Giant Dipper Rollercoaster

The Giant Dipper is the world-famous icon and centerpiece of historic Belmont Park in San Diego. Opened on July 4, 1925, this legendary wooden roller coaster still embodies the pure spirit of the classic American beach fair. As one of the very few remaining rides of its kind, it is now an official National Historic Landmark and is strictly protected as a historic site. For fans and those seeking a touch of nostalgia, a ride on this historic structure is an absolute must-do in California. The majestic white wooden framework has dominated the Mission Beach skyline for over a century. Designed by the iconic architects Arthur Looff and John Miller, the ride features a compact “Twister” layout. After being lifted by a chain hoist, the cars climb to a height of just over 22 meters. From up there, riders are treated to a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean before plunging down the first 18-meter drop. Along the 792-meter-long track, the trains race at speeds of up to 77 km/h through tight curves and over thrilling hills. To preserve this experience for the future, the park recently invested $1.6 million in a comprehensive renovation. As part of this, over 75 meters of the wooden tracks were completely replaced. This ensures a noticeably smoother and safer ride without losing its nostalgic character. For safety reasons, riders must be at least 127 centimeters tall to ride.