Commentary: A tale of two parks: One was a 'poor boy's Disneyland,' the other had a Cobra Woman who was really a man
Briefly

The Pike amusement park in Long Beach, opened in 1902, became known for its chaotic reputation while offering rides like the Cyclone Racer. It lasted until 1979, despite unsavory activities and an infamous sideshow involving a corpse. In contrast, Pacific Ocean Park opened in 1958, shortly after Disneyland, but could not sustain popularity and closed within 10 years. Both parks represent different eras in amusement history, with the Pike remaining a significant part of Long Beach's identity until its closure.
The Pike amusement park opened in 1902 and lasted until 1979, becoming a notorious hangout with a reputation for unsavory activities, and even had a corpse exhibited as a sideshow.
Pacific Ocean Park, opened in 1958, was short-lived, lasting less than 10 years, despite being located in a popular area between Santa Monica and Venice.
Read at www.latimes.com
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