Valleyfair To Retire 'Enterprise' After 38 Years

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- After 38 years, the Enterprise ride at Valleyfair will retire at the end of August.

Communications manager Matt Hehl says while Enterprise is one of the oldest and most-beloved rides in the Shakopee amusement park, it is time for something new to come in its place.

"It's a great ride, but we're always looking to provide those new experiences for our guests, and keep our thrills and our ride offerings fresh," Hehl said.

As news of the ride's final days spread, families rushed to experience the Enterprise on Tuesday afternoon.

Duane and Donna Hoversteen of Hutchinson brought their grandchildren to the amusement park.

"We used to come here with our boys and now we are here with our grandchildren," Duane Hoversteen said.

Valleyfair has 75 rides and attractions. The park's spokesperson says a new and thrilling ride will replace the Enterprise next summer, but they will not reveal specifics until later this month.

The Enterprise is a circular spinning ride that swings you nearly perpendicular to the ground.

Hehl says it is unlike any other ride at the park.

"I think a lot has to do with its location," he said. "You come in the park and it's the first thing you see, and all that excitement that you have when you come in just kind of leads you to it."

Hehl says there is still a desire for nostalgic rides, which can be found in the park's "Route 76" area -- named after the year the park was built.

The ride officially closes Aug. 21, and a new ride will be up and running next summer.