The oldest amusement park still in operation, Storyland in City Park will close for repairs and renovations on Monday. The 60-year old Storyland will undergo its first renovation in since 1986.
The renovations will see some of Storyland's durable favorites improved and their whimsical aspects expanded upon. According to the Times-Picayune/New Orleans Advocate, new exhibits will feature interactive opportunities for kids: Jack and the Beanstalk, Humpty-Dumpty, and Tortoise and the Hare. The fourth new exhibit will have a decidedly closer to home feeling: Boudreaux, the Zydeco Gator. Storyland's gator playing an accordian is being remade so kids can join him in melody making. He's moving to a place of his own surrounded by drums shaped like flowers and brightly colored xylophones.
Storyland sees more than quarter-million visitors in a year. So freshening its appearance and adding more ability for kids to play and expand their imaginations through interactive exhibits will keep Storyland going for the future. Other exhibits are being re-imagined as well so kids with disabilities can access them.
Storyland is bringing in local artists to perform the renovations to the characters and breathe new life into the most popular spots in Storyland. Storyland's $800-thousand renovation and expansion is being paid for by scores of generous donors sponsoring the work. No date, other than Fall 2019, has been announced for the completion of Storyland, but when Storyland reopens the price of admission will go up to five dollars.
The renovation comes as Storyland was recently honored by Forbes Magazine as one of the best family friendly activities in New Orleans.