Full Breakdown
Fun Spot America Atlanta to Close on Aug. 2, 2026
6/27/2026, 1:03:08 PM
Closure Announcement
Fun Spot America announced the Fayetteville, GA park will close after the final day on Aug 2, 2026, but will keep its 10 a.m.–10 p.m. hours until then; season passes and gift cards remain valid at the Atlanta site and will be honored at Orlando and Kissimmee.
History of the Fayetteville Site
The site opened in 1990 as Dixieland Fun Park, became Fun Junction USA, and was acquired by Fun Spot America in 2017. It was rebranded Fun Spot America Atlanta in 2018 and added a bungee tower and coasters, serving families.
ArieForce One and Financial Pressures
ArieForce One, a Rocky Mountain Construction steel coaster, opened in 2023 with a 146-foot drop and 64 mph speed. It won the 2023 Golden Ticket Award for Best New Attraction and ranked among top steel coasters. Observers say multimillion-dollar investment has not generated enough attendance to cover costs, adding strain.
Official Statements
CEO John Arie Jr. said the shutdown was a hard choice and pledged to treat employees with respect and provide support resources during transition. He thanked the dedication of the Atlanta team and the support of Fayetteville community. The company confirmed its Florida parks will stay open.
Criticism
Elizabeth Ringas, president of American Coaster Enthusiasts, said the ArieForce One project forced company into “a massive amount of debt” and that the park’s “quiet” location limited visitors. She suggested the coaster could be sold or relocated, warning tax rules might lead to demolition.
Conflicting Reports
Fun Spot America has not disclosed plans for Fayetteville property or fate of rides. Arie said rumors of dismantling or moving the coaster are “not true,” but no final decision has been made. Stakeholders await sale or relocation of ArieForce One to company's Florida parks.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This was an extremely difficult decision,” — John Arie Jr., CEO, Fun Spot America
- “Our Atlanta team has poured their hearts into serving our guests and creating a place where families could have fun together.” — John Arie Jr.
- “It definitely forced them to take on what I can only imagine to be a massive amount of debt,” — Elizabeth Ringas, President, American Coaster Enthusiasts
- “So we really hope that someone will snatch that up or snatch up the whole park.” — Elizabeth Ringas
Timeline
- 1990 – Opened as Dixieland Fun Park.
- 2017 – Acquired by Fun Spot America.
- 2018 – Rebranded Fun Spot America Atlanta.
- 2023 – ArieForce One opens, wins Golden Ticket Award.
- June 25 2026 – Closure announced, effective Aug 2 2026.
Next Steps
The company will keep its Orlando and Kissimmee parks operating while supporting employees through the transition. The future of ArieForce One and the Fayetteville site remains undecided, pending possible sale or relocation.
