Enterprise will spin for the final time at Valleyfair on Aug. 21

One of Valleyfair's oldest and most popular rides is heading for retirement.

The Enterprise will spin for the final time on Aug. 21, and then it will be taken down to make way for a new ride, officials for the Shakopee theme park announced this week. They did not say what would take its place.

Since it opened in 1979, more than 15.5 million thrill-seekers have boarded the circular ride named after the USS Enterprise from the TV series "Star Trek."

The ride spins for 90 seconds as it tilts on its axis until perpendicular with the ground. Up to 40 riders at a time are kept snug in their seats by the G-forces as they are turned upside down.

"While it's bittersweet to say goodbye to one of our park's oldest rides, we're excited for what the future holds," Dave Frazier, Valleyfair's vice president and general manager, said in a statement. "The park has evolved so much over the past 40 years, and as Valleyfair continues to grow, we're committed to enhancing the overall experience for our guests. We're happy that Enterprise was able to provide close to four decades of memories."

The ride has been a sentimental favorite of Samantha Roush's since childhood, when she rode Enterprise with her father.

"It's sad. This was such a fun ride," said Roush, of Glencoe, Minn., a nanny who brought two kids for one final ride on Tuesday. "Out of all the rides, who would have thought this one would be the one to go? It's just awesome."

Parker Lano, 17, of Annandale, Minn., said he'll miss the ride's speed and the chance to hang upside down. But he's also eager to see what will come in its place.

With its location near Valleyfair's main entrance, Enterprise often was one of the first rides park visitors hopped on and one of the last they squeezed in before heading home.

"You get to see all the smiles. The kids love this ride," said operator Katie Retzlaff. "You'd see them first thing in the morning, and I'd say, 'Thanks for riding, and now go enjoy many more.' "

Officials will close the ride with a ceremony at 10 p.m. on Aug. 21.

As for what's next, officials may have dropped a hint in a tweet that said: "2016 is the last spin for 38-year-old Enterprise as we prepare for new heights in 2017."

Spokesman Matt Hehl said: "This will help make way for growth, and we are excited for what is coming in 2017."

Plans for 2017 will officially be announced in mid-August, Hehl said.

Tim Harlow • 612-673-7768