Amusement Park News

Drawing inspiration from the history and lore of St. Louis' Union Station, Zamperla has transformed the station's outdoor space with a new trio of attractions that expand its role as a major entertainment destination.

Union Station, a National Historic Landmark, opened in 1894 and was once the largest and busiest railway terminal in the United States. The three-ride installation, completed in August, further evolves the former terminal into a fully integrated indoor and outdoor entertainment complex.

The new attractions supplied by Zamperla include the Compact Spinning Coaster 123, the Galleon, and a Flying Carousel swing ride.

According to Brian O'Loughlin, vice president of lodging hospitality management for Union Station, the collaboration with Zamperla was both productive and creative. “They listened to our ideas and helped us develop attractions that complement the existing offerings, reflect St. Louis' history, and fit within the available footprint of Wheel Park,” he says. “The result is a seamless, colorful, and exciting space that delivers a wide range of entertainment for our visitors.”



Zamperla Director of Sales Ramon Rosario notes that Union Station encouraged the company to incorporate local history into the rides' theming and design. He describes the Compact Spinning Coaster as a nod to the city's legacy as a rail hub, while the Galleon acknowledges the steamships that once traveled the Mississippi River. The Flying Carousel, Rosario adds, celebrates the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair.

Andrew Schumacher, an architect with PGAV Destinations, the St. Louis based firm that master planned and designed Union Station's expansion, says the new rides build on the success of existing attractions. “The St. Louis Wheel has been a prominent landmark for the city and Union Station for the past six years,” Schumacher explains. “This expansion further activates the outdoor space and extends the experience, particularly for teen visitors.”

The new attractions complement the station's 200 foot Ferris wheel, which features enclosed gondolas. On clear days, riders can see up to 20 miles across the St. Louis area.

Union Station already offers a wide range of entertainment options beyond the wheel. These include the Selfie Express interactive walkthrough with ten immersive train themed photo locations, a mini golf course, a carousel, and the Grand Hall Light Show, a three dimensional ceiling projection. Additional attractions include the A MAZE ING Discoveries Mirror Maze, which pays tribute to the 1904 World's Fair, a ropes course, and the Sky Tykes course designed for younger guests.

Zamperla's newest additions elevate the amusement offerings at Union Station. The Wave Swinger ride combines spinning and swaying motion in a classic design inspired by the 1904 World's Fair. The attraction reaches 43.5 feet in height and accommodates up to 64 riders who soar approximately 25 feet above the ground. Riders must be at least 42 inches tall when accompanied by an adult, or 48 inches tall to ride alone.



The Flying Louie pirate ship delivers a classic swinging experience that simulates a boat at sea. It reaches 42.5 feet at its peak and offers sweeping views of St. Louis. The same height requirements apply as those for the Wave Swinger.

The most innovative addition is the Loco Motion Mini Spinning Coaster, a family friendly roller coaster themed to Union Station's railroad heritage. The ride features a 403 foot track that rises 22 feet above ground. Guests may ride at 36 inches tall when accompanied by an adult aged 16 or older, or at 42 inches tall when riding alone.

O'Loughlin says the public response has been enthusiastic. “Hearing the laughter and excited screams from guests experiencing the Wave Swinger, Flying Louie, and Loco Motion for the first time was incredibly rewarding,” he says. “St. Louis has truly embraced these new additions to Wheel Park.”

Union Station's proximity to professional baseball and hockey venues further enhances its appeal. All rides operate daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

In addition to the rides, the 120,000 square foot St. Louis Aquarium is located within the former station mall. The property also features restaurants, a large koi pond, and classic midway games.

“We're excited about how all of these elements come together,” says Cameron Schoeffel, Union Station's director of sales and entertainment. O'Loughlin adds, “We're proud to bring even more family friendly fun to visitors at St. Louis Union Station.”

The attractions are managed by Icon Experiences. Guests may purchase ride tickets individually or as combination passes that include other Union Station attractions.

Zamperla has delivered similar themed entertainment elsewhere. This year, Parc Spirou in France began construction on a new Naruto themed area featuring a family launch coaster, also manufactured by Zamperla.