August 2, 2026 marked the last day for Fun Spot Atlanta and ArieForce One and Inwas lucky enough to be there. Lots of feelings for sure as I attended opening day of ArieForce One just a little over 3 years ago. This article isn’t about what might be next for the iconic coaster, but instead is just a recap of the day. I arrived at 9:30am and the ticket line was already long. ArieForce was already running as ACE had an ERT event that morning. John Arie, Jr. (Fun Spot owner) came out at 9:45am and gave a brief, but moving talk thanking the fans and the park staff and declared the park open a few minutes early.

The ticket lines moved fast and everyone got a great commemorative bracelet. It was then time for the walk across the park to ArieForce One, the reason most people were there. The line was long and the sky was threatening, so best to be sure to get one last ride in while you could.

The line for ArieForce One stretched under the track, outside the plaza and curved back toward the station on the other side of the track. Our wait was about 45 minutes, but it was a pleasant wait. Everyone was sharing stories and the feeling of community was strong. Once getting near the platform if you wanted one of the middle rows you could basically walk right on as a lot of people were waiting for front and back row. I rode on a train with “ArieForce One James”, which was a great way to have a last ride. It appeared that they were letting James sit with any singles on the train which was great to see.

My ride was spectacular, it was ArieForce One, enough said. They had a picture backdrop for people sign to commemorate the day. Upon exiting the plaza the line was perhaps even slightly longer and we went off to ride Hurricane and Sea Serpent. Hurricane had a little line, but most of the other rides did not. Lots of adults getting the Sea Serpent credit. I had a chance to talk to John Arie, Jr. briefly as well Eric Bitler, Director of Operations which was great. We went over to give ArieForce One what I thought was a final look and headed for the exit. The park was open longer and had a closing ceremony later, but we had another commitment and I was grateful for the time we had.

There was a lot of coverage of the later events of the day online. I guess the bad weather stayed away, which was great, but the ride did have a little downtime and switched to one train. I’ve put some videos below for completeness even though I wasn’t there personally. In a speech in the station Mr. Arie mentioned his desire to see the ride moved and hopes that the theme and name would be retained. The last ride looked magical as cameras followed the train everywhere. The closing ceremony got quite emotional especially for John Arie, Jr., basically apologizing to the crowd/staff for having to close, but vowing to try to find a place for the ride, even if they had to take less money. This ride spawned a community that was grateful for the memories ,but also in mourning wondering what was next and it was clear Mr. Arie felt that along with love for his excellent staff.

Upon driving out I had to park the car and get out to take one last look and some pictures. I didn’t expect it to be emotional, but it was. I hope ArieForce One finds a new home. I hope everything works out financially for Fun Spot as they look to sell the assets and that their two Florida park’s continue to thrive. I also hope all the great employees land on their feet. Goodbye Fun Spot Atlanta and ArieForce One, you will be missed.