3 minute read
Summer Escape
Summer Escape
EXPLORE THE REALMS OF LOST ISLAND THEMEPARK, IOWA'S ONLY IMMERSIVE THEME PARK EXPERIENCE
By Haley Banwart
Lost Island Themepark is a destination unlike any other in the Midwest. With over 80 acres of thrill rides and attractions to discover, the park is the perfect backdrop for summer days of exploration and excitement.
What truly sets Lost Island Themepark apart, however, is its innovative approach to amusement entertainment. As visitors wander through the park’s meticulously crafted landscapes, they find themselves immersed in a world that transports them far away from the soybean and corn fields of Iowa.
World-Class Family Fun
Located in Waterloo, the tropical theme park originated as an expansion of Lost Island Waterpark, owned and operated by the Bertch family since 2001. As the Bertchs explored new ways to attract guests and bring additional tourism to the area, the vision for Lost Island Themepark emerged.
Only this time, there’s now a story for visitors to discover. A key differentiator in the new park’s design was the development of the unique architecture, site props and cast of characters that tell the backstory of Lost Island Themepark’s five distinct realms: fire, water, air, earth and spirit.
“Many amusement parks are known for the tallest or fastest thrill rides, but we wanted to elevate the guest experience by incorporating immersive storytelling rather than relying on the popularity of the attractions themselves,” says Eric Bertch, Lost Island Themepark co-owner and general manager.
“We leaned into South Pacificinspired theming elements to help visitors connect with the park right out of the gate,” he shares. “It was a labor of love that involved attention to details from the color scheme and concrete imprints to the custom soundtrack.”
Doubling Down with Digital
An interactive companion app was developed to enhance the theme park experience and bring its history and characters to life. Visitors can download the Lost Island Adventure Guide to track their ride miles, earn badges, embark on a digital treasure hunt and more.
“We wanted to create a compelling place that would keep guests coming back,” shares Bertch. “The app helps explain the lore of the park’s different locations, rides and activities and is one of the main drivers that encourages them to return.”
“It was a really important feature we wanted to implement along with the theming elements to tell a cohesive story and bring world-class entertainment to the Midwest,” he adds.
Now in its third season of operation since opening in 2022, Lost Island Themepark continues to create unforgettable experiences for adventurers of all ages. The park is home to an award-winning dark ride, Volkanu: Quest For The Golden Idol, as well as a popular hydraulic launch coaster, Matugani, which was relocated from Sweden. Matugani blasts riders out of a stone station at 0 to 46 mph in two seconds before passing over a 78-foot-tall top hat, completing a 65-foot vertical loop and spiraling through several quick turns and an in-line twist.
A new attraction for 2024 includes Nika’s Gift, a classic carousel ride with wooden-carved sea creatures. Whatever attraction a visitor finds themselves enjoying, Lost Island has something for every entertainment enthusiast.
