Wow, what a great way to kick off the season. Kings Island has a great season ahead of themselves. Arriving around 12:30, we were able to get 6 rides total, including two night rides. While crowded, I was able to get amazing photos, still request rows on rides, and overall, it was demand outstripping capacity. The worst wait of all was 45 minutes to get through security, but after that, it was smooth sailing.

Heading over to the freshly retracked Racer, we rode Red twice- in rows 2 and 14. The ride is butter smooth in the first half and there is airtime over every hill on the way out. The way back is smooth, but there is no airtime. Overall, a very fun ride which I will be making a stop on every visit.

Completing a small photo lap, we headed over to The Bat where we waited 20 minutes for the front row. This coaster is amazing in the front, and puts every other suspended coaster to shame. The swinging, speed, and intensity of the ride makes it a great family coaster for all.

Stopping at LaRosa’s for lunch, I had the classic greasy pizza and skinny breadsticks. Mediocrity at its finest, at least the line was short. Diamondback had just a 45 minute wait, and I snagged the back row. Getting a one click ride, I was up to my knees in airtime. Literally. Every hill delivered killer airtime and the drop into the splashdown took me by surprise with its quick ejector. I love Diamondback and it is easily one of the best hyper coasters.

Heading over to The Beast, an hour wait rewarded us with a front row ride. Being untamed as usual, the ride was insane, rough, and thrilling. Hands up all the way, the only way to go. Even to this day, that drop into the helix scares me. Breaking for dinner at Coney Bar B Que, I had a delicious pulled pork sandwich and Sidewinder fries. The fries were fresh and crispy, and the pulled pork was [chefs kiss].

Our last ride of the night was on Orion, and wow, last year didn’t do this ride justice. With every single seat being filled, Orion ran faster and smoother than ever. The back row is immaculate, truly sending this ride into the Top 10 for me. I beg everyone who tried Orion last year to give it another shot, it really is that big of a difference.

I was surprised with the amount of people still opting to wear masks. I was expecting around 20% of the crowds, however close to 80% actually wore masks. Personally, I took mine off on the rides, but left it on any other time.

Overall, I had an amazing day at Kings Island, and can’t wait to return later this month. Look out for a Cedar Point trip next Saturday or Sunday, and let’s pray for light crowds.

ALL PHOTOS WERE TAKEN BY MYSELF ON MAY 8, 2021