This post needs a little clarification. Anyway, many of you are aware of the brilliant Vote Coasters project over at Coaster Bot. If not, take a look:
https://coasterbot.com/votecoasters-fullresults2020 2699 enthusiasts from across the wrold people ranked every roller coaster they've ever ridden, at an average of 43 coaster credits per voter (116256 total credits). Many of you personally participated in this survey. Their algorithm is extremely clever (
https://coasterbot.com/votecoasters-how) - "The community is only permitted to rank roller coasters they’ve actually ridden. This way each roller coasters position in the final results will be as truthful and accurate as possible. By making it easy for lots of people to contribute their lists, Vote Coasters is able to accumulate a large sample which represents everyone! Once the community has voted, the numbers are crunched. Our method involves directly comparing the rank of two individual roller coasters across all of the submitted lists. As Vote Coasters makes direct comparisons between individual roller coasters, the poll is not a popularity contest. Even obscure roller coasters that few people have had the chance to ride yet can do well!"
I have taken this data and created a point system for coasters that's directly linked to their ranking on Vote Coasters 2020. The #1 ranking, Steel Vengeance, is worth 500 points. [Zadra's second and would be worth 499 points, but it's not in the US] #3, Lightning Rod, gets 498 points. El Toro gets 497 points and so on, all the way down to La Vibora in 499th place, earning only 2 points for its park. Any coaster under the top 500 (such as Corkscrew at Cedar Point) is worth zero points. This weeds out kiddie coasters and terrible coasters from factoring into a park's collection quality. Basically, crappy coasters add zero points to a park's total points, while excellent coasters are worth way more points than mid-tier ones. For coasters with two tracks, such as Gemini or Lightning Racer, I only counted points for the best of the two tracks. My spreadsheet showing the point values for all 256 American coasters in the top 500 is here:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/10aaS1f8CptsXEvUSqE2-VUtal-Od9gim-x8rT7xkT8M/edit?usp=sharing I have added all of the points for the coasters in all of the 73 American amusement parks that house at least one global top 500 roller coaster. I ranked the earned point totals for all 73 parks. (That's how I got to a "Top 73!") For those like me who care exclusively about coasters and collecting quality credits and nothing else, I think this is an EXCELLENT way to prioritize future amusement park trips based on the quality of each park's overall coaster collection. Without further ado, here's what you want to see:
1 (4149 points): Cedar Point - Sandusky, OH
17 coasters
1 - Steel Vengeance (2018, RMC IBox)
8 - Maverick (2007, Intamin Blitz)
28 - Millennium Force (2000, Intamin Giga)
33 - Top Thrill Dragster (2003, Intamin Accelerator)
105 - Raptor (1994, B&M Invert)
113 - Magnum XL-200 (1989, Arrow Hyper)
140 - Gatekeeper (2013, B&M Wing)
173 - Valravn (2016, B&M Dive)
260 - Rougarou (1996, B&M Floorless)
324 - Gemini (1978, Arrow Dueling SCS)
325 - Wicked Twister (2002, Intamin Impulse)
363 - Blue Streak (1964, PTC Woodie)
491 - Iron Dragon (1987, Arrow Suspended)
Unranked: Cedar Creek Mine Ride, Corkscrew, Wilderness Run, Woodstock Express
Average coaster ranking: 260.67/500
2 (3704 points): Six Flags Magic Mountain - Valencia, CA
19 coasters
17 - Twisted Colossus (RMC IBox Quasi Mobius)
26 - X2 (2002, Arrow 4th Dimension)
64 - Tatsu (2006, B&M Flyer)
131 - Full Throttle (2013, Premier Rides Sky Rocket III)
203 - Batman The Ride (1994, B&M Invert)
214 - Apocalypse the Ride (2009, GCI Woodie)
216 - Riddler's Revenge (1998, B&M Stand-Up)
219 - Goliath (2000, Giovanola Mega)
289 - West Coast Racers (2020, Premier Rides Quasi Mobius)
312 - Scream! (2003, B&M Floorless)
342 - Superman: Escape from Krypton (1997, Intamin Freefall)
409 - New Revolution (1976, Schwarzkopf Steel)
413 - Ninja (1988, Arrow Suspended)
455 - Viper (1990, Arrow Looper)
Unranked: Canyon Blaster, Gold Rusher, Magic Flyer, Road Runner Express, Speedy Gonzales Hot Rod Racers
Average coaster ranking: 305.79/500
3 (2735 points): Kings Island - Mason, OH
14 coasters
43 - Mystic Timbers (2017, GCI Woodie)
52 - Diamondback (2009, B&M Hyper)
65 - Orion (2020, B&M Giga)
106 - Banshee (2014, B&M Invert)
116 - Beast (1979, KECO Woodie)
275 - Flight of Fear (1996, Premier Rides LIM Dark Ride)
294 - Bat (1993, Arrow Suspended)
383 - Backlot Stunt Coaster (2005, Premier Rides Steel)
440 - Racer (1972, PTC Dueling Woodie)
Unranked: Adventure Express, Flying Ace Aerial Chase, Great Pumpkin Coaster, Invertigo, Woodstock Express
Average coaster ranking: 305.29/500
4 (2722 points): Six Flags Great America - Gurnee, IL
15 coasters
56 - Goliath (2014, RMC Topper Woodie)
107 - Maxx Force (2019, S&S Launch)
123 - Raging Bull (1999, B&M Hyper)
179 - Batman The Ride (1992, B&M Invert)
229 - X-Flight (2012, B&M Wing)
243 - Viper (1995, SFGA Cyclone)
268 - Superman - Ultimate Flight (2003, B&M Flyer)
330 - American Eagle (1981, Intamin Dueling Woodie)
375 - Vertical Velocity (2001, Intamin Impulse)
378 - Whizzer (1976, Schwarzkopf Speed Racer)
Unranked: Dark Knight, Demon, Joker, Little Dipper, Sprocket Rockets
Average coaster ranking: 327.07/500
5 (2540 points): Hersheypark - Hershey, PA
14 coasters
14 - Skyrush (2012, Intamin Wing)
60 - Storm Runner (2004, Intamin Accelerator)
85 - Candymonium (2020, B&M Hyper)
134 - Fahrenheit (2008, Intamin Multi-Inversion)
152 - Great Bear (1998, B&M Invert)
200 - Lightning Racer (2000, GCI Dueling Woodie)
402 - Sooperdooperlooper (1977, Schwarzkopf Looping Speedracer)
421 - Comet (1946, PTC Woodie)
Unranked: Cocoa Cruiser, Laff Trakk, Sidewinder, Trailblazer, Wild Mouse, Wildcat
Average coaster ranking: 311.53/500
6 (2386 points): Six Flags Great Adventure - Jackson, NJ
12 coasters
4 - El Toro (2006, Intamin Prefab Woodie)
68 - Nitro (2001, B&M Hyper)
108 - Kingda Ka (2005, Intamin Accelerator)
146 - Bizarro (1999, B&M Floorless)
193 - Batman The Ride (1993, B&M Invert)
259 - Superman - Ultimate Flight (B&M Flyer)
417 - Green Lantern (2011, B&M Stand-Up)
427 - Joker (2016, S&S Free Spin)
Unranked: Dark Knight, Harley Quinn Crazy Train, Runaway Mine Train, Skull Mountain
Average coaster ranking: 301.83/500
7 (2070 points): Six Flags Over Georgia - Austell, GA
10 coasters
59 - Goliath (2006, B&M Hyper)
69 - Twisted Cyclone (2018, RMC IBox)
197 - Batman The Ride (1997, B&M Invert)
199 - Mind Bender (1978, Schwarzkopf Steel)
256 - Superman - Ultimate Flight (2002, B&M Flyer)
313 - Georgia Scorcher (1999, B&M Stand-Up)
360 - Dare Devil Dive (2011, Gerstlauer Euro-Fighter)
485 - Great American Scream Machine (1973, PTC Woodie)
Unranked: Blue Hawk, Dahlonega Mine Train, Joker Funhouse Coaster
Average coaster ranking: 312.55/500
8 (2031 points): Busch Gardens Williamsburg - Williamsburg, VA
8 coasters
76 - Alpengeist (1997, B&M Invert)
80 - Apollo's Chariot (1999, B&M Hyper)
112 - Griffon (2007, B&M Dive)
183 - Verbolten (2012, Zierer Launch)
288 - Loch Ness Monster (1978, Arrow Looper)
352 - InvadR (2017, GCI Woodie)
385 - Tempesto (2015, Premier Rides Sky Rocket)
Unranked: Grover's Alpine Express
Average coaster ranking: 210.86/500
9 (2013 points): Busch Gardens Tampa - Tampa, FL
9 coasters
44 - Montu (1996, B&M Invert)
90 - Kumba (1993, B&M Sitting)
109 - Cheetah Hunt (2011, Intamin Blitz)
114 - SheiKra (2005, B&M Dive)
317 - Tigris (2019, Premier Rides Sky Rocket)
405 - Cobra's Curse (2016, Mack X-Treme Spinning)
415 - Scorpion (1980, Schwarzkopf Silverarrow)
Unranked: Air Grover, Sand Serpent
Average coaster ranking: 277.11/500
10 (1855 points): Dollywood - Pigeon Forge, TN
9 coasters
3 - Lightning Rod (RMC Launched Topper)
119 - Thunderhead (2004, GCI Woodie)
185 - Tennessee Tornado (1999, Arrow Looper)
232 - Wild Eagle (2012, B&M Wing)
279 - Mystery Mine (2007, Gerstlauer Euro-Fighter)
362 - Firechaser Express (2014, Gerstlauer Family Coaster)
472 - Dragonflier (2019, Vekoma SFC)
Unranked: Blazing Fury, Whistle Punk Coaster
Average coaster ranking: 294.67/500
11 (1819 points): Carowinds - Charlotte, NC
14 coasters
5 - Fury 325 (2015, B&M Giga)
84 - Afterburn (1999, B&M Invert)
93 - Copperhead Strike (2019, Mack Launch)
110 - Intimidator (2010, B&M Hyper)
394 - Nighthawk (2004, Vekoma Flying Dutchman)
Unranked: Carolina Cyclone, Carolina Goldrusher, Flying Cobras, Hurler, Kiddy Hawk, Ricochet, Vortex, Wilderness Run, Woodstock Express
Average coaster ranking: 370.43/500
12 (1795 points): Six Flags Fiesta Texas - San Antonio, TX
10 coasters
37 - Iron Rattler (2013, RMC IBox)
47 - Wonder Woman Golden Lasso Coaster (2018, RMC Raptor)
137 - Superman Krypton Coaster (2000, B&M Floorless)
250 - Goliath (2008, B&M Invert)
314 - Poltergeist (1999, Premier Rides Launch)
426 - Batman The Ride (2015, S&S Free-Spin)
Unranked: Boomerang, Pandemonium, Road Runner Express, Streamliner Coaster
Average coaster ranking: 321.10/500
13 (1739 points): Knott's Berry Farm - Buena Park, CA
10 coasters
45 - GhostRider (1998, CCI Woodie)
66 - Xcelerator (2002, Intamin Accelerator)
167 - HangTime (2018, Gerstlauer Infinity)
191 - Silver Bullet (2004, B&M Invert)
340 - Montezooma's Revenge (1998, Schwarzkopf Shuttle Loop)
458 - Sierra Sidewinder (2007, Mack Spinning)
Unranked: Coast Rider, Jaguar!, Pony Express, Timberline Twister
Average coaster ranking: 326.70/500
14 (1715 points): Kings Dominion (Doswell, VA)
12 coasters
20 - Twisted Timbers (2018, RMC IBox)
21 - Intimidator 305 (2010, Intamin Giga)
153 - Dominator (2008, B&M Floorless)
300 - Flight of Fear (1996, Premier Rides Launch)
416 - Racer 75 (1975, PTC Dueling Woodie)
422 - Backlot Stunt Coaster (2006, Premier Rides Steel)
460 - Grizzly (1982, PTC Woodie)
Unranked: Anaconda, Apple Zapple, Avalanche, Great Pumpkin Coaster, Woodstock Express
Average coaster ranking: 359.54/500
15 (1710 points): Six Flags Over Texas (Arlington, TX)
13 coasters
70 - New Texas Giant (2011, RMC IBox)
129 - Mr. Freeze Reverse Blast (1998, Premier Rides Shuttle Loop)
189 - Shock Wave (1978, Schwarzkopf Looper)
207 - Titan (2001, Giovanola Mega)
251 - Batman The Ride (1999, B&M Invert)
452 - Joker (2017, S&S Free-Spin)
499 - La Vibora (1986, Intamin Swiss Bob)
Unranked: Judge Roy Scream, Mini Mine Train, Pandemonium, Runaway Mine Train, Runaway Mountain, Wile E. Coyote's Grand Canyon Blaster
Average coaster ranking: 369.00/500
16 (1666 points): Silver Dollar City - Branson, MO
7 coasters
18 - Outlaw Run (2013, RMC Topper Woodie)
49 - Time Traveler (2018, Mack Xtreme Spinning)
162 - Wildfire (2001, B&M Sitting)
177 - Powder Keg: A Blast in the Wilderness (1999, Premiere Rides/S&S Hybrid)
433 - Thunderation (1993, Arrow Mine Train)
Unranked: Fire in the Hole, Grand Exposition Coaster
Average coaster ranking: 262.71/500
17 (1646 points): Kennywood - West Mifflin, PA
8 coasters
32 - Phantom's Revenge (1991, Arrow/Morgan Hyper)
117 - Steel Curtain (2019, S&S Steel)
261 - Thunderbolt (1924, Andy Vettel/NADC Woodie)
270 - Jack Rabbit (1920, John A. Miller Woodie)
290 - Sky Rocket (2010, Premier Rides Sky Rocket)
390 - Racer (1927, John. A Miller Mobius Woodie)
Unranked: Exterminator, Lil' Phantom
Average coaster ranking: 295.00/500
18 (1605 points): Holiday World - Santa Claus, IN
5 coasters
6 - The Voyage (2006, Gravity Group Woodie)
82 - Thunderbird (2015, B&M Launched Wing)
141 - Legend (2000, CCI Woodie)
170 - Raven (1995, CCI Woodie)
Unranked: Howler
Average coaster ranking: 179.80/500
19 (1367 points): Six Flags St. Louis - Eureka, MO
9 coasters
132 - Mr. Freeze Reverse Blast (1998, Premier Rides Shuttle Loop)
156 - American Thunder (2008, GCI Woodie)
211 - Batman The Ride (1995, B&M Invert)
283 - Boss (2000, CCI Woodie)
356 - Screamin' Eagle (1976, PTC Woodie)
Unranked: Boomerang, Ninja, Pandemonium, River King Mine Train
Average coaster ranking: 348.67/500
20 (1358 points): SeaWorld Orlando - Orlando, FL
5 coasters
35 - Mako (2016, B&M Hyper)
102 - Manta (2009, B&M Flyer)
128 - Kraken (2000, B&M Floorless)
381 - Journey to Atlantis (1998, Mack Water Coaster)
Unranked: Super Grover's Box Car Derby
Average coaster ranking: 229.20/500
21 (1205 points): California's Great America - Santa Clara, CA
9 coasters
39 - RailBlazer (2018, RMC Raptor)
72 - Gold Striker (2013, GCI Woodie)
187 - Flight Deck (1993, B&M Invert)
Unranked: Demon, Grizzly, Lucy's Crabbie Cabbies, Patriot, Psycho Mouse, Woodstock Express
Average coaster ranking: 366.44/500
22 (1190 points): Kentucky Kingdom - Louisville, KY
6 coasters
19 - Storm Chaser (2016, RMC IBox)
58 - Lightning Run (2014, Chance Rides Hyper GT-X)
355 - Kentucky Flyer (2019, Gravity Group Woodie)
382 - Thunder Run (1990, Dinn Corporation Woodie)
Unranked: Roller Skater, T3
Average coaster ranking: 302.33/500
23 (1166 points): Six Flags New England - Agawam, MA
12 coasters
22 - Wicked Cyclone (2015, RMC IBox)
29 - Superman the Ride (2000, Intamin Hyper)
286 - Batman - The Dark Knight (2002, B&M Floorless)
Unranked: Catwoman's Whip, Flashback, Goliath, Gotham City Gauntlet Escape from Arkham Asylum, Great Chase, Joker, Pandemonium, Riddler Revenge, Thunderbolt
Average coaster ranking: 403.08/500
24 (1157 points): Six Flags Discovery Kingdom - Vallejo, CA
10 coasters
98 - Joker (2016, RMC IBox)
163 - Medusa (2000, B&M Floorless)
304 - Flash: Vertical Velocity (2001, Intamin Impulse)
307 - Superman Ultimate Flight (2012, Premier Rides Sky Rocket)
476 - Batman The Ride (2019, S&S Free-Spin)
Unranked: Boomerang Coast to Coaster, Cobra, Harley Quinn Crazy Coaster, Kong, Roadrunner Express
Average coaster ranking: 384.80/500
25 (1060 points): Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom - Allentown, PA
7 coasters
151 - Talon (2001, B&M Invert)
181 - Steel Force (1997, Morgan Hyper)
215 - Hydra the Revenge (2005, B&M Floorless)
397 - Possessed (2008, Intamin Impulse)
Unranked: Thunderhawk, Wild Mouse, Woodstock Express
Average coaster ranking: 349.14/500
26 (957 points): Worlds of Fun (7 coasters, 3 ranked)
27 (902 points): Knoebels (6 coasters, 4 ranked)
28 (855 points): SeaWorld San Antonio (6 coasters, 3 ranked)
29 (827 points): Universal Studios Florida (4 coasters, 3 ranked)
30 (816 points): Islands of Adventure (4 coasters, 2 ranked)
31 (816 points): Six Flags America (9 coasters, 4 ranked)
32 (704 points): Valleyfair! (8 coasters, 3 ranked)
33 (703 points): Mt. Olympus (5 coasters, 3 ranked)
34 (685 points): Silverwood (6 coasters, 3 ranked)
35 (682 points): Lagoon (10 coasters, 3 ranked)
36 (652 points): Disneyland (4 coasters, 3 ranked)
37 (584 points): Lake Compounce (5 coasters, 2 ranked)
38 (564 points): Indiana Beach (5 coasters, 4 ranked)
39 (481 points): Nickelodeon Universe New Jersey (5 coasters, 3 ranked)
40 (455 points): Six Flags Darien Lake (8 coasters, 2 ranked)
41 (430 points): Waldameer (5 coasters, 1 ranked)
42 (398 points): Michigan's Adventure (6 coasters, 1 ranked)
43 (390 points): Kemah Boardwalk (1 coaster, 1 ranked)
44 (389 points): Adventureland Iowa (5 coasters, 2 ranked)
45 (365 points): Alabama Adventure (2 coasters, 1 ranked)
46 (361 points): Magic Kingdom (4 coasters, 3 ranked)
47 (347 points): Disney's Hollywood Studios (2 coasters, 2 ranked)
48 (340 points): Fun Spot America Kissimmee (4 coasters, 1 ranked)
49 (323 points): Disney's Animal Kingdom (1 coaster, 1 ranked)
50 (288 points): Luna Park (6 coasters, 1 ranked)
51 (275 points): Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (3 coasters, 1 ranked)
52 (273 points): Disney California Adventure Park (2 coasters, 1 ranked)
53 (268 points): Fun Spot America Orlando (3 coasters, 1 ranked)
54 (259 points): ZDT's Amusement Park (1 coaster, 1 ranked)
55 (258 points): SeaWorld San Diego (4 coasters, 2 ranked)
56 (239 points): Playland's Castaway Cove (4 coasters, 1 ranked)
57 (224 points): Beech Bend (3 coasters, 1 ranked)
58 (216 points): Universal Studios Hollywood (2 coasters, 1 ranked)
59 (206 points): Quassy Amusement Park (2 coasters, 1 ranked)
60 (195 points): Sesame Place (2 coasters, 1 ranked)
61 (175 points): Great Escape (6 coasters, 1 ranked)
62 (158 points): Buffalo Bill's Resort & Casino (1 coaster, 1 ranked)
63 (156 points): Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier (1 coaster, 1 ranked)
64 (151 points): Bay Beach Amusement Park (1 coaster, 1 ranked)
65 (137 points): Adventuredome (2 coasters, 1 ranked)
66 (127 points): Morey's Piers (7 coasters, 1 ranked)
67 (98 points): Casino Pier (3 coasters, 1 ranked)
68 (97 points): Nickelodeon Universe Minnesota (5 coasters, 1 ranked)
69 (93 points): Frontier City (5 coasters, 1 ranked)
70 (37 points): Adventureland New York (2 coasters, 1 ranked)
71 (17 points): Lakemont Park (3 coasters, 1 ranked)
72 (12 points): Conneaut Lake Park (2 coasters, 1 ranked)
73 (8 points): Belmont Park (1 coaster, 1 ranked)
If any coaster YouTube channel wants to use this data to fuel an idea for a new video (sup Airtime Thrills or Coaster Studios or, you know, COASTER BOT!), please feel free! 100% of the credit goes to Coaster Bot for helping me compile this ranking.
submitted by Introduction
The guide is meant to service roller coaster enthusiasts in the greater Las Vegas area. I won't be including general Las Vegas tips, or any less traditional thrill seeking activities you may find in Southern Nevada. We're going to hit roller coasters first and then move on to other theme park-like activities. I'll try to cover everything, but if I miss something let me know and I'll update this.
Welcome to Southern Nevada, the southern portion of the state with 0.05 roller coasters per 1,000 sq mi per RCDB. There's not a lot here, but there are a few memorable experiences that provide some credits and some entertainment to anyone. It's very possible to hit all of the credits in one day, but doing this may ruin the experience of some of these places. However, if you have some time in Vegas, and you'd rather have some thrill rides fill your day, here's what Southern Nevada has to offer.
Rollercoasters (From North to South)
Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix Credits - 1
Transportation - Taxi, Uber, or Rental Car
This small attraction is a little family-centered Go-Kart experience with a small credit.
The
coaster is a small little piece of work that serves as a credit at least. I have some fond memories of it from my childhood, but its nothing special. If you are bringing kids, about the ages 5-14, they'll enjoy this entire place, and its a nice escape from the relentless advertisement barrage that is the rest of the attractions.
Keep in mind, this is a good 30 minute drive away from the strip and therefire most of the hotels in town, so transportation can be inconvenient. If you really want the credit though, its still very possible to get there.
The Adventuredome Credits - 2 (R.I.P. Miner Mike)
Transportation - Foot, Uber, Taxi
Ah, The Adventuredome. The infamous indoor amusement park on the strip. This place is good for almost all ages, and even as an adult, one can still find enjoyment here for some part of a day. Getting here is easy, but if you're walking and stayed at a hotel near the heart of the strip, it will be a significant walk. However, its totally possible to walk here even from the New York New York casino, where another major roller coaster resides.
Canyon Blaster - The one word I would use to describe this coaster is charming. Its surprisingly smooth and holds up well for its size. Its layout is a little unconventional, but the novelty of it weaving throughout the rest of the park is intriguing. As for seats, the front will give you the most out of the near miss elements, while the back gives you a surprising amount of force. However, the difference isn't enough for me and I prefer the front.Not the best coaster in the world, but for an indoor Arrow, its really good.
El Loco - For the most recent coaster to be added to the dome, S&S brought a fun little coaster that takes advantage of the space. In an indoor park, there's no room for air time or huge drops. What there is room for is lots of inversions and nausea. This coaster uses its space really well, and is actually very entertaining to sit and watch. Once again, the novelty of it all being inside is really effective, and if you go to the Adventuredome at night, you'll get a unique ride on this coaster that may be memorable. However, I am a relatively weak stomached person, and the coaster started to get my lunch up after 4 or 5 rides. I have talked to more average people in terms of vulnerability to nausea, and they say its fine for quite a few rides in a row. Just keep that all in mind if you find yourself in a position to marathon this thing. As for seats, there are only four, so my recommendation would be to try to ride in the front two, but it doesn't really matter. Overall, a neat coaster with a lot of novelty which uses its size and space really well.
There are a couple flat rides in the dome, such as a Zamperla Disco, Morgan's Chaos, and Morgan's Inverter. These are cool as well, and definitely unique as there are not many indoor attractions like these. Other than that, the rest of the park is kiddie rides and stores. The park is actually quite fun to just stroll around, as the decorations and rockwork really cover the whole park and give the done some charm. I wouldn't recommend eating in the park, and you can buy a wristband for all day and leave in the middle, so take advantage of that.
The Big Apple Coaster Credits - 1
Transportation - Foot
Perhaps one of the most infamous
coasters in the world and the last Togo built coaster in the United States, the Big Apple Coaster is an experience, I just can't say it's the best experience. The potential this coaster had was astounding, but the cheaply constructed final product leaves much to be desired. Getting here is very easy from almost every hotel on the Strip, and once inside just ask someone to direct you to the arcade and you'll be on your way. The casino floors are purposely confusion, so guidance may be necessary to find the thing.
The actual coaster is okay. I don't think its as bad as everyone says, and I'll try to make my case here. Just try to not wear the VR, as those goggles make this this as bad as everyone says. You can ask the attendant to omit you from the VR, but I can't guarantee anything. Anyway, here's my defense of this coaster if you're not wearing VR:
While the overall experience of this coaster may be slightly uncomfortable and jarring, the main takeaway from this coaster is the view of the strip and uniqueness that make this coaster especially memorable. Few coasters swoop over a crowded parking lot next to one of the busiest streets in the city. Few coasters give you aerial view of a bustling downtown entertainment epicenter. And few coasters are as memorable as this one. In fact, the uncomfortable restraints and unusual layout contribute to this overall memorability. I find the front row makes the ride a little less jarring, and if you can, a night ride is a really cool experience. Yes, the coaster may not be the best experience and give the best forces, but its a unique coaster that is worth at least a day ride and a night ride.
Buffalo Bill's Resort and Desperado Credits - 1
Transportation - Uber, Rental Car
Driving all the way out to the border between Nevada and California will bring you to Buffalo Bill's Resort and the coaster that towers over it. It pretty much just the coaster out here, but this a motion simulator and I think a log flume, but I'm just going to cover Desperado. Getting out here is very troublesome, and its a good hour drive from the strip center. I would recommend renting a car and driving it out here for about half the day. Desperado is decent to marathon and I don't think I've ever waited for it.
The actual experience of Desperado is better than you may expect. It was actually my first coaster over 200ft, and as a hyper it stands up well enough. The air time is not great, but for a coaster in the middle of the desert its good enough. This coaster is really saved by how few people ride it; being able to ride it over and over is one of the best parts about it. Other than that, there's not much to say. Its okay, not great, kinda average. But in a state like Nevada, average is about all one can ask for.
Other Attractions
There are a couple other experiences that are in the same genome as theme parks. No credits here, but theme park goers may find some enjoyment from these places.
Wet n' Wild & Cowabunga Bay These are the seasonal water parks servicing the Las Vegas area. They're not extreamly large, but for small parks they're a nice place to chill in the summer. You could easily spend all day at one of these and kids will enjoy they're time. The differences are not very many between these two. I find that, in general, Wet n' Wild is cleaner and better kept, so if you can only visit one from the strip, that would be my recommendation.
The Spring's Preserve This is a large nature reserve and park which is not far from the strip. If you wan't an escape from the consumerism center of the strip, its a relaxing place. It very child-oriented, but it can be relaxing to just meander and explore. There are several buildings that act as museums and historical centers so if its a hot day, don't worry. Overall, a calm center just off of the downtown area that is nice and quaint.
The Stratosphere Finishing off with actual thrills, the stratosphere is a tall building with four main attractions at the top.
Here's the website from the building for pictures of all three thrill rides. All three of these rides are very crowd oriented and if you don't have any sort of fear of heights they're really just children's rides high in the sky. The view from the tower is nice and the other attraction, bungie jumping off top, is over priced for the experience. I would come up here if you really want to either see the view or hit the rides, other wise it will be a mundane and disappointing experience. I do have to sing the praises of the restaurant at the top. If you have the means to eat there, it's worth it.
Conclusion
Southern Nevada is not a thrill seeker's paradise, but the region does have some nice attractions and a handful of credits for coaster enthusiasts. If you're in the area and are interested in some non-night time activities, these might be for you. The future is not looking great for roller coasters in Southern Nevada, but who knows, some wealthy individual may just bring some thrills to this great desert.
submitted by Hey,
per kinda popular demand from this post:
https://www.reddit.com/Fallout/comments/bjosby/went_to_goodsprings_today/emal0a9?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x
here's my Fallout New Vegas Tour I did last year. Fallout has always been close to my heart. Played all of the old school ones when I was younger, including less favourable Tactics. Then, as an entry job to gamedev, I was testing Fallout 3 and later on translating parts of Fallout New Vegas to Polish. This trip was long time dream for me and I tried to squeeze in as much as possible with keeping my gf happy = visiting other (non-Fallout related) landmarks around CA, NV, UT and AZ.
I'll be using
Fallout Wikia to refer to in-game locations. When needed, I'll add some comments and overall impressions.
At the end, I'm gonna link entire album with additional photos from the surroundings to give you the feel of the California and Nevada setting. I was surprised how close the atmosphere was in the game to actual locations with some of them giving a huge post-apo feeling the moment you've arrived.
Below are pictures without any particular order. Also, I did not try to take pictures at certain angles to have a picture for picture comparison with the game. I assume most of you will be able to associate the real life location with in-game location. Some won't be showing any particular landmarks but for me, they were in line with FNV overall atmosphere.
Let's start from the roads. My visit took place in June so I was expecting high temperatures but not scorching heat. Temperature indicator in the car very often showed over 45 Celsius degrees with the
highest reaching 48.
Some roads, especially in Nevada, looked like this -
https://imgur.com/jEq2m7H and
https://imgur.com/xAqgMVV.
This is
Badwater Basin which showed us from the get go that it's gonna be hot and not a lot of water around -
https://imgur.com/hmLIxeq,
https://imgur.com/AoR0d4e and
https://imgur.com/O9qyQDF. Funny thing is, some places we were getting into (parks, canyons), rangers were controlling us in terms of water - 1 galon per 2 people on a daily basis.
Even though there's no Badwater Basin in FNV, for me it was giving me the vibe of
in-game Ivanpah Dry Lake -
https://fallout.fandom.com/wiki/Ivanpah_Dry_Lake or
El Dorado Dry Lake -
https://fallout.fandom.com/wiki/El_Dorado_Dry_Lake.
This is
Bonnie Springs where we've spent the night. Actual name is Bonnie Springs Ranch and it is ranch, restaurant and probably was much more back in the day.
https://imgur.com/urRj4CH,
https://imgur.com/aXcw19T,
https://imgur.com/f4sMZhM,
https://imgur.com/dDc7YGu
In-game Bonnie Springs is here -
https://fallout.fandom.com/wiki/Bonnie_Springs
Next is
Hoover Dam - and let me tell you, as in the game - it's huge. And, since there's little to no shade, it's a pain in the ass to walk around it. Also, it's filled with people all the time. A few pictures from the Dam -
https://imgur.com/kz9jR0u,
https://imgur.com/EdQpUcA,
https://imgur.com/j1uFFep,
https://imgur.com/ELAFZkl,
https://imgur.com/43m0sUn,
https://imgur.com/GMkxkpa.
Hoover Dam
in the game -
https://fallout.fandom.com/wiki/Hoover_Dam
Next, it's the game beginning -
Goodsprings and let me tell you, it was fun to see this sight, I immediately got my bearing ;) -
https://imgur.com/bnCZE3M
A few more from Goodsprings (it's a relatively small town, not a lot of things going on). -
https://imgur.com/y1VTpye,
https://imgur.com/629Px07 - no radroaches,
https://imgur.com/qDdec8M,
https://imgur.com/1OUfRpX,
https://imgur.com/XrOnbHI,
https://imgur.com/Lr7ki2C,
https://imgur.com/hkIhHGU,
https://imgur.com/Up3UgcF,
https://imgur.com/Y2F3yB4,
https://imgur.com/lcSyviu.
The Pioneer Saloon serves a neat burger too -
https://imgur.com/R0oG6cJ
In-game Goodsprings -
https://fallout.fandom.com/wiki/Goodsprings
Next is
Nipton - almost a ghost town, we didn't see any people apart from the girl at the store. But it also had a lot of post-apo vibe with abandoned scenes. Pics of Nipton -
https://imgur.com/113Q7W4,
https://imgur.com/wO93oBd,
https://imgur.com/rbkH57b,
https://imgur.com/GSACJlw,
https://imgur.com/bCQoW94,
https://imgur.com/N0zhsAF,
https://imgur.com/7KQGM2e. No Nuka Cola in any of those :( -
https://imgur.com/Zd9yuu8,
https://imgur.com/eoZKa3K.
The moment I saw the car I was grinning like a kid. Didn't have anything to blow it up with though.
https://imgur.com/T7pmvaU,
https://imgur.com/cwuLKkz
More Nipton -
https://imgur.com/aa9paHo,
https://imgur.com/eKZD0Gw,
https://imgur.com/5IJwnjM,
https://imgur.com/oHal35d,
https://imgur.com/Md9HxyU
In-game Nipton -
https://fallout.fandom.com/wiki/Nipton
Next is
Primm which is a larger town, not a lot of locations that resemble post-apo vibe but hell, we had to spend a night here, at
Bison Steve Hotel! I mean, Buffalo Bill's Resort and Casino -
https://imgur.com/TzUjWnK
It is incredibly similar to the Bison Steve Hotel, with logos, roller coaster and building facade.
Few more pics from outside and inside, yes, there's a casino town inside the hotel.
https://imgur.com/gcNprtE,
https://imgur.com/KNeUMWx,
https://imgur.com/TmFwF9R,
https://imgur.com/jcX8DzY,
https://imgur.com/gFux7Xd,
https://imgur.com/cmI0Piw
Being close to Bison Steve Hotel, we went to Whiskey Pete's (
https://imgur.com/QiDyY3F) which in game was called Vikki and Vance Casino. Casino itself is nothing spectacular but of course they had on the display this -
https://imgur.com/pJxCJ0u which is in the game and in fact is a card that Bonnie and Clyde drove in.
https://imgur.com/o00vobu and
https://imgur.com/z46CE10
In-game Bison Steve Hotel -
https://fallout.fandom.com/wiki/Bison_Steve_Hotel
Next is
HELIOS One (real-life name is Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System). Of course we couldn't get close to it, security reasons, however, you can see it from afar. Few pics with glaring from the mirrors.
https://imgur.com/W6iNSrJ and
https://imgur.com/8kiP9HP
In-game HELIOS One -
https://fallout.fandom.com/wiki/HELIOS_One
Last location that is easily associated with FNV is of course
Dinky the T-REX that is actually a roadside dinosaur attraction called Cabazon Dinosaurs.
https://imgur.com/V206PWu and
https://imgur.com/9fsxD7F and also, no Boone or Manny there.
As I've mentioned, there are more pictures in
the album - https://imgur.com/a/V67NnQj - those show overall post-apo vibe, landscapes and flora of the region. Those places are Cima ghost town, Joshua Tree Park, Bryce Canyon, Roy's Cafe, random ghost towns on the way.
Should you have any questions, I'm happy to answer those - might take some time though, depending on the time zone.
I hope you liked it and I hope I encouraged some of you to go and visit some time - totally worth it!
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