Two long-standing family entertainment centers in metro Atlanta, Mountasia Marietta and Malibu Norcross, are closing permanently this Monday. These attractions, which opened over 30 years ago, offered miniature golf, go-kart tracks, bumper boats, and arcades, serving generations of families and teenagers.
The closures mark the end of an era for these local staples, which have faced increasing competition and evolving entertainment industry trends. Both parks announced their closures on Facebook, prompting an outpouring of sentimental responses from visitors.
Key Takeaways
- Mountasia Marietta and Malibu Norcross are closing permanently on Monday.
- Both parks have operated for over 30 years, offering miniature golf, go-karts, and arcades.
- The closures are attributed to increased competition in the entertainment sector.
- Many visitors shared nostalgic memories on social media following the announcement.
Decades of Family Fun Come to an End
Mountasia Marietta and Malibu Norcross have been popular destinations for families seeking local entertainment for decades. They provided a consistent source of fun, often hosting birthday parties and casual weekend outings.
The decision to close was announced recently, giving patrons one last weekend to visit. Social media platforms saw many visitors sharing photos and memories of their time at the parks, highlighting the impact these centers had on their communities.
“We are incredibly grateful for the many joyful memories these centers have created and hosted in our communities,” stated Andrew Wexler, CEO of Herschend, the parent company. “We played a role in so many families’ lives.”
Wexler added that the decision to close was made to best serve the family entertainment industry. This indicates a shift in strategy for the company, focusing on different types of attractions.
Fact: Long-Standing Attractions
- Mountasia Marietta opened in 1988.
- Malibu Norcross opened in 1991.
- Both parks operated for more than 30 years.
Community Reactions and Shared Memories
The news of the closures generated a strong emotional response. Many individuals expressed sadness and shared personal anecdotes about their experiences at the parks. These stories often centered on childhood memories and significant family events.
Angie Presley, a visitor to Mountasia Marietta, shared her disappointment. She noted that her son, Presley, learned to drive a go-kart at the park. "It was always a helpful ride for him," she said, referring to her son, who has autism.
Another visitor recalled a humorous incident involving bumper boats. "We had a great time there. He kept squirting me, and I couldn't get him back," she said. These personal stories underscore the role the parks played in local family life.
The Evolving Entertainment Landscape
The closure of Mountasia Marietta and Malibu Norcross reflects broader changes in the entertainment industry. Over the past few decades, the market for family fun centers has become more competitive. New types of attractions and entertainment platforms have emerged.
These new options often include elevated indoor go-kart racing, sophisticated arcades, and various interactive experiences. This increased competition has put pressure on older, more traditional family fun centers.
Context: Industry Shifts
The entertainment industry has seen significant evolution. Consumers now have access to a wider range of leisure activities, from high-tech indoor gaming centers to large-scale theme parks. This diversification creates a challenging environment for businesses offering more traditional attractions.
Impact on Local Entertainment Options
While these two parks are closing, metro Atlanta still offers other entertainment options. There are still plenty of bowling alleys, arcades, and skating rinks available for residents. However, the specific combination of miniature golf, go-karts, and bumper boats offered by Mountasia and Malibu will be missed by many.
Other national companies, like Topgolf and Andretti Karting, now offer elevated experiences that cater to a similar audience but with more modern facilities and amenities. These newer venues often include dining options and a broader range of activities.
A Look at Herschend’s Portfolio
Herschend, the company that owned Mountasia Marietta and Malibu Norcross, is a national operator of theme parks and attractions. The company owns and operates several well-known properties across the U.S.
These include Dollywood in Tennessee, Silver Dollar City in Missouri, and Wild Adventures in Georgia. Herschend's portfolio also includes Callaway Gardens and Stone Mountain Park, which it manages.
Fact: Herschend's Other Holdings
- Dollywood (Tennessee)
- Silver Dollar City (Missouri)
- Wild Adventures (Georgia)
- Callaway Gardens (Georgia)
- Stone Mountain Park (Georgia)
The company's statement indicated a focus on differently structured family entertainment centers. This suggests a strategic move towards larger, more integrated theme park experiences rather than smaller, standalone family fun centers.
Future of Leisure in Atlanta
The closures highlight a trend where older entertainment venues are struggling to compete with newer, more technologically advanced, or larger-scale attractions. As consumer preferences shift, businesses in the leisure sector must adapt to remain relevant.
For residents of Marietta and Norcross, the closure means saying goodbye to places that held personal significance. The memories created at Mountasia Marietta and Malibu Norcross will endure, even as the physical locations close their doors.
The last day for operations is Sunday, giving patrons one final opportunity to enjoy a trip to these long-standing entertainment hubs. Many plan to visit one last time to relive memories and say goodbye.
