So this isn't a rumor as much as thought, but I don't know where else to stick it since it doesn't really conform to other threads either and I'm not sure it belongs in it's own:
What if the reason behind the increased focus on events and F&B at KD is not so much because CF is trying to compete and more because they're attempting to make the park more attractive to a buyer?
The line of thought is that KD has suffered by taking out Volcano and now Crypt without any known replacement. Volcano's site was leveled, which though indicates maybe a faster turnaround to build something else in it's spot, also could have been done to make it easier for a future buyer to make modifications and save them some cash in the process - what good is a SBNO ride that would cost serious $ to get operational in that scenario?
While the Coconut Shores addition is new, it's relatively not an expensive update compared to redoing the vacant Safari Village area with new rides/shops/food/attractions and/or theme.
By focusing on relatively cheap changes and additions that draw in attendance and in-park spending, the park could be seen as a good value for a buyout with an opportunity for the new owner to immediately be able to put their own stamp on it.
That's not saying that KI or Carowinds would be involved as I'm not as up to date with the ins and outs of those parks to place them as part of this scheme.
I think you need to look at the larger picture, i.e. Cedar Fair.
For example, Cedar Point is getting 2 new food places in 2020. They are getting the return of a newly themed boat ride; a night parade for this year. And 2020 is their 150th anniversary.
KI has removed 1 coaster in the 2018-2019 off season and removing another major coaster, Vortex, this year. Of course Orion is opening this spring.
Carowinds is getting a racing mat slide and the Carnivale event for 2020. Thunder Road was removed to make way for the water park expansion in the last 2-3 years.
I see variations of what is happening at KD occuring in several CF parks over the last 2-3 years; so, I don't see KD sticking out as being the "ugly step-child" and potentially up for sale.
Remember that Cedar Fair corporate has been reviewing attractions across the park chain for the last 2-3 years. If these attractions are experiencing extensive down times; expensive/difficult to maintain; or simply not popular with low ridership, CF is getting rid of those attractions. This is now the current CF park chain corporate policy, not KD policy. The same corporate policy is in effect for more/varied entertainment and short term special events during different times in the season. Again, it is across the whole park chain.
