Brave the Steel Vengeance & Other Awesome Things to Do in America’s “Roller Coaster Capital”

Your No-BS Guide to America’s Coaster Capital

Welcome to Cedar Point, where thrills come alive across 364 acres of lakeside fun.

With over 70 rides and 18 incredible roller coasters, this park gives both thrill-seekers and families plenty to enjoy.

Whether you’re brave enough to face the 420-foot Top Thrill Dragster or just want to watch the sun set over Lake Erie, there’s something here for everyone.

Ride Steel Vengeance

Ready to tackle a record-breaking monster?

Steel Vengeance broke 10 world records when it opened, standing 205 feet tall and hitting speeds of 74 mph. The ride lasts about two and a half minutes and gives you an incredible 27.2 seconds of airtime (more than any other coaster in the world).

The Western-themed waiting area makes time fly by as you wait. Head here first thing in the morning when the park opens, and watch those steel wheels tear up the track.

Try the Fast Lane system and skip the regular lines for a faster experience.

Experience Millennium Force

Since 2000, this mighty blue coaster has been changing the game with its 310-foot height and blazing 93-mph speeds.

The two-minute journey starts with a stomach-dropping 80-degree plunge that’ll take your breath away.

The smooth track and special magnetic brakes mean you won’t get knocked around during the ride atop amazing views of Lake Erie.

Thanks to its special braking system, you’ll stop so smoothly that you’ll be ready to ride again right away.

Conquer Top Thrill Dragster

Imagine going from zero to 120 mph in just 3.8 seconds.

Top Thrill Dragster shoots you straight up 420 feet, then sends you spiraling back down in a heart-pounding 17-second adventure.

The starting lights count down just like a real drag race, building excitement before launch. Sometimes the train doesn’t make it over the top on the first try (called a rollback).

Grab a front-row seat and remember to keep your eyes open at the top.

Ride the Thunder Canyon

This white-water rafting ride (opened in 1996) takes you through a scenic river adventure.

Be prepared to get wet as you encounter a man-made river filled with rapids, geysers, canyons, and waterfalls. The raft accommodates up to 12 passengers. Thunder Canyon typically operates from late May through early August, opening up at noon.

Good to know: you’ve gotta be 46 inches tall to ride this bull.

Get Soaked at Snake River Falls

When summer temperatures soar past 90 degrees, Snake River Falls becomes everyone’s favorite spot to cool off.

This massive log flume sends boats plunging down a 40-foot drop at 45 mph. Smart visitors often gather on the observation bridge during hot afternoons, waiting for the perfect moment to catch the spray.

For maximum refreshment, visit between 2 and 4 PM. After a ride on Snake River Falls, head to the waterpark for more aquatic fun and relaxation in wave pools and water slides.

Lights Everywhere

Enjoy lighted rides at night. The park has held impressive laser light (1,000 LEDs) shows, with synchronized music and special effects.

Luminosity – Ignite the Night! originally ran for 40 minutes in 2012. Luminosity was performed at Celebration Plaza near Iron Dragon. These spectacles include talented aerial artists dancing and flipping through the air.

To catch all the action, grab a spot near the main stage 30 minutes early.

Challenge Maverick

Don’t let Maverick’s 105-foot height fool you.

The rollercoaster takes you through two inversions (watch out for the Twisted Horseshoe Roll). It starts with a super-steep 95-degree drop and uses special motors to launch you from 0 to 70 mph twice during the ride.

The western-themed track hugs the ground moving through two tunnels filled with fog and red lights. Ride early in the morning to see the sunrise over Lake Erie.

Fun fact: it was awarded the Golden Ticket for “Best New Ride” in 2007.

Explore Frontier Trail

Need a peaceful break? Wander down this half-mile path under 100-year-old oak trees that provide perfect shade.

Five expert craftspeople demonstrate traditional skills using authentic tools from the 1800s. Dock your boat or simply enjoy the Cedar Point Marina’s scenic views of Lake Erie.

Don’t miss the historic 1850s log cabin and the impressive 12-foot water wheel (great photo spots). The trail is a good shortcut between Millennium Force and Steel Vengeance, just so you can avoid the crowd along the walkways.

Take the SkyRide Tour

Glide 92 feet above the ground on this classic cable car ride that stretches over half a mile over the Main Midway.

It is one of the few remaining cable car-style attractions in the world. Two minutes between Funway and Frontier Trail, you’ll spot eight different coasters and get amazing views of Lake Erie.

Loading stations dock near Midway Carousel and Coasters Diner. For the most spectacular experience, catch the westbound ride around 8:30 PM in summer (July and August).

Experience GateKeeper

GateKeeper takes thrills to new heights as you dangle 170 feet in the air on either side of the track.

The coaster threads through two keyhole towers with just 3 feet of clearance, creating near-miss moments that excite both riders and watchers. Includes a test seat for riders to ensure proper fit (yeah, that’s how scary it is). P

ick the right side of the train for the closest brush with Cedar Point’s iconic entrance gates and the most intense keyhole experience.

Ride the Cedar Downs Racing Derby

Now this ride was relocated to Cedar Point in 1967.

Built by Prior & Church in 1920, this special carousel is one of just two racing derby rides still operating in North America.

The 64 horses don’t just go up and down, they move back and forth while racing at 15 mph. The original band organ fills the air with 16 different songs played through 147 pipes.

Each one minute race fits 64 riders, making it a perfect gathering spot for families near the park’s central plaza.

Weather Considerations

Being next to Lake Erie means weather can change quickly, with winds over 35 mph shutting down tall rides like Top Thrill Dragster and GateKeeper.

Summer storms usually roll through between 2-4 PM, lasting about 30-45 minutes. When rain hits, head inside to the Midway Market buffet to stay dry.

The park’s indoor shows and arcades offer air-conditioned fun when temperatures climb past 90 degrees or unexpected showers pop up.

Planning Your Visit

• Address: 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH 44870

Visit Tuesday or Wednesday mornings in May or September, when you’ll typically wait just 15-30 minutes for the big rides. Fast Lane Plus passes cost between $129-179 (cuts the wait 2 hours down to 15 minutes).