16 Theme Park Snacks from the ’80s That Are Now Memories
These 16 snacks were once found in theme parks during the 1980s but have since been retired, replaced, or forgotten over time.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
Theme park snacks in the 1980s reflected the food trends and branding of that time. Some were exclusive to certain parks, while others were nationwide favorites later replaced by newer items. Many of these snacks are now discontinued and remembered only by longtime visitors.
1. Walt Disney World’s Orange Bird Citrus Swirl (Original Version)
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This snack mixed frozen orange juice with vanilla soft serve and was tied to the Orange Bird mascot. It was introduced in the early 1980s and sold at the Magic Kingdom’s Sunshine Tree Terrace. It was removed in the 1980s when sponsorship changed. A new version was later brought back in the 2010s, but the original formula is gone.
2. McDonald’s Fries at Disney Parks
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McDonald’s had a sponsorship deal with Disney starting in the 1980s. French fries were sold in specific areas of Walt Disney World and Disneyland. They became a regular snack during that time. The partnership ended in 2004, and the fries were removed.
3. Country Bear Jamboree Fruit Punch Cups
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These collectible plastic cups featured Country Bear characters and were filled with sweet fruit punch. They were sold at Frontierland snack stands during the 1980s. Kids often kept the cups as souvenirs. The cups and the specific fruit punch brand are no longer offered.
4. EPCOT’s World Showcase Specialty Sodas
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In the 1980s, EPCOT featured unique sodas tied to the countries represented in the World Showcase. Some were available only for a short time and rotated frequently. Many had unusual flavors not widely available in the U.S. These drinks were phased out or replaced with Coca-Cola products.
5. Donkey Kong Banana Pops at Universal Studios
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When video games were heavily promoted in the 1980s, Universal Studios offered banana-shaped popsicles tied to the Donkey Kong brand. These were sold at small snack carts near gaming zones and early attractions. The frozen treat was short-lived and tied to temporary licensing deals. It was gone by the early 1990s.
6. Mickey Mouse Ice Cream Bars (Old Recipe)
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The original 1980s version had a simpler chocolate coating and a more basic vanilla interior. They were sold at snack stands across Disney parks. Over time, the bars were reformulated with richer chocolate and different packaging. The early version is no longer produced.
7. Popcorn in Themed Souvenir Buckets (1980s Designs)
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While souvenir buckets are still common today, the 1980s designs were simple, featuring flat graphics and basic colors. These buckets were found in many major theme parks and were reused by guests at home. They were replaced by updated versions with more detailed art. The original buckets are now collectible items.
8. Pizza Huts in Six Flags Parks
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Many Six Flags locations had small Pizza Hut counters or food stands during the 1980s. Visitors could order personal pan pizzas or slices. Over time, these were replaced by other food vendors or in-house pizza stands. The original Pizza Hut-branded locations are no longer in operation.
9. E.T. Adventure Snacks at Universal Studios
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Universal Studios Florida opened in 1990, but E.T.-themed food was already part of early promotional events in the late 1980s. Snacks included E.T. cookies and branded candy sold at preview centers and tie-in venues. They were mainly produced during the film’s peak popularity. These products were not continued after the early 1990s.
10. Bert and Ernie Ice Cream Sandwiches at Sesame Place
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Sesame Place theme park featured branded ice cream sandwiches shaped like Bert and Ernie. These were individually wrapped with themed packaging. They were sold in the 1980s and early 1990s. They were later removed due to changes in supplier contracts and licensing.
11. Hand-Swirled Cotton Candy at Local Parks
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Before automated machines became standard, many parks had workers hand-spin cotton candy in front of guests. This was common in small amusement parks during the 1980s. The experience was considered part of the charm. Most parks now use pre-packaged cotton candy or automated production.
12. Flintstones Push-Up Pops at Hanna-Barbera Land
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This short-lived Texas park based on Hanna-Barbera cartoons sold branded Flintstones Push-Up Pops. The frozen treats featured characters like Fred and Barney on the wrappers. The park closed in 1985, and the snacks disappeared with it. Push-Up Pops are still made, but the cartoon branding is gone.
13. Chocolate-Covered Frozen Bananas at Disneyland
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These were once sold at carts throughout the park during the 1980s. The bananas were dipped in chocolate and rolled in nuts or sprinkles. They were a simple but popular summer treat. The item was later removed or replaced by newer frozen desserts.
14. Funnel Cakes with Powdered Sugar Only
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In the 1980s, funnel cakes were mostly served with just powdered sugar, without the toppings commonly added today. They were available at fairs and theme parks alike. Over time, toppings like fruit sauces and whipped cream became standard. The plain version is now harder to find.
15. Peanut Butter Ice Cream Bars at Local Parks
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These bars were often peanut butter flavored in the center and dipped in chocolate. They were common at smaller parks and sold from mobile freezer carts. Health concerns over peanut allergies contributed to their decline. Today, most parks offer nut-free frozen options instead.
16. Fish Sticks with Ketchup Packets
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These breaded fish pieces were baked and served hot, often paired with ketchup. They were easy to cook in bulk and offered as a Friday meal. The taste and texture varied by district and supplier. Schools have since moved toward baked fish or healthier protein options.