Tower Topics

Latest Episodes:

Remembering Kenton’s Cove Keelboat Canal Jun 24, 2026

Show notes

Take a nostalgic trip back to Rivertown as Tower Topics explores the forgotten legacy of Kenton Cove’s Keelboat Canal, one of the most beloved family attractions in Kings Island history. While legendary rides like Vortex, King Cobra, The Bat, and Son of Beast often steal the spotlight, this innovative log flume entertained more than 40 million riders during its 27-season run. Join Don Helbig and Ryan Suhr as they dive into the ride’s unique turntable loading system, dual-drop chutes, surprising airtime, rich Rivertown theming, and the memories that made it a fan favorite before its removal in 2000 to make way for Tomb Raider: The Ride. If you love Kings Island history, vintage attractions, theme park nostalgia, and behind-the-scenes stories about lost rides, this episode is a must-watch for every amusement park enthusiast.

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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

What Could Vekoma Build at Kings Island? Jun 22, 2026

Show notes

Could a modern Vekoma coaster be exactly what Kings Island needs next? In this episode of Tower Topics, Don Helbig and Ryan Suhr dive into how Vekoma has transformed from its rough-and-tumble reputation into one of the most innovative coaster manufacturers in the amusement industry. From family launch coasters like Big Bear Mountain at Dollywood to cutting-edge tilt coasters and other next-generation attractions, they explore which Vekoma concepts could fit perfectly in Kings Island’s lineup and whether a family-focused thrill ride or groundbreaking new coaster belongs on the former Vortex site. They also compare Vekoma to manufacturers like Intamin, B&M, and RMC, discuss coaster industry trends, and debate what would truly move the needle for Kings Island’s next major investment. If you're a coaster enthusiast, Kings Island fan, or theme park industry follower, this is a must-watch discussion packed with coaster rumors, ride analysis, and predictions for the future of one of America’s most beloved 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

Popcorn, Get Your Popcorn! Jun 19, 2026

Show notes

Is Kings Island losing the attention to detail that once made it one of the premier amusement parks in the industry? In this episode of Tower Topics, Don Helbig and Ryan Suhr discuss a seemingly small incident—a bucket of spilled popcorn left outside the park’s security checkpoint for more than a day—and why it may point to larger concerns about cleanliness, staffing, guest experience, park operations, and overall standards at Kings Island. From overflowing trash cans and inconsistent food service to maintenance, presentation, and management priorities, the conversation explores how the smallest details can shape a guest’s perception of quality and whether Kings Island is drifting away from the high standards that built its reputation. If you're a Kings Island fan, season passholder, amusement park enthusiast, or theme park industry follower, this deep dive into park operations, guest satisfaction, and Six Flags management is a must-watch.

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

Should Kings Island Introduce Pin Trading Like Disney Parks? Jun 17, 2026

Show notes

Could Kings Island launch its own pin trading program inspired by Disney? In this episode of Tower Topics, Don Helbig and Ryan Suhr explore how Disney’s wildly popular pin trading culture became a guest favorite and discuss whether a similar collectible pin program could thrive at Kings Island. From limited-edition ride pins, event-exclusive releases, and anniversary collectibles to guest interaction, merchandise sales, and creating a stronger collector community, they break down the potential benefits and challenges of bringing pin trading to the park. Could exclusive pins for Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare, WinterFest, Haunt, Food & Wine Festival, and major attraction anniversaries become the next must-have collectibles for Kings Island fans? Join the conversation as they examine how a pin trading program could enhance the guest experience, boost merchandise revenue, and add a whole new level of engagement for coaster enthusiasts and park visitors alike.

Check Out Theme Park Art By Allen: www.etsy.com/shop/ThemeParkArtByAllen

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

Does Kings Island Need a Major New Water Ride? Jun 15, 2026

Show notes

Could Kings Island benefit more from a groundbreaking water attraction than another roller coaster? In this episode of Tower Topics, Don Helbig and Ryan Suhr dive into Carowinds' newly announced record-breaking water ride and explore whether a similar investment could be the next big addition for Kings Island. From the future of Congo Falls and White Water Canyon to the park's current coaster lineup, they discuss how a major water attraction could appeal to families, casual visitors, and thrill-seekers alike while filling a gap in the park's attraction portfolio. Is another coaster really what Kings Island needs, or would a signature water ride create more excitement and value for guests? Join the conversation as they examine the possibilities, compare industry trends, and debate what could be next for one of America's most beloved 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

Why Six Flags Is Betting on Memberships Instead of Traditional Season Passes Jun 12, 2026

Show notes

Could Six Flags memberships eventually replace traditional season passes? In this episode of Tower Topics, Don Helbig and Ryan Suhr break down the expansion of the Six Flags membership program to parks like Kings Island, Kings Dominion, Carowinds, Dorney Park, Knott's Berry Farm, and more. They compare membership pricing versus season passes, analyze monthly payment options, discuss the long-term financial implications for guests, and explore why Six Flags may be pushing memberships as a key revenue strategy. From Gold and Prestige memberships to dining plans and the surprising cost of All-Season Fast Lane, this deep dive examines what the future of park access could look like and whether memberships are truly a better value for theme park fans. If you're considering a Six Flags season pass, membership, dining plan, or Fast Lane upgrade, this episode provides the insights you need before making your decision.

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

From Stage Magic to Sky Magic: Brad Ross and Kings Island After Dark Jun 08, 2026

Show notes

Join Ryan and Don on this episode of Tower Topics as they review Kings Island’s 2026 live entertainment lineup, including the highly anticipated Brad Ross Magic Show and the park’s nightly fireworks, drone, and fountain spectacular. Ryan shares his honest impressions after seeing Brad Ross perform twice, breaking down the illusions, audience reactions, standout moments, and whether the show lives up to the hype after years of anticipation. The discussion also dives into Kings Island’s updated nighttime spectacular, featuring drones, fireworks, fan-favorite characters like Maestro and No Legs Larry, and whether reusing last year’s soundtrack impacts the overall experience. If you're planning a visit to Kings Island in 2026 and want to know which shows are worth your time, this in-depth entertainment review covers everything you need to know.

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

One Day at Epic Universe or a Six Flags Prestige Pass? Jun 05, 2026

Show notes

Step into the ultimate theme park debate as Tower Topics compares a one-day ticket to Epic Universe versus a Six Flags Prestige Pass that includes unlimited visits to parks like Kings Island and Cedar Point. Don Helbig and Ryan Suhr break down the value, quality, and overall experience of Universal’s groundbreaking new park, exploring immersive lands like Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Celestial Park. From world-class attractions, storytelling, and dining to season pass perks, coaster rides, and the future of regional amusement parks, this episode dives deep into whether unforgettable experiences or unlimited visits provide the better value for theme park fans. Plus, the hosts react to the latest Kings Island pass perks and discuss what parks can learn from Epic Universe’s game-changing approach to guest experience and entertainment.

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

What’s Coming to Kings Island in 2027? Jun 03, 2026

Show notes

What’s coming to Kings Island in 2027? As the 2026 season gets underway and Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare takes center stage, Don Helbig and Ryan Suhr break down their predictions for the park’s future, from potential entertainment expansions and restaurant upgrades to the long-discussed Vortex plot and the possibility of new rides, special events, and park improvements. Will Kings Island invest in Broadway-style shows, bring back fan-favorite entertainment, add new dining experiences, or surprise guests with something completely unexpected? Join the conversation as Tower Topics explores the most likely scenarios for Kings Island’s 2027 season, discusses the future of Action Zone, Soak City, concerts at Timberwolf, and what season passholders should expect in the years ahead. If you're a Kings Island fan, coaster enthusiast, or theme park insider, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Be sure to leave your predictions in the comments!

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

The Backpedal Heard Around the Park Revisited Jun 01, 2026

Show notes

Ryan Suhr once swore he'd never buy a Kings Island Prestige Pass again after the frustrations of the 2023 season—but a dramatically lower price for 2026 changed everything. In this episode of Tower Topics, Ryan and Don Helbig break down their real-world experiences with the Kings Island Prestige Pass, including the single-use Fast Lane benefit, preferred parking, the VIP Lounge, merchandise discounts, guest tickets, and whether the pass is finally worth the upgrade. They also discuss potential future benefits for Prestige Pass holders, season pass pricing strategies, ADA accessibility concerns, Adventure Express's role as a family coaster, and what Kings Island may do with its 2027 season pass lineup. If you're considering a Kings Island Gold Pass, Prestige Pass, or planning your 2026 visits, this episode is packed with valuable insights from two of the park's most passionate fans.

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