Big Island Amusement Park, Amusement park in Orono, United States.
Description
Big Island Amusement Park on Lake Minnetonka was a recreation complex featuring a music hall, roller coaster, carousel, and other attractions. The park offered various rides and entertainment options spread across the island for visitors to enjoy.
History
The Twin City Rapid Transit Company opened the park on August 5, 1906, on the island in the lake. The company built three ferries specifically to carry visitors from the Excelsior mainland terminal to the island.
Culture
The music hall with its 1,500 seats was a social hub where visitors gathered to hear orchestral performances and live bands. The island became a destination where people came together for entertainment and celebration.
Practical
The park was accessible only by ferry, which carried visitors from the mainland to the island. The boat ride was part of the visit and allowed large groups to arrive together at the destination.
Did you know?
A distinctive feature was the tall water tower topped with an electric beacon that could be seen from Minneapolis on clear days. The light served as a landmark visible across the lake and surrounding areas.
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