August 16 is National Roller Coaster Day, and if you haven’t made a trip to one of the area’s awesome amusement parks, there’s no time like the present. For the thrill seekers in your family, we’ve compiled a list of the craziest coasters and rides in New Jersey and the surrounding area. Beware — these rides are by no means mild, so make sure you’re up for a wild experience before boarding!
Kingda Ka
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson
This is the tallest roller coaster in the world and the fastest one in North America. The upside down “U” shaped track takes you 456 feet up in the sky!
Frisbee
Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, Ocean City
Go swinging and spinning on the Frisbee! The ride is all lit up at night to give it even more flair.
Chaos
Keansburg Amusement Park & Runaway Rapids Water Park, Keansburg
You’ll rock, rattle and roll on this exciting thrill ride. After being securely seated, this spinning disk spins and levitates at high speeds.
The Great Nor’Easter
Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Waterparks, Wildwood
This upgraded coaster now boasts a 95-foot drop, a sleek ocean-themed paint job and 2,170 feet of new and improved track that will deliver a smoother and faster ride for adrenaline-seekers.
Jersey Devil
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson
This is the world’s tallest, fastest and longest single rail roller coaster! Opened in June 2021 it’s definitely one to try if you like maximum speed, twists and turns.
GaleForce
Playland’s Castaway Cove, Ocean City
This exciting coaster boasts three launches and takes you to a speed of 64 mph. It’s 125 feet tall and you won’t want to end your summer without riding it!
Shore Shot
Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach Waterpark, Seaside Heights
This crazy coaster launches you through two cycles of positive and negative G-force experiences. You’ll go 125 feet up in the air at speeds of 45 mph — and then back down.
Mix
Steel Pier, Atlantic City
On Mix, you’ll find yourself right-side-up then suddenly upside-down as you’re hurled high above the boardwalk and out over the ocean. Now that’s good summer fun!
Pendolo
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, Point Pleasant Beach
The Pendolo swings back and forth in a pendulum motion while rotating in a circular motion. This is one ride that’s not for the faint of heart!
Scream Machine 360
Land of Make Believe, Hope
This extreme thrill ride will have you screaming for your mama as you spin, turn and hover upside-down for what feels like an eternity. Try to ride it without screaming.
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