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Photo courtesy of Dorney Park
The Wooden Classic Opened to the Public in 1924
Allentown, PA – Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is gearing up for a historic season but not just because they’re set to unveil the largest investment in the park’s history.
Iron Menace, the Northeast’s first dive roller coaster, will open to the public in April but before that the park’s oldest coaster will officially turn 100 years old.
Today, March 30th, marks 100 years since the wooden classic Thunderhawk opened to the public.
Originally, the then named ‘Coaster’ was built as an out-and-back roller coaster featuring little more than a drop and return. Over the years it has been renamed and reconfigured into the ride guests can enjoy today.
“Thunderhawk is a national landmark and an integral part of our park’s history,” said Dorney Park Vice President and General Manager Jessica Naderman. “We are proud of the generations of men and women who have preserved this roller coaster over the years, and we’re excited to celebrate its centennial.”
Thunderhawk’s trains were overhauled and refurbished this offseason by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc out of Hatfield. The same company that manufactured the ‘Coaster’ back in 1923.
“We’re glad that Dorney Park is recognizing Thunderhawk’s 100th anniversary,” said President of Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc Thomas Rebbie. “It means a lot when you reach a milestone like this. We are proud to help preserve this amazing piece of history.”
In addition to the refurbished trains, Thunderhawk will also feature some special decals for the 100th celebration.
This season the park plans to recognize the centennial with updated signage, new merchandise, and a celebratory event.
To ride Thunderhawk all season long guests are encouraged to purchase silver passes, now available online for unlimited access to the park, Wildwater Kingdom, live shows and events. For more ticket information or to see the full event and entertainment schedule, visit dorneypark.com.
About Dorney Park
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom offers Pennsylvania’s best value – Two Great Parks All in One. With more than 100 rides, shows and attractions, guests can enjoy seven roller coasters, the largest collection of kids’ rides in Planet Snoopy™ and one of the country’s best-ranked water parks with 26 water slides and two giant wave pools. Special themed festivals, as well as the best Halloween event in the region, make Dorney Park the best place to create lasting memories.
About Cedar Fair Entertainment Company
Dorney Park is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company (NYSE: FUN), a publicly traded partnership and one of the largest regional amusement-resort operators in the world. The Company owns and operates 11 amusement parks, four outdoor water parks, an indoor water park and resort accommodations totaling more than 2,300 rooms and more than 600 luxury RV sites. For more information, see www.cedarfair.com.
Information provided to TVL by:
Ryan Eldredge
