In the heart of Central Florida, a unique theme park once combined the classic charm of a seaside boardwalk with America’s favorite pastime—baseball.
Boardwalk and Baseball, located near Haines City at the intersection of Interstate 4 and U.S. Highway 27, was a short-lived but fondly remembered attraction that aimed to stand out in Florida’s crowded theme park market. Although it was only open from 1987 to 1990, the park left a lasting impression on those who visited.
A New Vision for Circus World
Boardwalk and Baseball opened in April 1987, replacing the former **Circus World**, which had struggled to attract visitors despite its unique theme and offerings. The new park aimed to breathe life into the site by combining the nostalgic allure of early 20th-century boardwalks, like Coney Island and Atlantic City, with baseball-themed attractions. The concept was bold and innovative, hoping to tap into the timeless appeal of carnival games, amusement rides, and the national love for baseball.
Attractions and Features
The park was meticulously designed to evoke a bygone era, complete with classic boardwalk rides, carnival games, and a lively atmosphere. Guests could enjoy roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and traditional midway attractions that transported them back in time.
The standout feature of Boardwalk and Baseball was **Baseball City Stadium**, a 5,000-seat facility that served as the spring training home for the Kansas City Royals. The stadium hosted a variety of games and events, giving visitors the rare opportunity to experience professional baseball up close. The park also included interactive exhibits dedicated to baseball history, making it a must-visit destination for fans of the sport.
Challenges and Competition
Despite its creative theme, Boardwalk and Baseball faced significant challenges. Its location, while convenient for travelers, struggled to compete with the draw of nearby Walt Disney World and other major Central Florida attractions. Additionally, the park’s focus on baseball, while unique, had a niche appeal that limited its audience compared to broader family-oriented destinations.
Financial difficulties quickly arose, and the park was unable to sustain the attendance numbers needed to remain viable. Less than three years after opening, **Boardwalk and Baseball closed its doors on January 17, 1990**, marking the end of its brief but ambitious run.
The End of an Era
Even after the park’s closure, Baseball City Stadium continued to operate for several years, hosting spring training and minor league games. However, by the early 2000s, the stadium was demolished to make way for the **Posner Park retail complex**, erasing most physical traces of Boardwalk and Baseball.
Remembering Boardwalk and Baseball
Though it was short-lived, Boardwalk and Baseball remains a cherished memory for those who experienced its unique blend of classic boardwalk entertainment and baseball nostalgia. For many, it represented a creative attempt to bring something fresh to Florida’s theme park landscape. Today, its legacy lives on through photos, memorabilia, and the stories shared by former visitors.
Boardwalk and Baseball stands as a reminder of an era when Florida’s theme park industry was booming with new ideas and ambitious projects. While it couldn’t compete with the juggernauts of Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, it left its mark as a distinctive and innovative concept in the history of Florida attractions.
**Did you visit Boardwalk and Baseball? Share your memories in the comments!**
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