A recent study has highlighted Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, as the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers, achieving an impressive daredevil score of 99.65. This amusement park boasts an extensive collection of 18 roller coasters, making it the top contender for those looking for exhilarating experiences.
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The research, conducted by Solitaired and reported by KDAF, assessed various amusement parks across the United States by analysing factors such as the number of thrill and extreme coasters, maximum coaster height, speed, drops, and inversions. These criteria culminated in a final score out of 100, reflecting the park’s adrenaline-pumping offerings.
Cedar Point’s score places it firmly at the forefront of amusement park thrill rides. Among its extensive roster, 16 of the coasters are classified as thrill or extreme rides. Notably, it is home to the Top Thrill 2, which can soar to heights of 420 feet and reach speeds of 120 mph. According to Neal Taparia, co-founder of Solitaired, Cedar Point continues to set the standard for extreme attractions, making it an unmissable destination for ardent coaster enthusiasts.
Cedar Point’s history dates back to 1870 when it began as a beach and public bathhouse. The park introduced its first roller coaster, Switchback Railway, in 1892. In 2024, Cedar Point will officially become part of the Six Flags family after the acquisition of its parent company, Cedar Fair.
In addition to its record-breaking coasters, Cedar Point features notable rides such as the Millennium Force, which stands at 310 feet and was the first coaster to be categorised as a “giga coaster” upon its debut in 2000. Last year, the park unveiled Siren’s Curse, which has claimed the title of North America’s tallest, longest, and fastest tilt coaster.
Following Cedar Point, Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California, secured second place with a daredevil score of 94.02. Often referred to as the “Thrill Capital of the World,” the park offers 17 roller coasters, 15 of which are classed as thrill or extreme. Its tallest coaster, Goliath, ascends to 235 feet and reaches speeds of 85 mph. Looking ahead, Six Flags Magic Mountain plans to add a groundbreaking off-road motorcycle coaster, expected to debut in 2027.
Ohio’s Kings Island, situated in Mason, ranks third on the list with a daredevil score of 92.48. The park features 15 roller coasters, with 11 designated as thrill rides. The Orion coaster, standing at 287 feet and capable of reaching speeds up to 91 mph, was recently awarded the title of Best New Amusement Park Attraction for 2020 by USA TODAY.
Carowinds in North Carolina takes fourth place with a score of 92.12, showcasing 14 roller coasters where 10 fall into the thrill category. Following closely, Kings Dominion in Virginia claimed the fifth position with a score of 91.61. In sixth place, Six Flags Great America in Illinois scored 91.39.
Pennsylvania’s Hersheypark, the only non-Six Flags park to feature in the rankings, sits in seventh with a daredevil score of 90.12. With 14 roller coasters, 13 of which are thrill rides, the park is home to Candymonium, its tallest and fastest coaster, which reaches speeds of 76 mph and a height of 210 feet.
The rankings conclude with Six Flags Over Texas in eighth place, scoring 90.06, and Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey earning a score of 88.89 for ninth place. Rounding out the list, Six Flags New England in Massachusetts finishes in tenth with a daredevil score of 87.61.
Cedar Point’s extraordinary blend of historical significance and thrilling rides continues to solidify its status as a premier destination for roller coaster enthusiasts, while other parks will likely strive to enhance their offerings in an effort to climb higher in the rankings.