Situated just 60 miles from Downtown Cleveland on the shore of the glassy Sandusky Bay, Cedar Point’s 18 roller coasters tower over the horizon from both east and west, serving as a sort of terrifying beacon for people who, well, like to be terrified at insanely high rates of speed.
Truthfully, though, there’s so much more to Cedar Point besides its internationally revered collection of scream machines. Things like a recently reimagined waterslide-filled waterpark, sandy beaches and late-night entertainment.
Here are six reasons you should make your Cedar Point visit a complete weekend getaway.
7. Um, hello? There’s a beach.
Your toes have been jonesing for a little white-sand immersion, amirite? Look no further than Lake Erie’s beautiful freshwater Sandusky Bay at Cedar Point. Enjoy pure relaxation as you sink into an umbrellaed beach chair while the kids are busy engineering sand structures between dips to cool off. Can’t sit still? Soak up the sun with beach volleyball, cornhole and rentable waverunner rides along the shore. For an unforgettable view, take flight with parasailing and see the stunning landscape from a bird’s eye view.
As the sun goes down, don’t miss out on The Boardwalk, Cedar Point's latest treasure capturing the spirit of its 1800s summer charm. The Grand Pavilion evokes the history of amusement seekers from all those years ago, complete with dining, entertainment and other beachside resort trappings. Oh, and the new Wild Mouse family rollercoaster is undoubtedly worth a ride or two, as no two rides are the same. Plus, mark your calendars for
“Boardwalk Nights” from July 19 to Aug. 18, featuring epic entertainment, gourmet eats, family fun, vibrant music and dazzling lights.
6. Step back in time
While you're exploring, saddle up and mosey on down to the General Store—the biggest store in town. Channel your inner gold prospector as you browse through Western toys and Cedar Point souvenirs. If you hanker for a taste of the Wild West, rustle up some old-fashioned sweets at the Candy Shop just waiting to be giddy-upped.
5. Waterparks are an all-day affair
Sometimes the best cure for a busy work schedule is to shoot through a tube of water at tremendous speed. Cedar Point Shores Waterpark has you covered. Located right on Cedar Point’s property, take a summer day to slide through 18 acres of thrills and spills like the six-story test of bravery that is Point Plummet. Or simply squeeze yourself into your donut-shaped tube and take a few laps around Runaway Rapids, an action-packed alternative to the lazy river concept.
4. Entertainment for All
Feeling a little queasy from all that orange Fanta? Time to hit pause and catch one of Cedar Point's award-winning shows. From rocking tunes to jaw-dropping acts, they've got something for even the hardest to please. Whether you're a rock, country or pop fan, Cedar Point's talented performers and diverse lineup of bands and musical acts have you covered. If live music isn't your jam, don't worry—there are themed shows that'll leave you spellbound, making you wonder if you missed your calling as a circus performer. Stay tuned for Cedar Point's annual entertainment lineup announcement before the park gates swing open, ensuring you snag front-row and front-of-the-line spots.
3. Coaster heaven
All of these activities don't overshadow the actual Cedar Point park itself. Sure, there’s more to do here than roller coasters, but those roller coasters happen to be among the best in the world. After all, this is what you’ve been training for.
Although the Wicked Twister coaster was demolished a couple seasons ago, there are familiar standbys like the racing Gemini coasters or the heart-in-your-throat Magnum XL-200 coaster. Newer coasters like Steel Vengeance and Valravn are attractions in and of themselves. (See the Wild Mouse mentioned above.)
2. Crashing is easy
For many, staying at Cedar Point begins and ends with the recently renovated Hotel Breakers, a classic beachfront resort with waterfront views; popular relaxation spots, like the Sand Bar; indoor and outdoor pools; and all the other amenities you would expect at a world-class beach resort.
Lighthouse Point offers some of the most family-friendly accommodations marked by their intimate lakefront cottages, cute inland cabins and luxury RV hook-up sites for the ultimate road warriors. Bring the extended family, cook-out on your patio and take a short stroll over to the park.
Perhaps you got hit with a rainy day. Or, maybe you’re just a parent to a brood of sunburn-prone youngsters who can’t hang outside all day. ENTER: Castaway Bay Indoor Waterpark Resort. This is the place for indoor water-related shenanigans — from an indoor wave pool to a real water coaster.
And, if you’re looking to party on a budget, Cedar Point’s Express Hotel offers tremendous value along with an outdoor pool and free wi-fi. It’s located just a short drive from the park.
1. So. Many. Perks.
When you stay at Cedar Point, you’re not just getting some seriously nice accommodations (and a much-needed night’s rest), but you’ll also get some sweet deals on ticket packages, complimentary parking and shuttle service throughout Cedar Point’s peninsula.
But what do we love most about staying overnight? It’s that oh-so-awesome perk of getting into the park one hour before everyone else. Amusement park to yourself? BOOM – dream came true.