ZDT’s Amusement Park in Seguin, Texas, has officially listed its iconic wooden roller coaster, Switchback, for sale, marking the end of an era for the family-owned theme park. Known as the “world’s first and only modern wooden shuttle coaster,” Switchback’s innovative design has made it a standout in the amusement park industry since its debut in 2015.
A Family-Owned Legacy
Opened in 2007, ZDT’s Amusement Park transformed from a small indoor Family Entertainment Center into a bustling theme park offering attractions for all ages. The park’s name, “ZDT,” honors the Donhauser family’s three children: Zac, Danielle, and Tiffany. Over the years, the family-owned operation has gained a loyal following thanks to its unique attractions, including the Switchback coaster.
In addition to Switchback, the park features outdoor rides like the Mad Raft Water Coaster, GoKarts, and Parachute Drop, alongside its indoor Family Entertainment Center with a rock wall and video game arcade. Despite its smaller footprint of 5.7 acres, ZDT’s Amusement Park has become a favorite among thrill-seekers.
The History and Innovation of Switchback
Switchback, which opened in 2015, was inspired by the historic 1884 Switchback Railway, widely considered America’s first roller coaster. Built by The Gravity Group, this ride, with its shuttle-style design, allowed it to travel both forward and backward, bringing a modern twist to wooden coasters.
Ranked among the top wooden roller coasters in the world, Switchback offers an unforgettable ride experience, complete with backward airtime. Its compact layout and innovative engineering have made it a standout attraction for ZDT’s visitors and thrill ride enthusiasts worldwide.
Why Is ZDT’s Amusement Park Selling Switchback?
Switchback’s sale was announced at the IAAPA Expo 2024, where fans spotted its listing at The Gravity Group’s booth. Reports suggest the sale is tied to ZDT’s owner, Danny Donhauser, ‘s retirement plans.
@midwaymahem shared this picture of an advertisement for Switchback from IAAPA Expo:
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The coaster is priced at $3.6 million, which includes assistance with dismantling, transportation, and reconstruction at its new home. The Gravity Group has offered its expertise to ensure a smooth transition for any park looking to purchase this one-of-a-kind ride.
Community Reactions and Concerns
News of the sale has sparked mixed emotions among fans and visitors. Many are saddened by the loss of Switchback at ZDT’s Amusement Park, which has become a flagship attraction over the past decade.
“Switchback is a really outstanding, if not a little rough, wooden powerhouse,” Instagram user @evan.hempstead wrote. “Super unique ride with backwards airtime. It was one of my favorite coasters in the whole San Antonio area. Hoping it has lots of years left in a new location, but it is really tucked into a small and unique plot of land. It’ll look a lot different in a new location.”
Some coaster enthusiasts on Reddit are already speculating about potential new homes for Switchback. Suggestions include parks like Castles N’ Coasters or Knoebels, though many acknowledge the challenges of relocating wooden coasters.
“Realistically, only a handful of woodies have been saved,” wrote Redditor u/tideblue. “Unless Knoebels steps up here, I don’t know how likely it is.”
What’s Next for Switchback?
While no buyers have been announced yet, Switchback’s future remains uncertain. It’s unclear when the ride will officially close at ZDT’s Amusement Park, leaving fans to wonder if this unique wooden coaster will find a new home or face retirement.
Which United States theme park should purchase Switchback? Share your opinion with Disney Fanatic in the comments.
