Park Rovers 25 Days of Coasters

The holidays are here, and we at Park Rovers have spent the past month compiling our personal lists to bring you our official 25 Days of Coasters. This list represents each member's personal top 25, and as with all “top” lists is very subjective. So join in on our countdown and please share your own lists to see how we stack up. 

25

Andrew - X2 – Six Flags Magic Mountain

This is the only coaster on my list that I’ve been intimidated by in recent memory. As a National Lampoon's Vacation fan, I have always wanted to go to “Walley World,” aka Magic Mountain, and I finally did so in 2023. I still haven’t ridden every coaster at the park, but X2 will be a must-ride once (and only once) every time I visit. I don’t really like calling coasters “insane,” but this one lives up to that descriptor.

Dustin - Raptor - Cedar Point 

Not just a nostalgia pick, but one of the best layouts from start to finish with great positive Gs and a fantastic zero-G roll.

Creech - Big Thunder Mountain - Disneyland Paris

I already knew this was going to be my favorite version of Big Thunder Mountain, but my first ride was a back row night ride, and when we hit the final tunnel, I looked over to my girlfriend and we both thought there was a launch inside the tunnel because of how fast we were going. Amazing theming and just an overall blast being isolated on the island surrounded by water!

Greg - Laff Track - Hershey Park

Halloween season is the best time to experience Laff Track.  Complete darkness!  What a strange ride, but an extremely fun ride.

Eric - The Smiler - Alton Towers

The Smiler absolutely kicks your butt. I would consider this to be a very high intensity ride BEFORE the second vertical lift hill. I’ve never felt so disoriented or overwhelmed at the end of a ride. Definitely not something that I could re-ride over and over, but a truly unforgettable experience. Not to mention, that soundtrack is so effective. It really burrows its way into your brain, and you will find people all over the park humming and singing the tune long after their ride is over.

24

Andrew - Boulder Dash – Lake Compounce

Lake Compounce is known as the oldest continuously operating amusement park in the United States. I first visited in the summer of 2022, where I recorded a park tour video and some video for my deep dive into the Milli Vanilli incident that occurred at the park’s former amphitheater. As a tall guy, I can’t say that Boulder Dash was the most comfortable ride for my thighs, but I loved that the coaster takes you through a hillside of trees.

Dustin - Shivering Timbers - Michigan’s Adventure

The big, bad airtime machine at the tiny park in Michigan that just goes on forever and ever.

Creech - The Legend - Holiday World

The Legend and I have an interesting relationship. My rides in 2023 we’re so breakneck reckless that I was legitimately scared for my life. I will forever enjoy the relentless laterals that this coaster has to offer.

Greg - The Walking Dead- Thorpe Park

Scare actors (zombies aka walkers) in the queue and during the ride.  Lots of darkness, speed, fog, and zombies!

Eric - Mako - Seaworld Orlando 

Mako truly delivers on the airtime promise that so many B&M hypercoasters promise. Big is the term that comes to mind when I think about the experience that this coaster provides. Big thrills, big hills, big airtime.  

23

Andrew - Time Traveler – Silver Dollar City

When I first visited Silver Dollar City in 2023, I had done very little research on the park. I knew that Time Traveler and Outlaw Run were very popular. I also picked up my 300th coaster credit, which I selected for the now-defunct Fire in the Hole (the original version). Time Traveler surprised me, from the initial look at the ride sign with a functioning clock to the queue theming to the ride experience itself. I can’t wait to ride it again the next time I’m in the Ozarks.

Dustin - Storm Runner - Hersheypark

Definitely on of the shortest coasters on my list since I value a long ride, but the intense launch, sweet top hat, and great duo of inversions make this a must ride if it’s open.

Creech - Magnum XL-200 - Cedar Point

Magnum will forever and always be a classic. While the infamous “magic seat” may be many peoples favorites, I very much enjoy a back car ride in any of the three rows because of the phenomenal floater airtime. Trimless rides on this will always be unstoppable.

Greg - Twister II - Elitch Gardens

A very rough ride.  That's why I like it though.  Just a very rough, crazy, old school wooden coaster.  Probably the only coaster that really stood out for me at Elitch Gardens.

Eric - Big Thunder Mountain - Disneyland Park Paris

The best Big Thunder Mountain. After one ride, I was genuinely wondering whether this was a top 10 caliber attraction. The overall experience with theming and duration is so satisfying, and the final drop that takes you below the river and back to the park really packs a forceful punch that other Big Thunders lack.

22

Andrew - Big Thunder Mountain – Disneyland Park at Disneyland Paris

Big Thunder is one of my favorite coasters at Disney parks, and the best version is at Disneyland Paris. My first ride was in 2019, and my on-ride POV was one of the first videos I uploaded to YouTube. The coaster isn’t remarkable compared to others on the list, but it’s unique because of its theming and design. Most of the coaster track is on an island in the middle of the “Rivers of the Far West,” which trains travel to via an underground tunnel. The Molly Brown Riverboat circles the island.

Dustin - Afterburn - Carowinds

This was a surprise coaster from my first trip and was shocked how little I had heard it's praises sung.there’s a great combo of elements (with a batwing!) that all hit strong until it fizzles out right at the end.

Creech - Candymonium - Hersheypark

My first reaction when I rode Candymonium in 2022 was that it was the best hyper coaster in Pennsylvania (yes, I had this above Skyrush on my first ride of both). This is the Mako of the North. Truly stellar airtime and just an awesome experience. I’m excited to get back to Hersheypark and get some re-rides.

Greg - Cheetah Hunt- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

This ride seems like an introductory level Intamin coaster.  I was surprised to see it reaches a top speed of 60 mph.  It doesn't have the speed or intensity of Maverick, but it still makes my list due to it being pure fun and extremely re-rideable.

Eric - Alpengeist - Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Definitely my first home park bias based choice. I understand that it is generally accepted that Alpi’s sibling in Tampa, Montu, is the stronger of the two offerings. Still I personally prefer the setting and overall ride experience provided by the ski chalet themed Alpengeist at my home park of Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Since we visit the park often, we have a strict front row only policy because that wide open feeling of plummeting 195 into the valley with your feet dangling and nothing in front of you is just perfection.

21

Andrew - Tatsu – Six Flags Magic Mountain

This coaster was a sleeper hit when I first rode it in 2023. I’ve never been a huge fan of flying coasters, although I’ve only ridden five. Tatsu is my favorite because of its terrain layout and unique ride elements. It also felt brand new in 2023, maybe since it was freshly repainted with a dark orange track and green supports.

Dustin - The Beast - Kings Island

Very few experiences beat The Beast at night. Flying through the Ohiofrest with zero vision is a nearly euphoric experience.

Creech - Pipeline - SeaWorld Orlando

Pipeline wins for the most unique airtime ever. The sheer feeling of floating reminds me of the feeling of freefall on a Sky Coaster, but more graceful and pleasant. I didn’t get to ride this on my last visit to Sea World due to a massive operational downtime, but I cannot wait to get on it again!

Greg - Thunderbird - Holiday World

The smoothest launch I've experienced.  The whole ride was super smooth and I felt like I was flying for a good portion of it.  Holiday World killed it with this one.

Eric - Cyclone - Luna Park

A few years ago, prior to my superfandom when I was more of a casual theme park goer, I went with some friends to a Brooklyn Cyclones baseball game to celebrate a birthday. The game was our primary activity, and almost as an afterthought we decided to check out the Cyclone because it seemed pretty historic. I was shocked by how forceful and exciting this old woodie was. I also felt bad, because we convinced a friend who hates roller coasters that it wouldn’t be too intense since it’s so old.

20

Andrew - Cannibal – Lagoon
If you ever get a chance to visit the Salt Lake City area, stop by Lagoon. You can see the lift tower for Cannibal from miles away, which draws you in from the highway. Lagoon designed and built the coaster in-house, and the coaster held the record for the tallest beyond-vertical drop in the world for several years. I love the back-to-back heartline rolls in opposite directions.

Dustin - Dueling Dragons - Islands of Adventure

These two coasters (only ridden by me while Dueling) were absolutely mind blowing. This was the first time I recognized coasters and parks as ART. RIP Blizrock and Pyrock

Creech - Pantheon Busch Gardens Williamsburg

This ride is still missing 800-1000ft in my opinion, but that doesn’t make it a bad coaster at all. I was shocked that I preferred front row over back row when I went, and this truly may be the coaster that started making me prefer the front on most rides now. The backwards launch and airtime is definitely the showstopper for me.

Greg - Fury 325- Carowinds

Amazing, breathtaking first drop. Great use of speed into sweeping element after big bold intense element.  Lived up to all of my expectations. I love the color scheme and walking under the track as you enter the park as well.

Eric - Verbolten - Busch Gardens Williamsburg

It was during the pandemic that I fell into super fandom with theme parks. Being stuck inside, I hyper-fixated on the more behind the scenes aspects of theme park culture that shot my interest from visiting a park here and there, once or twice a year, to wanting to visit as many as I possibly could once the world reopened. Our first theme park visit post-lockdown was our first ever visit to Busch Gardens Williamsburg, our now 8-10 times a year home park. The first ride we did was Verbolten. My first new roller coaster after nearly two years of not venturing very far outside of our neighborhood. Not only that, but I had no spoilers at all about all of the wonderful secrets Verbolten has in store for first time riders. I knew we would be getting season passes after just that one ride. 

19

Andrew - Orion – Kings Island

Whether you consider Orion a “giga coaster,” it’s still one of the best in the park. I was surprised by the attention to detail in the queue, with many Easter eggs referencing other legacy Cedar Fair attractions like Disaster Transport at Cedar Point. The 300-foot drop is fantastic, and the ride is smooth, just like other B&M hypers (and gigas).

Dustin - Candymonium - Hersheypark

The inferior hyper coaster at HP is still a blast to ride. While I wish it had 1 more airtime moment, the majestic camelbacks and funky over-correction under the lift make for a great ride.

Creech - Phantom’s Revenge - Kennywood

I have never laughed harder when seeing a train roll into the station and seeing massive pool noodles as restraints. My handful of rides in 2021 that I experienced made me find a new love for ejector airtime. While I don’t prefer ejector airtime as much anymore, Phantom’s Revenge will still hold a high place for me with the uniqueness of the coaster.

Greg - Wildcats Revenge- Hershey Park

Definitely my most forceful RMC.  The only times I rode this (7) were during nighttime ert.  I would like to see how different it is during the daytime.  Lots of ejector airtime and so many insane many that seamlessly lead right into the next one.  Everything fits together so well.

Eric - Nemesis - Alton Towers

I have never ridden another coaster that utilizes terrain the way the Nemesis does. It genuinely feels, even during the lift hill, that you are never more than 10-15 feet off of the ground. Yet somehow this thing whips around its course, dipping, diving, and near missing over and over again without ever losing steam. This was our rope drop ride at Alton Towers, and set a perfect tone for the day ahead. 

18

Andrew - GhostRider – Knott’s Berry Farm

When you visit Knott’s, GhostRider is probably the first coaster you’ll see. That’s because if you’re staying at the Knott’s Hotel or parked in the Grand Lot, you have to walk underneath it to get to the park’s entrance! I had never ridden GhostRider before its 2016 refurbishment, so I had never experienced many of its issues. I haven’t ridden it in a few years, but this is my favorite out of the long woodies I’ve ridden (sorry, The Beast).

Dustin - Mako - SeaWorld Orlando

Pipeline and Manta give it a run as the best coaster at SWO, but Mako’s nearly perfect layout as well as impressive visuals give it the nod over those two (and Candymonium).

Creech - The Voyage - Holiday World

Oh boy how this coaster has gotten lower and lower for me… It is in no way a bad coaster, but I just can’t handle the roughness and forces it gives. The retracking in 2023 made the first hills feel like a B&M hyper coaster, but my body just couldn’t hang for the spaghetti bowl section and on. I think this coasters ranking for me shows how I have a fine limit on extreme forces now.

Greg - Volcano The Blast Coaster- Kings Dominion

A very memorable ride for having only ever ridden it one time.  The launch was amazing, blasting you from the mouth of the volcano into the sky.  A feeling and view I'll never forget.

Eric - Skyrush - Hersheypark

Skyrush is a beast. Having now ridden it 5 times over 3 visits, my appreciation only increases with each re-ride. I’ve never felt anything like that weird bunny hop that pops you out of your seat on the very intense first drop, and the forces never let up until you hit the break run. This is one where more theming or story could have bumped it way up, but this is just a straight forward thrill ride plopped on a plot of land.

17

Andrew - Outlaw Run – Silver Dollar City
With a duration of 1:27, this is easily the shortest coaster on my top 25. But it’s also one of the most interesting ones. Silver Dollar City is a special park, with most attractions taking advantage of its Ozark Mountain terrain. Outlaw Run is one of the world's fastest (68 mph) and steepest (81°) woodies and claims the most inversions (3) on any woodie.

Dustin - Millennium Force - Cedar Point

Somewhat shocking that a former number 1 has fallen this far, but it's still an amazing ride with a killer drop, fun floater airtime, and some great positives in the over banks. 

Creech - Twisted Timbers - King’s Dominion

I was very impressed by this coaster when I went and rode it in 2021. Back row rides during the triple camelbacks are just pure nuts in terms of consistent airtime. Not much about the coaster stands out to me, which is why I’d love to see RMC make a simpler coaster focused on that floater-ejector airtime (think RMC’s take on a B&M hyper).

Greg - Cyclone- Coney Island Luna Park

I remember taking a 2 hour train ride to get here and get my Cyclone credit.  The speed and intensity surprised me.  For such an old coaster this one still packed quite a punch.

Eric - Pipeline: The Surf Coaster - Seaworld Orlando

As you stand, yes stand, above the launch outside of the station of Pipeline, it is impossible to not think that what you are doing makes no sense. It feels unnatural to be standing on your own will as you are about to be catapulted into a coaster layout. That feeling is correct; as you get launched into the first bunny hill, you leave your feet and can’t help but feel like you are on a Roller Coaster Tycoon model that hasn’t been completed and is being launched into oblivion. You leave your feet multiple times on airtime hills, and have to also land back on your feet, which is a request that no other coaster asks.

16

Andrew - Pantheon – Busch Gardens Williamsburg

This is the only coaster in my top 25 that I’m technically too tall to ride. It was announced in 2019, and I was there to ride it during the 2022 member preview, but I couldn’t. Fortunately, months later, I learned from a park supervisor that I could ride because the headrest supported my head! While I wish there were more theming in the queue, Pantheon is one of my favorites at BGW, mostly due to its 180-foot drop adjacent to the Rhine River.

Dustin - Thunderhead - Dollywood 

This was everything that I was promised in a majestic GCI! Great air pops, fun laterals, and a semi out of control ride that was the highlight of my first visit to Dollywood.

Creech - F. L. Y. - Phantasialand

One of three perfect coasters in the world in my opinion. I am very confident that if I were to return to Phantasialand, this coaster could easily be in my top 5. The theming, the immersion, the soundtrack, and the airtime are just top notch. There is nothing that could be done to improve this coaster and I cannot wait to ride it again.

Greg - Hades 360- Mount Olympus

You'd never expect to find this roller coaster at a small park in Wisconsin.  It's the only traditional wooden coaster in the world to have an inversion.  The most memorable part for me is emerging from a pitch dark tunnel right back into the sunlight and a corkscrew inversion.  

Eric - Revenge of the Mummy - Universal Studios Florida

If this was just a ride in the middle of a park, it would definitely not crack this list. Judged purely as a coaster, it leaves a lot to be desired. However, the storytelling and insane level of theming make this arguably my favorite ride at Studios. The uphill launch through Imhotep’s mouth as he screams “YOUR SOUL IS MINE” turns what would otherwise would be a borderline family coaster launch into a thrilling, scream-inducing moment. The false station will also always be a top 3 theme park ride moment for me.

15

Andrew - Phoenix – Knoebels

Some say that Phoenix is overrated, but it’s my favorite woodie because it’s a smooth ride with many airtime hills. I think it’s the best example of a classic out-and-back coaster. It also helps that it’s at one of my favorite parks in the United States, Knoebels.

Dustin - Ghost Rider - Knott's Berry Farm

My most anticipated coaster on my 2018 trip still blew me away. Weran right to it, waited just a few minutes, and got off blown away. This ride does nothing average, it's all balls to the walking that California structure. 

Creech - Lightning Rod - Dollywood

I am very fortunate to have ridden the OG Lightning Rod in May of 2016 during its soft opening/technical rehearsals. This was my first RMC and it was absolutely bonkers. I hope whenever I revisit Dollywood that my rides will be comparable, but I know it is a mere shell of what it used to be.

Greg - The Voyage- Holiday World

I’m a sucker for a long, intense, rough, wooden coaster ride. This totally delivered for me.  Although towards the end I started to feel concerned about when and if it actually would end.  

Eric - WODAN Timburcoaster - Europa Park

WODAN is one of those coasters that I could just ride over and over again. In the same way that some coasters are relentlessly fast or intense, it is relentlessly fun. Don’t get me wrong, it is a massive coaster and packs plenty of forces, but it never feels overwhelming or overly intense. Wood coasters are the only type that ever bother me physically, all of that rattling doesn’t do well with my neck, so to find one that is smooth enough to consider infinitely re-ridable is a huge plus in my books. Not to mention it is incredibly themed. The queue features a powerful score, some amazing projection effects, and moving statues line the rafters of the station.

14

Andrew - Phantom’s Revenge – Kennywood
I was fortunate to experience Kennywood for the first time on NAPHA’s ParkHop 23. And while I loved the classic Kennywood attractions like the Racer, Jack Rabbit, Noah’s Ark, and Turtle, my favorite coaster was Phantom’s Revenge. One fun feature of the coaster is that the 2nd drop is longer than the first.

Dustin - Pantheon - Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Great parts: swing launch, back spike, everything after the top hat.

Parts that can be fixed: Add theming at least to the queue and station.

Parts that can’t be fixed: Those weird S bends after the first inversion, they do nothing.

Creech - Steel Vengeance - Cedar Point

Ah, yes… my former number 1 coaster that has since dropped out of my top 10. This is partially due to the amount of laps I got while working it, my body not being able to handle strong forces for longer durations, and how I feel the second lap really is just the same thing over, and over, and over again. I see how this is many people’s favorite coaster, but I have since changed my opinions on what I value in a coaster

Greg - Iron Rattler- Six Flags Fiesta Texas

This is a shorter RMC that uses every bit of space it has so well.  It's really cool that the track runs through the canyon as well as partially on the canyon walls.

Eric - Expedition Everest - Animal Kingdom 

The perfect example of theming and thrills. I absolutely fell in love with this ride during my first visit to Animal Kingdom, and this was my #1 attraction for a large portion of my life. The storytelling from the second you enter the queue is as dense and detailed as any ride on the planet, and it builds such a sense of wonder and suspense as you get closer and closer to the ride. By the time you’re leaving the station, it’s impossible to not feel 100% like you are embarking on something special. I will also argue to my grave that the backwards section gives me as strong of a g-force butterflies feeling as even the most intense rides.

13

Andrew - Apollo's Chariot – Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Did I rank Apollo higher because it’s at one of my home parks? Maybe. Besides Fury 325 at Carowinds, this might be my most ridden coaster. Plus, I love the 210-foot drop, which is also famous because that’s where Fabio got goosed.

Dustin - Nitro - Six Flags great Adventure

For the longest time, I thought Nitro was the perfect combo of floater airtime and intense positive Gs. It's been eclipsed by a few, but the picturesque setting and long layout still rock more than 2 decades later.

Creech - Na Fianna Force - Emerald Park

Oh MAN did this coaster knock my socks off! I didn’t know much about it when going to Emerald Park, but after our first front row ride, my girlfriend and I looked at each other and both agreed it was our favorite invert by far. Smooth, forceful, low to the ground, interactive elements, and even airtime! Such an awesome experience and definitely has me excited for the more Vekoma coasters coming to America.

Greg - Revenge of the Mummy - Universal Studios Florida

The actual roller coaster on its own is nothing spectacular.  The theming, storyline and pacing are what give The Mummy a spot on my list.  I was impressed by everything.  It's what you expect from a top- notch Universal ride.  You're even attacked by scarabs!

Eric - Cheetah Hunt - Busch Garden’s Tampa

Cheetah Hunt just keeps going and going. A launched coaster clocking in at 3:30 minutes isn’t something you see every day. The first time that I rode, I couldn’t believe that we still had another section ahead of us when we hit the 3rd launch. I really love terrain coasters, and Cheetah Hunt makes such great use out of the area. On that note, the section of this ride that runs along the water might be my favorite feature in any coaster. Sitting front row, bobbing and weaving through the rocks over the rushing water is an experience that I will never forget.

12

Andrew - Expedition Everest – Disney’s Animal Kingdom

I’d love to see Disney fix the Yeti animatronic, but I also don’t want this coaster to be down for maintenance for a year or two. Animal Kingdom is my 2nd favorite park at Walt Disney World, and it wouldn’t be the same without Expedition Everest. The highly-themed queue and surrounding land make this one very special. Plus, there’s a single rider line, so you can usually get on it without waiting.

Dustin - Montu - Busch Gardens Tampa

In 2003, Montu was the best invert I had ever ridden. In 2024, it still holds as the best invert I've ever ridden. If it had airtime, I'd out it higher,because it does everything it's supposed to do with perfection.

Creech - Mako - SeaWorld Orlando

Floater. Airtime. Galore. This coaster is just about trying to see how much room can go between your butt and your seat and how long they can do it for. On a hot, sunny Florida day, this coaster will stand out as having the best airtime imaginable.

Greg - Steel Vengeance - Cedar Point

Super intense, lots of elements and speed.  Seems to go on forever, but in a good way.  The layout is so crazy there are moments you.

Eric - Twisted Timbers - King’s Dominion

With King’s Dominion being just an hour away from home, I really wish Twisted Timbers was higher on this list. I have ridden a few RMCs that have been the full package, providing a near perfect experience. Twisted Timbers does feature some incredible moments, particularly that roll over during the first drop into an overbanked turn, and a ton of incredibly forceful inversions and airtime hills packed into its tight course. However, the one thing keeping Twisted Timbers from making my top 10 is that it just beats the hell out of you. The ejector airtime feels almost violent at times, especially the bunny hills right before the break run. I wish this one was more re-ridable, as KD is one of the closest parks to us, allowing the opportunity to visit on off peak days. But as thrilling as Twisted Timbers is, marathoning it with no line is just out of the question for me due to the physical toll that it takes. 

11

Andrew - Lightning Rod – Dollywood

I’ll be honest: I haven’t ridden Lightning Rod with its chain lift hill yet. So, all of my memories are with the launch. Regardless, I like the theming, and it’s pretty cool how this coaster leverages the terrain. I try to ride this every time I visit Dollywood, which unfortunately isn’t that often.

Dustin - Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure - Islands of Adventure

The perfect story-driven coaster with a great combo of thrills and story, driven by audio and ambiance. And acceptable replacement for the dragons.

Creech - Intimidator 305 - King's Dominion

I need to get back and ride this coaster again. It’s kept its spot high on my list due to the low to the ground turns and how well the ride holds its speed. I am excited to see how it does as Pantherian and to see if Kings Dominion can keep up their level of theming with their other new rides.

Greg - Maxx Force- Six Flags Great America

What an experience for only a 17 second ride.  One of the best, if not the best launch I've ever experienced.

Eric - Big Bear Mountain - Dollywood

Call it recency bias, but our trip to Dollywood last summer introduced us to this absolute pleasure of a roller coaster. I complained in my last pick about not being able to marathon Twisted Timbers. We went to Dollywood on a chilly, drizzly afternoon, and waited in a nearly walk-on line to marathon this ride as many times as we possibly could. It is just pure fun. Nothing crazy, nothing super intense, just a very long, smooth, fun coaster. Man, do I wish it featured more theming. If they really decked this thing out with the same level that the geyser section features, it would have cracked my top 10, especially with the excellent on board audio. But sections of the coaster just going through grass fields holds it back. I truly believe that I could ride Big Bear 100 times and still come off grinning ear to ear each time.

10

Andrew - Mako – SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando is marketed as “the coaster capital of Orlando,” and I consider Mako its gem. It’s far from the newest coaster but it has great theming, and it’s an excellent example of a B&M hyper. On my last visit in December 2024, the coaster had no wait at all, and I wish I could’ve gotten at least ten rides in, but I had to catch a flight home.

Dustin - Maverick - Cedar Point

Tiny yet mighty, Maverick ushered in a new era of coaster with it's focus on speed and intensity. One of those rare coasters that keeps moving up my list, especially after the restraint update.

Creech - Mystic Timbers - King’s Island

This is what a wooden coaster should be. Airtime, laterals, terrain, and just overall fun! 

Greg - Millennium Force - Cedar Point 

This ride never gets boring no matter how many times I've ridden it.  Almost 25 years old, and this coaster feels like it could have been made yesterday.

Eric - Wicker Man - Alton Towers

Theming absolutely carries this pick into my top 10. After what I consider to be a top 5 preshow I’ve ever seen, you hurdle three times through one of the most impressive theming structures ever incorporated into a ride. It’s a short ride, to be fair, but leaves you with a sense of awe that few other coasters I’ve seen can. That giant, flaming Wicker Man structure is just spectacular, and the sights, sounds, and yes smells that come along with the ride stay with you for a long time after. Feed the flames!

9

Andrew - ArieForce One – FunSpot Atlanta

The first thing that comes to mind about ArieForce One is the quad-down, which is painful for my thighs if I don’t brace for it. But the second thing that comes to mind is how fun and re-rideable this coaster is. I also love the theming in the queue, and I hope this is just the beginning of a new era for FunSpot locations.

Dustin - Goliath - Six Flags over Georgia 

My favorite B&M hyper, not just because it’s amazing but so unique too. It's not cookie cutter, has amazing air and positive Gs,and interacts with other elements in and out of the park. A true home run.

Creech - Ride to Happiness - Plopsaland De Panne

My first ride on this was surreal. The theming, the soundtrack, the most intensity and out of control on any ride. I cannot see a ride ever beating this out when it comes to sheer insanity. 

Greg - Phoenix - Knoebels

So much airtime.  The whole ride is airtime.  It's short but sweet.  The perfect amount of time for constantly flying out of your seat. 

Eric - Phantom’s Revenge - Kennywood

I was born in and will forever call Pittsburgh, PA home. I grew up in the north hills, so taking that 30-45 minute drive to Kennywood a few times a year was so special that it genuinely felt like going to Disney as a kid. I was also a big chicken, and in the few years that I was tall enough to ride, I never mustered the courage to take on The Steel Phantom. However, once its original form was retired and the regret set in, I made a vow to myself that I would get on Phantom’s Revenge the summer that it re-opened. After my first ride, my preteen brain was convinced that it had to be the biggest, craziest coaster in the world, there wasn’t a doubt in my mind. It wasn’t until I was older and more world traveled that I realized my naive impression wasn’t actually that far off. After traveling to parks all over the world and riding some of the best, it remains one of my favorites.

8

Andrew - Steel Vengeance – Cedar Point

Many people have “SteVe” as their favorite coaster at Cedar Point. I enjoyed my first rides on the coaster during a Buzzed Bars Coaster Club event in 2024, and I was impressed by how fast the train dispatches were. This is easily a top 10 coaster for me due to the combination of height, speed, tight turns, and lots of airtime.

Dustin - Skyrush - Hersheypark

I still remember getting off of my first Skyrush ride 10 years ago, realizing my world had been rocked. There are crazier coasters but not many.massive air great drop, and comfortable restraints give Skyrush the edge at HP.

Creech - Iron Gwazi - Busch Gardens Tampa

My favorite RMC. I need to get back on it to confirm its ranking, but there is only one better first drop than this. The death roll is good, but I think the front row provides the best overall experience for this ride.

Greg - The Beast - Kings Island

I've never gotten tired of The Beast.  My first ride as a kid had me hooked.  I didnt mind the roughness.  I enjoyed the feeling of blasting into the forest and not knowing where you were going or if you'd ever come back.  The night rides on this one are unbeatable and unbelievable.  

Eric - Intimidator 305 - King’s Dominion

I gray out every single time, and I love every second of it. I don’t need to repeat the sentiments of thousands of coaster enthusiasts all over the world, 305 (or Pantherian I suppose) speaks for itself. Pure, unfiltered intensity front start to finish, exemplifying the “thrill” part of thrill ride. 

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Andrew - Millennium Force – Cedar Point

I didn’t know this when I first walked up to it, but I’m at the maximum rider height for Millennium Force. I waited for 20 minutes or so in the queue, and then I was pulled aside to have my height checked. I was wearing sneakers that added at least an inch, so the ride operator directed me to the exit. Fortunately, I brought some sandals with me on this trip and I was able to experience the speed (93 mph), drop (300 ft), and fantastic views provided by this coaster.

Dustin - Twisted Timbers - King’s Dominion

The closest RMC to me for a while. Twisted Timbers is the greatest bad to good transformation I've ridden to date. It never lets up (almost too much) and every element (last barrel roll) just slaps.

Creech - Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure - Islands of Adventure

The second of three perfect coasters. After working this ride, I truly think it is one of the best engineering marvels ever designed. The music, the theming, the thrill… this is truly a perfect coaster.

Greg - Maverick- Cedar Point

The line for Maverick is still always a minimum hour wait 17 years after opening.  The first launch over the lift hill and the stall into launch under the station are absolute standouts.  Another masterpiece from Intamin.  The only problem is how often it's not operating/being repaired.

Eric - Lightning Rod (launched) - Dollywood

Of all terrain based coasters I’ve done, none do it better than Lightning Rod. I was lucky enough to be there in its last year operating the launch, on a day when it was running smoothly with no lines thanks to the rain and cold. Being pelted in the face with rain while traversing that quad down the mountain was a full on sensory assault. No other ride on this list has made me feel less in control of what was happening to my body, and honestly I don’t know if that’s a positive or negative, but it’s such an extreme feeling that I have to rank it highly out of pure respect. 

6

Andrew - Fury 325 – Carowinds

I’ve ridden Fury 325 more times than I can count. It’s fantastic. It’s smooth, re-rideable, and fast (95 mph). There isn’t much to improve upon besides adding more theming. There’s a reason why the Golden Ticket Awards consistently rank this as the world’s best steel coaster.

Dustin - Wildcat’s Revenge - Hersheypark

A pipe dream for years, WR shares very little with its namesake but that's a good thing. A unique set of elements for an RMC and every one of them hits perfectly. Great ops make this a reliable ride too!

Creech - Skyrush - Hersheypark

The hyper coaster to rule them all. Hot take, I prefer the front row on this ride. It’s still breakneck intense, but you can brace for the intensity, and that’s what makes it better for me. My first ride was back left wing, and it was too much for me. 

Greg - Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

For a lot of the ride you're outdoors, but the theming is so good you forget that and are fully immersed in the world of Harry Potter.  Also the drop track finale is amazing.

Eric - Pantheon - Busch Garden’s Williamsburg

Oh Pantheon. Absolute home park bias here, but my favorite ride at my favorite park has to account for something in my rankings. I wish upon all wishes that after they see the success of recent highly themed projects like Loch Ness and Darkoaster (and the full village they are currently constructing for Big Bad Wolf), that maybe in an inevitable off year coming up from building a new coaster, they take a look at Pantheon and give it the theming love that it so deserves. Having the train whipping through the ruins of a great roman temple would be an absolute game changer, and I truly believe that theming alone could catapult this really amazing ride up many enthusiasts lists and get it the credit that I believe it deserves. 

5

Andrew - Maverick – Cedar Point

Everyone has their favorite coaster at Cedar Point, and Maverick is mine. During my first and only visit to Cedar Point, Maverick was experiencing downtime, and I didn’t know if I’d get to ride it. Fortunately, it reopened on my last night at the park, and I loved it. I was surprised by how long the ride was (2:30) and the relentless action. Wow.

Dustin - El Toro - Six Flags Great Adventure

Epic drop, airtime, airtime, rolling thunder hill, airtime, do it again. 

Creech - Maverick - Cedar Point

Oh Maverick. The hands down best coaster at Cedar Point. You have airtime, speed, fast turns, low to the ground moments, and just all around fun. If only this had a top hat and on board audio…

Greg - X2- Six Flags Magic Mountain

Absolute mayhem.  I felt more as though I was being pulled, lifted,  or dropped in all directions rather than just riding a conventional rollercoaster 

Eric - Wildcat’s Revenge - Hersheypark 

Wildcat provides what I wish Twisted Timbers did. It’s a similar sized coaster that’s tucked into a tight space in a full park. However, Wildcat exemplifies the fun that comes with a top tier RMC. Every element transitions perfectly into the next, they all make sense, and they all feel purposeful. There is not a moment on this ride where you don’t feel like it isn’t doing the perfect thing. The “WOO”s only intensify and become more frantic as the layout continues. I would especially recommend a night ride. 

4

Andrew - Iron Gwazi – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

As a tall guy, the restraints on Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC) coasters are generally uncomfortable. There are a few exceptions, and Iron Gwazi is one of them. But I also love this coaster for the same reasons as others: the drop, speed (76 mph), and airtime moments. It’s my favorite at BGT.

Dustin - Velocicoaster - Islands of Adventure

During construction, I was convinced this coaster would be amazing. I was still blown away by the whole experience. And the Mosasaurs roll? Chef’s kiss!

Creech - Taron - Phantasialand

I can’t believe I have ridden this. I followed the construction for this coaster and would say this is when I really fell in love with the nuisances of finding the unique traits to each coaster. The most track crossings ever? Such a unique accolade. The onboard audio for this is by far the best in any coaster and IMA Score has done a phenomenal job across the industry.

Greg - Superman Ride of Steel - Six Flags Darien Lake

Very underrated coaster.  A bit less intense than Intimidator 305 or Millennium Force.  I might consider it a beginner’s version of either of those.   I love the long straightaways speeding just above the ground and water.

Eric - Iron Gwazi - Busch Gardens Tampa

See Wildcat’s Revenge notes, but bigger.

3

Andrew - Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind – EPCOT
Disney nailed it with Cosmic Rewind. This coaster is so much fun, and I’ve ridden it over 17 times now. My only complaint is that the pre-show is long, and there’s no way to skip it if you’ve seen it before. The best song is “Conga,” and I won’t be accepting any notes at this time. If you haven’t gotten that song, you haven’t truly experienced the ride.

Dustin - Iron Gwazi - Busch Gardens Tampa

Best coaster in Florida by a hair. Great drop and layout with a couple unique for RMC elements. 500 more feet and it would probably be my number 1.

Creech - Fury 325 - Carowinds

I don’t think I can let Fury drop out of my top 3. My first rides were during the first coaster campout where there were less than 30 participants which meant two hours of night ERT on Fury during my first visit. Unreal. The first drop is the best in the world and I can’t find a better use of the speed in any other coaster.

Greg - Intimidator 305- Kings Dominion

Pure intensity.  Take Millennium Force and make it more intense and speedier but crammed into a smaller space.   

Eric - Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure - Universal Islands of Adventure

When I think of myself as a little kid, reading Harry Potter books as they are released and imagining the Wizarding World and all that it could provide, I would have pictured this ride as my perfect Harry Potter experience. I prefer a high quality dark ride to most coasters, and this ride provides the closest thing I’ve ever experienced to being both. The story is so clear, so well realized, and is coupled with an insane level of roller coaster technology. Switch tracks, drop tracks, and an insane amount of launches provide an incredibly complete ride experience. 

2

Andrew - Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – Universal Islands of Adventure

Let me get this out of the way: I’m not a massive fan of Harry Potter. But I love coasters with theming, and Hagrid’s is the best example I’ve ridden. I won’t give anything away if you haven’t ridden, but there are many animatronics and launches. It’s so much fun.

Dustin - Fury 325 - Carowinds

The best drop in the world starts this amazing ride and then the pace never lets up until the final breaks. I love everything about this coaster; it’s smooth, full of fun forces, and is just a blast from start to finish.

Creech - Velocicoaster - Islands of Adventure

My first rides on this with my buddy Chris were unforgettable. My second trip I wore a suit with two of my best friends and it was legendary. This coaster is so close to perfection for me, and all it needs is an on board soundtrack. The stall, the top hat, the roll - this coaster is if you combine the best of Taron and Maverick into one. 

Greg - Iron Gwazi- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Almost as good as Velocicoaster, but without the theming.  By far my favorite rmc.  After my first ride I had to get back in line immediately.  

Eric - Veocicoaster - Universal Islands of Adventure

There isn’t much I can say about Velocicoaster that hasn’t already been said. It tears through its incredibly well themed course, it features coaster elements that are completely unique, and leaves you with that “what just happened” feeling. An incredible ride from start to finish.

1

Andrew - VelociCoaster – Universal Islands of Adventure

Intamin and Universal Creative created a masterpiece with VelociCoaster. If you haven’t seen the making of video, you should put that on your watchlist. The coaster is so much fun – it’s intense and smooth at the same time. The "Mosasaurus Roll" is incredible. I still can’t get over how good this coaster is. It’s my number one.

Dustin - Steel Vengeance - Cedar Point

When RMC started, this was the one we all wanted. When we got it, I feel like we won. This coaster does everything I love and buries itself in the massive Mean Streak structure so you never know which ways up. 10/10

Creech - Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind - EPCOT

I’ve long debated this as my number one, but it truly is my favorite coaster. I’ve never had a bad lap. I always come off smiling, laughing, and just all around happy. The ride itself is smooth perfection and consists of some great airtime too. This is THE perfect coaster, and I hope we see more levels of immersion and theming in future coasters to come. 

Greg - Velocicoaster- Universal Islands of Adventure

I got lucky and rode this during its soft opening. I didn't know what I just rode, but I knew it was something special.  This is considered by many to be the perfect roller coaster and the best one in the world. It's very hard to argue against that.

Eric - Voltron Nevara - Europa-Park

Imagine your favorite coaster, and think of your favorite element on that coaster. Now imagine your favorite element on your second favorite coaster… and your third. Voltron does all of that. I cannot picture a more perfect ride experience. It is incredibly intense while also being perfectly paced. It has unique, state of the art theming seconds away from in your face forces. It goes on and on and on and surprises you every second. EuropaPark should be at the top of every enthusiasts list after this addition, Voltron delivers on every level.