IB Parks & Entertainment to Reopen Fantasy Island's Water Park this Year + Plans for Rides in 2022

© Fantasy Island

This isn't necessarily new news, however I missed posting about it and think it deserves some coverage.  Western New York's Fantasy Island, previously known as Martin's Fantasy Island, has been purchased by Gene Staples and his company, IB Parks & Entertainment.  My, this park group has grown up fast!

Mr. Staples made a name for himself when he purchased and saved Indiana Beach not so long ago, and then this year successfully bid on Clementon Amsusement Park - instantly forming a park chain.  There had been many rumors that Fantasy Island was also to be purchased by him, and while that was eventually confirmed we haven't heard much since then.

© IB Parks & Entertainment

But now we have - via this article from the Buffalo News that details Mr. Staples plans to resurrect Fantasy Island.  However, it won't be Fantasy Island, as he confirms in the article that the property will be renamed (he also notes there already is a Fantasy Island in New Jersey).  The plan is to get the property's water park open sometime in July, and then add back the amusement park to operations in 2022.

When the amusement park reopens it will continue to not allow outside food and beverages, but it will partner with local restaurants to provide the offerings.  They will reopen the park with a new roller coaster that will be a "major attraction."  The rest of the amusement park was emptied (except for a Ferris wheel and the Silver Comet wooden coaster) when Apex closed it, so they will add all new rides as well.  They promise a more robust selection of rides that look permanent, not like those at a fair.

It's wonderful to see Mr. Staples and his company save three parks in such little time, we wish all the best for him.