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PODCAST

Tower Topics

Tower Topics is a podcast where Kings Island passion meets insider perspective. Hosted by Kings Island experts Don Helbig and Ryan Suhr. Not affiliated with Kings Island.

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All Episodes

51:17

Checking Out: The End of Hotel St. Michelle

Tower Topics ·

2026/06/26

Kings Island's Halloween Haunt is undergoing another major transformation as Hotel St. Michel officially checks out for good. In this episode of Tower Topics, Don Helbig and Ryan Suhr discuss why one of Haunt's most immersive mazes is being retired, what could replace it, and the growing rumors surrounding a possible new Friday the 13th-themed haunted attraction. They also break down the evolution of Kings Island's premium haunted maze strategy following the success of The Conjuring, debate whether

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30:56

Remembering Kenton’s Cove Keelboat Canal

Tower Topics ·

2026/06/24

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

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26:16

What Could Vekoma Build at Kings Island?

Tower Topics ·

2026/06/22

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

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40:16

Popcorn, Get Your Popcorn!

Tower Topics ·

2026/06/19

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

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30:34

Should Kings Island Introduce Pin Trading Like Disney...

Tower Topics ·

2026/06/17

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

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37:55

Does Kings Island Need a Major New Water Ride?

Tower Topics ·

2026/06/15

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

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41:16

Why Six Flags Is Betting on Memberships Instead of...

Tower Topics ·

2026/06/12

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

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27:59

From Stage Magic to Sky Magic: Brad Ross and Kings...

Tower Topics ·

2026/06/08

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

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44:59

One Day at Epic Universe or a Six Flags Prestige Pass?

Tower Topics ·

2026/06/05

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

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33:38

What’s Coming to Kings Island in 2027?

Tower Topics ·

2026/06/03

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

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31:04

The Backpedal Heard Around the Park Revisited

Tower Topics ·

2026/06/01

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

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48:14

The Golden Age of Kings Island

Tower Topics ·

2026/05/29

Relive the golden age of Kings Island in this nostalgic episode of Tower Topics as Don Helbig, Ryan Suhr, and longtime season passholder Todd Robinson debate the park’s best era ever. From the unforgettable years of 1986–1990 featuring legendary rides like Vortex, King Cobra, Flight Commander, The Beast, and Amazon Falls, to iconic entertainment such as Celebration, Phantom Theater Encore, Fascinating Rhythm, and the Festhaus ice shows, this deep dive explores what made Kings Island a world-class

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59:44

What We’d Tell Six Flags CEO John Reilly If We Were...

Tower Topics ·

2026/05/27

What would happen if new Six Flags CEO John Riley sat down with lifelong Kings Island fans for a real focus group discussion? In this episode of Tower Topics, Don Helbig and Ryan Suhr dive deep into the future of, discussing everything from park cleanliness, live entertainment, ride operations, guest service culture, staffing, and season pass value to the growing concerns about complacency within the chain. The conversation explores why Kings Island remains one of the most beloved amusement parks in

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29:21

The Memorial Day Weekend Publicity Stunt that Lasted...

Tower Topics ·

2026/05/25

Relive one of the most innovative moments in Kings Island history as Tower Topics dives deep into the legendary Backward Racer, the groundbreaking roller coaster experience that debuted Memorial Day Weekend 1982 and changed theme park thrills forever. Don Helbig and Ryan Sir explore how the iconic Racer became the world’s first full-length wooden roller coaster to run backward, the behind-the-scenes story of how the idea came together, why park management eventually

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34:57

Alfredo Sauce with Pasta? This and More Bold New...

Tower Topics ·

2026/05/22

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

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29:39

Green Sheets: Abused or Misunderstood?

Tower Topics ·

2026/05/20

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

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24:55

One of Kings Island’s Most Overlooked Rides Quietly...

Tower Topics ·

2026/05/18

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

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31:48

Cedar Point’s Morning Rush Debacle: What Does It Mean...

Tower Topics ·

2026/05/15

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

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29:14

Why Are Kings Island’s Theaters Dark—and What Does It...

Tower Topics ·

2026/05/13

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

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29:18

High Gas Prices: A Threat or Opportunity for Kings...

Tower Topics ·

2026/05/11

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

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466 results

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