Roller coasters are among the most popular rides in amusement parks and theme parks. Modern engineering and high tech metals allow for rides that defy gravity with heart-stopping drops, double loops and switchbacks and repeated bursts of weightlessness, and some of the most popular are themed to favorite characters like The Simpsons roller coaster at Universal Studios. But for sheer nostalgia, nothing beats the creaking and groaning of an old-fashioned wooden roller coaster, affectionately known as 'woodies' . Here are some of the best: The Cyclone, Coney Island, Brooklyn -- Probably the most famous roller coaster in the world, wooden or not, The Cyclone is the cornerstone of similarly world-famous Coney Island. It's been thrilling and terrifying riders since 1927, which also makes it one of the world's oldest roller coasters in continuous operation, and also one of few coasters in the world on a beach with an ocean view. Like you really have time to look at th waves. Grab a hot dog at nearby Nathan's Famous, and hit the Coney Island Cyclone. Voyage, Holiday World, Santa Claus, Indiana -- Th is the top-rated wooden roller coaster by CoasterGrotto for its 66-degree first drop, five tunnels, and speeds of up to a whopping 67mph. In an age when new roller coasters are overwhelmingly re-inforced steel and space age materials, this old-fashioned wood framed thriller was opened in 2006. It's... |
