Worst Park in America? My Experience at Elitch Gardens - Denver, Colorado

[@NHDGamer]

here to see my home park get appropriately roasted

[@straythoughts8386]

MegaBetch 👆🏻That part! Lol

[@lucasw3998]

Same

[@samuelplunkett7992]

I think he just went on a bad day, also I think the twister is permanently closed now. I might be wrong on that last part but idk

[@Jake-ny6ip]

Samuel Plunkett wouldn’t be suprised, shit old asf

[@matthewbaker320]

overpriced, understaffed, misinformed... par for the course at elitch gardens. I've stopped going and taken my business to disney.

[@kingdelbert]

Alright basically, Elitch Gardens is a ghost of its former self. They closed the classic park, move it, turn it into a thrill park like Cedar Point or Six Flags, no picnics allowed, a waterpark, then Six Flags buys the park and it becomes the least attended Six Flags ever, causing them to sell it off, and it is what you see today. Had they left it alone in the 90's, it probably would still be alright, but basically it's now just a typical used to be Six Flags park.

[@vicjaxon4474]

I hate that six flags buys smaller parks thinking they'll be good because they're location then when they realise they coudnt handle it they dip out without care becasue they never can handle it and always have monetary issues and pretend its not their problem

[@morganerickson439]

Amen! Once it moved downtown, it lost its soul. So many good memories of it at its original location, none good of its current one.

[@zachcoastercrazy4032]

Was Mr. Twister a good ride?

[@Girdwoodian]

@@zachcoastercrazy4032 MIster Twister was fast, scary, and awesome! My first real roller coaster. I miss the old Elitch's, with the gum all over the tree by the log ride.

[@thejunkman]

The Six Flags-ifacation was really a killer. I remember the old park on 38th and Tennyson well. It was small and old, but had its charm as it was probably like what true Amusement Parks were like back in the old days. It had 2 pretty noteworthy wood coasters (Wild Cat and Mister Twister), also a very good log flume. I was sad they didn't move that it was unique with its animatronics (crude). Also I remember when they put in the Side Winder which was actually out in the parking lot only to tear it down for the move about 4-5 years after installation. Now if you want a "old park" feel you have to go to LakeSide for the Cyclone and Wild Chipmunk, but that place is a dump otherwise.

[@3mxlez]

if you think this is unsafe you clearly havent been in lakeside

[@ShannaFarley]

Lakeside is a gem. It's pretty close to being the last park of its kind

[@jully6317]

Atleast there isnt duck tape on most rides at elitches unlike lakeside.

[@tko12C]

@@ShannaFarley nostalgia ain't worth death lol

[@ari_montz22]

Exactly

[@pakuplue]

First time I went to lakeside, it was with this girl I was dating, I was on shrooms, she didn't know I was on shrooms. She was also wondering why I was so terrified the entire time 😅

[@benjamintaylor1334]

When this is your home park

[@shmoogboing2785]

F in the chat

[@thepolicyoftruth]

rest in piece

[@OakViewFilms]

My condolences. It must suck.

[@soupinabagel4021]

Oof

[@CoasterRoaster]

Better than no home park

[@aisle9]

The best experience I had at Elitch Gardens was getting engaged. We're divorced now.

[@SIXPACFISH]

Not every marriage ends in divorce. But every divorce starts with marriage. Just say No to marriage.

[@aisle9]

@@SIXPACFISH wow, such true, very feels, many sad

[@zakunick1]

Oof, sorry man.

[@commondirtbagz7130]

SIXPACFISH not uh, not really the best place to be commenting this.

[@zakunick1]

Common Dirtbagz I know. Especially since I just moved out because my wife is leaving me.

[@samevans847]

Here looking for fellow Coloradoans roasting Lakeside.

[@mahnboichild]

nah bro lakeside is incredible

[@mahnboichild]

@Sean Neilson no I haven't been there all year cause of covid but last year Lakeside was safe and fun. Something might have happened since but I'm not sure.

[@Ntfoneandonly]

Lakeside is a death trap.now a days

[@chrisscholle1696]

I love Lakeside!

[@jlennon80231ify]

Lakeside is way better than elitches and idk what everyone is talking about duct tape and it not being safe lmao, those people probably have never even gone there. My family has gone every year since moving to Denver in the 50s so I mean I think I would know plus there’s been more accidents at elitches in the last 20 years than lakeside

[@Slushman2006]

The swaying on Twister II is an accident waiting to happen unless they fix it.

[@DoswarePictures]

Slushman2006 just like a swing set.

[@michaelbianco32]

Twister II used to run 4-car trains instead of 3, but that was reduced in 2018 to lighten the strain on the structure. Supposedly it's not in good condition, though they've done some recent section replacement and trackwork. I'd bet it'll close years before the park does

[@alexapexgod4643]

Michael Bianco Yes and I’ll be a hoe the ride

[@wyatt9663]

Michael Bianco I rode it 3 times recently, on the way through the line there are spots where loose bolts can be seen laying on the ground in fenced areas!

[@sirplazasta5570]

@@wyatt9663 and you still rode it THREE TIMES?

[@AirtimeProductions]

Imagine participating in the running of the bulls for a Vekoma SLC

[@noahberlin3953]

And according to Chris, the worst SLC!

[@nickbrennan9807]

I’ve done it... :(

[@LCJake]

Airtime Productions welcome to michigan’s adventure

[@ryshelle8481]

I mean... people in Denver are coaster starved. I'll take a terrible SLC over nothing at all any day! Used to love that ride until cedar point. Oops.

[@kaitielol7492]

eKaJ. growing up in michigan and only going to michigan’s adventure and no other parks, I can definitely confirm that Thunderhawk was always the one I would go for lmao. Wasn’t until pretty recently that I learned a lot of enthusiasts aren’t crazy about it

[@nit0134]

Elitches "Worst park I've ever been to" Lakeside *shivering in fear*

[@dailydoseoftiktok2763]

wood shaking in fear 😂

[@davidbrumbaugh4255]

I love lakeside and elitch gardens I have a season pass for elitches

[@coolmastee]

Lol

[@BabyKeelan]

That chipmunk ride scraped my elbow so bad 😭

[@Thermosity]

@@BabyKeelan how

[@emersonpurdy9150]

Because of this park I grew up thinking that every roller coaster should leave you with a massive headache

[@madisyndeidel5242]

Pfff Fr I went on the mind eraser today and I swear it’s never been so rough for me I have a rly bad headache rn :/

[@michaelm_720]

@@madisyndeidel5242 I went today and it was the smoothest it's ever been for me. No shaking whatsoever. I even rode once on each car. Not sure why we had such different experiences?

[@ghost-carnage8964]

@@madisyndeidel5242 I've got a few headaches from that ride, but I always ride it haha its always been my favorite

[@blupuff]

honestly i just went i have a massive headache now it’s bc they use gravity instead of magnets

[@SnotRag05]

Honestly it's good on the red cart the blue cart is Shakey and has a hard stop

[@dm06012]

The swaying from Twister II literally made my jaw hit the floor. Sweet Jeebus.

[@gilded_lady]

I saw that I'd noped the fuck out. How is that even allowed?!

[@madisyndeidel5242]

Coastermonkey61 I’ve seen it sway before but never they much lmao

[@madisyndeidel5242]

John Lorton I stopped trusting it years ago 😅

[@mjwc97]

Right?? I thought The Rattler was bad...

[@virgilwyatt4632]

Don't you mean "Oh Lord, No!?"

[@flisxsersalec]

Me seeing my childhood home park while the title says "worst park in America"

[@getoverhere0001]

Six flags fiesta Texas looks like Disney land when I went here most was open but it wasn't near as fun obviously if u grew up there the nostalgia blinds ya a bit

[@Northerncoloradofirebuff]

*anger*

[@Able_To]

@@Northerncoloradofirebuff very much

[@crystijones9518]

Right? Pretty sad and the only reason I watched the video, even sadder that I have to agree with most of what he said.

[@reapthegrim9611]

As a native Coloradan, this has been my home park for years. I’ve had a lot of fun here! Yes it’s sketchy, expensive, and run-down, but it’ll always have a special place in my heart!

[@xolqi3394]

reap thegrim96 Same

[@zombiebrained]

Same! I grew up going here and had a season pass for at least the 2007 season. Lots of good memories here even if it's in decline now

[@austin1386]

It started to decline ever since six flags sold it and its seen no cool new rides since. But it somewhat satisfies my urges to ride a rollercoaster

[@TECfan1]

Same here. I grew up in Denver and have lots of fond memories of going there with friends and family.

[@ifriedham]

Thank goodness he didn't go to lakeside

[@_lucas_1k_]

Imagine getting trampled trying to get to a SLC

[@noahberlin3953]

And according to Chris, the worst SLC!

[@starscreamtron]

It's pretty terrible, but it's less aweful if it's really cold.

[@seansanders4000]

TheRandom not only an slc, but THE WORST SLC lol.

[@HeelBJC]

At least in Michigan we have Shivering Timbers... We'd be in the exact same position if not for that.

[@WhirlwindDrums]

going to an slc is like going into your grave

[@a.m4863]

I risked my life willingly as a child at LAKESIDE riding the cyclone

[@Noirenoe]

I cried out of terror but I really liked a lot of other rides

[@TheGreatAlannnnnn]

I always thought that the cyclone was the best coaster in world when I was little

[@maddoxmurphy3609]

I’ll continue to do it to this day

[@oscarknight4349]

Still rattles like a pill jar

[@crystalacevedo4064]

True

[@JustShootLight]

LOL, Denver is “Home” so here’s some commentary. That sign is NEVER updated. Ever. The fact that you compared anything to SDC is by far way to much honor for elitch. Yes, Twister 2 is terrifying and for ALL the wrong reasons. That old arrow valleyed at one point in 2019, and blew the return launch motor twice in the season. Halfpipe is by far the best ride in the park. I used to run in, eat lunch, ride halfpipe and the sea dragon, then dip out.

[@oengusfearghas9608]

It is very sad, Denver used to be home and I used to go to Elich at minimum annually. Makes me feel very fortunate to be near Busch Gardens Williamsburg and semi-near Kings Dominion despite missing CO very much.

[@robertmcnearny9222]

@@oengusfearghas9608 Denver was home for me as well. Sad thing in the park (Wild Waves) where I live is even worse.

[@Krisna_K]

Robert McNearny Are you in the Seattle area? I ask because I know the Wild Waves near me sucks! I remember when it and the other park that was next to it were built and they were never all that great! So, just wondering if we’re talking about the same Wild Waves!

[@JustShootLight]

Oengus Fearghas yeah, I actually now live in a 19 ft RV and do a LOT of traveling. There’s some videos from parks on my channel if you wanna check it out :) I used to live in Florida before moving here.

[@robertmcnearny9222]

@@Krisna_K yea, same Wild Waves. It is terrible

[@lindsymitchell8265]

"It was overpriced and nothing was open!" Me, a denver native "well yeah... duh" ARE NOT ALL AMUSEMENT PARKS LIKE THAT?

[@ari_montz22]

....is it really just ours

[@alexrodgers8975]

Lol elitches was the worst. I hated amusement parks for a while cuz all I could remember was elitches...

[@Firebreather719]

I went to kings island 2 days ago in Mason ohio, and the only thing closed was the invertigo. Besides that everything else was opened.

[@elijahbolster1805]

If you revisit after covid I think its better now

[@mariotovar2173]

(Smiling): You’re such a Denver, native to think that. For the amount of money you pay for parking and admission you would think that ride operations would be better. You need to think outside the box, called Colorado, or see the rest of his journey. PS. Sidenote, it’s not “pop“ anymore it’s “soda“. Also, many Colorado natives still miss pronounce Vazquez Street, Pueblo and many others incorrectly. (Smiling)

[@MAINFRAMELaboratories]

Cyclone at Lakeside is probably the most thrilling coaster I've ever been on, not because it's a good coaster, but because you're actually risking your life when you ride it

[@DeathsWhistle]

....I live in Colorado and this is the only theme park I have ever experienced and I thought it was a fun and amazing place... I've been living a lie...

[@gracebeshears4397]

No you haven’t everyone has different opinions and he showed the worst of his time here but everyone has better and way more fun experiences same with me I think he just had a unlucky day there

[@CR-cl1vt]

ya Elitch is amazing he is just showing the wost and he should of planned it out better so he knew what rides were closed.

[@maple_vanilla]

@@gracebeshears4397 have you even been to any other amusement parks 😂😂 elitch is ghetto as fuck

[@mattwalter6207]

I grew up in Northern Ohio (by Cedar Point) and moved to Denver and was like "what a kiddie park"

[@snakeygirl4296]

Hey! At least we have the boomerang and sidewinder! Everyone agrees those rides are pretty fun! Plus… it’s better than the traveling carnival my town usually gets (but the carnival is cheaper to be fair). I secretly like the awful carnival as well… even if I almost fell off my favorite ride due to a bad seatbelt

[@1ryanfire114]

Watching Twister II sway is more exhilarating than the ride.

[@RevNoch]

And that's really sad. The old Mr. Twister at the previous location was regarded as one of the best wooden coasters. The second iteration is a pale shadow of Mr. Twister's greatness.

[@gabbygottschalk2378]

okay but the shakeyness and the fear of it is what makes it fun

[@madisyndeidel5242]

Fr my friend was like “omg Maddie it’s shaky wtf” and I was laughing at her panicking the whole time 😂

[@gabbygottschalk2378]

@@madisyndeidel5242 HAHA, when i last went it broke down HAHA

[@ToxicRain0117]

Denver wouldn't be so expensive if people stopped moving out here LMAO

[@kaylove8663]

Yes thank you I hate everyone who has moved here in the last 10 years.... they have ruined Colorado

[@scarlatteford135]

Omg yessss

[@faithcruz3081]

frr everyone need to go to there own states🖐

[@liilyanarose]

Yeah ! they should make everyone go back to the state they are from

[@waterproof4403]

@@kaylove8663 blame weed

[@SemiShweet]

Colorado deserves a much better home park.

[@robertstalnaker5728]

Mother Joan Hazy the real estate is so Valuable here no one will build one in the hopes of making a profit. I think I read elitches is slated to be dismantled here shortly. Too close to down and so ready for the location to be redeveloped into more overpriced housing.

[@TECfan1]

Not gonna happen. Land value for homes is far too high.

[@Flamingbro69]

Honestly, if real estate wasn’t a concern, I wish Cartmanland (North Park Funland) was a Real Park

[@thejunkman]

They do, its called Water World, lol

[@axewolfe1759]

well the skiing pretty much makes up for it

[@WFHRUG]

Not gonna lie, everything you said is pretty much true. But when you live in Colorado you take what you can get when it comes to amusement parks.

[@FerrisBueller86]

W01F15HR0UG3 I agree being a Colorado native!

[@The-Darkened-Veil]

Right, especially with the closure of Heritage Square a few years ago. Growing up this place was the best because it was all we had

[@FerrisBueller86]

Officially Sp00ked exactly!

[@blacklisted351]

What about royal gorge and glenwood?

[@mashy712]

I prefer lakeside amusement park.

[@atlas1924]

Elitches is actually really damn safe compared to lakeside and heritage square

[@mromwtfyb5146]

Holy fuck I completely forgot about Heritage square..it’s a damn shame they closed it :(

[@Northerncoloradofirebuff]

Heritage is not as bad as lakeside

[@atlas1924]

@@Northerncoloradofirebuff from personal experience lakeside was safer. I got my elbows scratched to the bone at heritage while lakeside I've never had an injury

[@atlas1924]

@@mromwtfyb5146 I miss it

[@Northerncoloradofirebuff]

@@atlas1924 never been to lakeside just got that opinion from friends should I go?

[@itztechno1572]

Me: review my home park! Airtime: WORST PARK EVER Me: F

[@udman008]

Doesn't know F. Kekw

[@kraftiikatie]

@@vivianvigil6375 I wonder how your employer would feel if they knew that you were out here cursing at potential customers and telling them not to come to your/their park 🤷

[@vivianvigil6375]

@@kraftiikatie sorry I didn't mean to call you out on the carpet like that

[@painxz1]

@@kraftiikatie she really hurt your feeling huh karen?

[@kraftiikatie]

@@painxz1 oh, yes 😬 so badly 🙄 I cried for weeks 😭🤦‍♀️

[@fawful7457]

I feel bad for the unfortunate souls that have this as their home park.

[@StamfordBridge]

So true. Lakeside is another historic park very nearby, but Denver is a massive city with so little for its residents.

[@duncanmaclaren2019]

Ya that would be me lol

[@annalisahartmann5661]

It's pretty lousy

[@bradyward2177]

Currently my home park is King's Island, I'm thinking about moving to Colorado (for completely different reasons) which would make this my home park so yeahhh big L

[@DoughyBreads]

This is my home park.

[@trentonlindeman8528]

Maybee it's because it's really the only theme park I've ever been to, or because I grew up at this park but I love it. the water rides are great and brain drain is one of my favorites if you ever go back definitely go on brain drain.

[@yndrudru]

Same it’s my only one I’ve ever been too and every time I go the rides are open and it’s really fun time

[@maple_vanilla]

@@yndrudru get in line for the mind eraser coaster, every time we go, some kid throws up on the ride and its closed down for hours

[@David-gj9qr]

If this is the only theme park you've ever been to then I can understand liking it but other than that from a perspective of a coaster enthusiast even if he got an unlucky day I don't really see anything here thats worth making a trip to

[@NoNo-dn4kp]

I would say I have been to a moderate amount of parks. I have lived in both Utah and Colorado who have their own local parks. Then I have been to most of the amusement/theme parks in California and to Hersey Park in Pennsylvinia, and most of the rides in Vegas. Eliches is definately the most lame of all the parks I have been too. Its been about 10 years since I have been to Eliches it looks like they have a couple new rides, but my favorite one is gone. Can't remember what it was called but it was the glider one. I have visited Eliches and Lagoon (Utah) more than any other amusement parks When Eliches was still a six flags I had a season pass to both Lagoona and Eliches and went to both all the time. I would say Lagoon is better for the rides, and Eliches is better for the waterpark (or at least it was the last time I went). My pre-teen nephews live in Colordado and they have had season passes to Lagoon here in Utah every year since they were 2ish. They are going to Eliches this summer for the first time so we will see how they like it compared to Lagoon. They actually show a ride from Lagoon in this clip The Spider Ride towards the end when its making recomendations.

[@smilesgirl17]

Take a trip to Texas…I was blown away by the oldest least popular coaster a SFOT. Lmao. Could barely handle it.

[@jax-cat6485]

The amount of sway on that coaster is TERRIFYING! I can’t imagine seeing that AFTER you have already ridden- it makes my stomach drop

[@smilesgirl17]

Yeah that’s me. Last season I rode it once and felt like it was going to derail right around that part. Now I know why

[@Blank-ez8sp]

It sways more now

[@landonmoore767]

Been on it. Won't be on it again after seeing that.

[@richardherndon451]

There are nets over the line que path covered in large splinters from the track.They're so large I would call them wood chips. I was about to ride it the last time I was there but I was with a school group and had to duck out of line for lunch.

[@jax-cat6485]

That’s just absolutely insane-

[@OakViewFilms]

IMO, the real Elitch Gardens died in 1994, when the original park closed to relocate, and left their old Mr. Twister coaster abandoned (till it met the wrecking ball years later). Six Flags did more harm to this park than good during their run of it. A shame, since the original Elitch could have been like a smaller version of Kennywood or Knoebels: An old park with a lot of charm. Instead, the post-1994 Elitch lacks any charm (or a good coaster for that matter). Colorado deserves a better amusement park.

[@theodoreperkoski1951]

The plans were used to build the one in Knoebles

[@JulianDale94]

At least there's still Lakeside, right?

[@fredhurst2528]

Got to ride that original Mr. Twister like 7 times in one day, we did the Wildcat about a 1/2 dozen times as well. One visit, almost 30 years ago, pretty much a polar opposite experience from this video.

[@FerrisBueller86]

Being a Coloradan all my life I agree 100%! Ever since Premiere bought it in 1996 it’s been terrible. I hope they move again somewhere with more room to add a couple new rides and keep the old favorites.

[@OakViewFilms]

@@JulianDale94 I've heard pretty bad things about how Lakeside is run by the In the Loop crew. (The Legend, one of the main contributors of In The Loop, even claimed it was the worst park he's ever visited. At the time at least).

[@thomasbohlen1138]

me watching this as someone who spent his childhood at elitches even worse younger brother, lakeside: 👀👀👀

[@jonathanielpringlemaniii]

older brother*

[@katiedobkrite9010]

Yessss but u mean older brother

[@CoasterRoaster]

Well, having this as your home park would be better than having no park as your home park. *cough cough* Natives of Montana

[@DoswarePictures]

The Coaster Roaster Hawaii is worse.

[@howenator]

Don't forget Denver also has Lakeside

[@motorwayt-s628]

And Delaware

[@CoasterRoaster]

@@motorwayt-s628 but in delaware you are probably somewhat close to either the Ocean City parks, the NJ boardwalks, or SFGAd

[@kjyost]

@John Lorton East coast "close" and MidWest "close" are vastly different. I'll drive 8+ hours for a weekend trip. East coast folks don't do that.

[@n3lis94]

That was the most polite rant ever

[@tq2769]

SOOOOOO polite.

[@dannythornton8165]

The best part about Elitche's is the car ride home.

[@richardmanderscheid6836]

And you get to take the clothes pin off your nose. Toilet Garden

[@Ilostmyshoesagain]

Lol

[@jaygrasmick]

You mean after the 35min line to get out?

[@foleyas9669]

I actually liked Elitch Gardens, it's got a good atmosphere in some parts of the park, has good food, a good waterpark, and friendly staff. You probably got there on a bad day, the closed coasters are pretty good. Your day just sucked, and I feel bad you had that experience. (Not my home park btw)

[@salt_container7523]

FoleyAS guess you are that rare few that enjoy horrible things

[@foleyas9669]

@@salt_container7523 the parks not the best, it really does just need more space, crappy location so it's not like they can buy anything, which is sad.

[@lotusflowerr]

Mr_King Salty it’s not bad

[@starkiller62210]

Man I wasted a ton of my teenage years coming here. Used to get the annual pass and hang out with my two brothers all summer at Elitch. While I can definitely agree in retrospect that this place is kind of a piece I can't shake the sense of nostalgia looking at all these rides again. I sure miss CO.

[@ZachAlletson]

They were probably short staffed because a bunch of them called in “sick” when they were hungover after the 4th of July

[@zombiebrained]

I grew up in Denver and often frequented this park and lemme tell you, I have never in my life ever seen the observation tower be open. Ever. It just doesn't happen.

[@ari_montz22]

Exactly....bruh I'm sad I cant go on it

[@bretfredenburg]

I went up on it once when I was really little. It has actually been condemned. It will never be opened again

[@bretfredenburg]

I went up on it once when I was really little. It has actually been condemned. It will never be opened again

[@smilesgirl17]

Yep. Went up there when it first opened. Can’t remember the last year you still could

[@dayoftherope6591]

Observation tower is condemned actually. Talked to an employee for a while years ago. He said it was so unsafe that they had no choice but to tear it down or rebuild. Neither has happened. The twister 2 is also unsafe. Park is dead. It always sucks there.

[@StephenPack]

Yup, but it would be hard to tear it down with all the stuff nearby, I fully expect it'll stay up until the whole park moves for the redevelopment. But it's hilarious they show it on the maps and signs like it's "temporarily" closed.

[@ShannaFarley]

It's literally been closed for decades. Kind of figured it was closed.

[@ari_montz22]

Its really does

[@Jeefgeg]

5 years ago I think me and my friend went to the park with my parents, and while we were off doing our own stuff some lady let us up in the tower for a while. I had pictures but the phone I had back then broke so I can't access them. It was really cool tho, and I also didn't know that its been permanently closed for a long time

[@craigclement5079]

I’ll bet nothing ever sucks as long as you are present

[@stagdragon3978]

me: man I miss going to amusement parks. Maybe I'll get a season pass to Elitch Gardens again. Airtime Thrills: WORST PARK IN AMERICA

[@iiuglyratval2864]

SAME LMAOOO

[@krislocko1207]

"This sign is fake news" 😂😂

[@digdougx]

The Denver-Colorado Springs area is such an untapped market for coasters. Six Flags or Cedar Fair should look at this market as a prime expansion opportunity (once the economy rebuilds itself from this plague).

[@abrasivepartyc5416]

I've thought the same thing. I moved here from the northeast, and was shocked by the lack of amusement parks around here. Like Charlotte, the Denver-Csprings area is seeing out of control growth, IDK why one of the chains won't put a Carowinds type park here.

[@murderouscow]

But unfortunately since Six Flags sold the park off in the first place, I doubt they'll ever look at this market again... At least The Boomerang is still great though.

[@hcaz5818]

We already have enough people here, don't need anything else bringing in more

[@thejunkman]

@@hcaz5818 Exactly, the Californian's have already ruined what was a nice state over the last 20+ years.

[@axewolfe1759]

we dont need one and it would be closed for half the year due to cold temperatures and snow so that is what the skiing is for

[@yackman4368]

Worst thing I ever experienced there was last summer. 17 years old and with 3 friends the same age. We went on some rides, and waited in line a lot, the usual. We decided after a few hours to go and get some food outside of the park and come back afterwards to hit some of the other coasters. Basically we got back at about 6 o clock and we get to the entrance and we were told we could not go back in because “minors were not aloud in after 5 o clock without a guardian because of adults getting drunk” most ridiculous rule I had ever heard in my life. We ended up spending all of that money just to ride a couple rides and then be prohibited from entering again.

[@ren9897]

yeah that happend to me and my sisters to

[@jamesweber3027]

It’s not because adults getting drunk it’s because of other reasons

[@stickofiron2336]

If you ever come back just go to waterworld it’s much better than elitch’s

[@FluffyBuzzard2TheMax]

Except for the pee pee

[@lovelykitty42]

Hamsaphina that happens in any pool tho

[@chadwickelliott9584]

Waterworld is a disgrace to denver. Is got me really sick. There water is dirty. Atleast Eiltch’s has clean fun places

[@Jaxsen522]

He isn’t a fan of getting soaked or water rides, waterslides, like he doesn’t like getting on things related to water on you.

[@charlesbastien4870]

The original Elitch's Gardens was incredible, on the north-west side

[@suzannehemenover6093]

That's true! Used to go the old park, believe it was located at 44th and Tenn. Saw Chad and Jeremy, an English singing duo. Enjoyed the haunted house. This was in the 60's. Wouldn't go there now, way too expensive!!

[@charlesbastien4870]

@@suzannehemenover6093 You're close, it was just south of W. 38th Ave. Every summer we went, large groups of neighbor kids. The last time I went there was 1989.

[@suzannehemenover6093]

@@charlesbastien4870 I couldn't remember if it was on 38th or 44th. Thank you for correcting me.

[@charlesbastien4870]

@@suzannehemenover6093 I was a Yellow Cab driver from 1988-91. I visited the new park in the valley in 1998, and was extremely disappointed. The original Elitch's had rides, gardens and a famous theater pavilion.

[@wideawakeinotown]

i don't know the story why it was moved. was it just a space thing?? and if so, why did they not take all the old classic rides? i grew up in OKC and used to visit Bell's in Tulsa and i know the heartbreaking story why they aren't there anymore, but i never understood why elitch's left the old location. such a pity

[@A_Strawberry]

As a denver native, I can personally say all of this is true.

[@fsandoval60]

Same. I haven't been to Elich's in over a decade. But, Lakeside is far worse.

[@ZaibatsuHeavyIndustries]

No it isn't

[@pinklemon2717]

@@ZaibatsuHeavyIndustries agree

[@coasterhockygamingboy9549]

If i were you i would have went to lagoon instead of elitch gardens

[@dragonfire101g]

He had already went to Lagoon, which was why it wasn't on the agenda. The credits he gets are in #210's. Cannibal was his #200.

[@AirtimeThrills]

We go to Lagoon sometimes as its own trip so we didnt wanna waste a day on this trip on it

[@theodoreperkoski1951]

Shame you weren't able to get to. Lakeside Park and ride their roller coaster

[@wolfenman1013]

Airtime Thrills But Lagoon is so kickass (and it’s also my home park so I’m biased)

[@nicholasrabideau]

@@wolfenman1013 What is this... Lagoon I keep hearing about.. CO resident btw.

[@skwid23]

HAHAHAHAH, OH NO, THIS IS MY HOME PARK. After watching this channel for a good while I knew it wouldn't get a positive review but I still think it's great fun, definitely nostalgia has some to do with that. In my experience (and I've not been there in a number of years), Half Pipe is closed all the time, Sidewinder definitely a surprise to see closed, so for sure a below-average day but not an outlier.

[@calebslayzfr]

People saying the Twister II is very boring* Me at the Cyclone at Lakeside: 👁👄👁

[@MichaelPitch]

It could have been worse, when I went there I rode Flying Coaster, a Zamperla Volare that everyone hates.

[@northeastcoasters3046]

And the Original which is now at Luna Park Coney Island

[@Ceijonius]

Michael Pitch I too hated that ride, but when it was new, it was the latest craze that everyone wanted to experience.

[@stephenpuglisi2946]

OMG I rode that at Coney. It was so painful, UGH. Had to do it once for the credit but NEVER, EVER AGAIN would I. My legs still hurt.

[@SuperMarkerComicBro]

Yeah, I hated the Flying Coaster. Good idea, but horrible execution.

[@Dave711701]

This park seriously needs to be relocated and re-profiled, it just looks like a bunch of rides dropped into a rundown industrial area.

[@honeylemon3081]

Dave that’s because Denver’s has made it move and it’s actually trying to force the park out so they can build apartments.

[@ofclshn]

Honey Lemon it isn’t really trying, it’s reality

[@ryshelle8481]

That's.... exactly what it is.

[@tq2769]

Totally agree. Would just put "rinky-dink" before rides.

[@ld7561]

@Maintenance Renegade remember, Cinderella City? 😂

[@evieb7828]

elitches is actually fun y’all just went on a bad day.

[@scarlatteford135]

Yeah I'm going tomorrow

[@Chris-hi1hf]

it’s fun but it’s not as good as others. it’s extremely meh

[@evieb7828]

@@Chris-hi1hf in my opinion it’s just like other amusement parks

[@jacki3eee]

dude fr

[@nichtsistkostenlos6565]

@@evieb7828 How many parks have you been to? Ever been to a real serious park like Magic Mountain or Cedar Point?

[@SuperMarkerComicBro]

I'm actually from Colorado, so I'll throw in my two cents: I agree completely. I used to go to the park every summer with my parents back when I was in late elementary school and middle school, around 2007 through 2011. We went back again in 2018, like you guys, because they had season passes available for both 2018 and 2019. Suffice to say, it wasn't impressive. The park didn't look like it had changed much at all in the 7 year span between going there my last day of middle school and my senior year of college. Like your experience, there was so many rides closed for non-obvious reasons (I'm guessing the staff shortage you mentioned), and the rides that were open weren't as fun as I remember. The biggest hurt for me was Twister II. When I was younger, that was one of my favorite roller coasters (though at that point, my coaster experience was very limited). When my Dad and I _finally_ got to ride it last year, it felt like the ride was going to collapse at any point with how rough and bumpy it was. I didn't ride the Mind Eraser, but considering how much I hated that ride as a kid, I was in no mood to try it again as an adult. I don't know if I just grew up and realized the park sucked or if the park has aged like milk, but there's a reason why my Dad was adamant our family wouldn't be going back in 2020. And when the only "new" ride they have is a reskin of an old ride, I don't think there's going to be many people going back to it when the park opens back up. I don't think you guys hit it on a bad day; just an average day.

[@smilesgirl17]

SuperMarkerComicBro Were we on the same run on Twister II last season cause that’s exactly how I felt. I thought we were going to legit derail around the last turn. I agree with the video on the Boomerang. It’s the only ride that’s aged okay in my opinion.

[@hosed10]

I would never go to a park after a holiday. Staff probably all called in sick being drunk/high/all the above.

[@johnbossert8725]

A few things to add to your knowledge if you want to know and it’ll likely explain a lot. Six Flags actually bought out Elitches for awhile. The Boomerang is Joker themed. I dunno what they call the lift wing ride now but it used to be the Batwing. If you look inside “Kiddie World” you can still find remnants of Loonie Toons. When Six Flags bought out the park they upped the entrance fee which the new owner kept in tact. Also, Twister 2 used to have a sign, a rather large one outside of it. When Elitch Park moved properties Mister Twister was dismantled then “rebuilt”. They claimed they couldn’t rebuild the exact Mister Twister. However the original wooden beams and parts are still there in cases. They do get replaced with new ones if damage becomes “detrimental” but if the old parts are declared good they’re still there. Likely the reason for the coaster shake. Six Flags really ruined Elitch Gardens. There’s also two reasons the observation tower is literally never operable, one fact and one rumor. The tower was not maintained and could potentially blow over one day. On a windy day even two decades ago the tower would sway with high winds. Then rumor is they’re using it for a storage area. Last time I was up there the elevator was closed and you had to take the stairs. Which most people won’t.

[@Cje_-yj8ov]

The second someone told you everyone rushes to the SLC at rope drop, you should've known you were in for a rough day

[@aliciad4707]

Elitches is definitely more of a park you go to when you want to hang out with friends but don’t feel like going bowling or mini golfing for the millionth time.

[@wednesdaysbliss1]

While Elitches is indeed pretty lame, there’s honestly no better place to spark up a joint than on the Ferris Wheel at this park. Nothing like getting stoned while being above the mile high city.

[@wednesdaysbliss1]

@@smooth_concrete bro why, it’s real talk 😂

[@gatsbysdead]

I’m laughing my ass off because THIS was my childhood. THIS PARK pretty much single handedly got me into coasters and I don’t have a clue why!!!

[@TK_5280]

I grew up in Denver going to the original location for most of my childhood. It was total garbage once they moved it.

[@usmale4915]

I know what you mean. I have never been to the new location!

[@cherylparrish3755]

The original was also my childhood experience and it was amazing. There was something for everyone and anytime you'd take a break there was always shade with a breeze. Now it is a flat top oven with no escape, droll food and all the history that was once so celebrated is gone forever.

[@HummingbirdCyborg]

It was an actual garden. And you're right, the new location is just blacktop.

[@adamhilgefort2589]

I lived much of my childhood a few blocks from the old park. It was amazing.

[@ari_montz22]

That's what i heard too.....but unfortunately I have only ever known the new elitches

[@arandomgayartist3877]

I live in denver and bro I went there a few years ago and we didn't get to do ANYTHING. We sat in line for hours and as soon as we got to the front, someone threw up on the ride and ut was closed

[@GoesByJ]

it makes sense that the day after the 4th people would be out. Everyone I know takes the day off after a Holliday. I do agree that is the park is shit, tho. XD

[@flynnclemons8520]

Ikr

[@AirtimeThrills]

I can see that, lots of hung over employees

[@TheEpic22]

GoesByJ Parks need to offer incentives to employees to work that day. Like time and a half or something

[@GoesByJ]

TheEpic22 but they did not and we can’t change that now. Maybe for the future.

[@SteveOthewindowcleaner]

The consistent stickiness under your feet while waiting in line 😊🤢🤮

[@ericgrimes341]

I remember my younger sister dumped a soda on a woman’s head while waiting in line for the mind eraser. Classic!

[@blakebradley6404]

Frrrr

[@madisyndeidel5242]

Oh yeah Fr

[@jamesg7371]

That is every park I have been to. Worlds of Fun, Knott's Berry Farm, Disneyland, Disneyworld, 6 Flags (Both in California and in Chicago), and Bush Gardens in Virginia.

[@jonathanielpringlemaniii]

denver is disgusting and dirty, STICKINESS *EVERYWHERE*

[@nightstrike90]

In 1999/2000 this place was fucking LIT. Best memories of my childhood, so sad to see it fall so far from grace

[@markafranklin22]

All that magic left when they stopped operating under Six Flags, the place is definitely a shell of it's former self

[@bariton3779]

you definitely came on a bad day, though half the days are bad. Halfpipe and sidewinder are always closed. Halfpipe has an intense rattle, and a really bad restraint design. Sidewinder has some sweet ejector airtime, and back row, or front row is the best. Aim for the front on mind eraser, and twister ii is bad all around.

[@failtolawl]

The fact is there is too much other things to do in Colorado to be spending time at a theme park. You either have a big market such as Florida or a completely dreadful state like Ohio or Pennsylvania where the only escape is an amusement park. Colorado is niether, and of course any theme park will just not be good.

[@mikebronc2902]

I grew up going to Elitchs. As a kid and teenager it was awesome. My childhood definitely was better for it. As an adult I've been there a couple times. There's a reason for that. I'd rather sit at home then overpay for a way below average amusement park. There's a reason 6 flags dropped it.

[@mrraven7445]

There’s plans to close the park for more apartments. They used to have a flying coaster but they closed it just a year after building it. Honestly the water park is why most people go there.

[@donij9853]

I heard they are putting it by the airport

[@donij9853]

I have never been to the water park I only go for the rides

[@RavenLuna89]

They did not close the flying coaster a year after they put it in. They closed the flying coaster when 6 flags sold the park. The flying coaster was in operation for several seasons but 6 flags is the one who had the costume characters and the batman show. When they sold the park they could no longer do the batman show and the flying coaster was supposed to be a Superman type of experience. They could no longer do anything super hero because 6 flag had sole ownership of those rights. They are going to be building apartments where Elitches currently stands in like 10 years. The park has 10 years to come up with the funds to move locations which they want to put the park near Dick Sporting Goods Park.

[@RavenLuna89]

@@donij9853 Dick Sporting Goods Park.

[@zachinthehat1]

I actually rode the flying coaster at elitches it was fucking scary lol

[@theflyinpenguin1289]

Sidewinder usually opens around 4-5 PM on most days. Half pipe most likely didn't open that day. Also this is my home park, and I'm very sadden to say that. But yeah, sidewinder is a lot of fun, because the restraints are loose, and you fly, best ride there.

[@p.terodactyl6848]

Since this used to be my home park it does have a nostalgic place in my heart, but yeah, it's awful. The employees who work there seem miserable which could point to an explanation for the severe understaffing. Everything you experienced like the closed rides are very common occurrences. They also have weird and inconsistent operating hours (sometimes the park closes for the day at 4pm), every single line takes forever to move (the lines in the food court are often 30+ minutes), the food is awful (except for the deserts and old fassioned treats in the main entrace), and rides break down constantly or are closing down due to weather. The park is not laid out well, is dirty, and has an overall cheap, unkempt, sketchy, and an overall "off" feeling.

[@tylershep4220]

I live near Eliches, and while I have fond memories of it from my childhood, I can't enjoy myself there now because of how bad it is. Whenever people ask what they should do if they take a trip to Denver, I always tell them to steer clear of Elich Gardens.

[@jaredmarler4655]

An SLC being the most popular ride in a park is why we joke on GP

[@kathyross5705]

I'm a Colorado native and I have to say that when Elitches was at the original site, it was an awesome park.

[@PersonLabeledN0AH]

I’ve ridden Sidewinder and Half Pipe. They’re the best rides in the park.

[@kpov2533]

Sidewinder seems so simple from afar but it kicks butt

[@jamesdinius7769]

@@kpov2533 And that simplicity is it's strength. Since it's so short the line moves really fast for a coaster.

[@wolfdaddy5215]

Its not people calling off...they literally worst paid park in the U.S.A.

[@hausoftheenigma]

The lifeguards in the water park area are so rude and no I’m not talking about them actually doing their job. One example for my experience was witnessing a lifeguard around the Island Bobs wave pool when there was a safety check, we were all waiting outside of the pool, and were NOT allowed to go past the white line (not that far from the start) - a little girl (probably about 5/6) was sitting on the ground near the lifeguard with her feet barely past the white line. The lifeguard proceeded to yell at really loud, blowing the whistle right near her ear to not go past the white line. She then obviously started to remain there keeping her legs there crying, being later picked up by her parents. I saw this looking from 5 people away from where I was standing. I would give more examples but that would be too long - but other than that topic, elitch is an okay theme park and most rides there I find pretty boring.

[@fervalencia30]

Imagine running to ride a Vekoma SLC

[@myron.aussjr]

Fernando Valencia lmao

[@miserybeach9630]

This is my home park, yay! I went on opening day last year and I have to agree that their operations are awful. I blame Premier parks for that. I wish Lagoon wasn't 6 hours from me

[@dove1470]

I was born and raised in Denver, and I am DYING!

[@emsmarz321]

The reason they charge 20 for parking ls because people who buy a season pass get to park for free all season. So they need to charge more for out of towners

[@HummingbirdCyborg]

They don't need to. They do it to try to persuade people to buy the year pass.

[@noonesomeone669]

In a state with many of the best ski resorts in the entire world (Vail, Aspen, Telluride), the best place to play golf in the region, and easy access to a plethora of world-class outdoor activities, it is no surprise that an amusement park does not get the investment when those other options exist. The price for parking is honestly not that bad considering where it is located. There are plans for the entire park to be developed into an extension of downtown over the next decade or two. The only hope I see is if/when Elitch Gardens moves they heavily focus on theming and work to create an intimate and old-time experience. Parks in city centres work see Tivoli Gardens however they have to pursue very unique strategies to overcome the issues it brings.

[@jamesdinius7769]

Not to mention in the summer it has to fight with Water World for that crowd.

[@petertheoneandonly9752]

One time I saw a janitor at Elitches taking a full trashbag out of a trashcan. A lady couldnt wait for the crowd around her to move and ducked under the trashbag as he pulled it out. Trash water soaked her and the kids. Twas hilarious. Elitches is great.

[@heyher_the_odd]

Anytime I have gone to Elitch's all the main rides have been open. Granted it's been about 10 years since I went last. But I remember late 90's and early 2000's all the rides being open.

[@turntheswitchoff8259]

Twister II was my second rollercoaster ever, and I really liked it. Then again my first coaster was Timber Wolf and I've only ever ridden Twister II and the six coasters at WoF so I don't have much to compare it to.

[@chrisgardiner2215]

$20 has EVERYTHING TO DO WITH THE PARK BEING LOCATED IN DOWNTOWN DENVER

[@jeffcunningham308]

You could tell Chris was so disappointed

[@galvarez7727]

Knott’s berry farm gang where you at

[@zodiacstarot5834]

I have never even stepped foot in that observation tower. It’s always closed

[@TheRiverweasel09]

You never will. It's been condemned for being ludicrously unsafe.

[@cameronehrle1590]

It was open like 4 years ago one time and I thought it was a miracle.. Other than that, it's always abandoned.

[@timwolfers7880]

I was at the old Elitch and Mister Twister was a great ride. The sway at the top of the first hill was excellent. Knoebels has done a great job recreating a similar twister ride- back seat is best. Denver economy may be the problem for finding seasonal employees for low paying amusement park jobs.

[@spiralarchitect5882]

"If they could open up the rides, that would be nice" Me, all summer 2020

[@isabelledaniels1573]

I think it is very offensive to call any park “work park” (except Lakeside) I love this place still to this day

[@SmoothOper8ions]

elitch gardens is shutting down anyway and selling their land off to real estate developers

[@TECfan1]

It'll most likely be moved again, though. It's too iconic.

[@luismiranda8944]

Whenever I try to convince my friends to go to Disney parks with me, they always have hesitation because of how bad Elitches is here in Denver. Even when I first started going to Disney and Universal, I wasn't all that excited because my theme park experiences were marred by this park. It's literally the same park that I went to when I was in elementary school. And it's been overpriced the whole time. I remember trying to buy a soda and they were selling them for $3 for a 12 Oz bottle back in the late 90s. It is a shame you missed out on the half pipe, that's probably my favorite ride at the park, followed by the Shake Rattle and Roll (which I'm not sure of its even there still)

[@ari_montz22]

I have literally never heard of the shake rattle role......wait is it that one ride that goes in a circle really fast??(next to twister)

[@TheFlopped2979]

@@ari_montz22 yes

[@ExiledWolf84]

The Shake Rattle and Roll was unfortunately removed roughly three years ago. Too bad really.

[@AE-kv1up]

I agree, Elitch Gardens is trash! I visited the park last summer for the second time and there were a ton of closed rides. The water park was so full the day we visited we were only able to ride a few rides....after spending most of the day there. The day we visited, it was a cloudy day and lighting was said to be detected miles away so we had to sit through 3 different shutdowns, each of which was well over an hour. There was absolutely nothing to ride or even do during the ridiculously long waits. The only reason we got to ride more than a couple rides is because most of the crowd had dispersed after the 2nd and 3rd rain delays. I've been to many amusement parks over the years and this dump has to rank at the top of one of the worst parks I've ever been to.

[@jeremybarker5510]

As an employee of the park, I've seen how the maintenance goes. Sidewinder doesn't open because of low staffing, but during Fright Fest, it doesn't open until 6. Twister II had an issue in 2018 when the lift chain broke, and they didn't get the chain until the next season. Half Pipe has had issues with the magnetic launch mechanism, especially with the elevation. Honestly, I've worked there since 2016, and they've become my work family. The majority of the staff there knows who I am. Plus, you shouldn't judge a park just by its rides. You can judge it for the food, scenery, environment, staff, etc. However, I've seen some of the low points in staffing, including teenagers who don't give a fuck what their supervisors say. I'm one of the few staff members who actually gives a shit because I care about the place. I don't want it to close down. If you ask me, I would love to have it relocated out to DIA.

[@Nemisis2290]

Sounds like an issue with management if y'all are hiring teenagers who don't give a shit. My workplace has plenty of teenagers who are hard workers, do their shit properly and genuinely care about their work and coworkers and customers. Lots of them got denied jobs at elitch gardens. Also, parks aren't generally gone to to purchase overpriced carnival food and enjoy the "scenery" (run down everything and rides not in service and the ones that are are awfully maintained).

[@brikitty1874]

I have lived close to Elitch Gardens all my life and you can definitely judge it by it's rides. I'm surprised no has talked about how the tower of doom always malfunctions and leaves people stuck at the top of the fucking ride for hours sometimes, no one has talked about the kid who fell off the rock and roll (which is nearly impossible to do.) Elitch Gardens has a lot of problems and y'all charge to much for food and drinks for that to even be a factor in the experience. There's also always a fight there. Shit I had a dude spit on my homegirls hair while he was sitting stagnant on the twister 2 and we were in line. I'll spend my money at water world, thank you

[@Nemisis2290]

@T A covid should target people like you. Too bad it doesn't.

[@jaronloar1762]

You mean food that's too expensive, scenery you can't see because the observation tower is closed, environment of waiting an hour in lines for one 5 minute ride, and employees that look like they want to die?

[@Okaycoasters]

They should have installed a 4D free spin before you went to the park. 😂

[@metrofilmer8894]

okaycoasters they actually were owned by six flags pre bankruptcy. That’s how the Boomerang and SLC came

[@AirtimeThrills]

Airtime Myke approves this message

[@metrofilmer8894]

Airtime Thrills Have you been to La Ronde. Might beat Elitch Gardens for worst Park

[@carlforman4442]

@@metrofilmer8894 La Ronde looks bad also but they have Goliath and the batman clone which both look like solid rides, where here there is nothing good.

[@tq2769]

A Kenner Sit 'n Spin would make this park more interesting.

[@vcom2327]

I worked at the old Elitch Gardens Park in north Denver, in the 1970s. The summer I was there, the old wooden roller coaster had a derailment and crash twice. One person killed. They immediately locked the gates, and forbid the employees to talk to the press. The accident never appeared in the newspapers, and the police did not come. Apparently Elitch's was bribing the Denver police for years to keep such accidents , that seemed to happen on average once a year, quiet. Some old history... Interesting.

[@DE-uw4vb]

Yeah the original location was way cool. When they moved it they ruined it.

[@mlb6d9]

Couldn't agree more. I have many fond memories of the old location. Nothing but mediocre memories from the current one.

[@taylordavis7694]

I loved this park growing up, and I really romanticized the mind eraser. They should really relocate though, it would make expansion much easier

[@makaylabuck7400]

I work at an amusement park 5 years this year. I understand the frustration when the rides go down like that. But most of the time it’s out of their control, no one wants to work now a days. My park struggles with staff and the other factor is that it takes so so so long to get parts in, we had one that took 2 years to get a part since it was made in Switzerland and they had to make a motherboard that was struck by lightening. It was one of our older rides in the park “wooden roller coaster” so the person who made the past motherboard was dead.

[@daybrayer]

You know its a bad park when everyone storms to the vekoma slc at the opening 😂

[@Jaxsen522]

You would call it the rope dropper!