Cedar Point Winter Chillout 2014
A special thanks to everyone who visited Cedar Point on February 22nd. A total of $13,280 was raised for Give Kids The World, which was double the amount raised in 2013. If you weren't able to make it to the park that day, we wanted to share with you a few things that Cedar Point shared with us.
· In 2013 Cedar Point had over 3 million visitors and for the 16th year in a row it was voted Best Park in the World!
Gatekeeper
· The record breaking Gatekeeper had 2,165,965 riders in 2013, making it the 2nd most in a debut year behind the legendary Raptor.
· Gatekeeper also had the most riders in the park, even beating the train!
· If you hadn't noticed, Gatekeeper had its seats adjusted to make the vests more comfortable. This process was done row by row, each taking an entire night to complete.
Media Day
· Media day for Lake Erie Eagles and Pipe Scream will be held on Thursday May 8th.
· Unlike other media events this one will be held in the evening, so it is more accessible to families with young children. Also, if all goes well, the park plans to debut its new Gemini Midway lighting.
Millennium Force
· Every Saturday and Sunday starting May 11th, Cedar Point invites all active coaster club members to ride Millennium Force before the general public.
· In order to participate, members must be at the Marina Gate at 8:50AM with your ticket or season pass.
Hotel Breakers
· Construction has already begun on a two year project to upgrade Hotel Breakers. This year, additions will include a brand new exterior.
· Starting in 2015, Cedar Point will begin work on the interior of Hotel Breakers focusing on renovation of the outdated rooms.
Blue Streak
· This year Blue Streak turns 50 years old! A special celebration event will be held on Saturday June 21st. Details to follow.
· Blue Streak will also be featured on this year’s commemorative coin, so be sure to follow @TonyClarkCP on twitter for a chance to win one.
· Also celebrating anniversaries this year are Raptor (20 years), Cedar Creek Mine Ride (45 years), Magnum XL200 (25 years), and Camp Snoopy (15 years).
Employee Dorms
· Gold dorms are now demolished and a parking lot is now in its place.
· The Recreation Center is currently being remodeled to include all new televisions, games and a new restaurant; Subway is being removed.
Gemini Midway Construction
· The foundation is now complete for both Lake Erie Eagles and Pipe Scream.
· The parts have all arrived for Pipe Scream and installation will take one week.
· Pipe Scream WILL be considered a roller coaster bringing Cedar Point’s total back up to 17!
· When parts arrive for Lake Erie Eagles, construction will only take one day!
· Joe Cool’s will remain in its place, but the building will now include an all new Yogurt Plus and a Coke Freestyle Station.
· For those who hated it, we are proud to announce the black top will be removed!
· Work has begun on Wilderness Run. The entrance will be moved into Camp Snoopy as well as a new paint scheme consisting of a green track and brown supports.
· String lights, new light poles and speakers will be installed, and Gemini will have new flood lights.
· Slingshot, a ride announced just before the event, will be one of the tallest of its kind in the world sending riders 360ft high. This will be the 2nd tallest ride in the park following Top Thrill Dragster. Construction details not fully released.
Other Fun Facts!
· Platinum Pass holders will now be treated to exclusive ride nights every week starting May 30th. They will alternate between Wednesdays and Fridays.
· Luminosity will have all new props, special effects, music and increased audience participation.
· Game Day Grille will be replaced with Chickie & Pete’s featuring their famous crab fries.
· Donut Time will be replaced with a full service Starbucks.
· Subway in the Challenge park will now be a Auntie Anne’s and a Cinnabon.
· The name Camper Village will be no more with the park focusing on Lighthouse Point. The camp store is being demolished and rebuilt as part of the final phase of its remodel.
· According to Jason McClure, the park’s new General Manager, Skyhawk will be working opening day and Shoot the Rapids will open weather permitting. Follow him at @JasonMcClureCP on Twitter.
· Frontier Trail will have a few upgrades including a new bluegrass band, new skits, and all new animals at the petting farm.
· Iron Dragon’s height requirement has been raised from 46 to 48 inches following reevaluation of coaster safety.
By Britt McMillan