In a little more than one week’s time, on March 14, 2014, one of Branson’s greatest treasures will open its doors for the first time this year. That’s right, my friends, Silver Dollar is re-opening next Friday.
Each year, due to Missouri’s cold and snowy winter weather (which isn’t compatible with high-speed rides and sloping pathways), the theme park closes after Christmas. But now that the weather is beginning to warm up, Silver Dollar City is welcoming visitors for the 2014 season. So hurry up and buy your season tickets! And while you’re waiting for March 14, let us introduce you to our favorite Silver Dollar City rides.
Silver Dollar City Rides
OUTLAW RUN. Are you brave enough to ride the world’s steepest wooden roller coaster? Then check out Outlaw Run, Silver Dollar City’s newest ride. Beyond that daring 16-story drop at 81 degrees, the ride also contains a double barrel. It twists upside down three times and reaches 68 miles per hour (making it the second fastest wooden coaster in the world). Certainly the newest ride at the park, Outlaw Run is also one of the best, in my humble opinion.
LOST RIVER OF THE OZARKS. If you’re not ready for the heights and speeds of Outlaw Run, try a tamer ride. Wonderfully refreshing on hot summer days, Lost River of the Ozarks will carry you through a wild waterway. Only ride if you don’t mind getting wet!
THE GRAND EXPOSITION. If you’re coming to the park with children, plan to spend some time in the Grand Exposition, a collection of 10 kid-friendly rides. There are games, gentle rides for little ones, and slightly more exciting rides for kids and adults to enjoy together.
POWDER KEG. We can’t talk about great Silver Dollar City rides without talking about Powder Keg. Powder Keg is known for its shocking, sudden speed. At the start, you’ll jet from 0 to 53 miles per hour in only 2.8 seconds. The spiral turns, floater hills, and great views make for a wild, thrilling, gorgeous ride. If you like speed, this will surely be one of your favorite Silver Dollar City rides.
THE FLOODED MINE. A classic, the Flooded Mine is perfect for when you need to take a breath after all those coasters. Sitting in a little boat and floating through an indoor waterway, you’ll shoot bull’s-eyes with an electronic gun. Each time you hit the target, a bell will ring and your score will increase. Great for some friendly competition!
THE GIANT BARN SWING. Ever wondered what it feels like to fly? Take a ride on the Giant Barn Swing and you’ll get a taste of what it’s like. These aren’t the swings you find on children’s swing sets. No, these swings race 7 stories high at 45 miles per hour. Hold on tight!
WILDFIRE. Finally, if you’re a thrill-seeker, you can’t leave Silver Dollar City without trying out Wildfire. This roller coaster reaches 66 miles per hour and contains a 15-story vertical drop. The ride also includes a cobra roll, a corkscrew, a full loop, and a speedy spiral.
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As it’s still March and Missouri is prone to temperamental, topsy-turvy weather at this time of the year, beware of cold days if you’re headed to the park. Many Silver Dollar City rides close when the temperature reaches 40 degrees or below to ensure the safety of guests.
Have fun exploring the park!