ACE Preservation Conference 2025

Celebrates Historic Coasters and Conservation at Iconic California Parks

August 9, 2025 - American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) is proud to host the 2025 ACE Preservation Conference, a three-day celebration of classic coasters, historic rides and vital conservation efforts, taking place August 8-10 at Six Flags Magic Mountain, SeaWorld San Diego and Belmont Park.

This unique multiday event highlights ACE's continued mission to preserve and promote the cultural and historical significance of roller coasters and amusement attractions across the country. Each location showcases a different aspect of preservation; from engineering icons to environmental education to centennial milestones.

ACE kicks off the conference at Six Flags Magic Mountain, home to several legendary roller coasters that shaped modern thrill ride design. At Six Flags Magic Mountain, attendees will experience coasters that represent key milestones in roller coaster innovation. Among them is Viper, one of the last remaining Arrow Dynamics seven-loopers; Gold Rusher, the park’s very first roller coaster and a classic Arrow mine train that has thrilled guests since 1971; Ninja, a suspended coaster from Arrow Dynamics that winds through the park’s terrain; and ACE Roller Coaster Landmark Revolution, the world’s first modern vertical loop coaster, designed by Anton Schwarzkopf and beautifully restored to continue delivering airtime and nostalgia. These rides exemplify ACE’s ongoing efforts to recognize and preserve historically significant attractions.

ACE honors SeaWorld San Diego’s commitment to protecting Earth and its creatures, while also spotlighting two historic rides: Skytower, a 320-foot observation tower offering breathtaking views of San Diego since 1969, and the Skyride, a rare and scenic Von Roll attraction that provides a tranquil journey over Mission Bay. These attractions stand as examples of classic amusement ride design that harmonize with environmental awareness, an ideal fit for a park dedicated to conservation.

The final day of the conference culminates at historic Belmont Park, where ACE will celebrate a true landmark in roller coaster history: Giant Dipper turned 100 years old in 2025. To commemorate this milestone, ACE will present its first-ever Centennial Coaster Preservation Plaque to Giant Dipper; a rare honor celebrating a full century of operation.

ACE will also host a special history presentation by Tim Cole, a key figure in the successful Save the Coaster campaign that rescued Giant Dipper from demolition in the 1980s. Working alongside the Save the Coaster Committee and supported by ACE, Cole helped ensure the survival of this iconic wooden coaster, which remains a cherished piece of San Diego’s beachfront heritage.

“This conference is a testament to ACE’s ongoing mission to preserve the legacy of roller coasters and the parks that operate them,” said Derek Perry, ACE’s communications director. “From the engineering marvels at Six Flags Magic Mountain, to SeaWorld San Diego’s dedication to both classic rides and environmental stewardship, and the incredible 100-year milestone of Giant Dipper at Belmont Park, these three parks each showcase unique stories of preservation that are worth celebrating and protecting for future generations.”

About ACE
The American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1978, dedicated to the preservation, enjoyment and promotion of roller coasters and amusement parks around the world. With more than 7,000 members globally, ACE has been instrumental in securing historical recognition for classic coasters and raising awareness about the importance of amusement preservation.

ACE’s Preservation Fund offers financial assistance to ride owners and operators to help with repairs, refurbishments and restoration projects, ensuring these treasured attractions continue to bring joy and thrills for years to come.