After the purchase, the legendary Swamp Fox Roller Coaster underwent a complete refurbishing according to the original specifications of the original design by John Allen in 1966. The totally refurbished wooden roller coaster boasts 2,800 feet of running track (which is a half-mile long), and a 62 foot free fall drop. Originally built in 1966 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, it still remains the largest and the only all-wooden roller coaster in the area today.
Another famed attraction is the Antique Carousel. A little known bit of history is attached to this ride. The carousel built in 1932 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company and was moved to Myrtle Beach from Asbury Park, N.J. While the carousel does not have the original animals, the outside horses were made from the original cast.
Another signature attraction at Family Kingdom is the largest Ferris wheel in South Carolina. With a height of 100 feet, riders of The Giant Wheel, can climb aboard for a awe-inspiring, panoramic view of Myrtle Beach and look out over the Atlantic Ocean.
When opening day under the new name rolled around, back in 1992, Family Kingdom started out with a total of 21 rides. Today the amusement park is home to approximately 34 rides. Since it is a “family-oriented” park, as the name suggests, its also home to many attractions for the little ones. There are a total of 17 kiddie rides, all of which, Family Kingdom says have been “kid tested and family approved”.
So many rides at this park will easily fill your day with fun and excitement. From the scenic ride on the mini locomotive as it weaves it way throughout the park, to the dramatic spin on the Hurricane and the Thunderbolt, to the high-flying Yo-Yo swings. For an interactive, dark ride that gives you a chance to check out your shooting skills you can try your marksmanship on the great Pistolero Roundup. Finally as one of the newer rides in recent years, the Slingshot Drop Zone gets your adrenaline pumping with a 100 foot freefall…straight down.
Last, but not least, there are always surprises to be experienced. From performances by magicians, clowns, and other fun entertainers including Elvis, yes we said Elvis, and of course King Arthur, the King of Family Fun himself.
So when you come to Myrtle Beach the Family Kingdom Amusement Park and Water Park should defiantly be on your list of things to do. The Kingdom of Fun awaits, so enjoy.
Family Kingdom, 300 N. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach
Amusement Park: 843-626-3447
Water Park: 843-916-0400
Groups Sales: 843-916-8378
Website: http://www.family-kingdom.com
