You Might Remember The Now Defunct Wisconsin Theme Park, Fort Dells
When an actual trip is out of the question, a trip down memory lane will have to suffice. So, buckle up and get ready for a true blast from the past as we highlight one of the state’s most beloved attractions from the past – Fort Dells.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Today, the Dells is a popular tourist destination – and it’s been that way for quite some time. One of the area’s first theme parks, Fort Dells opened in June of 1959.
The park closed in 1985, and by 1997, it had been completely bulldozed. And though there are no visual remnants of Fort Dells, the much-loved park has left a lasting impression on residents and past visitors alike.
An informative sign now marks the site of the former park. It also provides a bit of background about Fort Dells, explaining that it was modeled after Disneyland’s “Frontierland.”
Offering fun for all ages, the park’s attractions included a stagecoach, suspension bridge, working steam railroad, escape tunnel, paddlewheel steamboat, and more.
There was more to Fort Dells than rides, though. Like Disneyland, costumed characters were on hand for meet-and-greets and photo-ops with park visitors.
One of the park’s most notable (and popular) features, though, was Totem Tower, which transported guests 335’ in the air for panoramic views of the surrounding area. Pretty rare, it was only the 4th of its kind in the US and only the 7th in the world.
Talk about a trip down memory lane! Do you remember Fort Dells? Or maybe you’ve heard older relatives talk about it? Missing another attraction from the past? Tell us in the comments section.
Want to soak up some more vintage vibes? Click here to read about another Dells attraction from the past.
Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for the past 25 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships, working for The Royal Obsession and Anatomie clothing. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as Parents & Kids Magazine and Girl Meets Strong. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
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