Where is the oldest roller coaster in Massachusetts? Here's how to ride it
Chances are you are always looking for a new ride to try, from drop rides to suspension rides to virtual reality adventures. However, Massachusetts not only has plenty of newer rides across its many theme parks, but also a number of older rides that offer a more historic thrill.
In fact, the oldest operating roller coaster in the state, Thunderbolt at Six Flags New England, dates all the way back to 1941.
Want to ride the oldest coaster in Massachusetts? Here's what to know about Thunderbolt.
History of Thunderbolt
According to Six Flags New England's website, Thunderbolt was built back in 1941.
However, the ride's origins date back even further, as it is based on the Cyclone coaster from the 1939 New York World's Fair. After the fair, park owner Edward Carroll Sr. acquired the track, train and plans from original designer Vernon Keenan, according to the American Coaster Enthusiasts.
Joseph E. Drambour reassembled the coaster at Six Flags New England, then called Riverside Park, and the coaster officially opened for the 1941 season.
Today, the wooden coaster stands as the oldest roller coaster in Six Flags New England, offering a series of thrilling hills and drops throughout its figure-8 layout. American Coaster Enthusiasts recognizes Thunderbolt as a landmark, recognizing the many generations for which the coaster has provided fun.
Roller coaster lover? The oldest theme park in MA is one of the most famous in the country. Here's where it is
How to ride Thunderbolt
Six Flags New England currently opens every day at 11 a.m., closing on weekdays at 7 or 8 p.m. and on weekends at 9 p.m. The theme park will transition to weekend-only hours after Labor Day.
Daily tickets currently cost $35 for adults or $25 for military and first responders. Six Flags also offers season passes at various levels.
Thunderbolt can be found in the park's Main Street Plaza, to the left of the Ride Information Center. The park itself is located at 1623 Main St. in Agawam, Massachusetts.
This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: What is the oldest roller coaster in MA? The history of Thunderbolt
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