As roller coaster enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the debut of Top Thrill 2 next month, boasting its status as the fastest and tallest linear synchronous motor triple-launch coaster, another gem at Cedar Point should not be overlooked. The Raptor is gearing up to celebrate its 30th anniversary this year, and it holds a special place in the hearts of many thrill-seekers.

Standing tall and proud as a steel inverted roller coaster, Raptor, designed by Bolliger & Mabillard, has been a fan favorite since its grand opening in 1994. Setting itself apart from its predecessors, Raptor broke records with its expansive 3,790-foot layout, making it the tallest, fastest, and longest inverted roller coaster globally at the time.

Featuring a captivating theme as a bird of prey, Raptor offers an exhilarating ride through six inversions, including the world’s first-ever cobra roll for inverted coasters. As riders embark on the journey, they experience the thrill of dangling feet through twists and turns that cover a vertical loop, two inverted corkscrews, a zero-gravity roll, and the iconic cobra roll, all at speeds reaching up to 57 mph.

The $11.5 million investment in Raptor was a testament to Cedar Point’s commitment to delivering unparalleled coaster experiences. With three trains, each comprising eight cars accommodating 32 riders, the coaster ensures a thrilling and immersive adventure for all.

The ride begins with a left-hand turn out of the station, ascending 137 feet on the lift hill. A breathtaking drop of 119 feet follows, leading into a 100-foot vertical loop and a series of inversions, including the groundbreaking cobra roll. The journey continues with corkscrews, upward spirals, and mid-course brake runs, captivating riders for a thrilling 2 minutes and 16 seconds.

As Top Thrill 2 captures the spotlight this year, my choice for a thrilling day at Cedar Point will include a ride on Raptor. 

Celebrating 30 years of exhilarating loops and dives, this iconic coaster continues to be a symbol of timeless excitement for roller coaster enthusiasts and newcomers alike. It’s a can’t-miss attraction at Cedar Point. 

Required reading: Blue Streak: Celebrating 60 Years of Thrills at Cedar Point