One of the most important and often overlooked parts of a theme park are
the restrooms which need to be located conveniently throughout the
property so guests can find them easily (and quickly!).
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When construction of
Great Adventure began in 1974, one of the first buildings to go up were
the restrooms. Facilities were built at scattered strategic locations
throughout the park, most importantly just outside of the show venues to
handle the large crowds as they entered and exited the popular shows.
Across from the most popular show venue in the park, the Aqua
Spectacle, the Aqua Stadium Restrooms were one of the busiest locations in
the park. They also served the restaurants right behind it around the
Fountain. |
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Like all the park's restroom
facilities, the build was a simple box with wooden siding and trim that
were painted to blend in with the surroundings. Interiors were plain and
basic, and originally the buildings had large wall unit air conditioners
which struggled to keep up with the summer heat. |
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When Time Warner took ownership
of the Six Flags Parks, they began a program of upgrades and
improvements throughout, and the restroom buildings were included. Fresh
paint and updated signage was the main focus along with updated
fixtures. |
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Like all the park's restroom
facilities, the restrooms had water fountains and payphones,
offering all the basic necessities in one place. Vending machines were
also placed outside the restrooms - in the early years cigarette
machines which were replaced by beverage machines in later years.
With the upgrades
under Time Warner ownership, theme elements were added throughout the
park including the restrooms. The bulk of the theming was fresh paint
and in this instance, themed wallpaper boarders which conveyed the
nautical theme of the Lakefront area. |
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Over the years other
updates have been made the interior and exterior. A stone veneer was
added to the front wall which matched the stone front added to the Aqua
Stadium when it transitioned to Fort Independence.
New tile and fixtures were added, as well as an updated
HVAC system which resulted in adding a drop ceiling for the ductwork and
new lighting.
Like all the restroom facilities in the park,
prominent banners were added in front to help guest locate them. |
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With the passage of time, the
payphones have gone away, and in recent years large park maps were added
to the front of the building where the water fountains are located. |
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Original
Spotlight: January 11, 2024. GAH Reference#: REST-1974-003 |
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