Kingda Ka Prepares for Demolition After Two Decades of Thrills

JACKSON, N.J. — The end of an era is approaching for roller coaster enthusiasts as Kingda Ka, the world’s tallest and second-fastest roller coaster, is set to be demolished. After nearly 20 years of towering over Six Flags Great Adventure, the structure will come down between February 11 and 16, according to park officials.

Six Flags Great Adventure filed permits in December indicating plans for the “demo of Kingda Ka/Zumanjaro ride,” confirming that the iconic ride’s days are numbered. Zumanjaro, which was once recognized as the tallest drop ride globally, was built onto Kingda Ka’s structure and opened in 2014 but had remained inactive since early season 2024.

The decision to demolish Kingda Ka involves an estimated cost of $1.8 million, a figure cited in a bid notice related to the project. As word of the impending demolition spread, curious onlookers flocked to the area, parking along Route 537 to catch a glimpse of the iconic green structure. However, as of February 17, they left disappointed due to unfavorable weather conditions that included heavy rain and high-wind warnings across the state.

Matt Kaiser, the New Jersey regional representative for American Coaster Enthusiasts, noted the large turnout of spectators eager to witness the event. “A lot of people are still emotionally attached to Kingda Ka,” Kaiser remarked. “It’s one of the first things you see when you drive in; it’s just been so iconic.”

Since its grand opening in 2005, Kingda Ka was celebrated for its impressive height of 456 feet and its record-setting speed of 128 mph. Although it held the title of the tallest and fastest roller coaster in the world until 2010, the ride endured numerous operational challenges, including frequent closures due to technical issues, and a notable shutdown after a lightning strike in 2009.

Despite its tumultuous history, Kingda Ka remained a cornerstone of Six Flags Great Adventure alongside other notable coasters like Nitro and El Toro. Not long after announcing Kingda Ka’s closure, Six Flags indicated plans for a new “all-new, multi-record-breaking launch coaster” intended to attract thrill-seekers.

Ryan Eldredge, a spokesman for Six Flags Great Adventure, stated, “This major investment is part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing the guest experience.” However, timing for the new coaster’s reveal remains uncertain, with a forthcoming “special announcement” expected this summer.

Kaiser added, “The park has a big hole to fill. They need something that can live up to Kingda Ka.” The combination of roller coasters at the park has consistently ranked as one of the best in the country, illustrating the significance of Kingda Ka to the overall attraction.

As demolition day approaches, the roller coaster community reflects on Kingda Ka’s legacy, a symbol of adventure for countless thrill-seekers. Fans hold their breath in anticipation of the final moments of a ride that has captured their hearts for nearly two decades.