In 2020, Kings Island has introduced its tallest and fastest rollercoaster that also happens to be the 7th giga coaster in the world. We visited the park to ride Orion and to check out how the park experience had been altered to meet COVID-19 requirements.
The park was very prepared and provided a safe and fun environment. Of all the parks we have visited in 2020, the Kings Island experience feels the most normal. Yes, masks are mandatory (thanks!) and ride capacity is cut in half, but the park is well staffed and generally park employees and guests are looking out for each others safety.
Orion is an incredible roller coaster. While I'd put it behind Fury 325 and Leviathan as far as B&M giga coasters go, the ride is a great fit for the park and slightly edges Candymonium in our mind as the best new coaster for 2020. Yes, it would have been great if it was a bit taller, the course longer, and potentially contain more high speed elements, but the whole package is satisfying and makes the ride stand apart from Diamondback.
Make sure to make it to the end of this update and also check out our Orion gallery.
In front of the main entrance are temperature screening tents.
Past security we can see the new signage on the park entrance. Yes, we're here to check out Orion!
There is an access pass system running for Orion this year to keep lines for the new ride short and safe.
We're here on a weekday. The crowds certainly are lower due to the pandemic and reduced capacity restrictions.
It's also a passholder preview day so ticketed guests are not allowed in yet.
A peek at some of the new signage you can find practically everywhere around the park.
There's a new menu at the Wishbone Grill.
Kings Island Tricks and Treats Fall Fest 2020
Photo Updates Kings Island 26 Photos Posted: 05/02/2021