Cedar Point opens Saturday with new rides, attractions

SANDUSKY

Cedar Point amusement park opens its gates for the 2014 season this Saturday, with a variety of new rides, shows and attractions.

New this year are:

Pipe Scream: Billed as combining the best of a roller coaster and a flat ride in one, Pipe Scream spins riders along 302 feet of track, reaching a maximum height of 43 feet and at speeds topping 40 mph.

Lake Erie Eagles: Riders sit in one of eight carriages that are suspended from arms 28 feet above the ground. As the ride begins its cycle, the carriages swing outward simulating the sensation of flight. A paddle on the carriages will allow guests to alter their flight experience.

Chickie’s and Pete’s: Known for its Crabfries, this restaurant will also feature Philly Cheese Steaks and Lisa’s Blonde Lobster Pie. Chickie’s and Pete’s was recently named as one of the “Ten Best Sports Bars” in the country by USA Today.

Starbucks: A full-service Starbucks is now in the location formerly occupied by Donut Time.

Camp Snoopy: Two kid-favorite rides – Woodstock’s Airmail (formerly Frog Hopper) and Wilderness Run (formerly Jr. Gemini) — have been added.

Lighthouse Point Cabins: Fifty-two new deluxe cabins have been added to Lighthouse Point. Each can accommodate up to 10 people and feature two full bathrooms, four flat panel televisions, a dorm-size refrigerator, microwave, coffeemaker, outdoor charcoal grill and picnic table.

“Luminosity: Ignite the Night – 2014 Edition”: This high-energy show will feature an all-new lineup of music, dancing and pyrotechnics. It will be performed nightly (except Tuesdays), May 30-Aug. 17.

SlingShot: This new ride will open later this summer. Riders will be secured in an open-air two-person capsule before being launched nearly 360 feet into the sky at speeds of up to 62 mph. SlingShot, located near the Gemini roller coaster, will be an extra-charge ride.

Cedar Point will also have a variety of new food options this summer, including Auntie Anne’s and Cinnabon in Challenge Park and new Coca-Cola Freestyle and Yogurt Plus locations along the Gemini Midway. Several new live shows will also debut this summer, including “Rockin’ Country” in the Red Garter Saloon, “Lusty Lil’s Revue” in the Palace Theatre and “Snoopy Unleashed” in the Good Time Theatre.

This weekend, guests will receive a free Cedar Point VIP jacket at the main entrance (upon exit, while supplies last). For a complete operating schedule, go to cedarpoint.com.