Timesuck with Dan Cummins 469 - Action Park: America's Most Dangerous Amusement Park
Aug 25, 2025
Dive into the wild and reckless world of New Jersey's notorious Action Park, where thrill-seekers embraced danger. Discover the park's chaotic history, whimsical yet perilous rides like the Alpine Slide, and the unconventional philosophy of its founder. Explore the tragic incidents that marred its legacy, the legal troubles faced by management, and the park's eventual downfall. Listen to humorous testimonials from those brave enough to experience the madness, blending nostalgia with cautionary tales in a vibrant exploration of America's most dangerous amusement park.
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Founder Loved Risky, Participatory Fun
- Gene Mulvihill built Action Park from a desire to let guests control the danger and excitement themselves.
- He prioritized thrilling, low-cost attractions over established safety and professional expertise.
Alpine Slide Debut And Immediate Injuries
- The Alpine Slide opened in 1976 as a removable dry bobsled where riders controlled brakes via a joystick.
- Riders reached 40 mph with no helmets or belts, causing scraped flesh and crashes that staff tried to mitigate with photos and hay bales.
Motor World: Speed, Cheap IDs, Chaos
- Motor World let guests race Lola cars and dune buggies with minimal ID checks and a "never say no" attendant policy.
- Teenagers and intoxicated drivers regularly crashed, with helmets the only consistent safety rule.
