May 20, 2013
One of Florida's oldest theme parks made a surprise announcement Thursday.
Cypress Gardens says it's closing down because of a drop in visitors since the Sept. 11 attacks.
The owners announced they will close the Winter Haven Park for good on Sunday night. The park had 42,000 fewer visitors in March than it did in the same month last year.
Cypress Gardens is known worldwide for its water skiing shows and beautiful setting. But finances turned ugly after Sept. 11, attendance fell dramatically and bills started to pile up.
The park opened in 1936 and served as the backdrop for Esther Williams movies during its heyday.
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