The West Texas panhandle plains, known for its rugged beauty, wide open vistas and spectacular sunsets, is also home to two traditional amusement parks and a ride manufacturer. With many of these family run treasures disappearing from our landscape, it’s great to see two parks and a manufacturing facility still operating in this part of the Lone Star State.
Joyland in Lubbock, is home to three fun coasters: An SDC Galaxi, a Wisdom Orient Express and their newest addition Sand Storm. In addition to these well-maintained coasters is a collection of classic carnival rides including a train, flume and skyride. Also included is a Larson Super Shot Drop Tower. David Dean and his wife Kristi always make ACEers feel right at home. First timers and returning friends will enjoy this treasured gem in Lubbock. Attendees will receive unlimited rides.
Larson International in Plainview, is long known for its Super Loop attractions, but the company also manufacturers a variety of rides including Drop Towers, Flying Scoot-ers and Tilt-A-Whirls. Larson has always welcomed ACE and has been storing a number of items for the National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives (NRCMA). Attendees will enjoy a tour of the production facility.
The National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives is home to one of the largest col-lections of amusement park ride vehicles and blueprints in the world. Coaster cars from Disneyland, Cedar Point, Six Flags Over Texas and Busch Gardens are among the unique and rare photo / video opportunities you'll be able to experience!
Significantly expanded since ACE's last visit in 2019, ACE / TSU will be the first members of the public to tour the still-under-construction wing and be among the first to purchase official, one-of-a-kind NRMCA souvenirs!
Wonderland in Amarillo, boasts four coasters, The Big Coaster—a Pinfari Zyklon 210; Texas Tornado—a unique Hopkins double loop coaster; Cyclone— Miler mouse—one of only two left on the world, the Hornet—a Vekoma family coaster formerly from AstroWorld and their latest addition, Spin-O-Saurus—a SBF Compact Spinning Coaster. Also on hand is a great assortment of unique water rides and traditional flat rides including a classic dark ride. Paul and Paula Borchardt make everyone feel welcome with their West Texas hospitality. Attendees will receive the Ultimate WOW Pass for the day which includes unlimited rides on all attractions* and mini golf.
*The Fantastic Journey Dark Ride is limited to 1 ride.
Tentative Schedule*
Saturday July 3rd—Joyland Amusement Park
Park hours 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
· 12:30 p.m.—Bumper Car Soccer
· 1:00 p.m.—ERT
· 6:00 p.m.—Dinner and Park Q&As
· 7:00 p.m.—10:00 p.m. Group photo and enjoy the park
• ~10 p.m.—City fireworks display
Sunday, July 4th—Larson International and NRCMA
· 9:00 a.m.—Arrive at Larson, Breakfast
· 9:30 a.m.—Group photo, Larson factory tour
· 10:15 a.m.—NRCMA tour
· Noon—Depart for Amarillo
Sunday, July 4th—Wonderland Amusement Park
Park hours 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.
· 2:15 p.m.—Gather at Wonderland’s back gate near the Big Coaster
· 2:30 p.m.—Check-in and park entry
· 6:30 p.m.—Dinner
· 8:00 p.m.—ERT on Texas Tornado
· 8:30 p.m—Event ends
*Inclement weather, equipment problems or other unforeseen circumstances may affect the schedule.