Big Florida Country's Tribute to the
The Mystery Fun House was an Orlando favorite for 25 years
Orlando, Florida 1976-2001
Please click below if you cannt see the video Click Here for video The Mystery Fun House will be missed!!!! Thanks John!!! (original graphic from the old website) click java image above to install java to view the original fireworks from the old MFH site My Brochure 5767 Major Blvd Orlando, FL 32819 (407) 351-3355 Hours Mon - Sun 10am to 10pm Price $4.95 to $10.95 Payment types accepted American Express Cash MasterCard Visa Parking Free lot The fireworks and graphics above were from the old Mystery Fun House website. MFH's website www.mysteryfunhouse.net was built around Nov of 1999 and was shut down sometime in July of 2001 Original address and phone number when opened. Mystery Fun House 5767 Major Blvd. Orlando, Florida 32805 (305) 351-3355 The History The Mystery Fun House gave us something different then the theme parks. Some may have thought it was not much, but many of us thought it was great family fun. It was something to get your mind working to imagine new things or just scaring you. It was a full day of fun for the whole family. The Mystery Fun House was a wonderful attraction that was helped started by David Siegel in 1976 (soon after he owned it outright according to Orlando Weekly) and managed by Jack Spangler. It evolved from being just a fun house (ahead of its time in the 70's) to a full laser tag facility called Starbase Omega with a large arcade with many video games. It also had a mini golf course before anyone else had one in the area. I am adding to this page often. If you have anything for me to add please email me anytime. The mystery (and the fun) are no more Jerry W. Jackson of the Orlando Sentinel Staff Posted February 20, 2001 The Mystery Fun House attraction shut down Sunday, ending a 25-year run in part because of competition from larger tourist attractions, including its fast-growing neighbor across International Drive (should say Kirkman), Universal Orlando. Fun House employees said the entire operation, including a miniature golf course and a video arcade game room, was closed for good and that the owner, Central Florida Investments Inc. has put the building and six-acre property up for sale. CFI is a time-share resort company owned by Orlando businessman David Siegel, who said in October that he wanted to sell the property at 5767 Major Blvd., in part because the land had become too valuable for a second-tier attraction with declining attendance. At the time, he said an announcement about the pending closing had been sent out a few months prematurely. A For Sale sign has now been posted on the property. Siegel was out of town Monday and could not be reached for comment. Jack Spangler, a CFI vice president who oversees the Mystery Fun House property, also was unavailable. Maria Triscari, executive director of the International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce, said the closing represents the end of an era for a longtime business on the north end of I-Drive. "It's always sad when an attraction closes and especially when it's one of the original attractions in the area. There's a lot of nostalgia associated with it, but it's certainly more competitive out there than it used to be." Triscari said that while Universal Orlando and other big attractions have expanded in recent years and are keeping tourists on their property longer, the competition also has stiffened among the smaller attractions. "There are just a lot more of them [on I-Drive]," she said, including WonderWorks, Ripley's Believe It or Not, Fun Spot amusement park and the Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf, all attracting some of the same visitors who might have gone to the Fun House in years past. Todd Hansen, director of sales and marketing at Ripley's, on the south end of I-Drive, said the Mystery Fun House had become stale and apparently outlived its usefulness to the time- share parent company. "It's clear they chose not to reinvest in the property," Hansen said. "I'm sorry to see anyone fold, but they knew it was coming." Hansen said the decline of the Mystery Fun House is not a reflection of widespread problems on the tourist-oriented business strip. He said business is brisk for companies that market aggressively, particularly in the local area to attract people from nearby hotels. "Our business is up 20 percent" in attendance and revenue, he said, partly because " we do a lot of old-fashioned, in-your-face marketing," going door-to-door to hotels and working closely with the Convention and Visitors Bureau. Employees at the Mystery Fun House said the more than 50,000-square-foot facility still houses some CFI employees who work in various departments for the huge time-share company, including technical support people who install and repair televisions and other equipment for the resorts. (c) Copyright Orlando Sentinel. All rights reserved. To see more of the Orlando Sentinel, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://orlandosentinel.com The Chambers by Scott Jensen The Mystery Fun House had 15 themed Chambers inside. (This is what I can remember, some I know is not correct, but with help from everyone, we will get it right. Email me) Chamber 1 When you first entered the fun house you had to walk through the clear glass and mirror maze. At the end you would walk thru a dark corridor and then broken glass sounds and the illusion that the glass was breaking. The first time thru that usually got your heart racing. Chamber 2 The topsy turvy room had a floor that was angled, so where the walls. It gave you a very strange feeling here. a ball would look like it rolled uphill. Chamber 3 (old) The moon room (green cheese) was black lit and soft with foam made walls. (I remember climbing all over it even though you were not suppose to) Chamber 3 (new) was a long rope and wood planked bridge that wobbled when you walked on it. Off to the left side was a very large dragon keeping an eye on everyone that passed. Chamber 4 (old) this room had a small hologram projector, they played the "Boston" song "More then a Feeling". The hologram was two people dancing in the middle of the spinning machine, thru the doors had a lighted disco floor to dance on. Chamber 4 was a tunnel and maze system called the catacombs. You crawled thru a long and very dark (pitch black) tunnel. You could also take a walk thru tunnel. Both tunnel systems met up with each other. Chamber 5 you entered the jail area and other monster areas. They had a long table with various monsters eating. Also a man transforming into a werewolf behind a piece of glass Chamber 6 this room had was a large spinning barrel. You could walk thru is fast or stay instead and try to hold on and get upside down. It was fun. Chamber 7 . The Wizards dungeon. It had one of the pendulum blades moving back and forth over a table. Chamber 8 This room had all types of science-type stuff in it like the metal electrode with electric rising up it. (more on the other chambers will be added) Chamber 13 had many things that tried to fool your eyes with tricks. This area at one time also included the handwriting fortune telling machine. Chamber 14 was the show room. It had disco lights, music, and a large video screen with the wizard telling you all kinds of things. they had a few special effects also. Chamber 15 was the old fair type funhouse stuff. You pushed yourself thru large hanging bags. Then you had funny mirrors and other little things like that. They also had a ladder you could try to climb, it was very unstable and it was hard to do. If you were lucky enough to get to the top you can hit the ringer. There were two large animated rabbits that were doing magic tricks. One had a handkerchief going thru its ears. You then had to walk thru this dark tunnel, it had air from floor to scare you, and barrels that looked like they would fall on you. You would then push yourself thru the old revolving gate and out the exit to the Arcade. Video Clip (mostly sound) of the beginning of the MFH Click Here The Chamber's by Brian Bennett - A detailed account of the Chambers (updated 05/28/2007) Dear Sir, I currently live in Central Florida, and have visited Mystery Funhouse many times. My first visit was within 2 weeks after it opened. Because I visited it quite often. I can give you some accurate information on most of the Stunts that came and went. A. "The Lobby" - This is where you purchased your tickets. The Lobby originally was brightly light. It contained a round table with a Vase that mysteriously circled; as the Tabletop was actually a Spinning Device. Next you had to find the secret entrance into the Funhouse. When the Buzzer sounded You pushed open the panel on the inside left of the Fireplace! When the Panel opened an overhead Strobe lamp was Activated. B. The "Glass Corridor" - AKA. the "Mirror Maze" - During the first few months of operation the Maze was brightly lit from the fluorescent lamps in the Drop Ceiling. There was No Audio playing at this time, as the Funhouse was still under Construction. Sometime Later, The lights were dimmed and a Mirrored Ball was added along with an audio track. After the mid 80's a Scull on a pedestal was placed inside of the maze. The Scull would frighten Small Children and brought about some complaints. As I exited the Maze there was a loud Shattering sound, as Glass panels cracked on both sides of me. This always startled first time visitors, but was a lot of Fun. The mirror maze was also my favorite walk-thru at the Funhouse. C. "Topsy Turvy Room" - (Renamed the "Egyptian Tomb" in later years) - This Walk-thru originally contained 6 different Stunts. 1a - Ball rolls Uphill - A wiffle Ball was freely placed on a shelf. It appeared to roll uphill. During my next visit, the Wiffle ball was missing as it would often get stolen from inconsiderate guests. That's why Modifications were made to this stunt. 2a - Water Flowing Uphill - On my first visit, two maintenance men were filling a Trough from a bucket of water. After they left I watched as the water actually appeared to flow Uphill. This Stunt was later modified and the illusion was disrupted. 3a - Ball on a String - In the Upper corner, there hung a pool table ball (8th Ball) from a plum line. The ball appeared to be floating in air as it would not stay against the corner like it should. 4a - The Clock - The Pendulum would not swing as gravity forced it to rest against the wall. 5a - The Bridge - Located in the center of the room, was a tilted platform. The Platform was actually level, and guests would appear to be leaning, as the Room was diagonally Tilted. 6a - The Vibrating Floor - This would startle first time guests as they exited the tilt room. When it was changed into the "Egyptian Tomb", the Whirling Vortex music was change to the song, "Walk Like an Egyptian". The song was activated by pressing a button on the wall next to the Ball Uphill Stunt. 1b - This button also launched the ball inside of the Uphill chamber. 2b - A new cabinet was built and a faucet was mounted. The stream of water curved rather than flowed uphill. 3b - The plum line was removed and a coffin containing a Mummy was added. 4b - The Clock had to be removed because the Pendulum was putting a Gash into the Wall. 5b - The Bridge still remained - As it was one of the Best illusions that, guests had ever seen in any Funhouse! 6b - Because of complaints, the vibrating floor was toned down. D. "The Music Room" - (Later became the "Enchanted Forest" and entrance to the "Forbidden Temple") -which consisted of 3 separate chambers (Past, Present, & Future) 1a. (Past) - This room originally contained several Holographic cylinders. When you looked into the cylinders, you could see a Couple Dancing to the Music that played. The musical tunes played were from 1920 to 1960. 2a. (Present) - This room had a Lighted Dance Floor. Only 2 of the walls were mirrored at this time, making the dance floor to appear 4X larger than it really was. Disco Music from the 70's was playing at that time. 3a. (Future) - There were 2 vertical cylinders with Electro Static touch pads mounted on them. Funky Sounds were made when you placed your hands on the pads. A Keyboard Synthesizer was added later but was removed shortly, due to abuse. 1b. Because The music room was Boring, The "Enchanted Forest" was added. I liked the Old Rickety Bridge that went across the swamp. Before entering the next room Visitors squatted through a mini cave. 2b. Mirrors were later added on all 4 sides of the Dance floor creating the look of Infinity - Hence the Name the "Infinite Disco" which could only be read in the mirrors as it was spelled Backwards. 3b. The Electro Sounds were removed and replaced with a "Wash Tub Band" The Drums and Washtub Bass had to be removed shortly because of vandalism. 1c. The Enchanted Forest still remained, but the mini cave at the exit was removed. 2c. The Disco was removed and the "Forbidden Temple" set was added. It contained 2 Stunts. (The Fiery Pit) and (The Dragon Slide) When approaching the Pit, the Floor would separate exposing hot lava. A pane of glass protected guests from stepping into it. This Stunt would also Frighten Small Children. 3c. The other Stunt was a curved Tube Slide that revealed a Dragons Mouth as you slid down it. E. "Moon Scape" - (Later Became "Catacombs" and then "Pee Wee's Playhouse". Your feet sunk into the moon's surface as you walked on a foam pad... How Boring! That's why it was removed and a Fibercrete cavern was constructed. At first the Cavern was well lit. It contained a Crawl-thru-the-Dark Tunnel. When the Horror theming was added, the Cavern became pitch Black inside. Because of Horseplay and Safety, The Cavern was removed and Pee Wee's Playhouse was built. You crawled into it and exited through a Dog House. F. "Chamber of the Zodiac" - (Later became the New "Catacombs". - Guests would enter a colorful maze-like room with small rooms leading off of it. You Chose your Sign, looked into a mirror and pressed a button. You listened to a narration about your personal traits... I thought this one was so Boring! - Eventually a mine shaft tunnel replaced it and was renamed "Catacombs" G. "Parlor of Palms" - (later became the "Transformation Room" and then the "Chamber of Horrors". 1a. When entering the Parlor, you placed your hands on a wall which revealed your hand prints. You then rested your arm on a table and activated a strobe lamp. A silhouette of your arm appeared. The next set contained an Audio Animatronics Male Figure (Gypsy) Whom would instruct you on how to read your palm. LED's would light up on a Giant Hand, showing guests how to read their Lifeline. This one was also very Boring! 1b. 4 laminated Panels were used to compare your hands with the hands of each other. Ho Hum... 2a. That's why It became the "Transformation Room". With a special Viewer, Guests appeared to grow or shrink as they exchanged places in the distorted room. There also was a Tiny Stool in the upper corner and an Over-sized Padded Chair on the Lower End. 2b. A "Barrel of Fun" was added later at the Entrance of this room. 3a. Eventually the Trans-Fo room, Became "Chamber of Horrors". You walked through a "Jail Cell" and was startled when the police sirens went off! 3b. A new "Transformation Room" was constructed - This time you sat behind a mirror while guests watched you transform into a Ware-Wolf. H. The "Wizards Dungeon". This is where you saw the "Pit and the Pendulum" scene. The victims stomach muscles would tighten every time the Swinging Blade passed by. And he would also cry for mercy. I. The "Illusions Room" This is was located just before the Handwriting Analysis Booth. On one of the walls was something that resembled modern art; which looked something like this ( |;.",.'| ); above it was a sign that read "What does it say?" Upon further examination the word (FUN) would appear! Nothing great; just Pure Filler. J. "Grand Illusions Room" - (later renamed "Inner Sanctum") At one time this was the most Awesome Chamber in the Funhouse, as well as my favorite. 1a. The original show ran 10 minutes and had colored lights synchronized to music. (Flight of the Bumblebee) 1b. The Show was upgraded and was transformed into the Wizard's Magic Show. Using the Trick Mirrors, Images vanished and reappeared. Then it was followed by a 2 minute light show. 2a. Because of popular requests, a new 10 minute lightshow was reinstated... Totally Awesome!!! 2b After the Horror theming was installed, the "Inner Sanctum" became a movie theater; which then showed Horror Flicks. The Awesome Light Shows became a thing of the past... What a real Bumber. K. "Play Room" - Later renamed Play Room & "Distortion Den" - This chamber contained a variety of stunts. 1. Turkey Trot - You crossed A portable Spring Suspended platform. - this was removed shortly after to make room for the "Giant Bean Bags". 2. Squeeze Columns - 6 vertical columns were placed in a corner, allowing children to wind their way through. It was a Tight Squeeze for some folks. This stunt may have been removed do to safety concerns. 3. Time Machine - Boys & Girls were transformed into Old Men or Ladies. This was a Great Gag! 4. Peak-A-Boo - Put your face into one the the 2 holes and watch out... (Shark Attack) or (Kaleidoscope)! 5. Unstable Ladder - I was actually able to climb to the top of it so that I could Ring the Bell! 6. Distortion Mirrors - This area originally contained 7 mirrors. The first mirror was called "Merlyn's Magic Mirror". After pressing a button on the frame; the mirror would flex in and out; making your image appear to grow and shrink. The other 6 mirrors were your traditional funhouse types, which were originally placed in this order; (Long-Neck, 8-Foot-Tall, Short-Legs, Midget, Stout, & Skinny) At least twice, the order of the mirrors were rearranged, so that the most humorous images of yourself would progress from mirror to mirror. This part of the playroom was also given the name "Distortion Den" after the Magic Box trick was installed. L. "Hall of Laughing Doors" - Later Renamed "Tunnel of Terror" and "Chamber of Laughs". 1a. Originally you entered a hallway with doors on both sides. You chose a door and then opened it. Something Silly or Stupid was on the other side, as you listened to a laugh track. 1b. Because the door stunts were unpopular, they were replaced with a Dark Padded Tunnel, which contained an Infinity Tunnel mirror, a lighted pit, and a vibrating floor stunt. (Tunnel of Terror) 1c. Because there was no Grand Finale in this final chamber, The Dark Tunnel was transformed into a Strobe Tunnel with a continuous Laughing track. (Chamber of Laughs) 2. As you approached the Exit, you had to watch out for those Falling Barrels! Here is a list of the Roaming Stage Props that were displayed at Mystery Funhouse by Bri-Ben57 1. "Wizard's Pet Rock" - I don't remember it's original location as, this prop was always turning up in a new locations on each visit. After a maintenance man got done calibrating its motion sensor, He had me pass my hand over the Rock. It would light up and say (Have You Seen The Wizard?) as well as other phrases. Eventually the Pet Rock was installed as a permanent stunt in the Forbidden Temple. 2. "Electronic Friend" - Located next to the Pit and the Pendulum, was an animated figure (mad scientist) who was placed inside a glass cage. When you pressed the button on the console, a High Voltage Stream would arc between his hands. Eventually this prop was replaced with a device known as "Jacob's Ladder". 3. "The Spider and The Fly" - The wizard's pet Spider was entangled in its own web, while the Fly was laughing his head off..! I believe this was located right after the Wizard's Dungeon. 4. "Gravity Well" - This was placed inside the Illusions Room near the Handwriting Analysis booth. Captivated guests were encouraged to place a coin onto a starting ramp. Then they would watch their Quarters Vanish into a black hole, while waiting for the next show to start at the Inner Sanctum. This was a Turn-Key money maker! 5a. "Miss Bubbles" - At the entrance to the Play Room, sat a fake fat lady inside of a circus wagon. 5b. "Tom Thumb" - He was a famous midget whom performed at the P.T. Barnum Circus. 5c. "Bearded Lady" - She was also a created as a midget and was placed next to Tom Thumb. 6. "Ball Crawl" - Sometime after around 15 years of operation, a children's play area was installed inside the Play Room. It consisted of a netted cage that was filled with multi colored plastic balls. 7. "The Magician's Secret" - AKA (Magic Box) This prop was displayed at the end of the Distortion Den. Guests would learn how magicians use mirrors to create illusions. You placed your torsel partly inside of the box; pressed the button on top; while others watched your body disappear. 8. "The Rabbits' Revenge" - After you exited the Distortion Den you watched a Rabbit pull a Magician out of a Hat, while another bunny performed a magic trick. This is also the location where the panels from the disco floor ended up, after the Infinite Disco was removed. 9. "Strobe Lamps" - Periodically, a strobe lamp would be placed above a doorway. It would flash when you walked through the doorway, momentarily surprising you. 10. "Air Nozzles" - These were placed in various locations all through-out the Funhouse. A Blast of Air would surprise or startle you when you stepped on a pressure plate embedded under the carpet. 11. "Advisory Signs" - These were placed in locations warning guests that parts of the walk-thru may be too intense for some folks. The signs read (Young at Heart) or the (Coward's Way) 12. "Falling Barrels" - This gag would sometimes startle guests before they exited the Turnstile Gate. 13. "Wolly Rabbit" - This prop was used for advertising and was located at the Old Orlando McCoy Jetport. After pressing the button on its console, an audio-animatronic rabbit would come to life. After he introduced himself; Some music would play; He would then point to a rack of Tourist Folders, containing a map to Mystery Fun House. This was the Most Hilarious prop ever created by the Mystery Fun House Staff..! Yours Truly, Bri-Ben57 Mystery Mini Golf / Jurassic Putt The miniature golf course was not the style you would see these days around Orlando, you have to remember this was built in the 70's but for the time this was state of the art. The Mystery Mini Golf course had 18 holes and featured some themed holes including a mystery tunnel with weird and strange music and lighting. They later changed the name to Jurassic Putt. It still used some of the same holes but added dinosaur's and such. Starbase Omega The main attraction of Mystery Fun House a few years after it opened was the Starbase Omega laser tag arena. Unlike the average laser tag areas, Starbase Omega had a transport to the "Moonbase" playing field. It was a pretty cool idea for its time. The Arcade The video game arcade early on was pretty small but had the latest games of the time. I am sure many never knew there were many video games before Space Invaders and Pacman. A few years later when video game rooms were popping up all over MFH added on a full game room. They had everything in video games at the time. Magic Shop Run by veteran magician, Dan Stapleton, the Mystery Fun House Magic Shop, which served as host to the who's who of world known illustationists. During the early 70's, entertainment producer, Jackson Hamiter trained under Dan and his brother, who was well-known for his "Buxom Bunnies" card tricks. Below is a brochure from 1977. This is from Tracy B. I have managed to scan the original brochure for you! My sister is the one with the old man (who was suppose to be our grandfather). That is my real dad in the barrel. That is me next to my sister and real mom with the falling barrels...in other words, I am the small boy in the brochure. I scanned both sides of the brochure...note the pricing on what was the back of the brochure. The file size for each is large so I will email them in separate emails. I could probably scan the letter from the talent agency that was mailed to us after the commercial taping. Just let me know if you think you would like a copy. Tracy 2.50 for admission back then, wow. Pics from the 1977 MFH Commercial. These are also from Tracy. Scott, Here are the pictures that I told you about. The first one is of the wizard which is how the commercial started. The one with me and my sister was taken in the disco room. Not the best quality, but not bad considering the pictures were taken right off the television as the commercial was airing. My dad would call the television stations in advance so that he could know exactly when the commercial was scheduled to air so that he could get his camera ready. Take care, Tracy We would love to get a copy of this commercial. If anyone may have recorded anything in the Central Florida area with there vcr during this time then you would have also had all the commercials. A blow up from the brochure. Sure brings back memories. Local Live's Bird's Eye View of the MFH Site - Great close up aerials Front View Rear view Left View Right View The last time I got to visit was around the late 90's. I was able to take my son David there. Our good friends and his twin daughters (even though the dragon and bridge scared them so much also came along for the fun. It is sad it couldn't be updated and kept open. I know my son Nicklaus would have loved the place. Wizards, games, magic, everything he would have enjoyed. THANK YOU! MARTIN SMITH for the scans of the brochure. Don't forget to check out some of his Disney Tribute videos. Name Tag from the Funhouse Mystery Fun House Menu Mystery Fun House Trash Can Pizza Box Here is a picture of kind of what the MFH's hologram projector looked like except for the dancing couple inside. Here is a picture of the dancers that were in the MFH hologram Here is a little video clip of the show they had at the restaurant Here are a couple of the many online ad's for MFH, they still come up after 5 years of being closed..... Mystery Fun House - Check out the wizard's fifteen chambers or play a game of miniature golf. Laser tag is another feature offered here at the Mystery Fun House. 10 am to 9 pm Sun - Thurs; 10 am to 10 pm Fri & Sat / 5767 Major Blvd. / 407-351-3355 - Mystery Fun House Fifteen chambers of fun and surprises, 18-hole Mystery Mini-Golf, Giant Video Arcade, Shooting Gallery, Gift Shops, Restaurant, Ice Cream Parlor, Old Tyme Photo and much, much more! Starbase Omega "The Ultimate Lazer Game", equipped with a computerized lazer gun and a vibrating sensor shield. Beam back into prehistoric times or journey through space to a far off galaxy. 5767 Major Boulevard, Orlando, Florida 32819; (407) 351-3356. Two movies filmed at the MFH. Night Terror - 2002 (David Siegel was the executive producer and also had a small part in the movie) Distributor: Magnum Entertainment Release year: 2002 Country: USA Language: English Color: Color Running Time: 91 min Genre: Horror Picture of Al Lewis and Mo Rogers for the Night Terror shoot (see the MFH behind them) Parenthood - 1989 (while it was still open Trivia) Some more tidbits of information Jack Spangler was manager of MFH the whole 25 years it was open Court of Flags Resort was next door, it was built the same way the Contemporary Resort was at WDW Halloween was a special time for MFH also for many of the years. They always had something special going on (Halloween Weekend Bash, haunted house, trick-or-treating, palm readings, magician, costume contest) In 1993 they considered expanding into other markets nationwide with MFH and Starbase Omega. About 10 visitors and four employees were evacuated when the blaze triggered the attraction's sprinkler system on Feb 1991 Small fire put out by firefighters in 1997 At most MFH had 60 employees, most part time I am sure. In 2000 MFH was planning a liquidation sale, they even had permits for a tent to be set up. (not sure if that happened) Property is for sale Where MFH was located Photo by Darren Liebman A walk thru by Scott (adding the list of chambers above) (This will continue to be updated the more I remember) The front entrance of the Mystery Fun House is still fresh in my mind, the large Wizard looking down to all welcoming you into his chambers. The front lobby to buy your tickets was just a small podium, with a few dollars and a press of the door (by the employee) buzzer lock you were in!!! You walked right into a chamber of mirrors. It was a dark mirror maze that was a lot of fun to try to get out of. At the end of it you got effects of glass breaking with full sound. The next chamber was a topsy turvy room. It gave you a weird feeling something just wasn't right. Now here is where things gets fuzzy for me since it was so many years. I remember a moon room (green cheese with black light) I think it was removed to add the newer wobbling bridge with dragon watching over you. The rest of what I remember I will just mention until I can get it all in order. I am missing much of it. The rolling Barrel was always fun. If you were strong enough you could get upside down. Dark tunnels you crawled through, computer system that told your fortune by your signature (original), light show room with all kinds of effects, jail area with spooky effects, carnival looking area with large bags to push thru, an unstable ladder to climb up to hit the buzzer, shooting gallery with air rifle (original), walk thru tunnels with the barrels that started to fall towards you and a rush of air from the floor to give you one last scare before you headed to the exit. At the exit you walked thru an old fashioned rotating type door. Then you had some games of skill you could play and many many arcade games all over the place. They had a concession area with hamburgers hot dogs and cokes. Mini Golf was outside. 18 holes, it was updated later to be a dinosaur theme called Jurassic Putt. Early on they had a blow up jumping area. Then they added the whole laser tag area called Starbase Omega which included a "transport" to the base to start your battle. Compared to other laser tag's around the area this was the best of the best. one of the older things I remember is the magic shop, they had so many great things you could buy. The stink perfume was great (rotten egg smell). I miss this place and cannot believe they had to close it. I think with a little more capital it could have been updated and brought back to life. I know my son of 9 would love to visit that place if he could. He would have loved it. David Siegel 2000 Wikipedia Information Take a look at Florida Everyone Forgot site and see what the place looks like in 2006. They also were nice enough to let me use some pics (below) for my site. Google link from Dream Weaver The barrel. It keeps spinning whether you were ready or not. The Egyptian Tomb Chamber. This was one of the newer area's. The ladder was very unstable. If you did manage to make it up you could hit the buzzer!!!! From another Mystery Fun House Fan!, thanks for letting me post your pics. !!! Here is Tony's website....Tony CortestOn May 16, 2006 Tony was able to get access into the building that used to contain the Mystery Fun House. It turns out that some of the original fun house is still intact inside of the building collecting dust after 5 years. Thanks to Florida Everyone Forgot for letting us know about Tony. Here is what Mystery Fun House looks like as of May 2006... I think this is the door to the fun house, where it says push. Not sure what it says below it. Tony with the dragon, starbase omega, and the ice cream sign Would these be the barrels that would try to fall on you? If so they were painted since I saw them. Animatronics, the front plaque, and the front entrance porch. Tony found the rest of his pictures from his visit at the then closed Mystery fun House. More awesome pictures from John ( help him with his project - Lincoln Park ) Thank you so much for the great pics of inside the funhouse!!!!! The Wizard awaits you!!!! Ticket please The mirror maze!! You could also take the chicken way out...... The Barrel The ladder Sports hall of fame closed Mini Golf. The wizbang pinball hole 1986 Shirt And after 25 years the wizard is gone....I wonder where it is now. From Joel A few memories: - I remember they brought in a wax figure in Tivoli Gardens of George Bush Senior towards the end of my stay. - There was a section in the funhouse where you walked in total darkness on a carpeted uneven floor - I know people pissed in there because that's exactly what it smelled like. - There was a creepy midget working there who scared everyone - he worked in this one section when you just emerged from the barrel and went into some show. I think he was an angry dwarf because it seemed he was upsetting customers. - Starbase Omega's moon surface was carpet over layers of mattresses. Within the first month, the carpet had holes all over - thus a new layer was installed. We also had alot of glow in the dark "rocks" - (beanbags). Maybe I will think of some other things as I refresh my memory - I worked there in 1986-87. Pics from Robert R. These are some great shots of things I forgot about, Thanks Robert. HOW THE MYSTERY FUN HOUSE LOOKS TODAY (10-2006) Pics from me, Scott This sign still sits up front to remind everyone what was once the Mystery Fun House. The Front of the Mystery Fun House building (You can still make out the words Mystery Fun House behind the flag) A picture thru the front door. This was the main lobby to the fun house. It is full of junk now. The front porch. The maze is pretty much wore down. It has been there since it opened. The wall murals from the porch. The mini golf putt putt area and part of Starbase Omega from the rear. The front walkway. Pretty much wore away. THANK YOU EVERYONE WHO HAS HELPED WITH SENDING INFO, PICTURES, & VIDEO Please join our Mystery Fun House yahoo group. Click to join mysteryfunhouse Free counters provided by Andale.
Click Here for video
The Mystery Fun House will be missed!!!!
Thanks John!!!
(original graphic from the old website)
click java image above to install java to view the original fireworks from the old MFH site
My Brochure
5767 Major Blvd Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 351-3355
The fireworks and graphics above were from the old Mystery Fun House website.
MFH's website www.mysteryfunhouse.net was built around Nov of 1999 and was shut down sometime in July of 2001
Original address and phone number when opened.
Mystery Fun House
5767 Major Blvd.
Orlando, Florida 32805
(305) 351-3355
The History
The Mystery Fun House gave us something different then the theme parks. Some may have thought it was not much, but many of us thought it was great family fun. It was something to get your mind working to imagine new things or just scaring you. It was a full day of fun for the whole family.
The Mystery Fun House was a wonderful attraction that was helped started by David Siegel in 1976 (soon after he owned it outright according to Orlando Weekly) and managed by Jack Spangler. It evolved from being just a fun house (ahead of its time in the 70's) to a full laser tag facility called Starbase Omega with a large arcade with many video games. It also had a mini golf course before anyone else had one in the area.
I am adding to this page often. If you have anything for me to add please email me anytime.
The mystery (and the fun) are no more
Jerry W. Jackson of the Orlando Sentinel Staff Posted February 20, 2001 The Mystery Fun House attraction shut down Sunday, ending a 25-year run in part because of competition from larger tourist attractions, including its fast-growing neighbor across International Drive (should say Kirkman), Universal Orlando. Fun House employees said the entire operation, including a miniature golf course and a video arcade game room, was closed for good and that the owner, Central Florida Investments Inc. has put the building and six-acre property up for sale. CFI is a time-share resort company owned by Orlando businessman David Siegel, who said in October that he wanted to sell the property at 5767 Major Blvd., in part because the land had become too valuable for a second-tier attraction with declining attendance. At the time, he said an announcement about the pending closing had been sent out a few months prematurely. A For Sale sign has now been posted on the property. Siegel was out of town Monday and could not be reached for comment. Jack Spangler, a CFI vice president who oversees the Mystery Fun House property, also was unavailable. Maria Triscari, executive director of the International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce, said the closing represents the end of an era for a longtime business on the north end of I-Drive. "It's always sad when an attraction closes and especially when it's one of the original attractions in the area. There's a lot of nostalgia associated with it, but it's certainly more competitive out there than it used to be." Triscari said that while Universal Orlando and other big attractions have expanded in recent years and are keeping tourists on their property longer, the competition also has stiffened among the smaller attractions. "There are just a lot more of them [on I-Drive]," she said, including WonderWorks, Ripley's Believe It or Not, Fun Spot amusement park and the Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf, all attracting some of the same visitors who might have gone to the Fun House in years past. Todd Hansen, director of sales and marketing at Ripley's, on the south end of I-Drive, said the Mystery Fun House had become stale and apparently outlived its usefulness to the time- share parent company. "It's clear they chose not to reinvest in the property," Hansen said. "I'm sorry to see anyone fold, but they knew it was coming." Hansen said the decline of the Mystery Fun House is not a reflection of widespread problems on the tourist-oriented business strip. He said business is brisk for companies that market aggressively, particularly in the local area to attract people from nearby hotels. "Our business is up 20 percent" in attendance and revenue, he said, partly because " we do a lot of old-fashioned, in-your-face marketing," going door-to-door to hotels and working closely with the Convention and Visitors Bureau. Employees at the Mystery Fun House said the more than 50,000-square-foot facility still houses some CFI employees who work in various departments for the huge time-share company, including technical support people who install and repair televisions and other equipment for the resorts. (c) Copyright Orlando Sentinel. All rights reserved. To see more of the Orlando Sentinel, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://orlandosentinel.com
The Chambers by Scott Jensen
The Mystery Fun House had 15 themed Chambers inside. (This is what I can remember, some I know is not correct, but with help from everyone, we will get it right. Email me)
Chamber 1 When you first entered the fun house you had to walk through the clear glass and mirror maze. At the end you would walk thru a dark corridor and then broken glass sounds and the illusion that the glass was breaking. The first time thru that usually got your heart racing.
Chamber 2 The topsy turvy room had a floor that was angled, so where the walls. It gave you a very strange feeling here. a ball would look like it rolled uphill.
Chamber 3 (old) The moon room (green cheese) was black lit and soft with foam made walls. (I remember climbing all over it even though you were not suppose to)
Chamber 3 (new) was a long rope and wood planked bridge that wobbled when you walked on it. Off to the left side was a very large dragon keeping an eye on everyone that passed.
Chamber 4 (old) this room had a small hologram projector, they played the "Boston" song "More then a Feeling". The hologram was two people dancing in the middle of the spinning machine, thru the doors had a lighted disco floor to dance on.
Chamber 4 was a tunnel and maze system called the catacombs. You crawled thru a long and very dark (pitch black) tunnel. You could also take a walk thru tunnel. Both tunnel systems met up with each other.
Chamber 5 you entered the jail area and other monster areas. They had a long table with various monsters eating. Also a man transforming into a werewolf behind a piece of glass
Chamber 6 this room had was a large spinning barrel. You could walk thru is fast or stay instead and try to hold on and get upside down. It was fun.
Chamber 7 . The Wizards dungeon. It had one of the pendulum blades moving back and forth over a table.
Chamber 8 This room had all types of science-type stuff in it like the metal electrode with electric rising up it.
(more on the other chambers will be added)
Chamber 13 had many things that tried to fool your eyes with tricks. This area at one time also included the handwriting fortune telling machine.
Chamber 14 was the show room. It had disco lights, music, and a large video screen with the wizard telling you all kinds of things. they had a few special effects also.
Chamber 15 was the old fair type funhouse stuff. You pushed yourself thru large hanging bags. Then you had funny mirrors and other little things like that. They also had a ladder you could try to climb, it was very unstable and it was hard to do. If you were lucky enough to get to the top you can hit the ringer. There were two large animated rabbits that were doing magic tricks. One had a handkerchief going thru its ears. You then had to walk thru this dark tunnel, it had air from floor to scare you, and barrels that looked like they would fall on you. You would then push yourself thru the old revolving gate and out the exit to the Arcade.
Video Clip (mostly sound) of the beginning of the MFH
Click Here
The Chamber's by Brian Bennett - A detailed account of the Chambers (updated 05/28/2007)
Dear Sir, I currently live in Central Florida, and have visited Mystery Funhouse many times. My first visit was within 2 weeks after it opened. Because I visited it quite often. I can give you some accurate information on most of the Stunts that came and went. A. "The Lobby" - This is where you purchased your tickets. The Lobby originally was brightly light. It contained a round table with a Vase that mysteriously circled; as the Tabletop was actually a Spinning Device. Next you had to find the secret entrance into the Funhouse. When the Buzzer sounded You pushed open the panel on the inside left of the Fireplace! When the Panel opened an overhead Strobe lamp was Activated. B. The "Glass Corridor" - AKA. the "Mirror Maze" - During the first few months of operation the Maze was brightly lit from the fluorescent lamps in the Drop Ceiling. There was No Audio playing at this time, as the Funhouse was still under Construction. Sometime Later, The lights were dimmed and a Mirrored Ball was added along with an audio track. After the mid 80's a Scull on a pedestal was placed inside of the maze. The Scull would frighten Small Children and brought about some complaints. As I exited the Maze there was a loud Shattering sound, as Glass panels cracked on both sides of me. This always startled first time visitors, but was a lot of Fun. The mirror maze was also my favorite walk-thru at the Funhouse. C. "Topsy Turvy Room" - (Renamed the "Egyptian Tomb" in later years) - This Walk-thru originally contained 6 different Stunts. 1a - Ball rolls Uphill - A wiffle Ball was freely placed on a shelf. It appeared to roll uphill. During my next visit, the Wiffle ball was missing as it would often get stolen from inconsiderate guests. That's why Modifications were made to this stunt. 2a - Water Flowing Uphill - On my first visit, two maintenance men were filling a Trough from a bucket of water. After they left I watched as the water actually appeared to flow Uphill. This Stunt was later modified and the illusion was disrupted. 3a - Ball on a String - In the Upper corner, there hung a pool table ball (8th Ball) from a plum line. The ball appeared to be floating in air as it would not stay against the corner like it should. 4a - The Clock - The Pendulum would not swing as gravity forced it to rest against the wall. 5a - The Bridge - Located in the center of the room, was a tilted platform. The Platform was actually level, and guests would appear to be leaning, as the Room was diagonally Tilted. 6a - The Vibrating Floor - This would startle first time guests as they exited the tilt room. When it was changed into the "Egyptian Tomb", the Whirling Vortex music was change to the song, "Walk Like an Egyptian". The song was activated by pressing a button on the wall next to the Ball Uphill Stunt. 1b - This button also launched the ball inside of the Uphill chamber. 2b - A new cabinet was built and a faucet was mounted. The stream of water curved rather than flowed uphill. 3b - The plum line was removed and a coffin containing a Mummy was added. 4b - The Clock had to be removed because the Pendulum was putting a Gash into the Wall. 5b - The Bridge still remained - As it was one of the Best illusions that, guests had ever seen in any Funhouse! 6b - Because of complaints, the vibrating floor was toned down. D. "The Music Room" - (Later became the "Enchanted Forest" and entrance to the "Forbidden Temple") -which consisted of 3 separate chambers (Past, Present, & Future) 1a. (Past) - This room originally contained several Holographic cylinders. When you looked into the cylinders, you could see a Couple Dancing to the Music that played. The musical tunes played were from 1920 to 1960. 2a. (Present) - This room had a Lighted Dance Floor. Only 2 of the walls were mirrored at this time, making the dance floor to appear 4X larger than it really was. Disco Music from the 70's was playing at that time. 3a. (Future) - There were 2 vertical cylinders with Electro Static touch pads mounted on them. Funky Sounds were made when you placed your hands on the pads. A Keyboard Synthesizer was added later but was removed shortly, due to abuse. 1b. Because The music room was Boring, The "Enchanted Forest" was added. I liked the Old Rickety Bridge that went across the swamp. Before entering the next room Visitors squatted through a mini cave. 2b. Mirrors were later added on all 4 sides of the Dance floor creating the look of Infinity - Hence the Name the "Infinite Disco" which could only be read in the mirrors as it was spelled Backwards. 3b. The Electro Sounds were removed and replaced with a "Wash Tub Band" The Drums and Washtub Bass had to be removed shortly because of vandalism. 1c. The Enchanted Forest still remained, but the mini cave at the exit was removed. 2c. The Disco was removed and the "Forbidden Temple" set was added. It contained 2 Stunts. (The Fiery Pit) and (The Dragon Slide) When approaching the Pit, the Floor would separate exposing hot lava. A pane of glass protected guests from stepping into it. This Stunt would also Frighten Small Children. 3c. The other Stunt was a curved Tube Slide that revealed a Dragons Mouth as you slid down it. E. "Moon Scape" - (Later Became "Catacombs" and then "Pee Wee's Playhouse". Your feet sunk into the moon's surface as you walked on a foam pad... How Boring! That's why it was removed and a Fibercrete cavern was constructed. At first the Cavern was well lit. It contained a Crawl-thru-the-Dark Tunnel. When the Horror theming was added, the Cavern became pitch Black inside. Because of Horseplay and Safety, The Cavern was removed and Pee Wee's Playhouse was built. You crawled into it and exited through a Dog House. F. "Chamber of the Zodiac" - (Later became the New "Catacombs". - Guests would enter a colorful maze-like room with small rooms leading off of it. You Chose your Sign, looked into a mirror and pressed a button. You listened to a narration about your personal traits... I thought this one was so Boring! - Eventually a mine shaft tunnel replaced it and was renamed "Catacombs" G. "Parlor of Palms" - (later became the "Transformation Room" and then the "Chamber of Horrors". 1a. When entering the Parlor, you placed your hands on a wall which revealed your hand prints. You then rested your arm on a table and activated a strobe lamp. A silhouette of your arm appeared. The next set contained an Audio Animatronics Male Figure (Gypsy) Whom would instruct you on how to read your palm. LED's would light up on a Giant Hand, showing guests how to read their Lifeline. This one was also very Boring! 1b. 4 laminated Panels were used to compare your hands with the hands of each other. Ho Hum... 2a. That's why It became the "Transformation Room". With a special Viewer, Guests appeared to grow or shrink as they exchanged places in the distorted room. There also was a Tiny Stool in the upper corner and an Over-sized Padded Chair on the Lower End. 2b. A "Barrel of Fun" was added later at the Entrance of this room. 3a. Eventually the Trans-Fo room, Became "Chamber of Horrors". You walked through a "Jail Cell" and was startled when the police sirens went off! 3b. A new "Transformation Room" was constructed - This time you sat behind a mirror while guests watched you transform into a Ware-Wolf. H. The "Wizards Dungeon". This is where you saw the "Pit and the Pendulum" scene. The victims stomach muscles would tighten every time the Swinging Blade passed by. And he would also cry for mercy. I. The "Illusions Room" This is was located just before the Handwriting Analysis Booth. On one of the walls was something that resembled modern art; which looked something like this ( |;.",.'| ); above it was a sign that read "What does it say?" Upon further examination the word (FUN) would appear! Nothing great; just Pure Filler. J. "Grand Illusions Room" - (later renamed "Inner Sanctum") At one time this was the most Awesome Chamber in the Funhouse, as well as my favorite. 1a. The original show ran 10 minutes and had colored lights synchronized to music. (Flight of the Bumblebee) 1b. The Show was upgraded and was transformed into the Wizard's Magic Show. Using the Trick Mirrors, Images vanished and reappeared. Then it was followed by a 2 minute light show. 2a. Because of popular requests, a new 10 minute lightshow was reinstated... Totally Awesome!!! 2b After the Horror theming was installed, the "Inner Sanctum" became a movie theater; which then showed Horror Flicks. The Awesome Light Shows became a thing of the past... What a real Bumber. K. "Play Room" - Later renamed Play Room & "Distortion Den" - This chamber contained a variety of stunts. 1. Turkey Trot - You crossed A portable Spring Suspended platform. - this was removed shortly after to make room for the "Giant Bean Bags". 2. Squeeze Columns - 6 vertical columns were placed in a corner, allowing children to wind their way through. It was a Tight Squeeze for some folks. This stunt may have been removed do to safety concerns. 3. Time Machine - Boys & Girls were transformed into Old Men or Ladies. This was a Great Gag! 4. Peak-A-Boo - Put your face into one the the 2 holes and watch out... (Shark Attack) or (Kaleidoscope)! 5. Unstable Ladder - I was actually able to climb to the top of it so that I could Ring the Bell!
6. Distortion Mirrors - This area originally contained 7 mirrors. The first mirror was called "Merlyn's Magic Mirror". After pressing a button on the frame; the mirror would flex in and out; making your image appear to grow and shrink. The other 6 mirrors were your traditional funhouse types, which were originally placed in this order; (Long-Neck, 8-Foot-Tall, Short-Legs, Midget, Stout, & Skinny) At least twice, the order of the mirrors were rearranged, so that the most humorous images of yourself would progress from mirror to mirror. This part of the playroom was also given the name "Distortion Den" after the Magic Box trick was installed.
L. "Hall of Laughing Doors" - Later Renamed "Tunnel of Terror" and "Chamber of Laughs".
1a. Originally you entered a hallway with doors on both sides. You chose a door and then opened it. Something Silly or Stupid was on the other side, as you listened to a laugh track.
1b. Because the door stunts were unpopular, they were replaced with a Dark Padded Tunnel, which contained an Infinity Tunnel mirror, a lighted pit, and a vibrating floor stunt. (Tunnel of Terror)
1c. Because there was no Grand Finale in this final chamber, The Dark Tunnel was transformed into a Strobe Tunnel with a continuous Laughing track. (Chamber of Laughs)
2. As you approached the Exit, you had to watch out for those Falling Barrels!
Here is a list of the Roaming Stage Props that were displayed at Mystery Funhouse by Bri-Ben57
Mystery Mini Golf / Jurassic Putt
The miniature golf course was not the style you would see these days around Orlando, you have to remember this was built in the 70's but for the time this was state of the art. The Mystery Mini Golf course had 18 holes and featured some themed holes including a mystery tunnel with weird and strange music and lighting. They later changed the name to Jurassic Putt. It still used some of the same holes but added dinosaur's and such.
Starbase Omega
The main attraction of Mystery Fun House a few years after it opened was the Starbase Omega laser tag arena. Unlike the average laser tag areas, Starbase Omega had a transport to the "Moonbase" playing field. It was a pretty cool idea for its time.
The Arcade
The video game arcade early on was pretty small but had the latest games of the time. I am sure many never knew there were many video games before Space Invaders and Pacman. A few years later when video game rooms were popping up all over MFH added on a full game room. They had everything in video games at the time.
Run by veteran magician, Dan Stapleton, the Mystery Fun House Magic Shop, which served as host to the who's who of world known illustationists. During the early 70's, entertainment producer, Jackson Hamiter trained under Dan and his brother, who was well-known for his "Buxom Bunnies" card tricks.
Below is a brochure from 1977. This is from Tracy B.
2.50 for admission back then, wow.
Pics from the 1977 MFH Commercial. These are also from Tracy.
Tracy
We would love to get a copy of this commercial. If anyone may have recorded anything in the Central Florida area with there vcr during this time then you would have also had all the commercials.
A blow up from the brochure. Sure brings back memories.
Local Live's Bird's Eye View of the MFH Site - Great close up aerials
Front View Rear view Left View Right View
The last time I got to visit was around the late 90's. I was able to take my son David there. Our good friends and his twin daughters (even though the dragon and bridge scared them so much also came along for the fun. It is sad it couldn't be updated and kept open. I know my son Nicklaus would have loved the place. Wizards, games, magic, everything he would have enjoyed.
THANK YOU! MARTIN SMITH for the scans of the brochure. Don't forget to check out some of his Disney Tribute videos.
Name Tag from the Funhouse
Mystery Fun House Menu
Mystery Fun House Trash Can
Pizza Box
Here is a picture of kind of what the MFH's hologram projector looked like except for the dancing couple inside.
Here is a picture of the dancers that were in the MFH hologram
Here is a little video clip of the show they had at the restaurant
Here are a couple of the many online ad's for MFH, they still come up after 5 years of being closed.....
Mystery Fun House - Check out the wizard's fifteen chambers or play a game of miniature golf. Laser tag is another feature offered here at the Mystery Fun House. 10 am to 9 pm Sun - Thurs; 10 am to 10 pm Fri & Sat / 5767 Major Blvd. / 407-351-3355
- Mystery Fun House Fifteen chambers of fun and surprises, 18-hole Mystery Mini-Golf, Giant Video Arcade, Shooting Gallery, Gift Shops, Restaurant, Ice Cream Parlor, Old Tyme Photo and much, much more! Starbase Omega "The Ultimate Lazer Game", equipped with a computerized lazer gun and a vibrating sensor shield. Beam back into prehistoric times or journey through space to a far off galaxy. 5767 Major Boulevard, Orlando, Florida 32819; (407) 351-3356.
Two movies filmed at the MFH.
Night Terror - 2002 (David Siegel was the executive producer and also had a small part in the movie)
Picture of Al Lewis and Mo Rogers for the Night Terror shoot (see the MFH behind them)
Parenthood - 1989 (while it was still open Trivia)
Some more tidbits of information
Jack Spangler was manager of MFH the whole 25 years it was open
Court of Flags Resort was next door, it was built the same way the Contemporary Resort was at WDW
Halloween was a special time for MFH also for many of the years. They always had something special going on (Halloween Weekend Bash, haunted house, trick-or-treating, palm readings, magician, costume contest)
In 1993 they considered expanding into other markets nationwide with MFH and Starbase Omega.
About 10 visitors and four employees were evacuated when the blaze triggered the attraction's sprinkler system on Feb 1991
Small fire put out by firefighters in 1997
At most MFH had 60 employees, most part time I am sure.
In 2000 MFH was planning a liquidation sale, they even had permits for a tent to be set up. (not sure if that happened)
Property is for sale
Where MFH was located
Photo by Darren Liebman
A walk thru by Scott (adding the list of chambers above)
(This will continue to be updated the more I remember)
The front entrance of the Mystery Fun House is still fresh in my mind, the large Wizard looking down to all welcoming you into his chambers. The front lobby to buy your tickets was just a small podium, with a few dollars and a press of the door (by the employee) buzzer lock you were in!!! You walked right into a chamber of mirrors. It was a dark mirror maze that was a lot of fun to try to get out of. At the end of it you got effects of glass breaking with full sound. The next chamber was a topsy turvy room. It gave you a weird feeling something just wasn't right. Now here is where things gets fuzzy for me since it was so many years. I remember a moon room (green cheese with black light) I think it was removed to add the newer wobbling bridge with dragon watching over you. The rest of what I remember I will just mention until I can get it all in order. I am missing much of it. The rolling Barrel was always fun. If you were strong enough you could get upside down. Dark tunnels you crawled through, computer system that told your fortune by your signature (original), light show room with all kinds of effects, jail area with spooky effects, carnival looking area with large bags to push thru, an unstable ladder to climb up to hit the buzzer, shooting gallery with air rifle (original), walk thru tunnels with the barrels that started to fall towards you and a rush of air from the floor to give you one last scare before you headed to the exit. At the exit you walked thru an old fashioned rotating type door. Then you had some games of skill you could play and many many arcade games all over the place. They had a concession area with hamburgers hot dogs and cokes. Mini Golf was outside. 18 holes, it was updated later to be a dinosaur theme called Jurassic Putt. Early on they had a blow up jumping area. Then they added the whole laser tag area called Starbase Omega which included a "transport" to the base to start your battle. Compared to other laser tag's around the area this was the best of the best. one of the older things I remember is the magic shop, they had so many great things you could buy. The stink perfume was great (rotten egg smell). I miss this place and cannot believe they had to close it. I think with a little more capital it could have been updated and brought back to life. I know my son of 9 would love to visit that place if he could. He would have loved it.
The front lobby to buy your tickets was just a small podium, with a few dollars and a press of the door (by the employee) buzzer lock you were in!!!
You walked right into a chamber of mirrors. It was a dark mirror maze that was a lot of fun to try to get out of. At the end of it you got effects of glass breaking with full sound.
The next chamber was a topsy turvy room. It gave you a weird feeling something just wasn't right.
Now here is where things gets fuzzy for me since it was so many years. I remember a moon room (green cheese with black light) I think it was removed to add the newer wobbling bridge with dragon watching over you.
The rest of what I remember I will just mention until I can get it all in order. I am missing much of it.
The rolling Barrel was always fun. If you were strong enough you could get upside down.
Dark tunnels you crawled through, computer system that told your fortune by your signature (original), light show room with all kinds of effects, jail area with spooky effects, carnival looking area with large bags to push thru, an unstable ladder to climb up to hit the buzzer, shooting gallery with air rifle (original), walk thru tunnels with the barrels that started to fall towards you and a rush of air from the floor to give you one last scare before you headed to the exit.
At the exit you walked thru an old fashioned rotating type door. Then you had some games of skill you could play and many many arcade games all over the place. They had a concession area with hamburgers hot dogs and cokes. Mini Golf was outside. 18 holes, it was updated later to be a dinosaur theme called Jurassic Putt. Early on they had a blow up jumping area. Then they added the whole laser tag area called Starbase Omega which included a "transport" to the base to start your battle. Compared to other laser tag's around the area this was the best of the best. one of the older things I remember is the magic shop, they had so many great things you could buy. The stink perfume was great (rotten egg smell).
I miss this place and cannot believe they had to close it. I think with a little more capital it could have been updated and brought back to life. I know my son of 9 would love to visit that place if he could. He would have loved it.
David Siegel 2000
Wikipedia Information
Take a look at Florida Everyone Forgot site and see what the place looks like in 2006. They also were nice enough to let me use some pics (below) for my site.
Google link from Dream Weaver
The barrel. It keeps spinning whether you were ready or not.
The Egyptian Tomb Chamber. This was one of the newer area's.
The ladder was very unstable. If you did manage to make it up you could hit the buzzer!!!!
From another Mystery Fun House Fan!, thanks for letting me post your pics. !!! Here is Tony's website....Tony Cortest
On May 16, 2006 Tony was able to get access into the building that used to contain the Mystery Fun House. It turns out that some of the original fun house is still intact inside of the building collecting dust after 5 years. Thanks to Florida Everyone Forgot for letting us know about Tony. Here is what Mystery Fun House looks like as of May 2006...
I think this is the door to the fun house, where it says push. Not sure what it says below it.
Tony with the dragon, starbase omega, and the ice cream sign
Would these be the barrels that would try to fall on you? If so they were painted since I saw them.
Animatronics, the front plaque, and the front entrance porch.
Tony found the rest of his pictures from his visit at the then closed Mystery fun House.
More awesome pictures from John ( help him with his project - Lincoln Park )
Thank you so much for the great pics of inside the funhouse!!!!!
The Wizard awaits you!!!!
Ticket please
The mirror maze!!
You could also take the chicken way out......
The Barrel
The ladder
Sports hall of fame closed
Mini Golf. The wizbang pinball hole
1986 Shirt
And after 25 years the wizard is gone....I wonder where it is now.
From Joel
A few memories: - I remember they brought in a wax figure in Tivoli Gardens of George Bush Senior towards the end of my stay. - There was a section in the funhouse where you walked in total darkness on a carpeted uneven floor - I know people pissed in there because that's exactly what it smelled like. - There was a creepy midget working there who scared everyone - he worked in this one section when you just emerged from the barrel and went into some show. I think he was an angry dwarf because it seemed he was upsetting customers. - Starbase Omega's moon surface was carpet over layers of mattresses. Within the first month, the carpet had holes all over - thus a new layer was installed. We also had alot of glow in the dark "rocks" - (beanbags). Maybe I will think of some other things as I refresh my memory - I worked there in 1986-87.
Pics from Robert R. These are some great shots of things I forgot about, Thanks Robert.
HOW THE MYSTERY FUN HOUSE LOOKS TODAY (10-2006) Pics from me, Scott
This sign still sits up front to remind everyone what was once the Mystery Fun House.
The Front of the Mystery Fun House building (You can still make out the words Mystery Fun House behind the flag)
A picture thru the front door. This was the main lobby to the fun house. It is full of junk now.
The front porch. The maze is pretty much wore down. It has been there since it opened.
The wall murals from the porch.
The mini golf putt putt area and part of Starbase Omega from the rear.
The front walkway. Pretty much wore away.
THANK YOU EVERYONE WHO HAS HELPED WITH SENDING INFO, PICTURES, & VIDEO
Please join our Mystery Fun House yahoo group.
