Anticipation grows for Funland grand opening

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) - Funland is officially set to re-open at Tautphaus Park on Saturday with an official grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony.

In addition to the grand opening of Funland, the city plans on adding a time capsule anticipated to be opened in 75 years celebrating the next era of the attraction.

"The grand opening represents so many big things for our community and for the zoo," Idaho Falls Zoo Director David Pennock said.

Funland, an iconic site in Idaho Falls for several decades, closed in 2019 for renovations, but Saturday will be a new chapter for the attraction for generations to come.

"I remember as a very young child coming to Funland, it's one of my fond memories," Pennock said. "That is quite a heritage and now those grandkids are going to be bringing their grandkids to Funland and their grandkids."

“Funland is an Idaho Falls gem. We are delighted to bring back this place that holds memories across multiple generations,” Idaho Falls Mayor Rebecca Casper said.

The grand opening will also pay tribute to Leo Larsen who operated Funland for 50 years.

The road that runs adjacent to the rides named after Larsen will also cut a ribbon celebrating his legacy.

“It’s exciting to open Funland again and remember Leo Larsen’s legacy,” Idaho Falls Parks and Recreation Director PJ Holm said. “His contributions to the Zoo and community are remarkable, but it’s his mentorship of the teens who worked for him that is just as commendable. These workers learned the value of hard work and integrity and we hope Funland will continue this tradition.”

The Idaho Falls Zoo’s latest attraction will be open on Saturday, Aug. 12, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. for regular operations before the grand opening.

Starting Sunday, Aug. 13, Funland hours will be 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays through Labor Day weekend.

To learn more about the celebration and additional information about Funland, visit https://idahofallsidaho.gov/1871/Funland.