![Things We Miss: Astroworld and Waterworld Theme Parks](http://townsquare.media/site/154/files/2021/06/attachment-Untitled-design129.jpg?w=980&q=75)
Things We Miss: Astroworld and Waterworld Theme Parks
Some of the best childhood memories I have growing up as a kid were at Astroworld and Waterworld in Houston. It saddens me to look to the right of 610 as I pass the Astrodome and see a space of empty land. It was my introduction to many awesome rides such as the Bamboo shoots, XLR-8, 'The Ultra Twister,' Texas Cyclone, and of course we can't forget about cooling off at Waterworld.
Most trips started out by catching a game at the 'eighth wonder of the world,' The Astrodome! You would then close out the day across IH-610. AstroWorld opened on June 1, 1968, across the highway from the Astrodome creating a multi-facility entertainment complex. Six Flags purchased AstroWorld in 1975 which started to bring in the awesome lineup of rides and rollercoasters that became iconic.
![KIXS FM 108 logo](https://townsquare.media/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/KIXSFM.png?w=100)
Check out some of the iconic rollercoasters that Astrowold brought us:
Who remembers Texas Cyclone? It was an iconic wooden roller coaster that became a symbol of Houston Texas.
X-L-R-8
X-L-R-8 was the first thrill ride I ever went on. The suspended steel coaster definitely brought up the adrenaline.
TAZ'S TEXAS TORNADO:
This roller coaster didn't open until March 14, 1998, and was renamed Taz Texas Tornado. I still remember Taz in the commercials.
VIPER:
During its run at Six Flags AstroWorld, it featured a tunnel surrounding the first drop. The exterior had a dragon mural although most people mistook it for a Viper. I mean that is the name of the ride.