This Rare Footage Of A Minneapolis Amusement Park Will Have You Longing For The Good Old Days

Most people in the Twin Cities — and in Minnesota in general — have been to Valley Fair. Many of us have also been to Minnesota’s other famous amusement park, Paul Bunyan Land. But did you know there was once a park right outside of Minneapolis? This amusement park entertained locals for nearly 50 years. Today, it is long gone. But its memory lives on in the minds of many Minnesotans who were around back then. Check it out:

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The park was owned by a man named Fred Pearce, and it was a popular spot in the Twin Cities for many years. Modeled after Coney Island, it featured exactly the kinds of attractions you'd expect from an early 20th century amusement park. A Ferris wheel offered views from high above the ground, and attractions like boats, a fun house, and and a carousel offered lower altitude fun. The carousel is still in operation at ValleyFair.

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The Cyclone offered thrills to Minnesotans — and out-of-towners — for many years. Other than its rides, the amusement park also hosted musical guests, from the Beach Boys to the Rolling Stones. Inevitably, the park's popularity surged.

But all good things must end. After 48 years, Excelsior amusement park finally closed in 1973. While it may be long gone, this once-popular amusement park lives on in the memories of many Minnesotans. If you were around back then, this nostalgic footage may jog your memory:

Did you ever visit Excelsior Amusement Park? What are your fondest memories there? We’d love to read your memories in the comments below.