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After 40 (something) years I finally made my way to Cedar Point. Well, to be fair it's probably been 25 or so since I've been acutely aware of the park, and 20 since I've been itching to get there and made multiple plans to visit that never came to be.
But this time, seeing as our final destination on our cross-country road trip was just on the other side of the great lakes, we definitely made a slight detour to spend a few days at Cedar Point. Our original plan was to do 3 days at Cedar Point followed by 2 days at Kings Island. After an exhausting 2000+ miles, and our day 1 at a very empty Cedar Point, we decided we didn't really need 3 days, and that we'd cut our trip short and head up to Canada after 2 days at the park. And we are definitely happy with that decision. So let's head in, I'll give you my thoughts on Ohio's Roller Coast. 
Definitely been waiting to see this sign for a LONG time
We had 3 days at Cedar Point's Express Hotel, which was perfect for us. A quick drive to the park. And you get awesome pics in the room. One thing I will say is I wish there were more food options around the hotel.
Day 1, we got front row parking (we did on day 2 as well)
It was a bit sprinkly the first morning, but not for long. In fact, both of our days were very pleasant weather wise.
It's actually real!!!
I like that they're still celebrating their 150th since it got kind of overshadowed in 2020
Our first stop of course. It was still a bit sprinkly when we got back here, but our first ride in the front row as magic.
After 3 rides on MF, we headed over to Valravn, which is a very fun dive coaster
Remember, "as you know it".
We headed to Steel Vengeance for the 10:00 opening, and learned after our first ride to just put EVERYTHING in our locker. LOL!
I have to be honest, even though SV is listed as my #1 coaster now, it's almost a bit too long. It's actually exhausting. But in a good way.
I had heard how good this was, and of course had watched POV's, but I have TBH, we were blown away by Maverick. There are definitely a top 3 coasters at Cedar Point.
On day one of the park we obviously made sure we got all of our "credits". Which was easy to do as the park was absolutely deserted both days.
Really loved Magnum and we rode multiple times over the two days in pretty much every seat. It's a classic!
Speaking of classics. This was a one-and-done for us on day one, but glad we did it.
We are huge fans of flat rides, so we took time to ride a lot of them over the two days.
Halloweekends is coming!
For the first time in 2500 miles, I let somebody else drive (I'm a terrible passenger)
Super fun cars ride
Speaking of super fun, this is probably our favorite flat ride at the park. So unique and fun. And something that would NEVER fly in California. Which makes it that much more fun.
Another classic. We got front and back seat rides during our trip.
Does any park have as many ACE landmarks?
Super fun inverted, reminded me of the best parts of the Batman clones and Silver Bullet at Knott's. Definitely in the top tier of Inverted coasters, but I still prefer Montu.
Iron Dragon is a super fun suspended coaster but was running 1 train on both days, so sadly we only got 1 ride on it. Rougarou was decent but was definitely the better of the two stand-up to floorless conversions I've ridden.
After riding Iron Dragon and Rougarou, MF was literally right there. LOL!
So many unexpected areas of the park, like this one.
Using the rapids ride as a Halloween walk-through? Brilliant!
Oh, hi Maverick. Don't mind if we do.
Maverick was probably the most consistently long line over the 2 days, but we never waited more than 25 minutes for it due to the awesome operations.
I had heard that my legs may have been too long to fit on the mine train.
Glad to say that while it was a tight fit, I was able to ride!!
Talk about a classic!!
After day 1 we headed over to the Lube restaurant, it was within walking distance. Had a nice view and a decent meal. We slept amazing that night!!
Let's head in for day 2!! EVERY theme park should have self-service parking lanes. This is brilliant!!
It was a beautiful day 2, and the weather was very pleasant. Sadly the wind prevented us from riding a few things like the Sky Ride.
Iconic shot!
Unlike day 1, we started early entry at the front of the park and worked our way back.
A couple of B&M's in the morning!
After our morning of Gatekeeper, Valravn and MF early entry, we of course made our way back to Steel Vengeance.
We decided after this ride that it's both our #1 coasters!
As we had all of our "credits", we spent day 2 taking it more easy, riding our favorites many more times, and taking in some other attractions, like the train. Slide show of the train ride is below.
All local'ish teams, except one. LOL!
Did I mention we loved their collection of classic flat rides?
Obviously for our first ever visit, we weren't looking to do construction updates, but here's a few pics of the boardwalk area as it looked last week.
I actually think the mouse will be a great addition to the park.
HalloWeekends is coming!
In the early afternoon we decided to head back to the hotel for a bit, a quick nap and then back to the park about 5:00 to re-ride our favorites before the park closed. We definitely were going against traffic as we made our way to the back of the park.
Is MF the only coaster where EVERYBODY on EVERY train has their hands up the entire time?
We had planned on getting Panda Express and taking it back to the hotel, but it closed early, we opted for ice cream instead. It was a perfect end to 2 perfect days.
Some final thoughts on Cedar Point.
Six Flags Magic Mountain has been my home park for my entire life. I've visited the park more than any other park, and it's probably not even close. I love Magic Mountain. That said, I feel that Cedar Point is the better "coaster park". Sure, Magic Mountain may have more coasters, and probably more "top tier" coasters for most enthusiasts, but for me there is not a coaster I can just sit on all day like I can with something like Millennium Force. And while I don't think I could ride Steel Vengeance more than once or twice in a row, it's just simply amazing. And IMO, Maverick is better than any of the launched coasters at SFMM, as much as I love both Full Throttle and West Coast Racers. But more than just the coasters, operationally, thematically, etc, I think CP takes the crown here too. They have an amazing collection of flat rides, both new and old, two kids areas, multiple sit-down indoor restaurants and coke freestyle EVERYWHERE. Now, I will say that CP has an inherent advantage due to the way they staff their park, and you definitely have to take that into consideration. But the fact that Maverick was running 6 trains on both of our days (a Tuesday/Wednesday at the end of the summer season) says a lot about the park. On the flip side, we definitely did notice some 1-train operations on a few coasters we would have liked to have ridden more like Raptor, but even with 1-train, dispatches were relatively quick. Overall we had an amazing 2 days at the park. It was everything we could have hoped for and more. I was honestly surprised that the hype for the park and a few of the rides wasn't overshadowed by our anticipation of them.
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 BUENA PARK, CA – California's first theme park, Knott's Berry Farm, today announced the beginning of a major renovation at the Knott's Berry Farm Hotel. The multi-million-dollar investment promises to offer guests a unique, memorable experience centered around the park's founders, Walter and Cordelia Knott, that blends farm comfort and family hospitality seamlessly with contemporary design. Every aspect of the hotel will be transformed, from common areas such as the lobby and the pool area to conference rooms and a new outdoor banquet venue designed to elevate the experience for both corporate and leisure groups alike. The renovation work is set to commence later this year, starting with a complete transformation of all 322 guest rooms. The hotel's newly transformed guest rooms will feature stylish country-chic interiors including newly updated family-size rooms that will provide guests with ample space for up to six and additional amenities such as a kitchenette and mini refrigerator. The bright yet serene accommodations will be perfect for families ready to unwind after a full day of fun at the park. In early 2023, all public spaces, including the lobby, conference rooms, ballroom and restaurant, will receive a complete transformation. The lobby will include rustic and warm textures reminiscent of Walter's appreciation for the Old West with a welcoming, elegant feel that Cordelia created for everyone who ordered her famous chicken dinners at their restaurant. Accents will nod to the inspiration and ingenuity that led to the creation of the Knott Family’s famous berry farm. The theme will carry over to a newly updated and conceptualized restaurant that makes guests feel like they are dining in modern farmhouse-style. This open-concept restaurant will feature historical details and elegant accents perfect for those looking to celebrate big moments or enjoy a meal with loved ones. "It is a privilege to welcome those visiting the Orange County area from near and far to stay at the Knott's Berry Farm Hotel," said Don Prescott, general manager of the hotel, "and this project will significantly enhance and elevate the experience for all guests by seamlessly complementing the theming of the park located only steps away." The renovation project will officially begin later this year and be completed in 2023. The fully redesigned space will give future guests visiting the Buena Park area an opportunity to experience a new level of hospitality. In the meantime, the Knott's Berry Farm Hotel will remain open during its remodel. For reservations and special theme park packages, please visit knotts.com. ### About Knott’s Berry Farm and Cedar Fair Entertainment Company: What began as a roadside berry stand and chicken dinner restaurant in the 1920s has evolved into Knott’s Berry Farm, one of Southern California’s most popular theme park destinations combining world-class thrill rides with traditional family favorite attractions and entertainment. Knott’s is also home to Knott’s Soak City Water Park, Knott’s Marketplace, and the full-service Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel. Knott’s Berry Farm is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company (NYSE: FUN), one of the largest regional amusement-resort operators in the world, is a publicly traded partnership headquartered in Sandusky, Ohio. Focused on its mission to make people happy by providing fun, immersive and memorable experiences, the Company owns and operates 13 properties, consisting of 11 amusement parks, four separately gated outdoor water parks, and resort accommodations totaling more than 2,300 rooms and more than 600 luxury RV sites. Its parks are located in Ohio, California, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Missouri, Michigan, Texas and Toronto, Ontario.  The best way to experience all this and more is with a 2023 Season Pass on sale now  BUENA PARK, CA – Knott’s Berry Farm and the Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel are proud to announce major changes debuting in 2023. Inside the park, Fiesta Village is being refreshed to further celebrate all the Hispanic cultural influences present in Southern California. The unveiling of the new Fiesta Village includes a reimagined Montezooma’s Revenge. The historic coaster will be renamed MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress, with an immersive storyline and new surprise thrills for its riders. And next door to the park, every aspect of the Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel -- from the front desk and lobby to the guest rooms and hotel restaurant -- will be transformed with brand new theming based on the theme park and its founders. The New Fiesta Village The new Fiesta Village will reopen in Summer 2023, showcasing enhanced themes and beautiful décor across three new zones in the area. Walking down El Camino Real and entering Fiesta Village, guests will step into brand-new food locations, an updated stage and a redesigned marketplace. The Fiesta Plaza stage will be refreshed to an even grander scale, with theming to match the attached restaurant and new bar. Casa California will be transformed into a completely different dining location with a menu featuring Mexican food items such as made-to-order tacos and burritos. Across from the brand-new eatery is Papas Mexicana, where guests can enjoy fan favorites like carne asada fries and other delicious offerings. The former La Papa Loca location will become Cantina Del Sur, a one-stop shop for specialty beverages. Also in this new zone will be an open street market inspired by the likes of Los Angeles’ Olvera Street. At Fiesta Mercado, guests will find an assortment of merchants and retailers selling items perfect for guests to commemorate their visit to the new Fiesta Village. As guests leave Boardwalk and head into Fiesta Village, they will enter a zone filled with magical alebrijes. These brightly colored mythical creatures will take over the landscape and transport guests to a dream world inspired by Mexican folklore. While enjoying the scenery, guests can also fulfill their Mexican street food craving at the new taco stand-influenced location Taqueria Fiesta.  Montezooma’s Revenge Reimagination Opening in 1978, Montezooma's Revenge was the first flywheel-launched roller coaster in the world and the oldest shuttle loop roller coaster still in its original location. Montezooma's Revenge has launched millions of guests through Fiesta Village into a gravity-defying single loop track and back again. For 2023, Montezooma's Revenge is being reimagined and rethemed with exciting new thrills added to this coaster classic. New updates allow guests to be completely surprised by the direction the train will take them at the start of each ride. The randomized launch sequence will make it impossible for anyone to know their destiny until it is too late to escape the clutches of Montezooma. To reach the station and try to escape with Montezuma's gold, guests will find their way through the fortress protecting the treasure but must beware of the countless boobytraps within. The grounds leading to the temple will resemble a macabre history exhibit as treasure hunters' remains from throughout the ages line the walls. Now that the traps leading to the gold have been cleared, only those brave enough can make it through the final challenge and find themselves at the home of the hidden Aztec treasure in MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress. Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel Renovation Steps away from the thrills of the theme park, Knott's Berry Farm Hotel offers accommodations perfect for families ready to unwind after a full day of fun at the park. In 2023, the property will be unveiling a major renovation. The multi-million-dollar investment will incorporate all-new theming with a storyline centered around the park's founders, Walter and Cordelia Knott. The theme park continues its extensive theming to the resort hotel by creating a space that will honor the love story of the family and their historic roots in the community. Every aspect of the hotel will be transformed, from common areas including the lobby and the pool area to conference rooms and a newly refurbished outdoor event space designated to elevate the experience for both corporate and leisure groups alike. The renovation is set to commence later this year, starting with a complete transformation of all 322 guest rooms. 2023 Seasons of Fun and Season Passes Throughout 2023, guests can experience everything new that Knott's Berry Farm and Knott's Berry Farm Hotel have to offer, along with the park's entertaining Seasons of Fun events. It all starts with the return of Knott's PEANUTS Celebration, a fun-filled event dedicated to the beloved PEANUTS characters. Guests are invited to step inside the pages of a Charles M. Schulz comic strip as the characters take over the entire park daily from late January through February 2023. In spring, the much-anticipated Knott's Boysenberry Festival returns with countless one-of-a-kind boysenberry-inspired food and drink offerings created by the Knott's culinary team. Unique entertainment and an array of artisan crafters round out the festival from mid-March through April 2023. Summer brings the completion of the New Fiesta Village, plus the return of the award-winning immersive western adventure Ghost Town Alive!, with a new storyline set in the town of Calico unraveling for guests. The summer adventure continues long after the sun goes down, with a nighttime summer party that will liven up the evening. Knott's Summer Nights offers exciting ways to enjoy the nighttime festivities that fill Knott's midway from Calico Park to Charleston Circle with live music and DJs. Summertime at Knott's wouldn't be complete without a visit to Knott's Soak City Waterpark, where guests can catch a ride down 23 different speed, tube and body slides or take a relaxing trip down one of the longest lazy rivers in the country. For fall, the spooktacular family-friendly daytime Halloween event, Knott's Spooky Farm, will invite families with little ghouls to celebrate the spooky season. Knott's Spooky Farm will offer little ones delightfully wicked Halloween-themed activities, live entertainment and much more. As winter rolls in, guests can find the spirit of the season at Knott's Merry Farm, where joy will be spread throughout the park. Knott's Merry Farm will host holiday cheer for parkgoers as they create new holiday memories set to the backdrop of a true classic Christmas. A 2023 Season Pass is the best way to experience the new Fiesta Village, including the thrilling MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress and an entire year of seasonal fun. With a 2023 Season Pass, guests can enjoy all of Knott’s Seasons of Fun events next year, plus free admission for the remainder of 2022. A Regular Season Pass includes unlimited admission to Knott’s Berry Farm with no blackout dates, and a Gold Season Pass includes unlimited admission to both Knott’s Berry Farm and Knott’s Soak City Waterpark with no blackout dates. Regular passes are now available at the lowest price of the year at $130 and Gold Passes are only $170. These offers are available for a limited time. Applicable taxes and fees apply. Pricing and payment plans are only available at knotts.com. For more information about the new Fiesta Village, Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel or Knott’s Season Passes, please visit knotts.com. Join the conversation about everything new to come in 2023 by using #KnottsBerryFarm. ### About Knott’s Berry Farm and Cedar Fair Entertainment Company: What began as a roadside berry stand and chicken dinner restaurant in the 1920s has evolved into Knott’s Berry Farm, one of Southern California’s most popular theme park destinations combining world-class thrill rides with traditional family favorite attractions and entertainment. Knott’s is also home to Knott’s Soak City Water Park, Knott’s Marketplace, and the full-service Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel. Knott’s Berry Farm is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company (NYSE: FUN), one of the largest regional amusement-resort operators in the world, is a publicly traded partnership headquartered in Sandusky, Ohio. Focused on its mission to make people happy by providing fun, immersive and memorable experiences, the Company owns and operates 13 properties, consisting of 11 amusement parks, four separately gated outdoor water parks, and resort accommodations totaling more than 2,300 rooms and more than 600 luxury RV sites. Its parks are located in Ohio, California, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Missouri, Michigan, Texas and Toronto, Ontario. |
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