Derby Racer at Playland | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2022-07-11 | Derby Racer at Playland was built by Tom Prior and Frederick Church in 1927. It includes 56 jumping horses carved by M.C. Illions at high speeds that pivot forward and backward to simulate horse racing. This one of only three Racing Derby Carousel left in operation worldwide. Playalnd is located in Rye, NY.To learn more about the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2022 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Tuscora Park Carousel National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-09-15 | Made by Hershcell-Spillman in 1928, this carousel is home to 36 all jumping horses, 2 chariots, and a Wurlitzer 153 band organ. Relocated to Tuscora park in 1941, this ride has been delighting guests in New Philadelphia, OH for 85 years and counting!(📷 Andrew McLaughlin)
NEW Zero Gravity at Indiana Beach National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-09-15 | New for 2026 at Indiana Beach is Zero Gravity! This SBF Visa Group Zero Gravity ride is the modern take of a Rotor. Riders are pushed to the back of a clear wall by centrifugal force, holding them in place as the floor drops from underneath of them. Zero Gravity has on-ride camera where riders can view and purchase videos of their thrilling experience!To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.The Chance by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0Artist: http://audionautix.comCopyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
R.I.P. Tidal Force at Hersheypark National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-09-09 | Taking its final plunge in 2026, Tidal Force first opened in 1994 as one of the largest water rides at the time. This Hopkins Shoot the Chute ride took riders up 100 ft in the air, around a scenic turn, and a drop reaching 50 mph, producing a spectacular and drenching splash on the boats and guests standing on the exit bridge. Tidal Force officially closed on September 7th, 2026. Check out the NAPHA YouTube Channel with regular uploads of historic and unique rides and attractions from around the country!youtube.com/@napha_on_parks
Tidal Force at Hersheypark | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-09-08 | Tidal Force at Hersheypark in Hershey PA. Taking its final plunge in 2026, Tidal Force first opened in 1994 as one of the largest water rides at the time. This Hopkins Shoot the Chute ride took riders up 100 ft in the air, around a scenic turn, and a drop reaching 50 mph, producing a spectacular and drenching splash on the boats and guests standing on the exit bridge. Tidal Force officially closed on September 7th, 2026. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Carousel at Tuscora Park | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-09-01 | Carousel at Tuscora Park in New Philadelphia, OHMade by Hershcell-Spillman in 1928, this carousel is home to 36 all jumping horses, 2 chariots, and a Wurlitzer 153 band organ. Relocated to Tuscora park in 1941, this ride has been delighting guests in New Philadelphia, OH for 85 years and counting!To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by Andrew McLaughlin.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Old Mill at Kennywood | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-08-25 | Old Mill at Kennywood in West Mifflin, PA.Opening in 1901, Old Mill is the world's oldest continuously operating dark water ride. Using a waterwheel to push a flow of water, riders in wooden boats travel through dark tunnels and various show scenes. In the early years, Old Mill changed names and themes several times, including Fairyland Floats, Panama Canal, and Rapids Gorge. While never officially called this, Old Mill and similar rides of the time were referred to as The Tunnel of Love. Old Mill was rebuilt in 1926 after a fire. Over the last century, the attraction had more overlays including Trip Around the World, Hardheaded Harold's Horrendously Humorous Haunted Hideaway, and Garfield's Nightmare. However, the original Old Mill name and western theme would keep returning, including the most recent 2020 update of the ride. NAPHA celebrates 125 years of the Old Mill at Kennywood!To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Colossus: The Fire Dragon at Lagoon | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-08-18 | Colossus: The Fire Dragon at Lagoon in Farmington, UT.Premiering in the German fair circuit in 1981, this double looping coaster made by Schwarzkopf found its home at Lagoon in 1983, and has been running ever since! Standing 87 ft tall, riders fall in a curving drop at 49 mph through 2 back-to-back vertical loops and 2 extended helixes across 2,297 ft of track.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Carousel at Seabreeze Amusement Park | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-08-11 | Carousel at Seabreeze Amusement Park in Rochester, NY.Made by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, Carousel #36 was originally built in 1915 for Seneca Park in Rochester, NY until it was relocated in 1926 to Seabreeze. It operated for nearly 7 decades until it was destroyed in a fire in 1994. In a turn of events, Seabreeze constructed a new wooden carousel modeled after PTC #36. Using the frame of the then closed PTC #31 from Lakeside Park in Dayton, OH, and new hand-carved horses copying the designs of the park's original ride, Seabreeze's current 1996 Carousel is a living example of preservation and restoration. Inside the carousel pavilion is a timeline and museum of the park's history and replica Wurlitzer 165 band organ built by the J. Verbeeck Organ Manufacturing company.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Little Dipper at Memphis Kiddie Park | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-08-04 | Little Dipper at Memphis Kiddie Park in Brooklyn, NY.Opening with the park in 1952, the Little Dipper roller coaster is the oldest continuously operating steel roller coaster in its original location in North America. Made by the Allan Herschell Company, this kiddie coaster encircles the park's junior car ride and provides quick dips and turns that can be enjoyed by children of all ages! To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Kumba at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-07-28 | Kumba at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in Tampa, FL.Opened in 1993 as Florida's tallest, longest, and fastest roller coaster, Kumba roared at a top speed of 60 mph through a 135 ft. drop, tight turns, and 7 inversions, including a 114 ft. tall vertical loop (the largest at the time)! Bolliger & Mabillard's 6th ever coaster will be closing forever on August 2nd, 2026, and will be replaced by Kumba's Revenge, an evolution of the original coaster. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
The Raven at Holiday World & Splashin Safari | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-07-21 | The Raven at Holiday World & Splashin' Safari in Santa Claus, IN.Designed by Larry Bill and built by Custom Coasters International Inc., The Raven became Holiday World's first custom roller coaster and instantly put the park on the map! Standing 80 ft tall next to the park's main entrance and parking lot, The Raven drops 85 ft and reaches a top speed of 45 mph! It is a mad dash through the trees and over the nearby Lake Rudolph! The Raven will be one of the many signature rides during NAPHA's ParkHop26! To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Paratrooper at Waldameer | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-07-14 | Paratrooper at Waldameer in Erie, PA.Manufactured by Frank Hrubetz & Co., this Lifting Paratrooper was introduced at Waldameer in 1973 and remained operating on the park's main midway for 51 years until it was disassembled in 2024. After a 1-year hiatus, Paratrooper re-opened in 2026 in a new location next to the Thunder River log flume, completely refurbished with a new permanent ride platform and dazzling LED light display!To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Columbia Carousel at Six Flags Great America | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-07-07 | Columbia Carousel at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, IL.Premiering when the park first opened in 1976, the Columbia Carousel is main icon at the entrance of Six Flags Great America. Built by Chance Rides, this double decker carousel has a capacity of over 100 riders per cycle! The menagerie of horses and various animals are modeled after various antique carousels from around the country. NAPHA celebrates 50 years of the Columbia Carousel and Six Flags Great America!To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by Dave Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Walt Disneys Carousel of Progress at Magic Kingdom | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-06-30 | Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress at Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, FL.Premiering at the 1964 New York World's Fair, Carousel of Progress was designed and programmed by WED Enterprises. The circular theater rotates around set pieces featuring Audio Animatronics showcasing the progression of house-filled technological upgrades spanning from the 1900s, 1920s, 1940s, and the future. The show is often most remembered for its song "Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow”. When the World's Fair ended its run, the attraction was relocated to Disneyland in Anaheim, CA in 1967. The Carousel of Progress was relocated to Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World in 1975. In 1993, the attraction received its last major update.In 2026, Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress closed for a reimagining, with new scenes shifting the timeline to the 1960s, 1980s, 2000s, and the future. It is scheduled to re-open in 2027.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Paul Bunyans Loggin Toboggan at Idlewild & SoakZone | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-06-23 | Paul Bunyan's Loggin' Toboggan at Idlewild & SoakZone in Ligonier, PA.First opening in 1988 at Old Indiana Fun-n-Water Park in Thorntown, IN as The Wonderful, Waterfull, Flume, this Arrow Dynamics log flume brings passengers up 30 ft. in the air before dropping into a splashdown. Old Indiana closed in 1996, but the log flume was acquired and relocated to Idlewild & SoakZone for the 2005 season where it still operates today. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Kingdom Coaster at Dutch Wonderland | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-06-17 | Kingdom Coaster at Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster, PA.Opening in 1992 as the park's first roller coaster, Kingdom Coaster, formally known as Sky Princess, was the first ride designed and developed by Mike Boodley and Custom Coasters International. It stands 55 ft tall and travels 45 mph across 2,000 ft of track along the east perimeter of the park and acting as a beacon for the nearby Lincoln Highway.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Antique Carousel at Canobie Lake Park | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-06-09 | Antique Carousel at Canobie Lake Park in Salem, NH.First built in 1898 by Stein & Goldstein, this menagerie carousel features 19 standing horses, 24 jumping horses, a lion, deer, goat, and 2 chariots. It was relocated to Canobie Lake Park in 1906 where it continues to operate today with added elements from Looff and Dentzel, plus a working Wurlitzer 153 band organ dating back to 1922. NAPHA celebrates 120+ years of history of the Antique Carousel at Canobie Lake Park, one of the last operating S&G carousels in the country.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by Jennifer Sopko.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
NEW Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare at Kings Island National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-06-02 | New for 2026 at Kings Island is Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare! This reincarnation takes guests on moving "opera boxes" through the theater to help Maestro, No Legs Larry, and the rest of the staff to harness ghost notes using usher flashlights! Original elements were borrowed from the original Phantom Theater (1992-2002) and Boo Blasters on Boo Hill (2010-2025) but most set pieces and audio animatronics were developed by Sally Dark Rides.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Corkscrew at Cedar Point | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-05-26 | Corkscrew at Cedar Point in Sandusky, OH.Premiered in 1976, Corkscrew became the first triple-looping roller coaster, featuring a vertical loop and the namesake double corkscrew over the midway! Built by Arrow Dynamics, the ride stands 85 ft. in the air and reaches a top speed of 48 mph. NAPHA celebrates 50 years of Corkscrew, helping turn the coaster world upside down!To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Carousel at Kings Dominion | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-05-19 | Carousel at Kings Dominion in Doswell, VA.Built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, this carousel is home to 50 jumping horses, 16 standing horses, and 2 chariots. First located at Riverview Park in Springfield, MA in 1917, Carousel was relocated to Roger Williams Park in Providence, RI in 1938 before finding its current home at Kings Dominion in 1973, opening with the park. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by Dave Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Fiesta Texas Railroad at Six Flags Fiesta Texas | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-05-12 | Fiesta Texas Railroad at Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio, TX.Opening with the park in 1992, this 1-mile-long ride transports guests across 2 stations throughout the park. A standout feature is traveling through an underground tunnel next to giant waterfalls coming down from the park's infamous quarry wall backdrop. Fiesta Texas Railroad is home to 2 engines: Miss Kitty #601 (now called The Jim Reid-Anderson) from Vulcan Iron Works from 1917, and Gretta #502 from Henschel & Son from 1938.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
What is NAPHA ParkHop? Our 2026 Summer Enthusiast Event, ParkHop26 National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-05-09 | What is NAPHA ParkHop?Announcing our 2026 Summer Event for roller coaster, amusement park, and history enthusiasts! Enjoy roller coasters made of wood and steel, hand carved carousels, and dark rides! We'll take advantage of exclusive ride times, behind the scenes tours, and historical presentations from amusement park owners and managers! Also included are some delicious meals and time spent with friends old a new at historic amusement parks, defunct "ghost" parks, and at other historical sites. Pricing is flexible and geared to your schedule. Join us for yet another memorable experience, our premier summer event! napha.org/parkhop26
Draculas Castle at Lagoon | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-05-05 | Dracula's Castle at Lagoon in Farmington, UT.Opened in 1974 and developed by Bill Tracy of Amusement Display Associates, Inc., Dracula's Castle became Lagoon's third dark ride at the time. Unique coffin-like ride vehicles maneuver through various show scenes. Some are original, some have changed over the years, and others have been repurposed coming from the nearby Terroride dark ride and Frightmares, the park's Halloween haunt event. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Top Award-Winning Parks and Rides! | NAPHA Member Survey Winners 2025! National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-05-04 | The results are in for the 40th Annual NAPHA Member Survey! Seasoned amusement park enthusiasts from The National Amusement Park Historical Association (NAPHA) casted their vote for the best of the best in the industry for the 2025 season! The survey, the oldest of its type, is highly regarded within the amusement park industry and within enthusiasts’ circles.To read more and look back on previous winners, click the link to the NAPHA website: napha.org/surveyTo learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.org2025 SURVEY WINNERSFAVORITE TRADITIONAL PARKS1. Knoebels Amusement Resort (Elysburg, PA)FAVORITE THEME PARKS1. Dollywood (Pigeon Forge, TN)2. Disneyland (Anaheim, CA)MOST BEAUTIFUL PARK1. Busch Gardens (Williamsburg, VA)2. Dollywood (Pigeon Forge, TN)FAVORITE WOOD ROLLER COASTER1. Phoenix, Knoebels (Elysburg, PA)FAVORITE STEEL ROLLER COASTER1. Millennium Force, Cedar Point (Sandusky, OH)BEST NEW ATTRACTION 2025Stardust Racers, Epic Universe (Orlando, FL)Media provided by David Hahner & Michael Costello.Video created by David Hahner.Music:"Go To Town" by Silent Partner (YouTube Creator Library)Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Motor Boats at Knoebels | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-04-28 | Motor Boats at Knoebels in Elysburg, PA.Developed in-house, the Motor Boats is a custom self-driving boat ride in a canal that goes next to and under nearby attractions. Opened in 1955, this attraction was part of a rapid expansion of rides in the 1950s. In 2026, Motor Boats is receiving a full refurbishment.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Phantoms Revenge at Kennywood | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-04-21 | Phantom's Revenge at Kennywood in West Mifflin, PA.In 1991, The Steel Phantom premiered at Kennywood as the "world's fastest roller coaster!" Originally built by Arrow Dynamics, the looping coaster consisted of a 160 ft. tall first hill, a 225 ft. long second drop, and 4 inversions. For the 2001 season, the ride was modified by D. H. Morgan Manufacturing, Inc. replacing the loops for high-speed turns and airtime hills as well as replacing the train's over the shoulder harnesses with lap bars. The new and current incarnation, Phantom's Revenge, is a signature attraction at Kennywood and is often voted as a top steel coaster in the annual NAPHA Member Survey. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Monster at Cedar Point | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-04-14 | Monster at Cedar Point in Sandusky, OH.Opened in 1970, Monster was made by the Eyerly Aircraft Company. 6 arms lifted, dropped, and rotated free spinning vehicles in a thrilling and mesmerizing display on the Cedar Point midway. It was originally located on the West side of the park before moving in 1987 near Gemini to make room for Iron Dragon. It was recently revealed that Monster took its final spin at the end of the 2025 season and will not be returning.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by Michael Costello and David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Grand Carousel at Playland | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-04-07 | Grand Carousel at Playland in Rye, NYBuilt in 1915 by W. F. Mangels and carved by Charles Carmel, Grand Carousel was first found at Savin Rock in New Haven, CT before it was purchased and relocated in 1929 to the then new Playland, one of the first amusement parks pre-planned in its design. The ride consists of 18 standing horses, 48 jumping horses, 3 chariots, and an Artizan D band organ. Today, Grand Carousel helps contribute to Playland’s National Historic Landmark status. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Flight of Fear at Kings Dominion & Kings Island | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-03-31 | Flight of Fear at both Kings Dominion in Doswell, VA and Kings Island in Mason, OH.Making their debuts simultaneously in 1996 and then called The Outer Limits: Flight of Fear, they were the very first magnetic launch roller coasters. Built by Premier Rides, the vehicles accelerate 0 to 54 mph in pitch darkness before careening through a maze of track with 4 inversions and snappy transitions. The identical attractions carry an extraterrestrial theme during the ride and in the queue line, originally based on The Outer Limits television show when both parks were owned and operated by Paramount. NAPHA celebrates 30 years of Flight of Fear at both Kings Dominion and Kings Island.Interior recordings of this ride were done with permission from Kings Island during an enthusiast event.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Haunted House at Camden Park | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-03-24 | Haunted House at Camden Park in Huntington, WV.Sometimes called "Hawnted House" due to the funky font on the ride's sign, this Pretzel Amusement Ride Company dark ride opened in 1961. It is a gravity powered dark ride, with a single cart first carried by a lift hill that then rolls down a dip like a roller coaster. Inside are tight hairpin turns featuring stunts and scenery from famed dark ride designer Bill Tracy. Haunted House is only one of two "Double Decker" gravity dark rides left in operation, the other being Devil's Den at Conneaut Lake Park in Conneaut Lake, PA.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Antique Carousel at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-03-17 | Antique Carousel at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom in Allentown, PAFirst built in 1921 by W. H. Dentzel for Exposition Park in Aurora, IL, it was later acquired and relocated to Lake Lansing in Haslett, MI in 1942 where it operated until 1971. Cedar Point in Sandusky, OH ran the ride in Frontiertown from 1971 to 1994. Now known as Antique Carousel, it was relocated once again to its current home at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom in 1995. This carousel is home to 50 jumping horses, 12 standing horses, 2 chariots, and a menagerie of a deer, lion, tiger, and giraffe. A working Wurlitzer band organ and a newer light-up pavilion help bring this historic ride to life. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough at Disneyland | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-03-10 | Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough at Disneyland in Anaheim, CA.When the central icon of the park Sleeping Beauty Castle was constructed in 1954/1955, it did not house any sort of attraction. That was remedied in 1957 with the opening of a walkthrough with miniature dioramas retelling the story of Sleeping Beauty and acted as a preview for the Walt Disney Animation Studios film of the same name, which didn't debut until 1959. The show scenes were created by Eyvind Earle, an artist on the Sleeping Beauty film. Ken Anderson animated the figures and gave depth and lighting. The Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough was modified in 1977, replacing the flat 2D characters and sets with 3D dolls. The attraction was closed from 2001 to 2008. When it re-opened, the walkthrough was restored as closely as possible to the original 1957 version, with some added digital effects. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Monorail at Hersheypark | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-03-03 | Monorail at Hersheypark in Hershey, PA.Opened in 1969 and manufactured by Universal Mobility, Hersheypark's Monorail takes guests on a scenic ride over the park, ZooAmerica, and near the original Hershey chocolate factory. Did you know that this ride once acted as transportation between the chocolate factory and Hersheypark Arena? This changed in 1973 when Monorail became a continuous loop ride in Hersheypark. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Walt Disney World Railroad at Magic Kingdom | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-02-24 | Walt Disney World Railroad at Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, FL.Following suit from Disneyland, the Magic Kingdom opened in 1971 with a steam locomotive attraction encircling the park. The Walt Disney World Railroad is 1.5 miles long with stops at Main Street U.S.A, Frontierland, and Storybook Circus. The line rotates operation between 4 locomotives: #1 Walter E. Disney (1925), #2 Lilly Belle (1928), #3 Roger E. Broggie (1925), and #4 Roy O. Disney (1916), all of which were built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works. The views from this video may look different in the future as big expansion plans have been revealed around the train. Currently in 2026, 1 locomotive runs in shuttle mode between Main Street U.S.A. and Storybook Circus. NAPHA celebrates 55 years of Magic Kingdom and the Walt Disney World Railroad!To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
The Loch Ness Monster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-02-17 | The Loch Ness Monster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg in Williamsburg, VA.Premiering in 1978, The Loch Ness Monster was at the time of opening the world's tallest and fastest roller coaster, as well as the first to feature interlocking loops! Towering 130 ft above the Scotland hamlet of the park, Riders plunge 114 ft at 60 mph toward the Rhine River. The coaster then takes daring drops, an indoor triple helix, 2 lift hills, and 2 vertical loops threading in between each other. "Nessie," as it is often referred, has been in an ongoing refurbishment from S&S Worldwide with new trains in 2018 and sections of track replaced in 2024. Busch Gardens Williamsburg, which was been voted as the Most Beautiful Theme Park by NAPHA for multiple years, is also continuing to add thematic elements along the ride course and guest queue line. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by Dave Hahner & David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Ferris Wheel at San Antonio Zoo Kiddie Park | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-02-10 | Ferris Wheel at San Antonio Zoo Kiddie Park in San Antonio, TX.Opening with the park in 1925, this junior Ferris Wheel from C.W. Parker has delighted young guests for just over a century. When the San Antonio Zoo acquired Kiddie Park in 2019, all of the rides, including Ferris Wheel, were moved from Broadway and East Mulberry Avenue to the current location next to the San Antonio Zoo in Brackenridge Park. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Cedar Downs at Cedar Point | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-02-03 | Cedar Downs at Cedar Point in Sandusky, OH.Originally opened at Euclid Beach in 1921, this Racing Derby designed by Frank Prior and Fred Church puts a unique spin on the classic carousel. Riders straddle racehorses and speed along up to 15 mph, gaining and losing position. Cedar Point acquired and restored the ride in 1967, and it has been continuously operating ever since! NAPHA celebrates 95 years of Cedar Downs, one of only three Prior & Church Racing Derbies left in existence! The others are located at Playland in Rye, NY and Blackpool Pleasure Beach in Blackpool, U.K.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by Michael Costello & David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Bumper Cars at Dutch Wonderland | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-01-27 | Bumper Cars at Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster, PA.Since the park's opening in 1963, Bumper Cars has been a family favorite at Dutch Wonderland. Manufactured by Lusse Bros., these particular bumper cars are known to provide a slick ride with heavy bumps! Only several Lusse Bros. bumper cars/dodgems are known to be left in operation.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David HahnerCopyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Looper at Knoebels | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-01-20 | Looper at Knoebels in Elysburg, PA.This Allan Herschell Company creation lets a pair of riders control flipping upside down in human sized hamster wheels by natural pumping and centrifugal force. Looper was first built in 1948 where it operated at Whalom Park in Lunenburg MA until it found its current home at Knoebels when relocated in 2005.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Grand Carousel at Legoland Florida | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-01-14 | Grand Carousel at Legoland Florida in Winter Haven, FL.Opening in 2011 during Cypress Garden's major transformation into Legoland Florida, Grand Carousel is a double-decker carousel developed by Chance Rides. What makes this ride unique is the tied-in Lego themed horses and mini-figure jesters.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by Michael Costello.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Rickys Racers at Idlewild & SoakZone | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2026-01-06 | Ricky's Racers at Idlewild & SoakZone in Ligonier, PA.Developed by Arrow Dynamics, this Arrow-Flite Super children's car ride began its run at Euclid Beach in Cleveland, OH in 1962. It was then relocated 3 times: Shady Lake in Streetsboro, OH in 1978, Old Indiana Fun-n-Water Park in Thorntown, IN in 1985, and finally to Idlewild in 1998 with the park's Racoon Lagoon expansion. Did you know that this is the same ride model as Disneyland's former Midget Autopia? To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2026 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
SeaGlass Carousel at The Battery | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2025-12-30 | SeaGlass Carousel at The Battery in New York, NY.Opening in 2015, SeaGlass Carousel is part ride, part art installation. Guests climb aboard abstract representations of fish, translucent with multi-colored lights. Unlike a traditional carousel, the carriages raise and lower from the ground on spinning turntables in a random fashion. The ride was engineered by McLaren Engineering Group with production design by George Tsypin Opera Factory.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by Michael Costello & David Hahner.Copyright 2025 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Living with the Land - Glimmering Greenhouses (Holiday) at EPCOT | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2025-12-23 | Living with the Land at EPCOT in Lake Buena Vista, FL.Premiering in 1982 as an opening day attraction at EPCOT, Listen to the Land, now called Living with the Land, is an edutainment boat ride that teaches about the world's various natural biomes through themed sets and animatronics, also showcasing live gardening in a 6-acre greenhouse. This is one of the main attractions located inside The Land pavilion inside the park's World Nature section, formally part of Future World. For the holiday season, the ride becomes Living with the Land - Glimmering Greenhouses which features dazzling lights, seasonal props, and an updated narration educating on holiday food and agriculture.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2025 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Tweetsie Twister at Tweetsie Railroad | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2025-12-16 | Tweetsie Twister at Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock, NCThis Eli Bridge Scrambler has been spinning guests at the beloved Tweetsie Railroad since 2004. It is located high atop Miner Mountain, accessible by the park's classic chairlift, shuttle, or walking path. Scramblers have been thrilling guests since introduced by the company in 1953!To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by Michael Costello.Copyright 2025 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Mad Mouse at Arnolds Park | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2025-12-09 | Mad Mouse at Arnolds Park in Arnolds Park, IA.Developed by the Allan Herchell Company, Mad Mouse is a production model coaster that was popular in the 1950s and 1960s. 1 to 2 riders sit in a single vehicle and maneuver through tight hairpin turns and sudden drops! Arnolds Park's particular Mad Mouse began its life in 1959 at Bell's Amusement Park in Tulsa, OK until it was relocated to Joyland Amusement Park in Lubbock, TX in 1976. It was later sold and moved to Arnolds Park in 2019. Today, only two Allan Hershchell Mad Mouse coasters are left in operation, the second being at Little Amerricka in Marshall, WI.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by John Coleman & Tyler Mullins.Copyright 2025 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
San Antonio Zoo Train at Brackenridge Park | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2025-11-25 | San Antonio Zoo Train at Brackenridge Park, TXAlso known as the Brackenridge Eagle, this train ride dates back to 1957 and gives park guests a 20-minute ride through the historic Brackenridge Park. This train ride is locally famous for the 1970 Great (Little) Train Robbery which marked the first actual train robbery since the wild west times in Texas. The train is currently operated by the adjacent San Antonio Zoo. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2025 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Grand Carrousel at Worlds of Fun | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2025-11-18 | Grand Carrousel at Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, MOMade by M.C. Illions in 1926, this is one of only five Supreme Illions Carousels made. It features 64 horses, all jumpers, and 2 chariots. Grand Carrousel was built for the Sesqui-Centennial Celebration held in Philadelphia and then relocated to Birmingham, AL in 1927. In the early 1930's, the ride was in M.C. Illions shop in Coney Island, NY until it was picked by Geauga Lake in Aurora, OH where it operated from 1937 until the park closed in 2007. Grand Carousel was relocated once more to its current home at Worlds of Fun where it acts as the first attraction guests encounter as they enter the park. To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by Josh Michael.Copyright 2025 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
NEW Twizzler Twisted Gravity at Hersheypark National Amusement Park Historical Association 2025-11-11 | New for 2025 at Hersheypark is Twizzler Twisted Gravity! This is the world's largest S&S Worldwide Screamin' Swing. Riders are thrusted by pressurized air up to 68 mph up to a max height of 137 ft! To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Music:Big Rock - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100305Artist: http://incompetech.comCopyright 2025 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Jet Star 2 at Lagoon | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2025-11-04 | Jet Star 2 at Lagoon in Farmington, UT.Developed by Schwarzkopf, this production model coaster of the same name has riders sit single file up a 44 -ft tall electric spiral lift and around sharp turns and sudden drops. This particular Jet Star 2 opened in 1974 where it operated for one season at Riverfront Park in Spokane, WA. It was then relocated to Lagoon in 1976 where it has thrilled guests for 49 years! Your last chance to ride Jet Star 2 is November 9th, 2025, as it is set to close forever at the end of this season!To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2025 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
Terroride at Lagoon | NAPHA Ride Spotlight National Amusement Park Historical Association 2025-10-28 | Terroride at Lagoon in Farmington, UT.Opened in 1967 as a replacement for the park's former Temple of Terror dark ride, Terroride was originally designed by Bill Tracy of Amusement Display Associates, Inc. Most of the original psychedelic horror theme was replaced in 2017 for the ride's 50th anniversary. New detailed scenes and stunts developed by filmmaker Joseph Wartnerchaney, make-up artist Todd Debreceni, and the Utah Opera were added to the dark ride, while still giving the ride a classic feel with its original track layout and box cars dating back to 1977. NAPHA spotlights Terroride as it still being one of Lagoon's most popular attractions.To learn more about and join the National Amusement Park Historical Association, visit www.napha.orgFootage provided by David Hahner.Copyright 2025 National Amusement Park Historical Association. All rights reserved.
