facilities, but most are being sold or even discarded. It would appear a buyer coming forth to purchase the parks is, sadly, not an option.
Photo: Tim Baldwin
Photo: Rik Engelen
Apex Parks Group was formed in 2014. The company has acquired numerous family entertainment centers and waterparks. No reason was given for the sale of the rides. All the steel coasters are available for sale. Of the four wooden coasters (all by the former Custom Coasters International, Inc.), only Silver Comet (1999) is listed. The words “Sell if possible” were noted on the list supplied to possible buyers. The three other wooden coasters at Indiana Beach would have challenges if a move was attempted. Lost Coaster of Superstition Mountain (2002) is built into a themed structure. Hoosier Hurricane (1994) and Cornball Express (2001) have some shared structure.
It is easy to fear the worst. ACE members can only wait with fingers crossed.
An earlier version of this article included a reference to the parks offering no official statement of the closing, but has since been updated as an Apex Parks Group official confirmed the closing of Indiana Beach.
#ACENewsNow