National Roller Coaster Day

On August 16, people from across the country head to amusement parks to celebrate National Roller Coaster Day! It’s the perfect occasion to unleash your inner child, embrace the thrill, and enjoy the twists, turns, and drops of these iconic rides. Find the nearest amusement park and embark on a wild adventure!

History

In 1898, Edward C. Prescott was granted a patent for a roller coaster design improvement, which was implemented at Coney Island in New York. While it wasn’t the first roller coaster, Prescott’s innovation helped make the ride safer and more comfortable for passengers.

Since then, roller coasters have continued to evolve, becoming more advanced and more exhilarating each year. For those who have ridden one, the rush of excitement is hard to forget!

Interesting Facts

• One of the earliest roller coasters in the U.S. was originally used to transport coal before it became a ride for entertainment.
• The tallest roller coaster in the world is Kingda Ka in Jackson, New Jersey, standing at 456 feet (139 meters). The fastest is in Abu Dhabi, reaching 149 mph (240 km/h) in under five seconds.
• Ron Toomer, a renowned designer of steel roller coasters, reportedly suffered from motion sickness and avoided riding his own creations.
• The original concept of the roller coaster is linked to “Russian Mountains”—wooden slides covered in ice, ridden with sleds or ice blocks.

How to Take Part

If you’ve never ridden a roller coaster, National Roller Coaster Day is the perfect excuse to face your fears and experience the adrenaline rush. Visit a local amusement park or plan a trip to a famous one.

Not ready for the real thing? Try a VR roller coaster ride for a taste of the thrill without leaving your home.

You can also explore the history and evolution of roller coasters—from gravity-based wooden structures to today’s high-tech marvels.

When is National Roller Coaster Day in 2025?

National Roller Coaster Day is observed on August 16 each year.

Observations