Disney building in South Carolina?
Is Disney moving forward with a theme park on Interstate 95 at Interstate 26? They supposed recently purchased 70,000 acres.
Anyone heard about a a Disney park to be built in South Carolina at the intersections of I-95 and I-26? This rumor hit the street recently from various disciplines of contractors who closely watch construction leads. Any input would be of great interest.
From Scott Seal
Posted September 8, 2006 at 5:26 AM
I've heard nothing of it. Are you sure this isn't a telephone situation where news of the Myrtle Beach theme park became "Disney World" as a layman's term, which because ""Disney World" in a literal sense?
I don't know. I'm a big Disney fan, and I haven't heard anything. Keep us posted.
From steve lee
Posted September 8, 2006 at 9:11 AM
Disney Direct has a large distribution center in Jonesville, SC. It's really kinda in the middle of nowhere, so maybe they're looking at relocating it closer to the main highways.
Believe me, if you aren't expecting it, it's VERY weird to be driving through extremely rural areas and suddenly pulling up on a large building with a giant Disney logo on it (they used to have an outlet store there where they sold stuff that got returned. Great cheap stuff if you have the ability to glue a chimney back onto a house...)
You can keep track of our coverage of the new theme park bring built in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on our
Hard Rock Theme Park wiki page.
I'm thinking Steve has it right with a relocation or expansion of the distribution center. Since the source of the rumor was an electrical contractor and a backup generator group, it would make the most sense. I knew you folks would have your finger on virtual pulse of activity in the theme park world.
Now when is someone going to build a "theme park" like this - city blocks, with parks, restaurants, etc of diffent cities around the world - tokyo, paris, london, new york, venice, etc. I know youre thinking epcot or some such. But I'm thinking your hotel is on the block or the "city" where you are staying. Example: Your staying in "Paris" on the second floor of a French hotel, you can walk outside for a quick cafe or dinner. If you want, you can walk down around the block to London for a bite to eat (British food?...change that....for a pint). You can play chess in the park in New York, picnic on in the park in Paris, Kariokee (sp) in Tokyo, and never be farther than a couple blocks from your room. Now THAT is a relaxing vacation theme park. No zooming rides except brit taxis or cable cars or even a small subway. Its an adult getaway with caberet, wine tasting, etc. Just my idea of a real theme park.
From steve lee
Posted September 8, 2006 at 12:46 PM
^I thought that was Vegas.
Disney wouldn't put a park in South Carolina because it's way too close to Florida.
David:
" Disney wouldn't put a park in South Carolina because it's way too close to Florida. "
lol how about just because it's South Carolina?
Side note to Robert - Can we get a better quoting system like other forums have? i love the website, but the forum control isn't nearly as nice as some other forums (not theme park related)
and maybe a search feature ? ?
Well Ben, I guess you make a good point, even though I personally have nothing against South Carolina. It seems sorta nice when driving through in the middle of the night going to Florida. But don't even get me started on Texas...
I don't think that Disney's building a park in South Carolina, but it's not because it's South Carolina. Remember that Orlando Florida was a tiny dot on the map and the land that Disney sits on was swampland back in the mid 60s.
I was just joking around, but to be honest, I dont think we will ever see another new disney RESORT built in America, it just makes no sense. They are going to continue to focus on over sea's parks/resorts that are practically built for them. why spend 1 billion + on something that is going to potentially take away from your current business without much potential to gain more, when china and other asian government/businesses are willing to pay for just about all of it in a new market and let Disney slap their big name all over it?
New Disney Resort In America Just Won't Happen
From Erik Yates
Posted September 9, 2006 at 9:24 AM
I beg to differ Ben. I think that disney could stand to make another resort in someplace that has a lot of tourist potential. Its just like major league ballclubs. Whether it be baseball football or basketball, cities starve for that kind of opportunity because of the revenue that it will generate in taxes, jobs and tourism. A lot of cities and counties even give the land and build the stadiums. I can see some place like, I dont know, Arizona or Ohio doing that. It would love to have a disney park, and it would be a great idea in some place like Ohio. Why? Because disney will build the majority of the attractions inside. The park could operate year round, and tear the hinges off of the competition like Kings Island and more than likely shut down Cedar Point (twists the knife in Ryans heart). Disney could offer the edge to people that might not have the time money or desire to travel all the way to Cali, or fight the crowds in Florida during the winter.
Will it happen? Most likely not, but its not outside the realm of possibility. I would think that given the chance to have a disney resort in their town, Ohio counties would donate land, sign contracts to maintain streets....pretty much everything but build the resort for them. Cant you see a tropical themed indoor waterpark right in the middle of downtown Dayton?
From steve lee
Posted September 9, 2006 at 9:50 AM
Some interesting ideas, Erik, although I don't think such an action would really hurt the seasonal amusement parks - as some people around here indicate, a lot of people would rather ride the same rollercoaster over and over again than go to a park with a variety of ride styles. Cedar Point will always have the teen market.
As for this SC thing, I have one idea for what they COULD do. The specified location (intersection of I-26 and I-95) is a major area for anyone traveling to Florida from the north. Nearly everyone heading to Florida from the northeast US is going to pass through that area (unless they're lost...). And anyone who's gone down I-95 is familiar with billboards. First off, the billboards promoting the Disney Discounts (I remember them mainly in VA and NC) if you stop at some little crap shop. Then there's the billboards for South of the Border, the biggest tourist trap in the Eastern United States. Then there's the JR Outlets, with their cheap smokes and cheap everything else...
What if Disney wanted to take THAT market? The location of 26/95 (Bowman, SC, incidentally) would be PERFECT for putting up something designed to keep people on the Disney target. Maybe a hotel or two, some shops, some Disney-oriented entertainment stuff...I'm not saying build a park. But build something that will enable families to stop, maybe spend the night (there's still 7 to 8 hours until they get to Orlando) and get a taste of what awaits them when they get to WDW.
There's some interesting possibilities there. I'd definitely prefer that over the more-likely move of the distribution center because that wouldn't be eliminating peoples' jobs in the middle of BFSC.
From Tom C
Posted September 9, 2006 at 10:02 AM
When Michael Eisner took over the mouse, they were going to build an "American History" park near the DC area in Virginia, but public outrage that Disney wanted to "change" American history. If there were to be an addional Disney Park in the US, (which i seriously doubt they would do, they can barly staff the parks they have now) it would more than likely be in the Chicago area.
I don't think Disney will build another park outside of Florida or California. First of all, I highly doubt they would put a park in a state where they couldn't be open seasonly, unless they made it indoor. I don't think they will venture into an indoor park, and I hope they don't, because an indoor theme park just wouldn't have the same atmosphere in my opinion. I think an indoor park is a turnoof to people. And the cost of maintaining a completely indoor park would be too great to be profitable. Walt Disney World attracts people from across the country. People generally don't say they won't go to Disney World because it's too far. Disney has no need to expand into other states. Doing so would either draw people away from Disney World, or there would be low attendance at the new park. Look for future Disney parks in Asia, not the states.
From Erik Yates
Posted September 9, 2006 at 10:04 PM
Interesting points David, but the general cost for theme parks are upkeep on their outdoor attractions. I dont think an indoor park would cost much more than the outdoor type.
And I still say Carolina is way too close to Florida to build any park. If they were to build one I would bank on either a north-eastern park, or a midwest park...cover all bases that way.
Considering they wanted to build the park on old battle grounds...uh, not cool. I think that's all I have to say...haha, that's odd.
ERIK : "Will it happen? Most likely not, but its not outside the realm of possibility."
most likely not...
There will never be another American resort, it's just that easy. i understand building something in the MidWest would make the most sense, MAYBE even Ohio sense it is the mid-west Orlando, but ti just would. not. happen. After this newest DL (hong kong) they will build in Shanghai, Australia, India more then likely another asian or european resort.
IF a new resort ever comes back to America, it wont be for decades to come
Tear the hinges off of Cedar Point and Kings Island? strong words indeed. I wouldn't be surprised to see another Disney something pop up, but it would have to be in a year round place and an outdoor venue. Building a completely indoor park of Disney magnitude is a very very expensive concept. Not only do you have the huge Disney ride budget, you also have to remember that housing and maintaining a building of such magnitude would be a bank breaker. They would have to charge a hundred bucks a ticket to make any money, and believe me, that wouldn't fly in Ohio or any other midwest state for that matter. I could possibly see a project in Texas, but that would be about it. Disney's going overseas to get that marketplace.
By the way, Disney fans are kidding themselves if they think a Disney park in Ohio would be a death knell for Cedar Point or Kings Island.
Derek, I completely agree with you. Disney wouldn't build in Ohio because it would face too much competition from Cedar Point and King's Island. Also, Ohio isn't exactly a resort destination. I don't think people will flock to Ohio for a Disney Park when they can go to Florida. And an indoor park seems completely unwelcoming to me. I doubt they're going in that direction.
From Erik Yates
Posted September 11, 2006 at 2:58 PM
I dont think building a completely indoor theme park is as far out of the realm as you all make it out to be. Granted there are only smaller versions, but a large mall type area would be ideal, then build the attractions around that. You dont have to have a series of buildings to make an indoor attraction, just a really big building.
From Matt Hill
Posted September 11, 2006 at 4:24 PM
Where exactly is I-95 because I live in the upstate. Is that in between Columbia and the upstate (Georgia area/20 Min. from border) or is that in between Columbia and Myrtle beach? That would be sweet if there was a Disney Park in South Carolina! Nothing is here! Except I am in the middle of Carowinds and Six Flags Over Georgia. (2 hrs. each way) and 4 hours to Myrtle Beach. Where did you hear this? And where is it going?
From steve lee
Posted September 11, 2006 at 4:38 PM
Based on the original post, this sounds like it would be around halfway between Columbia and Charleston (very close to Orangeburg).
70,000 acres is a lot of space for a distribution center! Isn't that more than the Orlando site? Perhaps another Disney town or maybe even a vacation club property?
this is a new disney theme park its very hush hush because of planning conditions look for it about 2010 2011 disney plan 1 more in north america and one new them park in europe.
From steve lee
Posted September 19, 2006 at 1:34 PM
That sounds awful unsubstantiated, but the idea does intrigue me. Could Disney ever do what they did in Orlando again, buying acres and acres under false names to keep the vultures from setting in?
It seems impossible to pull off in this day and age, but who knows?
Still, a park in South Carolina is just a weird friggin' idea.
I think that in this age of techonogy, they would never be able to keep it under the radar. Also, if I am not mistaken, Orlando was really nothing special before Disney and everybody else came. In other words, nobody wanted it because it was a swamp!
Sorry to all your FL residents!
Anybody think they might be building a hotel like Vero Beach?
From Erik Yates
Posted September 19, 2006 at 6:08 PM
Vero Beach is nothing special either....no offense taken Anthony. Its a hotel...thats it. Most folks realize that too late. They could be building a hotel, but I think you would have heard about that before now...they love it when they are doing something in an area that people arent expecting it....they like to brag how they will create jobs and tourism and yada yada. Still, they could be buying low under the radar for a different type of resort....maybe the Vacation Club...who knows.
Vero Beach is part of the Vacation Club. I hear its kinda nice. My aunt has a DVC there and she loves it. Of course its all up to opinion. It not as "Disney" sappy stuff as the Orlando area is. Though I love "Disney" sappy stuff. By now, Erik, I am pretty sure that doesn't suprise you!
What did people think it was? I knew from the beginning that it was a hotel on the beach.
Well Disney would creat jobs anyway, wouldn't they? I mean if anybody went there, they could create jobs (yes, even Universal)
From Matt Hill
Posted September 22, 2006 at 7:29 PM
I think an indoor park would be neat! It could be more modern. They wouldn't have to build the buildings for the rides, because they would already be in sections of the building. It would also be easier for the employees to get around. They could set escalader stairs or walkways and have "Employees Only" shortcut doors. An indoor park would be cool. They could theme it better, like for instance, "The Little Mermaid," The ceiling could be projections of the sea, So it's like your under the sea. It would be more modern and high tec. They could have a seasonal waterpark outside or something. I think it's a good idea. This would attract more people to the Eastern Coast! I personally think they should do this! I would be thrilled!
you guys may laugh, but originally, WDW wanted to build in SC. Near I95 and Lake Marion. The site was chosen because it is directly across the continent from Anaheim and there was already a large body of water there to be used( they had to build Lake Buena Vista).
The sad part was, that they lost the bid because the landowners wouldnt sell their lakefront property because it would hurt the sport fishing industry. The Santee lake system is the only site of land locked large mouth bass.
Disney also already has a hotel in Hilton Head, SC.
From Kim Vault
Posted October 8, 2006 at 7:58 PM
Matt you are onto something there however, I think a Disney indoor theme park would do better in someplace like SD or CO not SC as it is so close to WDW.
Why on Earth would the Disney Company want to waste time or money building in SC? The only high tourism areas in SC are Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head. Central Florida is the way to go, they still own enough land in Kissimee to build 7 more parks!!! True, I agree Disney put Orlando on the map and turned it into the tourism capital of the world. So why go elsewhere? That's what makes Disney so great, because there are few places like it! Bring the people to Disney, not Disney to the people!
You know as a proud resident of SC I'm pretty sick of all the SC-bashing in this thread. Btw, add Charleston to that list of high tourism areas.
All the SC bashing? Where? I just see it in one post that called SC "not exciting"
I think the overall thoughts about Disney in SC is that its too close to FL, thats all. Hardrock is opening soon, right? Everybody is excited about it comming. It would be a big mistake IMO to put a Disney Park in SC because its too close to WDW. I think its a Vacation Club place so that proves that SC is not boring!
From steve lee
Posted October 11, 2006 at 9:18 AM
(It's okay, Anthony. Besides, SC is remarkably boring)
While South Carolina is not my favorite place or anything...I love Charleston, and I have some great memories from Myrtle Beach. I hate driving through the state, though...There just isn't a whole lot of pretty scenery to look at.
What's so great about Charleston? Why should one make Charleston their vacation destintion? SC brings NOTHING to the table. Myrtle Beach is alright, but not enough to make SC my vacation destination.
I think the point is that Disney can build a property that is a days drive from Orlando so that people who are traveling from up north can stop a day out and start the experience then. They're trying to capitolize on a market that so far only "South of the Border" is in on. I think its a great idea (And I'm always for more parks opening, creating more jobs for us in the industry).
Yeah, but Disney seems to be lately been caring about money (did I just say something anti-Disney?!?!?!).
Remember Disneyquest? They built one in my city, Chicago, and then packed up and left. The one in Boston never was finished and the Orlando version is seeing its last year!
They were also planning a Disneyquest in Philadelphia, but unfortunately they pulled out, and all we got was a hole in the ground. Still makes me sad to think about.
Yeah! It was definatly made for my family's demographics (a family of three teen or pre-teen boys)! We loved it!
I think Disney should remain in Cali and Fla only! That's why they're such great places, because they are one of a kind. It would be boring if Disney was in every state.
I think Disney should remain in Cali and Fla only! That's why they're such great places, because they are one of a kind. It would be boring if Disney was in every other state.
And someone should tear down the 200 South of the Border signs along I-95!!!
sorry for the double post.
First off I want to apologize for my earlier post about the "SC bashing"...had a rough day so a little misplaced venting...my bad.
As far as Disney in SC, as much as I love my state, I agree that another Disney theme park/resort in the southeastern neighborhood wouldn't be a good idea. Orlando is synonymous with Disney and vice versa. Another park so close would ruin that.
I'm going to end this by saying that WDW is Disney's home on the east coast and DL is Disney's home on the west coast, and that's the way it should remain!
I'm going to end this by saying that WDW is Disney's home on the east coast and DL is Disney's home on the west coast, and that's the way it should remain!
I'm going to end this by saying that WDW is Disney's home on the east coast and DL is Disney's home on the west coast, and that's the way it should remain!
I'm going to end this by saying that WDW is Disney's home on the east coast and DL is Disney's home on the west coast, and that's the way it should remain!
I'm going to end this by saying that WDW is Disney's home on the east coast and DL is Disney's home on the west coast, and that's the way it should remain!
It seems although unconfirmed that Dizney did purchase lots of land in Orangeburg and Lexington counties in South Carolina. Since SC has a warm year round day climate (late nights and early mornings can be a bit chilly in January and beginning of February in SC) it's a great place for a new kind of Disney entertainment venue, for both kids and grown-ups, probably a larger one than any built has been built before. That will become a major growth engine for the US and world economy. South Carolina seems to be a good location, between Miami and New York and despite Disney in Orlando this one will be a different entertainment venue, I think they may include water parks, canals etc. although I'm not sure, but they may connect Columbia with Atlantic Ocean via lakes, rivers and canals creating new kind of "Las Vegas" in South Carolina unprecedented in the U/S. and the world before. A new Dizney international airport would have direct flights from North American and world's major cities and even it's own port and quays. All cards are open for South Carolina to become the fastest growing state and area not only in the U.S. but in the entire world.
From steve lee
Posted October 12, 2009 at 7:18 PM
I look back on 2006 and I remember the many sleepless nights sitting in an La-z-Boy recliner with my shotgun propped in my lap and extra shells in my shirt pocket.
I waited, but it did not come back.
After many weeks, I determined it wasn't going to happen so I put the gun away. It seemed that all my fears were unfounded.
Now, three full years later, ZOMBIE THREAD WANTS BRAINS!!!
BRAINS....MMMM
From James Rao
Posted October 14, 2009 at 3:20 AM
"I know you're in there... I can smell your brains!"
And when zombies are a problem, never forget the top 4 Zombieland rules for survival:
#1 - Cardio
#2 - Beware of Bathrooms
#3 - Seatbelts
#4 - Doubletap.
A Zombieland themed dark ride...could be fun stuff. Everyone in the car gets a 12 gauge, infrared of course. It could be a cross between the MIB and Spiderman rides. Rated M for mature of course.
Or you could just go Coney Island style, and have a Shoot the Zombie game in lieu of Shoot The Freak.
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