Summer just wouldn’t be summer without a trip to an amusement park. Whether you enjoy the thrill of a roller coaster, the classic fun of midway rides or the refreshing splash of a waterpark, there is an option within reach that has you covered.
CEDAR POINT (pictured)
Located in Sandusky on the shores of Lake Erie, Cedar Point is a bit of a hike from Cincy, but well worth the drive. The park offers an unmatched collection of rides and attractions, including 17 roller coasters, four kids’ areas, Cedar Point Shores Water Park, overnight accommodations, live shows, restaurants and more.
Big thrills
Known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” this park does not disappoint. Enjoy 17 seconds of breathtaking fun on Top Thrill Dragster. Conquer twists, corkscrews, launches and tunnels on Maverick and tackle the steel behemoth that is Millennium Force. Be sure to pace yourself – remember there are 17 coasters to ride!
Family-friendly fun
From classic midway rides to Peanut’s-themed fun at Camp Snoopy and Planet Snoopy, there’s tons of fun for little ones at this park. When the temperatures soar, Cedar Point Shores Water Park offers a refreshing break. And be sure to catch one of the award-winning shows before your stay is over.
Know before you go
Cedar Point is reopening May 14! To insure every visitor has an awesome day and feels safe when visiting new protocols have been put in place. Reservations will be required for Cedar Point and Cedar Point Shores Waterpark, you can book a reservation HERE! For a full list of Cedar Point’s new reopening protocols visit www.cedarpoint.com/welcoming-you-back
KINGS ISLAND
Just north of Cincinnati in Warren County (aka Ohio’s Largest Playground) is Kings Island, the largest amusement park in the Midwest. With more than 100 rides, as well as a variety of shows and attractions, Kings Island offers something for everyone – and it is right in our own backyard.
Big thrills
Kings Island has 9.2 miles of roller coaster track to explore. Whether you prefer classic coasters like the Racer, massive steel rides like Diamondback or the newest addition, Mystic Timbers, voted Best New Ride of 2017, you are sure to get your adrenaline pumping at this park.
Family-friendly fun
For families with young children, Planet Snoopy is the perfect place to spend the day. Little ones can enjoy pint-sized rides, meet their favorite Peanuts characters and get face-to-face with barnyard animals in the petting zoo. As temps heat up, don’t forget about Soak City, the park’s massive 33-acre waterpark.
Know before you go
Opening day is May 15! If you are planning on visiting Soak City Water Park, reservations are required A little research will go a long way in scoring the best deals at Kings Island. Head to www.visitkingsisland.com/tickets-passes to explore all of their ticket options, including the occasional buy one/get one free offer and the combo pass that scores you a day at both Kings Island and Cedar Point. Thinking about making more than one trip this summer? A season pass may be worth looking into.
HOLIDAY WORLD & SPLASHIN’ SAFARI
Once known simply as Santa Claus Land, this holiday-themed park in the tiny southern Indiana town of Santa Claus has blossomed into the Midwest Mecca for wooden coasters and water slides.
Big thrills
If you love a classic wooden roller coaster, you are going to love this park. And where else can you tackle the nation’s first launched wing coaster and two of the world’s longest water coasters in the same day? Its mix of rides in one compact park is tough to beat.
Family-friendly fun
The holiday themes throughout the park are enough to delight visitors of all ages. Add in tot-friendly coasters and water slides, as well as classics like the Scarecrow Scrambler and the Lewis and Clark old-fashioned cars and you have a park designed with families in mind.
Know before you go
Check out this COVID-19 Safety page to insure a safe and fun time! Take advantage of the free unlimited soft drinks and sunscreen included with admission. For more insider tips, visit www.holidayworld.com/plan-your-trip/insider-tips/
CONEY ISLAND
Cincinnati’s very own Coney Island is a hometown destination where everyone can splash, ride and play. Attractions range from kiddie rides and water slides to classic thrill rides.
Big thrills
You won’t find any big coasters here, but there are plenty of thrills to be had on classics like the Tempest, Flying Bobs and the Scrambler.
Family-friendly fun
The younger set will love the collection of kiddie rides and the whole family will enjoy a refreshing afternoon at Sunlite Water Adventure, including Typhoon Tower’s 73 interactive play stations and the world’s largest re-circulating pool and erupting hydro storm.
Know before you go
Opening Day is May 29! Season passholders can get a sneak peak at what the season has to offer on Season Passholder Preview Day May 28. Coney Island offers a number of ticket options, including season passes as well as discounted Print@Home tickets. Visit https://coneyislandpark.com/tickets-passes to learn more.
Whether this will be your family’s first trip to an amusement park or you are old pros, these four parks are sure to keep the whole crew entertained!