Six Flags AstroWorld's abrupt 2005 closure left so many Millennials and theme park enthusiasts in such a state of shock that we continue, years later, to jump at any rumor of a replacement. Unfortunately, most turn out to be busts. (No offense, Main Street America.)
Following the recent news that Grand Texas Theme Park was back on track for construction in Montgomery County, one student reporter from the University of Houston-Clear Lake set out to chronicle all of the proposed Houston-area theme park projects.
Renderings indicate a sort of Epcot World-esque park that incorporates miniature versions of the pyramids of Giza and the Colosseum.
Among the contenders are the aforementioned Grand Texas and the much-talked-about Earth Quest Adventures. Plus, a 25-acre lot has been purchased near the Tanger Outlets in Texas City, officials confirmed, by a man with "ties to the old Playland Park in Houston" who has "the intent to build a theme park."
But the one that seems most likely to fill the entertainment void is also the one most veiled in secrecy. RCS Entertainment, a venture brought to you by former AstroWorld employee Michael Sidener, promises to be developing a family-oriented, 2,500-acre theme park, water park, professional golf course and several five-star hotels and restaurants, plus retail and more. Inquiries to RCS about a status update were not returned.
Amateurish renderings on the RCS website indicate a sort of Epcot World Showcase-esque park that incorporates miniature versions of the pyramids of Giza and the Colosseum — both wrapped in winding roller coasters — plus the Great Wall of China, the Colossus of Rhodes and Big Ben. Down the side of a scaled-down Mount Rushmore rushes a waterfall that looks ready for a log ride.
It's no Texas Cyclone or Mayan Mindbender, but it's close.
