National Roller Coaster Day is this month, a day set aside to “commemorate the first roller coaster patent in the United States.” According to calendar.com, that patent was given to Edwin Prescott in 1898 for his looping coaster design. Earlier patents were given for roller coasters, but Prescott’s was the first to incorporate the loop. The first US coaster of non-looping design opened at New York’s Coney Island in June 1884. Whether you enjoy loop-de-loop or just the uphill and downhill variety, take a ride to celebrate the roller coaster. Here are few to note:
Wildcat’s Revenge, found in Pennsylvania’s Hersheypark, is a hybrid steel and wooden coaster that reaches a top speed of 62 mph. Rider reviews have included “mind- boggling”, “fast and smooth” and “no bad seats” for this coaster that was opened in 2023. Book a stay at Thousand Trails Hershey to take a ride on Wildcat’s Revenge and enjoy all the other attractions of Hersheypark (visit hersheypark.com for park details.)
Florida’s SeaWorld Orlando named the steel roller coaster they unveiled in 2016 Mako, after one of the ocean’s fastest known sharks. At 10 years old, Mako still thrills and made USA Today’s 2026 10BEST list for roller coasters. It remains the tallest roller coaster of all the Orlando coaster attractions and reaches a speed of 73 mph. Book a stay at Encore Tropical Palms in Kissimmee to experience Mako and all of SeaWorld Orlando (seaworld.com)
If you’re into vintage, take a ride on the Giant Dipper, the coaster found at California’s Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Opened in 1924, the coaster has been designated a National Historic Landmark and has also appeared in several movies including The Lost Boys and Sudden Impact. It soars 70 feet in height and has a top speed of 55 mph – not bad for one of the oldest roller coasters in the world! Book a stay at Thousand Trails Morgan Hill and visit the famed Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to ride this gem.
One of the most terrifying roller coaster rides, according to islands.com is the Griffon, which can be found at Virginia’s Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Why so terrifying? First of all, it’s floorless! If that doesn’t do it – how about the 90-degree straight drop at 75 mph? Riders say the view is spectacular – that is, if you can keep your eyes open during this thrill ride! If you’re brave enough to try it, book a stay at Thousand Trails Williamsburg and head over to nearby Busch Gardens (buschgardens.com).
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