Kings Island premieres new roller coaster, Orion

MASON — Months of anticipation for Kings Island fans and Miami Valley roller coaster enthusiasts will finally end Thursday when Kings Island opens its doors to season passholders for the 2020 season, unveiling it’s new “Orion” roller coaster.

The 5,321 steel coaster is now Kings Island’s tallest, fastest and longest steel coaster, and is among just seven “giga coasters” in the world (which means it has a drop of 300-399 feet). The ride reaches top speeds of 91 miles per hour, and takes riders over eight hills during the three minute attraction.

“Kings Island is, to say the least, excited to finally be able to unveil it to (our guest),” said Kings Island Vice President & General Manager Mike Koontz.

Koontz said the ride’s opening comes on the heels of more than two years of work by hundreds of construction workers, engineers and staff.

“I’ll tell you it’s fast, smooth, and provides plenty of air time,” he said.

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