Belmont Park Turns 100! Here’s How to Celebrate This Epic Milestone
As the calendar flips to a brand-new year, there’s one celebration in San Diego that’s already got everyone buzzing with excitement. Belmont Park — the beloved beachfront amusement park — is turning 100! And when’s the big day? JULY 4TH!
That’s right — a whole century of chills, thrills, and unforgettable memories, all leading up to a birthday bash that’s going to be one for the books. And guess what? We at Soulkal are beyond stoked to be part of this epic milestone.
Let’s dive into the history, the excitement, and (of course) the exclusive merch we’ve created to help Belmont Park celebrate in style.
From the iconic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster to the legendary Plunge swimming pool, Belmont Park has been a cornerstone of San Diego’s beach culture since 1925. It's not just a place for rides and snacks — it’s a living piece of California history. So, buckle up as we take you on a ride through Belmont Park's rich past, exciting present, and the one-of-a-kind Centennial celebration that you won’t want to miss.
Soulkal x Belmont Park: A Centennial Collaboration
When Belmont Park started planning their 100th-anniversary celebration, we knew we had to be part of it. Thanks to our friends at Escapology, we had the honor of designing a Centennial collection that celebrates the park’s legacy in true Soulkal style.
Here’s a sneak peek of what you can expect:
Centennial Hoodies & Tees – Inspired by the Giant Dipper and Liberty Carousel, these designs blend vintage vibes with modern style. Perfect for post-ride hangs or beach strolls.
Embroidered Hats – Featuring Belmont Park’s signature teal and yellow color scheme, these hats are designed to keep you cool while repping a piece of history.
Limited Edition – This collection is a one-time drop for the Centennial. Once it's gone, it's gone — so don’t miss your chance to snag a piece of history.
Soulkal is here to help local legends grow - because every great business deserves a lasting legacy.
A Century of Sun, Sand, and Screams
If you’ve ever strolled along Mission Beach, you’ve probably spotted the unmistakable white and red tracks of the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster rising above the horizon. But Belmont Park’s story goes far beyond its thrilling rides.
How It All Began
The story starts in 1925, when businessman John D. Spreckels envisioned a grand seaside amusement park to attract visitors to Mission Beach. His vision became a reality when Belmont Park opened its gates to the public, offering an exciting mix of attractions designed to draw crowds from near and far.
At the heart of it all was the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster — a wooden marvel engineered by the famed Prior and Church. Towering at 70 feet with speeds of up to 48 mph, it quickly became a fan favorite, giving riders a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean before plunging into adrenaline-pumping twists and turns.
Not far from the Giant Dipper stood the Plunge — a saltwater indoor swimming pool that was the largest of its kind when it opened. With its retractable roof and impressive glass walls, the Plunge became a go-to destination for swimmers and sunbathers alike.
Surviving Fires, Earthquakes, and Close Calls
Keeping an amusement park running for 100 years isn’t just about good luck — it’s about resilience. Over the decades, Belmont Park has faced its share of challenges.
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The 1940s: World War II forced the park to scale back operations, but it reopened to the public soon after.
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The 1950s: The park’s ownership changed hands multiple times, bringing new attractions and modern updates.
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The 1970s: Belmont Park fell into disrepair, and the threat of demolition loomed large. But San Diegans weren’t ready to let go of their beloved park just yet.
A massive effort to save the Giant Dipper was launched, spearheaded by a dedicated group of preservationists. The coaster was restored and declared a historic landmark in 1987 — a hard-earned victory that ensured future generations would experience the same heart-stopping thrills as riders back in the '20s.
The Magic of the Liberty Carousel
While the Giant Dipper might be Belmont Park’s most famous ride, the hand-painted Liberty Carousel holds a special kind of charm. With its detailed horses, vibrant colors, and classic calliope music, the carousel is a reminder of a simpler time. It’s the kind of ride where grandparents smile as they watch their grandkids reach for the brass ring — a full-circle moment that makes Belmont Park more than just an amusement park.
More Than Just Rides
While the rides are the park’s main draw, Belmont Park has evolved into a full-fledged entertainment destination. It’s a place where you can:
Grab a bite at Beach House with its oceanfront views and laid-back vibes
Try your hand at arcade games or test your skills on the rock-climbing wall
Chill out with an ice cream cone from Sweet Shoppe or sip a cold beer at Draft
Catch live music on summer weekends as the sun sets over the Pacific
From date nights to family outings, Belmont Park has become a backdrop for San Diego’s best memories.
100 Years Strong — And Counting
Surviving a century of ups and downs (literally and figuratively) isn’t easy — but Belmont Park isn’t just any amusement park. It’s a piece of San Diego’s heart and soul.
The Giant Dipper has given millions of riders the thrill of a lifetime. The Liberty Carousel has carried countless children through their first magical ride. The Plunge has hosted generations of families seeking a break from the summer heat. Belmont Park has become more than a destination — it’s a tradition.
And now, with 100 years under its belt, Belmont Park is looking toward the future with the same spirit of adventure that defined it from the start. New rides and experiences are in the works, but the park’s core identity — a place where memories are made — will always stay the same.
Join the Celebration
The Centennial celebration isn’t just about looking back — it’s about honoring the park’s legacy while celebrating the future. Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, there’s no better time to experience Belmont Park.
Ride the Giant Dipper — Feel the same rush that riders have experienced for 100 years.
Take a spin on the Liberty Carousel — and make a memory that will last a lifetime.
Snag the exclusive Centennial merch — because these hoodies, tees, and hats won’t be around forever.
Stay for the sunset — because nothing beats the view from Mission Beach.
Belmont Park has given San Diego a century of joy — and the best part? It’s just getting started.