Summer is Almost Here – Time to go to Action Park!

For those fortunate enough to have experienced the upbringing in the New Jersey region during the span of the 1970s to the 1990s, the mere mention of Action Park evokes memories of summer days. The years 1978 to 1996 marked a distinctive period, as the arrival of summer was accompanied by the emergence of Action Park commercials on local television stations. These advertisements became an emblematic herald of the season, persisting until the eve of the impending school year.

I had the privilege of attending Action Park on multiple occasions, each visit brimming with excitement and joy. Regrettably, this sentiment wasn't universally shared, as the park faced a slew of lawsuits due to injuries incurred on their attractions. Remarkably, I remained oblivious to this reality – the regular presence of ambulances should have offered a subtle clue. In my eyes, the park existed as a magical land composed of water, wood, and concrete, where daring thrills awaited.

According to my recent readings, the burgeoning pile of lawsuits eventually caught up with the once-fabled Action Park, culminating in its closure in 1996. One could argue that this outcome was likely for the best. I managed to make a visit during the 1990s, and it was evident that the park's vitality had waned considerably. By then, the assortment of exhilarating yet potentially perilous rides had mostly fallen silent.

The attached commercial hails from the early 1980s, a golden era for the park. As you watch, can you discern the multitude of hazards that lurk amidst the allure?