Regional Theme Park History
The 1960s and 70s were the golden age of regional theme parks in America. Inspired by Disneyland, everybody wanted a taste of Walt’s Magic Kingdom in their own backyard. After a few false starts, things finally got going with the opening of Six Flags Over Texas. Over the years, though, different owners brought significant changes to these parks—at least the ones who survived—losing much of the original story and thematic design. But there’s hope, at least here and there, so enjoy the various stories behind your favorite regional parks with these books, articles, podcasts, and maps.
Explore
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The books
We publish fine books on theme parks—history, coffee table, & design.
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The articles
Lots more stories from the parks.
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The maps
Take a trip around the parks from my collection of beautiful souvenir maps.
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The podcast
Listen to stories from the history of America’s regional theme parks.
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The other podcast
Features interviews with top themed designers, including former Imagineers and others. Hear their stories and perspectives on park design.
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The Duell Loop
Get your fill of park history stories with this bi-weekly email series.
New podcast!
America’s Disneylands
An audio journey of regional theme park history.
THe Duell Loop
Subscribe and get a high-res 1972 Kings Island souvenir map along with a preview chapter of Imagineering an American Dreamscape. You’ll also receive The Duell Loop, a series of bi-weekly emails with more stories on regional park history and new book announcements from our sister site, Rivershore Press.
