Metro Theme Parks Thrive in Roller Coaster Economy

By Jennifer Pierce, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Six Flags bankruptcy doesn't have local theme park managers worried. Local parks like Frontier City and White Water Bay are actually thriving in this roller coaster economy.

Unlike Six Flags, where people will drive hours to attend, Oklahoma theme parks rely on local support. Now more than ever, that is what is protecting the parks from the economic downturn because many people are staying close to home this summer.

"We're going to do small trips like this throughout the summer," said Frontier City visitor Daniel Hopkins.

Frontier City's General Manger Stephen Ball said he has seen a rise in attendance. He said it's the same for White Water Bay, which is owned by the same company.

"They are mirroring the same success, the same situation that we are here," said Frontier City's General Manager.

With gas prices going back up, vacations are out of the question for some families so they are riding out the economy near home.

"Especially right now the economy, we are not able to do a whole lot so it's great to be able to have this big amount of fun in one day," park visitor Tanya Miller said.

But park managers realize convenience is not enough to keep people coming back year after year. That's why Frontier City and White Water have rolled out special admission deals and more entertainment.

"We see that people that are looking for the value that are coming to Frontier City are looking for an opportunity for them to invest a small amount of money in something like this that they can come every weekend, or whenever they feel like coming out for a few hours," Ball said.

Getting the most for their money is what brought out Hopkins' family of five.

"With as tight as money is for most people it's imperative that businesses like this offer some type of discounts or deals so families can still get out and do something without having to take out a loan," Hopkins said.

Another sign of the economic times, Frontier City received more job applications at the end of April than they did for all of last year.

Puchase tickets to White Water Bay and Frontier City, including special season pass deals.