Plan a magical family adventure to Cedar Point! Explore tailored tips and fun activities for kids of all ages, from first-time riders to teens seeking thrills.
THE ULTIMATE PARENT’S GUIDE
Visit the Cedar Point: A Family Adventure Guide
Fun Facts
Interesting Things To Know About Cedar Point:
- WHOA! Cedar Point sits on a peninsula that’s almost completely surrounded by water – it’s like being on an amusement park island!
- SUPER COOL! The park opened way back in 1870 – that’s even before cars were invented!
- AWESOME SAUCE! If you laid all of Cedar Point’s roller coaster tracks end-to-end, they would stretch over 14 miles – that’s longer than 246 football fields!
- HOLY MOLY! The park uses enough lights to decorate 1,000 Christmas trees!
- WOW! Cedar Point’s carousel is over 100 years old and still plays its original band organ music!
Must-Visit Spots
Where To Go At Cedar Point:
Camp Snoopy (featuring
Woodstock Express) Get Ready for the Camp Snoopy (featuring Woodstock Express) : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This whimsical area is perfectly designed for young adventurers, featuring the Woodstock Express – the perfect first roller coaster experience that lets kids feel brave while staying safe and comfortable.
INTERESTING FACT! The Woodstock Express travels at just 6 mph – that’s about the same speed as a fast jog, making it the perfect “training coaster” for future thrill-seekers!
COOL ACTIVITY! Before riding, play “Spot the Track” – have your child trace the roller coaster’s path with their finger from a safe viewing spot, helping them understand exactly where they’ll go and building excitement while reducing anxiety.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could design your own roller coaster car, what would it look like?
DISCUSS: The very first roller coaster cars were designed to look like park benches on wheels!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Talk about how roller coasters have evolved from simple wooden tracks to modern marvels. Compare the Woodstock Express to bigger coasters in the park, pointing out how each coaster tells its own story through its design. Discuss how engineers use math and science to make sure every ride is safe and fun.
ASK YOUR KIDS: What do you think makes the roller coaster go up the hill?
DISCUSS: A special chain called a lift chain works like a bicycle chain to pull the coaster up the hill, making a distinctive clicking sound!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Explain how potential energy at the top of the hill turns into kinetic energy on the way down. Compare it to sliding down a playground slide – the higher you start, the faster you go! Talk about how roller coasters don’t have engines and rely on gravity for movement.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Count how many times Woodstock Express goes up and down.
HINT: Watch one complete ride cycle before getting on – it’ll help you know what to expect!
OBJECTIVE: Find all the Peanuts character decorations around the ride entrance.
HINT: Look high and low – some characters might be hiding!
Planet Snoopy Get Ready for the Planet Snoopy : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This colorful zone offers a perfect mix of gentle spinning rides and interactive attractions where kids can feel like “big kids” while staying within their comfort zone.
INTERESTING FACT! The area features special kid-sized versions of adult rides, designed specifically to match the height and confidence levels of young children.
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a “Ride Passport” – give your child stickers to place on a homemade passport after completing each ride, making them feel accomplished and tracking their adventures.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: Which Peanuts character do you think would love this ride the most and why?
DISCUSS: Charlie Brown and his friends have been entertaining families at Cedar Point since 1992 – that’s over 30 years of making memories!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Discuss how different characters have different personalities, just like people. Talk about how Snoopy is brave and adventurous, Charlie Brown is determined, and Lucy is confident. Connect these traits to trying new rides and experiences.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think these rides spin and move differently from each other?
DISCUSS: Each ride uses different types of motors and mechanisms to create unique movements – some go up and down, others spin, and some do both!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Compare the movements to everyday things – like a merry-go-round at the playground, a seesaw, or even mixing cake batter. Talk about how engineers use simple machines like wheels, gears, and pulleys to create different motions.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find three different types of movement among the rides (spinning, bouncing, rocking).
HINT: Watch each ride for a minute before deciding which type of movement it makes.
OBJECTIVE: Spot all the different colors on the Snoopy Bounce ride.
HINT: The colors make a pattern – try to figure out what it is!
Cedar Point & Lake Erie Railroad Get Ready for the Cedar Point & Lake Erie Railroad : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This scenic train ride offers a relaxing break while providing an exciting tour around the park, perfect for little ones who need a rest between activities.
INTERESTING FACT! The train’s whistle uses the same sound pattern that real trains used in the 1800s to communicate with other trains!
COOL ACTIVITY! Play “I Spy” during the journey, looking for specific colors, rides, or characters along the route.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think trains from 100 years ago were different from our train today?
DISCUSS: The earliest trains were pulled by horses before steam engines were invented!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Talk about how trains transformed America, connecting cities and helping people travel. Compare the speed of walking (3 mph) to horses (20 mph) to modern trains (over 100 mph!). Discuss how trains still help move people and goods today.
ASK YOUR KIDS: What do you think powers our train around the track?
DISCUSS: The train uses diesel fuel instead of coal like old-fashioned steam engines, but still makes authentic steam engine sounds!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Explain how different types of engines work, from steam to diesel to electric. Compare it to toy trains at home and discuss how real trains need tracks to guide them, just like toy trains do.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Count how many different rides you can see from the train.
HINT: Look both close to the track and far away in the distance.
OBJECTIVE: Listen for different train sounds (whistle, wheels on track, engine).
HINT: Close your eyes for part of the ride to focus on the sounds.
Cedar Point Shores Water Park
(Lakeside Landing kids’ area) Get Ready for the Cedar Point Shores Water Park (Lakeside Landing kids’ area) : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This splash-tastic area features kid-sized water slides, shallow pools, and interactive water features perfect for young swimmers and water enthusiasts.
INTERESTING FACT! The water in Lakeside Landing is kept at a comfortable 80 degrees Fahrenheit – about as warm as a nice bath!
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a “water orchestra” by finding different ways water makes sounds in the play area – splashing, spraying, dumping, and dripping all make unique musical notes!
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think some things float in the water while others sink?
DISCUSS: Even giant steel ships can float because they’re designed with special air-filled spaces that make them lighter than the water they’re in!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Try floating experiments with different toys in the play area. Talk about density in kid-friendly terms, comparing it to how a balloon filled with air floats but a marble sinks. Discuss how fish use their swim bladders to float up and down in water, just like we use our arms and legs.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think they make the water shoot up from the ground?
DISCUSS: The water jets use special pumps that can push water faster than you can run!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Compare water pressure to squeezing a water bottle or using a water gun. Talk about how water towers work (they’re tall to create pressure), and how pressure helps get water to our homes. Discuss how water parks use similar principles to create fun sprays and fountains.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find three different ways water moves in the play area (spraying, falling, streaming).
HINT: Look at different heights – water moves differently up high than down low!
OBJECTIVE: Discover which water feature makes the biggest splash.
HINT: Watch the dumping buckets and count to see how often they tip over.
Other Nearby Points of Interest
Other great things to do near Cedar Point:
BEFORE YOU LEAVE – Make sure to check out more of what this area has to offer! Here are a few nearby spots that we think you’ll love just as much as the Cedar Point:
Kalahari Waterpark Resort: An indoor water park paradise that’s perfect for year-round splashing fun!
Merry-Go-Round Museum: A magical place where you can learn about carousel history and ride a historic carousel.
African Safari Wildlife Park: Drive through and feed animals from your car – it’s like going on a safari adventure!
Read before you go
To make your visit even more exciting, check out these age-appropriate books:
- Charlie Brown’s Day at the Amusement Park – A perfect introduction to theme park fun
- Behind the Thrills: How Rides Work – A kid-friendly look at amusement park science
- The Cedar Point App – Download it before your visit to view wait times and park maps
- Cedar Point’s YouTube Channel – Watch kid-friendly ride videos to help children know what to expect
- The Peanuts Movie – Get familiar with all the characters you’ll meet at Camp Snoopy and Planet Snoopy
Fun Facts
Interesting Things To Know About Cedar Point:
- WHOA! Cedar Point is the second-oldest operating amusement park in North America, opening in 1870 as a beach resort.
- HOLY COW! If you laid out all of Cedar Point’s roller coaster tracks end-to-end, they would stretch for over 60,000 feet – that’s more than 11 miles of track!
- SUPER COOL! The park sits on a 364-acre peninsula that’s surrounded by water on three sides, and the entire park is built on sand.
- INCREDIBLE! Millennium Force used enough steel in its construction to build three Statues of Liberty.
- AMAZING! The park’s Hotel Breakers is so historic that Thomas Edison himself was once a guest there!
Must-Visit Spots
Where To Go At Cedar Point:
STEEL VENGEANCE Get Ready for the STEEL VENGEANCE : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This hybrid coaster combines a wooden structure with steel track to create one of the most intense and thrilling riding experiences in the world. It breaks 10 world records and features the most airtime of any roller coaster ever built!
INTERESTING FACT! The track length is 5,740 feet (more than a mile!), and during your ride, you’ll experience a mind-bending 27.2 seconds of airtime – that’s the most of any roller coaster in the world!
COOL ACTIVITY! During the wait, challenge your group to count the number of inversions you’ll experience (there are 4). Then, after riding, compare what you felt versus what you counted!
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think they call this type of coaster a ‘hybrid’?
DISCUSS: Steel Vengeance was actually built on top of the structure of an old wooden coaster called Mean Streak, but uses modern steel track technology to create a smoother, more intense experience.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The evolution of roller coasters is fascinating! The first roller coasters were actually converted coal-mining cars that would coast down hillsides. Today’s hybrid coasters use sophisticated computer design, special steel track shapes, and precisely calculated forces to create rides that would have seemed impossible just a few decades ago. The wooden structure helps absorb vibrations while the steel track allows for impossible maneuvers like going upside down and creating negative G-forces.
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could design your own roller coaster, what elements would you include and why?
DISCUSS: Steel Vengeance reaches speeds of 74 mph and features a 90-degree drop from 205 feet high!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Roller coaster designers are like architects, physicists, and artists all rolled into one. They need to understand gravity, momentum, and energy conservation while creating a thrilling experience that tells a story. Modern coasters use magnetic braking systems, multiple types of restraints, and even different wheel compositions for various parts of the track. The specific angle of each turn and hill is calculated to maximize the feeling of weightlessness or intense positive G-forces.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Look for the special “trick track” section where the coaster appears to be derailing.
HINT: Watch the trains as they navigate through the second half of the ride.
OBJECTIVE: Find and count how many times the track crosses over and under itself.
HINT: The best viewing spot is from the exit path where you can see most of the layout.
MILLENNIUM FORCE Get Ready for the MILLENNIUM FORCE : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? As one of the world’s first giga coasters (meaning it’s over 300 feet tall), Millennium Force revolutionized the roller coaster industry and still ranks as one of the best steel coasters in the world.
INTERESTING FACT! The first hill uses a special cable lift system instead of a traditional chain lift, allowing the train to climb 310 feet in just 20 seconds – that’s as fast as an elevator in a skyscraper!
COOL ACTIVITY! While in line, use your phone’s compass to measure the angle of the first drop (it’s 80 degrees). Compare this to other coasters you can see from the queue line!
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think the track is blue, and how might its color affect the ride experience?
DISCUSS: The blue track isn’t just for looks – lighter colors reflect more sunlight, helping to keep the track cooler and maintain consistent ride performance throughout hot summer days.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Temperature actually plays a huge role in roller coaster operations. Steel expands when hot and contracts when cold, which can affect how fast the trains run. Engineers had to account for up to 6 inches of track movement due to temperature changes! The track color, along with special expansion joints built into the structure, helps manage these changes. On hot days, the ride might run slightly faster in the morning and evening than during peak afternoon heat.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think this coaster can maintain its speed for so long without any launches or motors?
DISCUSS: Millennium Force converts potential energy at its 310-foot peak into enough kinetic energy to power through 6,595 feet of track at speeds up to 93 mph!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Think of it like a giant marble run where gravity does all the work. The higher the first hill, the more potential energy is stored. That energy converts to speed (kinetic energy) on the way down, and the carefully designed track layout uses this momentum to carry trains through the entire course. The unique terrain along Lake Erie also helps – the coaster actually uses the natural landscape to maintain its speed, diving into valleys and hugging the ground in ways that wouldn’t be possible on flat land.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find the special “speed signs” along the track that show how fast the train is traveling at different points.
HINT: Look near the bottom of the first drop and in the tunnel.
OBJECTIVE: Locate where the track comes closest to Lake Erie.
HINT: Follow the track as it makes its final turn – you’ll see an amazing view of the water!
MAVERICK Get Ready for the MAVERICK : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? Maverick is a unique launch coaster that combines intense acceleration, tight turns, and surprising elements. It features two launches, including one hidden in a tunnel, making it one of the most unpredictable rides in the park!
INTERESTING FACT! The second launch in the tunnel accelerates you from 0 to 70 mph in just 3 seconds – that’s faster acceleration than a Formula 1 race car!
COOL ACTIVITY! Time the duration between when the train disappears into the tunnel and when it blasts out. Then, calculate the approximate speed using the tunnel’s length (400 feet)!
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think this coaster uses a different track design than other coasters in the park?
DISCUSS: Maverick’s track is specially designed with a square shape instead of traditional tubular rails, allowing it to make tighter turns and achieve steeper angles that weren’t possible before.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The square track design is like giving the coaster “super powers.” Traditional round tracks work like train tracks, but Maverick’s square track acts more like a skateboard rail, allowing for more precise movements. This innovation lets the coaster perform moves like the beyond-vertical 95-degree first drop and the tight canyon turns. The track design also reduces friction, which means less wear on the wheels and a smoother ride experience. Modern coaster technology has evolved from simple wheels-on-rails to sophisticated systems that can handle forces in multiple directions simultaneously.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think the launch system works differently from a traditional lift hill?
DISCUSS: Maverick uses Linear Synchronous Motors (LSMs) embedded in the track that create magnetic fields to launch the train, similar to how a magnetic levitation train works!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Think of the launch system like a super-powered magnetic slingshot. The track contains a series of electromagnets that activate in sequence, pulling the train forward with incredible force. Unlike a traditional chain lift that slowly builds potential energy, the launch system converts electrical energy directly into motion. This technology is so precise that the launch power can be adjusted based on weather conditions and train weight to ensure consistent performance. The same technology is being developed for space launches and high-speed transportation systems!
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find the hidden camera that takes your photo during one of the launches.
HINT: Look for a small box near the second launch tunnel – it’s not where most people expect!
OBJECTIVE: Count how many times the track crosses over the queue line.
HINT: The best viewing spot is from the middle of the queue area.
GATEKEEPER Get Ready for the GATEKEEPER : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? As Cedar Point’s wing coaster, GateKeeper offers a unique flying sensation where riders sit on either side of the track with nothing above or below them. Its iconic keyhole maneuvers through the park’s entrance towers make it one of the most photographed coasters!
INTERESTING FACT! The keyhole elements (called “dive loops”) have only 4 feet of clearance on each side of the train – about the length of a baseball bat! The precision required to thread through these gaps makes GateKeeper an engineering marvel.
COOL ACTIVITY! Stand near the entrance plaza and use your phone’s slow-motion camera to capture the train threading through the keyholes. Compare the different perspectives from each side of the track!
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think they designed the seats to hang on the sides instead of above the track?
DISCUSS: Wing coasters were designed to maximize the feeling of vulnerability – with nothing above or below you, your brain can’t easily predict what’s coming next, intensifying the experience!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The psychology of fear plays a huge role in coaster design. When you’re centered over the track, your brain can better anticipate movements by following the track’s path. But on a wing coaster, each side experiences different forces – when the right side dives, the left side rises. This design creates a unique “dance” with the track elements. The sensation is similar to how birds bank and turn during flight, which is why these coasters are sometimes called “flying coasters.” The seats are also positioned at specific angles to control the forces riders experience during inversions.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do engineers ensure the trains will safely clear the keyhole towers every single time?
DISCUSS: The keyholes use laser monitoring systems that can detect if the clearance space changes by even a fraction of an inch due to weather or wear!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Modern roller coasters are marvels of precision engineering. The track and supports are designed to flex slightly with temperature changes and wind loads, but must maintain exact positions for safe operation. The monitoring systems include dozens of sensors that check track alignment, train speed, and even wind conditions. If any measurements fall outside acceptable ranges, the ride automatically shuts down. This is similar to how aircraft navigation systems work, ensuring perfect positioning even in challenging conditions. The entire system processes thousands of measurements every second!
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find all six inversions and identify which type each one is (roll, loop, or dive).
HINT: Start counting from the lift hill and follow the track’s path – some happen very quickly!
OBJECTIVE: Locate the ride’s maintenance bay where they store extra trains.
HINT: Look behind the station where the track seems to disappear.
TOP THRILL DRAGSTER Get Ready for the TOP THRILL DRAGSTER : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This stratospheric accelerator coaster blasts riders from 0 to 120 mph in just 3.8 seconds before soaring straight up 420 feet and spiraling back down. It’s one of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the world!
INTERESTING FACT! The launch system uses enough power to light up 2,000 homes, and the hydraulic system contains more horsepower than 747 jet engines!
COOL ACTIVITY! During the countdown to launch, place your hand on the queue line rail to feel the vibration of the launch system powering up. You can actually feel the energy building!
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think they designed this coaster to go straight up and down instead of having lots of turns and loops?
DISCUSS: The design mimics an actual drag racing experience, where every fraction of a second and every bit of power matters – even the “Christmas tree” starting lights are authentic racing equipment!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: This coaster is all about pure speed and acceleration. Just like real drag racing, success depends on perfect timing and maximum power delivery. The hydraulic launch system pressurizes to 10,000 psi (pounds per square inch) before each launch – that’s more pressure than at the bottom of the ocean! The vertical track design maximizes the thrill of acceleration and creates a unique “rollback” possibility where trains might not make it over the top if conditions aren’t perfect. This intentional design element adds an extra element of excitement, as riders never know if they’ll need a second attempt to crest the hill.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think the ride’s computers know exactly how much power to use for each launch?
DISCUSS: The launch system weighs each train before launch and factors in wind speed, temperature, and humidity to calculate the exact amount of power needed!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Think of it like a massive physics equation coming to life. The computer system processes over 50 different variables for each launch. Wind speed at the top of the tower can be 10-15 mph stronger than at ground level, so the system must compensate accordingly. Temperature affects how the metal track expands or contracts, and humidity changes how much air resistance the train encounters. The launch system even adjusts for the weight distribution of passengers! This is similar to how modern aircraft calculate takeoff parameters, ensuring every launch is safe and successful.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find the speed display that shows how fast each train launches.
HINT: Look near the launch track where spectators gather.
OBJECTIVE: Locate all four accelerator fins that power the launch system.
HINT: They’re underneath the launch track – look for the metallic plates between the rails.
Other Nearby Points of Interest
Other great things to do near Cedar Point:
BEFORE YOU LEAVE – Make sure to check out more of what this area has to offer! Here are a few nearby spots that we think you’ll love just as much as the Cedar Point:
Kalahari Waterpark Resort: One of America’s largest indoor waterpark resorts, featuring slides, waves, and adventure activities perfect for continuing the thrill-seeking experience.
Maritime Museum of Sandusky: Explore the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes through interactive exhibits and real artifacts. Perfect for young history buffs and science enthusiasts.
African Safari Wildlife Park: Drive through and feed exotic animals from your car! This unique experience is just 20 minutes from Cedar Point and offers a completely different kind of adventure.
Read before you go
To make your visit even more exciting, check out these age-appropriate books:
- The Physics of Roller Coasters by World Scientific Publishing – Perfect for understanding the science behind the thrills you’ll experience
- Cedar Point’s Official YouTube Channel – Watch POV (point-of-view) videos of the coasters to help decide which ones to ride first – Great for building excitement and reducing anxiety about new rides
- Cedar Point by David W. Francis and Diane DeMali Francis – A fascinating look at the park’s history with vintage photos and interesting stories
- Download the Cedar Point Mobile App
Fun Facts
Interesting Things To Know About Cedar Point:
- Cedar Point has been thrilling visitors since 1870, making it the second-oldest operating amusement park in North America!
- HOLY PHYSICS! The combined track length of all Cedar Point’s roller coasters is over 60,000 feet – that’s more than 11 miles of track!
- MIND BLOWN! The park uses enough electricity annually to power a city of 13,000 people.
- COASTER CRAZY! During peak season, Cedar Point’s coasters give over 200,000 rides per day – that’s more rides than many parks give in an entire month!
- TECH WONDER! The park’s computer systems process over 1 million calculations per second to ensure safe operation of all rides.
- TIME WARP! If you rode every roller coaster back-to-back, it would take approximately 2.5 hours without waiting in line!
Must-Visit Spots
Where To Go At Cedar Point:
STEEL VENGEANCE Get Ready for the STEEL VENGEANCE : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This hybrid steel-wood coaster breaks 10 world records and features the most airtime of any roller coaster on Earth – 27.2 seconds!
INTERESTING FACT! The coaster’s structure contains enough steel to build 275 average-sized automobiles, yet moves with precision down to millimeters.
COOL ACTIVITY! Time your airtime moments using a stopwatch app – see if you can feel all 27.2 seconds of weightlessness during the ride!
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: How does Steel Vengeance use potential and kinetic energy differently from traditional wooden coasters?
DISCUSS: The first drop converts potential energy to kinetic energy so efficiently that riders experience weightlessness for nearly half the ride!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The hybrid design combines the classic wooden structure with modern steel track technology, allowing for inversions impossible on traditional wooden coasters. The engineering involves sophisticated computer modeling that calculates forces 50 times per second, adjusting the track for temperature, weight, and speed variations. The ride’s design represents the evolution of coaster technology from simple gravity-driven wooden tracks to precision-engineered thrill machines.
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think they chose to keep the wooden structure instead of making it all steel?
DISCUSS: The wooden structure actually flexes and moves up to 6 inches in any direction during operation, making each ride slightly different!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The wooden structure creates a unique riding experience because it’s organic and dynamic, moving with temperature and humidity changes. This flexibility is actually built into the design, allowing the coaster to adapt to environmental conditions while maintaining safety. The wood also dampens vibrations differently than steel, creating a distinctive sensation that combines modern smoothness with classic coaster character.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Count the number of inversions during your ride and identify which one gives the longest zero-G sensation.
HINT: Pay special attention to the “zero-G roll” near the middle of the ride.
OBJECTIVE: Locate the original wooden beams from Mean Streak (the previous coaster) that were incorporated into Steel Vengeance.
HINT: Look for darker colored wood near the base of the structure.
MILLENNIUM FORCE Get Ready for the MILLENNIUM FORCE : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? Experience one of the world’s first giga-coasters, featuring a 310-foot drop and speeds of 93 mph through a course designed to showcase Lake Erie’s shoreline.
INTERESTING FACT! The cable lift system pulls riders up the first hill at 15 mph – four times faster than traditional chain lifts, using technology similar to elevator systems.
COOL ACTIVITY! Use your phone’s accelerometer app to measure G-forces during the ride (up to 4 Gs in some turns!).
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: How does the design of the track’s curves prevent riders from blacking out at such high speeds?
DISCUSS: The track’s heartline roll design keeps your heart at the center of each turn, preventing blood from rushing away from your brain even at 93 mph!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The engineering behind Millennium Force revolutionized coaster design. The track’s banking angles are precisely calculated using fluid dynamics principles similar to aircraft design. The ride’s “heartline” follows the exact path your heart takes through each element, minimizing disorientation. This technology has influenced every major coaster built since 2000, making it a benchmark in thrill ride engineering.
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think they chose to use a cable lift instead of a traditional chain?
DISCUSS: The cable lift system weighs 75% less than a traditional chain lift, allowing for the extreme height while maintaining structural integrity.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The cable lift system represents a perfect example of efficiency in engineering. Traditional chains would be too heavy at this height, requiring massive support structures. The cable system not only reduces weight but also improves reliability, reduces maintenance, and creates a smoother ascent. This technology is now used in elevators for some of the world’s tallest buildings, demonstrating how amusement park innovation influences practical engineering.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Time the ascent up the first hill and calculate the average speed.
HINT: Watch for the moment the cable engages and releases.
OBJECTIVE: Identify all the major landmarks visible from the top of the lift hill.
HINT: On clear days, you can see Canada across Lake Erie!
TOP THRILL 2 Get Ready for the TOP THRILL 2 : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? Experience the world’s first dual-racing stratacoaster, featuring a 420-foot top height and a complete reengineering of the original Top Thrill Dragster.
INTERESTING FACT! The launch system generates enough power to light 2,000 homes and accelerates riders from 0 to 120 mph in 3.8 seconds.
COOL ACTIVITY! Race against your friends and time the launches to see if both trains truly launch simultaneously.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: What physical forces make the backward launch possible, and why doesn’t the train fall backward at the top?
DISCUSS: Special anti-rollback devices called “dog wheels” engage automatically, using the same principle as ratchet wrenches to prevent backward movement.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The engineering behind Top Thrill 2 represents the pinnacle of launch system technology. The hydraulic launch system uses nitrogen-pressurized hydraulic fluid, similar to systems used in aircraft carriers. The backward launch introduces new complexity, requiring precise timing and additional safety systems. The ride’s computer monitors over 1,000 conditions every millisecond to ensure safe operation.
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think they added the racing element to the redesign?
DISCUSS: The dual track system required completely new electromagnetic timing systems to ensure perfect synchronization between launches.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The racing element adds both psychological and social dimensions to the experience. Studies show that competitive elements increase adrenaline production by up to 40%. The dual track design required innovative solutions for weight distribution, wind resistance, and structural support. Each track can operate independently, allowing for maintenance without completely closing the attraction.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Compare launch speeds between the two tracks using your phone’s video slow-motion feature.
HINT: Look for the speed displays at the launch area.
OBJECTIVE: Count the number of hydraulic launch motors visible at the starting line.
HINT: They’re housed in the silver cabinets along the track.
MAVERICK Get Ready for the MAVERICK : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? Experience the most technologically advanced coaster at Cedar Point, featuring a 95-degree beyond-vertical drop and dual LSM launches.
INTERESTING FACT! The ride’s computer system processes more calculations per second than the guidance computers used in the Apollo moon missions.
COOL ACTIVITY! Track the different launch speeds (0 to 70 mph on first launch, then 70 to 95 mph on the mid-course launch) and compare the G-forces.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: How does the LSM launch system differ from the hydraulic launch on Top Thrill 2, and why was it chosen for Maverick?
DISCUSS: LSM (Linear Synchronous Motor) launches use electromagnetic fields, similar to maglev trains, creating a completely contactless acceleration system!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The LSM system represents the future of coaster technology. Unlike hydraulic launches, there’s no mechanical contact during acceleration, reducing wear and maintenance. The system uses precisely timed magnetic fields that push and pull the train along the track, similar to how particle accelerators work. This technology allows for multiple launches throughout the ride, something impossible with traditional hydraulic systems. The computer control system adjusts the magnetic field strength based on weather conditions, train weight, and even wind speed.
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why is the first drop 95 degrees instead of straight down at 90 degrees?
DISCUSS: The beyond-vertical drop creates a unique sensation of “falling forward” that generates negative G-forces even before the main drop begins!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The 95-degree drop is an example of psychological thrill design. When combined with the twisted track layout, it creates disorientation by challenging your body’s natural orientation systems. The vestibular system in your inner ear, which helps maintain balance, experiences confusion similar to what astronauts feel in zero gravity. The ride’s elements are specifically sequenced to maximize this disorientation while maintaining comfort and safety.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Locate and count the LSM motors along both launch sections.
HINT: Look for the copper-colored panels along the track.
OBJECTIVE: Find the exact point where the track transitions from 95 degrees to its regular descent angle.
HINT: Watch for the subtle track twist just after the initial drop.
GATEKEEPER Get Ready for the GATEKEEPER : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This wing coaster creates the illusion of flight while threading through near-miss elements and keyholes in the park’s entrance plaza.
INTERESTING FACT! The ride’s “keyhole” elements have only 3.5 feet of clearance on each side, precisely calculated to create the perfect near-miss effect.
COOL ACTIVITY! Switch sides on different rides to experience how the forces differ between the left and right wings of the train.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: How does sitting on the wing rather than above or below the track change the physics of the ride experience?
DISCUSS: Wing riders experience up to 20% more lateral G-forces than center-seated riders due to the extended position from the track!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Wing coaster design represents a unique challenge in physics and engineering. The offset seating creates asymmetrical forces that must be perfectly balanced. The track’s banking angles are calculated differently from traditional coasters because riders experience forces from a position beside the track’s center of gravity. This design requires stronger support structures and more complex computer modeling to ensure comfort on both sides of the train.
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think they positioned this coaster at the park’s entrance?
DISCUSS: The keyholes are designed to create forced perspective, making them appear closer to riders than they actually are!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The placement of GateKeeper demonstrates the concept of environmental storytelling in theme park design. The interaction between ride and architecture creates a unique sense of place and arrival. The near-miss elements use principles of forced perspective, similar to those used in movie special effects. The entire entrance plaza was designed around the coaster’s path, making it an integral part of the park’s identity rather than just a standalone attraction.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Time the duration of inverted flight during the ride.
HINT: The ride features five inversions, but not all are traditional flips.
OBJECTIVE: Identify all the near-miss elements and their clearance distances.
HINT: Look for markers on the keyhole structures indicating safety clearances.
Other Nearby Points of Interest
Other great things to do near Cedar Point:
BEFORE YOU LEAVE – Make sure to check out more of what this area has to offer! Here are a few nearby spots that we think you’ll love just as much as the Cedar Point:
Kalahari Waterpark Resort: America’s largest indoor waterpark featuring surfing simulators, water coasters, and a transparent roof for year-round summer vibes.
Maritime Museum of Sandusky: Explore the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes, featuring interactive exhibits about shipwrecks, ice harvesting, and boat building.
African Safari Wildlife Park: Drive through this unique park where you can feed exotic animals from your car and learn about wildlife conservation.
Read before you go
To make your visit even more exciting, check out these age-appropriate books:
- “The American Amusement Park” by Dale Samuelson
- “Roller Coaster Physics” by Tony Wayne
- Cedar Point’s Official YouTube Channel
- “The Science of Roller Coasters” – PBS Nova Episode
- Physics of Theme Parks Blog
LOCATION SUMMARY
Imagine stepping into a magical world where your favorite Peanuts characters come to life and gentle coasters spark your first thrilling adventures! Cedar Point isn’t just America’s second-oldest amusement park – it’s a wonderland where little explorers can embark on their very first theme park journey. Picture yourself soaring like a bird on kid-friendly rides while watching massive roller coasters dance across the skyline of this peninsula paradise surrounded by the sparkling waters of Lake Erie.
DISCOUNT CODE
Purchase tickets online at cedarpoint.com for the best available rates
“Early Bird” specials available when booking in advance
Check AAA membership for discounts
Military discounts available with valid ID
Season Passes offer the best value for multiple visits
Look for special promotional codes on Cedar Point’s social media channels