Скачать или смотреть The Diving Bell at Playland Park in Ocean Beach - 1960

I rode the Diving Bell at Playland Park in Ocean Beach in 1960 - so much fun!

The salty breeze of Ocean Beach mingled with the scent of popcorn and cotton candy as you stepped into "Playland-at-the-Beach", San Francisco’s beloved seaside amusement park. Nestled between the Dark Mystery funhouse and the Dodger bumper cars, the Diving Bell stood like a steel relic of underwater adventure.

One climbed into the bell—a riveted metal capsule with foggy portholes—and you were sealed inside. With a mechanical groan, the bell descended into a shallow tank, maybe 5 to 6 feet deep, though it felt like plunging into the abyss. Through the portholes, you glimpsed plastic fish, rubber sharks, and the occasional real sea creature. Then, with a sudden jolt, the bell rocketed back to the surface, splashing water everywhere and thrilling onlookers. Your muffled screams and laughter were broadcast over a loudspeaker, adding to the spectacle for those waiting in line.

It wasn’t high-tech—but it was unforgettable.

Fast-forward to today, and the "Buoyancy" ride in Planet Coaster 2 pays homage to that quirky classic. In your custom theme park, guests now board a sleek, stylized diving bell that lowers dramatically into a simulated underwater world. The bell then shoots upward, mimicking the original’s splashy finale—only now with synchronized lighting, sound effects, and animated sea life.

You can theme the ride with vintage signage, place it beside retro attractions, and even pipe in guest dialogue for that authentic Playland vibe. It’s a loving nod to a bygone era, reimagined with modern flair.

#divingbell #playlandpark #buoyancy