King’s Island is rolling out brand-new food options for 2026, and some of the menu changes are turning heads across the theme park community! In this episode of Tower Topics, Ryan Suhr and Don Helbig break down the park’s latest culinary additions including Alfredo pasta at Grain & Grill, smoked chicken and baby back ribs at Coney Bar-B-Que, the new pimento cheese BLT at Brewhouse, and the debut of breakfast at French Corner. They also discuss the viral rollout video mishap, food quality consistency, overflowing trash cans, staffing concerns, season dining plan impacts, and what these issues mean for the overall guest experience at Kings Island. Plus, congratulations to Orion superfan Vince Oberfield on 10,000 rides, and a conversation about missed opportunities surrounding Adventure Express’s 35th anniversary and the Grand Carousel’s 100th anniversary. If you’re a Kings Island fan, coaster enthusiast, or theme park foodie, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!  Official merch store: http://store.towertopics.com Become a Tower Topics member for some great perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJRnyxCuy1KOrAp_t6mMjRw/join Check out the podcast version: https://linktr.ee/towertopics Voicemail or Text: 513-399-7538 Listener Questions: Hosts[at]TowerTopics.com Check out Don's blog: http://www.themeparksbydon.com Follow our Field Reporter, Noah: https://www.youtube.com/@NoahTheFieldReporter Want to make podcasts like ours? Check out our referral link through Streamyard to find out how! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5805020313944064

Is Kings Island’s “green sheet” disability access system being abused — or misunderstood? In this episode of Tower Topics, Ryan Suhr and Don Helbig break down the heated debate surrounding accessibility accommodations at Kings Island, including allegations of guests exploiting the system for shorter wait times, concerns from disabled riders and families, and whether parks should move to systems like the IBCCES accessibility card used by Disney and Universal. The discussion also covers Phantom Theater: The Opening Nightmare crowd issues, ride safety concerns, autism accommodations, Guest Services challenges, and how Kings Island balances accessibility with fairness for all guests. Plus, the guys discuss rising gas prices, how they could impact Cedar Point and Kings Island attendance in 2026, and why regional theme parks may benefit from staycation travel trends this summer. If you’re passionate about roller coasters, theme parks, accessibility, Kings Island news, or amusement park operations, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Official merch store: http://store.towertopics.com Become a Tower Topics member for some great perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJRnyxCuy1KOrAp_t6mMjRw/join Check out the podcast version: https://linktr.ee/towertopics Voicemail or Text: 513-399-7538 Listener Questions: Hosts[at]TowerTopics.com Check out Don's blog: http://www.themeparksbydon.com Follow our Field Reporter, Noah: https://www.youtube.com/@NoahTheFieldReporter Want to make podcasts like ours? Check out our referral link through Streamyard to find out how! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5805020313944064

Adventure Express is celebrating 35 years at Adventure Express, and in this episode of Tower Topics, Ryan and Don Helbig break down why this underrated mine train coaster remains one of the most important rides in Kings Island history. From its legendary night rides and Adventure Port theming upgrades to its role as the perfect “first big coaster,” the duo explores the ride’s legacy, behind-the-scenes fun facts, and why fans still love it 35 years later. Plus, they discuss the lack of anniversary recognition for Adventure Express, the Grand Carousel turning 100, theme park entertainment at parks like Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Dollywood, and highlight one of the best night ride experiences at Kings Island.   Official merch store: http://store.towertopics.com Become a Tower Topics member for some great perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJRnyxCuy1KOrAp_t6mMjRw/join Check out the podcast version: https://linktr.ee/towertopics Voicemail or Text: 513-399-7538 Listener Questions: Hosts[at]TowerTopics.com Check out Don's blog: http://www.themeparksbydon.com Follow our Field Reporter, Noah: https://www.youtube.com/@NoahTheFieldReporter Want to make podcasts like ours? Check out our referral link through Streamyard to find out how! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5805020313944064

In this episode of Tower Topics, Don Helbig and Ryan Suhr dive into the massive controversy surrounding Cedar Point’s decision to replace the legendary CoasterMania with a new, upcharged event called Morning Rush. The hosts break down the immediate fan backlash that forced the park into a swift "backpedal," pulling the event from social media within 24 hours of its announcement. Beyond the event drama, they tackle the "Have a Six Flags Day" operational struggles at the park, specifically the frustrating shortening of Millennium Force seatbelts and staffing cuts that have doubled wait times for the iconic Giga coaster. From social media management "fails" to the potential saving of Kings Island’s Coasterstock, this episode provides a candid look at the friction between corporate strategy and the coaster enthusiast community in 2026. Online Store: http://store.towertopics.com  Become a Tower Topics Youtube member for great benefits and to support the show: https://www.youtube.com/@TowerTopics/join Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BAs58dzCc/?mibextid=wwXIfr Check out the podcast version: https://linktr.ee/towertopics Leave a voicemail or text message: 513-399-7538 Listener Questions: Hosts[at]TowerTopics.com Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@towertopics Check out Don's blog: http://www.themeparksbydon.com Follow our Field Reporter, Noah: https://www.youtube.com/@NoahTheFieldReporter Want to make podcasts like ours? Check out our referral link through Streamyard to find out how! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5805020313944064

As the 2026 season begins at Kings Island, more fans are asking the same question: why are so many theaters sitting dark? In this episode of Tower Topics, Ryan and Don Helbig break down the decline of live entertainment at Kings Island, the impact of shuttered theaters on guest experience, and whether the park is losing the “full day” value that once made it special. From comparisons to Dollywood and other regional parks to discussions about season pass strategy, guest satisfaction, and the future of amusement park entertainment, this episode dives deep into what many longtime fans believe is missing from today’s Kings Island experience. Plus, listener questions about KI Central, SEO, ride trademarks, and the evolution of the park’s online presence.   Online Store: http://store.towertopics.com  Become a Tower Topics Youtube member for great benefits and to support the show: https://www.youtube.com/@TowerTopics/join Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BAs58dzCc/?mibextid=wwXIfr Check out the podcast version: https://linktr.ee/towertopics Leave a voicemail or text message: 513-399-7538 Listener Questions: Hosts[at]TowerTopics.com Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@towertopics Check out Don's blog: http://www.themeparksbydon.com Follow our Field Reporter, Noah: https://www.youtube.com/@NoahTheFieldReporter Want to make podcasts like ours? Check out our referral link through Streamyard to find out how! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5805020313944064

Rising gas prices could have a major impact on the 2026 amusement park season, but could they actually BENEFIT Kings Island? In this episode of Tower Topics, Ryan and Don break down why regional parks like Kings Island and Cedar Point may be better positioned than destination resorts like Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort during times of high fuel costs and economic uncertainty. The discussion dives into the idea of the “staycation effect,” where families may skip expensive Florida vacations and instead choose closer regional parks for shorter, more affordable trips. Don and Ryan also debate how season pass sales, dining plans, and reduced in-park spending could shape attendance trends this summer, while questioning whether parks are too quick to blame weather and gas prices instead of improving the guest experience itself. They also explore concerns about declining food quality, operational issues, and whether Kings Island is slipping from its long-standing reputation as a top-tier amusement park destination. The episode also covers fan ideas for improving the Six Flags app with digital rewards, virtual stickers, scavenger hunts, and event engagement features that could make seasonal festivals more interactive for passholders. Plus, the hosts react to listener feedback about the park’s Food & Wine Festival, discussing why many fans believe events focused on craft beer, burgers, pizza, and local food vendors would fit Kings Island’s audience better than upscale wine-focused offerings. From Skyline Chili and LaRosa’s pizza debates to the future of park festivals, this episode is packed with analysis on the evolving theme park industry, regional tourism trends, and what Kings Island must do to maintain its reputation as one of the Midwest’s premier amusement parks.  Online Store: http://store.towertopics.com  Become a Tower Topics Youtube member for great benefits and to support the show: https://www.youtube.com/@TowerTopics/join Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BAs58dzCc/?mibextid=wwXIfr Check out the podcast version: https://linktr.ee/towertopics Leave a voicemail or text message: 513-399-7538 Listener Questions: Hosts[at]TowerTopics.com Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@towertopics Check out Don's blog: http://www.themeparksbydon.com Follow our Field Reporter, Noah: https://www.youtube.com/@NoahTheFieldReporter Want to make podcasts like ours? Check out our referral link through Streamyard to find out how! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5805020313944064

Is Kings Island losing its identity as an entertainment destination while Kings Dominion doubles down on live shows, roaming performers, fireworks, and immersive guest experiences? In this episode of Tower Topics, Ryan Suhr and Don Helbig break down the massive new 2026 entertainment lineup at Kings Dominion, why Six Flags appears to be investing heavily there, and why Kings Island continues scaling back live entertainment despite its rich history of iconic shows and guest experiences. The discussion dives into the future of regional theme parks, the importance of entertainment beyond roller coasters, Flight of Fear’s 30th anniversary, Phantom Theater’s impact, Dollywood comparisons, season pass strategy, and whether parks are taking loyal guests for granted. Plus, the guys react to listener comments about Kings Island’s drink plan and innovative refill ideas. If you love Kings Island, Kings Dominion, Cedar Fair history, Six Flags news, roller coasters, theme park entertainment, and amusement park discussion, this episode is packed with insight and nostalgia. Official merch store: http://store.towertopics.com Become a Tower Topics member for some great perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJRnyxCuy1KOrAp_t6mMjRw/join Check out the podcast version: https://linktr.ee/towertopics Voicemail or Text: 513-399-7538 Listener Questions: Hosts[at]TowerTopics.com Check out Don's blog: http://www.themeparksbydon.com Follow our Field Reporter, Noah: https://www.youtube.com/@NoahTheFieldReporter Want to make podcasts like ours? Check out our referral link through Streamyard to find out how! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5805020313944064

Kings Island’s Food & Wine Festival returns weekends May 29 through June 21, bringing chef-inspired cuisine, global wines, and live entertainment to the park—but is it actually worth planning your visit around? In this episode of Tower Topics, Ryan and Don Helbig break down whether this seasonal event delivers a true festival experience or falls short compared to industry leaders like Epcot and Busch Gardens. From limited food quality and lack of park-wide immersion to standout live music and the scenic Tower Gardens atmosphere, they explore the pros, cons, and missed opportunities heading into year three. Plus, hear their thoughts on how Kings Island could improve the festival, whether it appeals to the park’s core audience, and if it’s a must-do event or an easy skip for 2026 visitors.    Online Store: http://store.towertopics.com  Become a Tower Topics Youtube member for great benefits and to support the show: https://www.youtube.com/@TowerTopics/join Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BAs58dzCc/?mibextid=wwXIfr Check out the podcast version: https://linktr.ee/towertopics Leave a voicemail or text message: 513-399-7538 Listener Questions: Hosts[at]TowerTopics.com Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@towertopics Check out Don's blog: http://www.themeparksbydon.com Follow our Field Reporter, Noah: https://www.youtube.com/@NoahTheFieldReporter Want to make podcasts like ours? Check out our referral link through Streamyard to find out how! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5805020313944064

Dive into this episode of Tower Topics as we break down the biggest issues with the drink plan at Kings Island and why long lines, closed refill stations, and inefficiencies are hurting the guest experience. Ryan and Don compare how parks like Dollywood and Kennywood are using QR code and self-serve technology to speed up drink refills, reduce wait times, and improve value for season passholders. Plus, we tackle listener questions about Six Flags pass policies, food quality changes, Fast Lane kiosks, and park operations—offering honest insights, hot takes, and real solutions for improving your next park visit. If you’re a theme park fan or frequent visitor, this is a must-listen discussion on how small operational changes can make a huge impact. Official merch store: http://store.towertopics.com Become a Tower Topics member for some great perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJRnyxCuy1KOrAp_t6mMjRw/join Check out the podcast version: https://linktr.ee/towertopics Voicemail or Text: 513-399-7538 Listener Questions: Hosts[at]TowerTopics.com Check out Don's blog: http://www.themeparksbydon.com Follow our Field Reporter, Noah: https://www.youtube.com/@NoahTheFieldReporter Want to make podcasts like ours? Check out our referral link through Streamyard to find out how! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5805020313944064

In this episode of Tower Topics, hosts discuss the highly anticipated return of Kings Island fan-favorite roller coaster Invertigo, which is undergoing testing after being down for much of the previous season, addressing rumors of its retirement and highlighting its importance to the park’s ride lineup; they also break down the coaster’s intense face-to-face experience, its rarity as one of the last of its kind in the U.S., and why its comeback enhances the park’s overall appeal, while also diving into broader topics like maintenance efforts, future coaster speculation, and how emerging tech like Meta glasses could create new content opportunities; additionally, the episode explores controversy around AI-generated Kings Island merchandise after a misprinted Phantom Theater pin slipped through quality control, sparking debate about corporate oversight, Six Flags’ influence, and declining attention to detail, alongside commentary on fan reactions, social media drama, and the evolving identity of the park’s branding—making this a must-listen for theme park enthusiasts and coaster fans alike.  Online Store: http://store.towertopics.com  Become a Tower Topics Youtube member for great benefits and to support the show: https://www.youtube.com/@TowerTopics/join Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BAs58dzCc/?mibextid=wwXIfr Check out the podcast version: https://linktr.ee/towertopics Leave a voicemail or text message: 513-399-7538 Listener Questions: Hosts[at]TowerTopics.com Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@towertopics Check out Don's blog: http://www.themeparksbydon.com Follow our Field Reporter, Noah: https://www.youtube.com/@NoahTheFieldReporter Want to make podcasts like ours? Check out our referral link through Streamyard to find out how! https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5805020313944064