3. Son of Beast at Kings Island - Cost: Approximately $30,000,000 (after ongoing modifications and improvements)

Son of Beast at Kings Island was a bold endeavor in the world of roller coasters. Construction began in 1999 intending to create the world's tallest and fastest wooden. The ride's massive structure and innovative design garnered significant attention, promising an adrenaline-fueled experience unlike any other. 

However, the construction process was plagued with issues. Kings Island had decided to partner with the now-defunct Roller Coaster Corporation of America (RCCA), and this would serve as one of the park’s biggest missteps when it came to this behemoth coaster. Whether it was poor construction practices or simply that RCCA was in over their heads, the massive wooden support structure needed to support Son of Beast would not be properly constructed leading to several issues and a lawsuit between Paramount (the owners of Kings Island at the time) and RCCA. 

When it opened to the public in 2000, Son of Beast amazed riders with its towering height, steep drops, and the thrilling inclusion of a vertical loop, a feat previously unheard of in wooden coasters. However, the ride's intense forces and rough ride experience quickly became a point of contention among guests. 

Despite efforts to improve the ride's comfort and safety, including modifications to the track and trains, Son of Beast continued to face operational challenges. In 2009, after nearly a decade of operation, the coaster would permanently close the coaster due to ongoing maintenance costs, rider injuries, and underperforming popularity. 

4. X at Six Flags Magic Mountain - Cost: $55,000,000 (after 2007 refurbishment and rebranding)

X, later renamed "X2," is a roller coaster located at Six Flags Magic Mountain in California. Conceptualized in the late 1990s, it aimed to redefine roller coaster experiences with its fourth-dimensional design, featuring rotating seats that sit on the sides of the track rather than above or below it.

However, the project faced delays and technical hurdles as engineers worked to develop a reliable restraint system and ensure the stability of the rotating seats. Construction progressed slowly, and unexpected issues prolonged the coaster's completion timeline. The coaster opened to the public in 2002, and in 2007 it faced a massive refurbishment and rebranding and reopened as X2.

While X2 continues to operate, the coaster is what many enthusiasts consider to be the “nail in the coffin” for well-known coaster manufacturer Arrow Dynamics. Arrow was a pioneer for coaster manufacturing for several decades, bringing coaster icons like Magnum XL 200, Loch Ness Monster, and Matterhorn Bobsleds to life.  The turbulent story of X and Arrow Development best highlights the ambitious pursuit of innovation in roller coaster design and the risks involved in pushing the boundaries of theme park attractions.

Let us know your thoughts on these 4 most expensive theme park mistakes. Are there any others that should be added to the list? Leave us a comment below or on our Facebook page.