COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio’s premier amusement destinations are gearing up for an exhilarating summer season with the introduction of two innovative rides designed to captivate thrill seekers and families alike.
Cedar Point Launches Siren’s Curse Roller Coaster
Cedar Point, located on the shores of Lake Erie, will debut its latest attraction, Siren’s Curse, on June 28. Promoted as North America’s tallest, fastest, and longest tilt coaster, this ride promises an immersive experience inspired by the mythical sirens who lured sailors to watery graves.
The coaster’s 2,966-foot track propels riders through a two-minute adventure at speeds up to 58 mph. A distinctive feature includes a dramatic tilt on a suspended section of track 160 feet above ground, where riders are momentarily held at a 90-degree angle, staring straight down before plunging forward. Throughout the ride, passengers encounter 13 moments of weightlessness, two zero-gravity barrel rolls, and a high-speed triple-drop with twisted and overbanked track elements.
Siren’s Curse incorporates cutting-edge technology, with two 24-passenger trains equipped with synchronized audio and LED lighting to enhance the storytelling aspect. The coaster is positioned near Iron Dragon and Cedar Point Marina, with a minimum rider height requirement of 48 inches.
Ahead of its official opening, Cedar Point offered an exclusive early ride opportunity on June 26 for guests who donated to the children’s cancer charity Prayers From Maria, blending entertainment with philanthropy.
Kings Island Introduces Ohio’s First Dual-Racing Water Coaster
Meanwhile, Cincinnati’s Kings Island is expanding its Soak City Water Park with the launch of RiverRacers, touted as Ohio’s only dual-racing water coaster. The attraction features two parallel slides where pairs of riders compete down a 530-foot course, reaching speeds up to 30 mph.
The ride includes dynamic elements such as soaking water jets, a lighted tunnel, and a high-banking slingshot curve, culminating in a dramatic mega drop. Rider restrictions include a minimum height of 42 inches, with specific weight limits ensuring safety.
Family-Friendly Expansion: Splash River Junction
Complementing RiverRacers, Kings Island is opening Splash River Junction, a new children’s water play area designed for younger visitors. The zone includes Bluegill Lagoon, a shallow wading pool with a water tower centerpiece, and Salamander Sliders, a series of seven gentle water slides featuring mild inclines and twists.
Splash River Junction offers a family-friendly environment complete with loungers, chairs, and umbrellas, providing a relaxed setting for guests of all ages.
These new attractions highlight Ohio’s commitment to enhancing its amusement parks with state-of-the-art rides and inclusive entertainment options, ensuring a memorable summer experience for thrill enthusiasts and families alike.
