Photo: Grace Malley

American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) recognizes Blue Streak at Cedar Point as an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark, a designation reserved for rides of historic significance.

Beginning in 1959, Cedar Point was in the midst of a significant renaissance. Almost redeveloped for a housing plan, Cedar Point began transforming into a major regional amusement resort destination, adding an impressive new midway featuring many rides and attractions. For the 1964 season, the world-renowned Philadelphia Toboggan Company (PTC) was asked to design and build a new wood coaster. Frank Hoover (1903-1987), better known up until that time for being in charge of construction for PTC, was suggested by the company’s president and veteran coaster designer, John Allen (1907-1979), to create the ride with minimal input from Allen. Hoover created a snappy, airtime-filled out-and-back coaster called Blue Streak, which was named after the Sandusky High School athletic team.

Located near the park’s main entrance and marina, along Sandusky Bay, Blue Streak opened on May 23, 1964. The coaster attains a maximum height of 78 feet and is capped off by a distinctively decorative cupula over the apex of the lift hill. Reaching a maximum speed of 40 mph after descending its 72-foot first drop, the coaster includes several smaller bunny hop hills along its 2,558 feet of track. The iconic structure was originally natural wood in color but received its signature blue paint scheme in 1968.

ACE celebrates Cedar Point for its continued preservation and care for Blue Streak, the park’s oldest roller coaster as well as Frank Hoover’s only credited coaster design.

Presented by American Coaster Enthusiasts
During Coaster Con 44
June 20, 2022