The former AMC Theater in southwest Cedar Rapids was announced to be transformed into a new trampoline park. With a new park on the rise, there is much debate about whether the community needs another jumping park when there are already two successful trampoline parks in town. Little information has come out about the old AMC theater that is turning into “Fun City Trampoline Park,” but there are still many thoughts on the topic.

     The former AMC theater located on Edgewood Road opened in Feb. 1999. It was owned by Carmike Cinemas and was known as the Wynnsong 12. It was then bought in 2016 by AMC Theaters. In March of 2020, the theater temporarily shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and in Feb. of 2023, it permanently closed its doors. On Dec. 4th, a two-day online auction concluded, and the building was sold for $750,000. According to The Corridor Business Journal, the Cedar Rapids city assessor website stated, “The property was valued at $1,844,000 as of January 2024…including $1,370,000 for the land and $474,000 for the improvements.” The buyer of the property remains anonymous, but according to the Assessor’s Office records, the purchase was based in Newton, Massachusetts. The Corridor Business Journal also reported that the demolition work in the theater began in mid-December of 2024, and remodeling started on Feb. 3 of this year.

     There are two existing trampoline parks in Cedar Rapids: Skyzone, located on Council St. in Cedar Rapids and AirFX on 18th Ave. in Hiawatha. One may question if adding another trampoline park in the area is necessary. It creates more competition for the already existing parks in town. A representative of AirFX expressed that they don’t see the new building becoming a threat, as they stated, “We pay attention to what competitors are doing, and we expect to see an impact on our business in the short term. However, we have a great location and are in a good position to benefit from future market growth.” AirFX believes they focus on providing the best possible experience for their guests, and this sets them apart from the competition and keeps people coming back time after time.

     The arrival of Fun City Trampoline Park adds another layer to Cedar Rapids’ growing entertainment selection, but its success remains uncertain in a market already filled with two established parks. While some may question the need for another jumping facility, competition often pushes businesses to change and improve customer experiences. With AirFX confident in its ability to retain loyal guests and Sky Zone already a staple in the area, Fun City must find its place in the community to thrive. As remodeling progresses and opening day approaches, the community will soon see whether the area can sustain another trampoline park or if the market is already at its peak. While it is a new and shiny building, it is not a new experience.