Here are the fascinating stories behind abandoned amusement parks around the United States.
Carly Caramanna
Theres just something about the eerie draw of an abandoned amusement park that captivates us.
The storied amusement park, which first operated as Jazzland, wasdevastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
Credit:Carly Caramanna
The damage was substantial, and only a few of the parks attractions were salvaged.
Located on Bay Lake near Magic Kingdom Park,Discovery Islandwas once a lively zoological attraction.
The wildlife sanctuary, which operated from 1974 to 1999, was home to hundreds of birds and primates.
Carly Caramanna
Plagued with money issues and growing controversy, it closed for good in 1989.
Part of the complex is even used as aconference and wedding venue.
Nickelodeon Studios
Nostalgic 90s kids remember whenNickelodeon Studioswas located at Universal Studios Florida in Orlando.
Carly Caramanna
Over 2,000 episodes were filmed at the studio, which was closed for good in 2005.
The park targeted younger visitors and housed a number of playscapes and relaxation areas.
The park has since been repurposed into a private event space named Knotts Lagoon.
Carly Caramanna
The desert water parkdates back to the 1950swhen it was called Lake Dolores Waterpark.
Many of the 1950s-inspired buildings and water slide structures stand today, faded by the blazing Mojave sun.
Carly Caramanna
Courtesy of Dr. John C. Webb
