Cedar Point, also known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” is packed with some of the most thrilling rides in the world. While the top-tier coasters like Steel Vengeance and Top Thrill 2 often steal the spotlight, Cedar Point has a lineup of other hidden gems that might not always get the attention they deserve—but are still absolutely worth riding. In this blog post, we’re diving into Cedar Point’s best “not-so-well-known” roller coasters (ranked 1-5) that continue to deliver excitement and thrills to those who dare to ride in 2025. Some of these coasters could easily be considered the a top three ride at any other theme park in the world!
1. Valravn
While Valravn may not be as famous as some of the park’s massive coasters, it is one of the best dive coasters in the world—and definitely not to be missed. Standing at 223 feet, Valravn sends riders plummeting at a near-vertical drop that gives a gut-wrenching sensation before completing a series of inversions and twists. It’s thrilling, yes, but it also offers a smooth, high-speed ride with breathtaking views of Cedar Point and Lake Erie. Often overshadowed by other giants in the park, Valravn is perfect for riders looking for a heart-stopping experience without the intensity of a full roller coaster marathon.
2. GateKeeper
Greeting guests at the front gate, GateKeeper offers a ride unlike anything else at Cedar Point. Riders sit on either side of the track, suspended in midair, making every twist, turn, and inversion feel like you’re flying. The ride’s first element—a massive 170-foot vertical loop—is enough to take your breath away, but what truly makes GateKeeper special is its fluidity and sensation of weightlessness. It’s often overshadowed by the park’s more extreme coasters, but GateKeeper’s thrilling inversions and smooth airtime provide a fantastic experience that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Gatekeeper is usually part of early park entry, so head to it before the park officially opens if your a resort/marina guest or a prestige pass holder (or gold pass with all park add on). Otherwise, this one is best to ride at the end of a park day since most guests ride it first thing in the morning due to its closeness to the front gate.
3. Magnum XL200
As Cedar Point’s first coaster to exceed 200 feet, Magnum XL200 was groundbreaking when it debuted in 1989, setting the standard for future hypercoasters. Despite being a classic, Magnum XL200 doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves in comparison to more modern rides like Steel Vengeance. However, this steel coaster still packs a punch with its high-speed airtime hills, steep drops, and overall excitement. Magnum delivers a thrilling ride that is perfect for coaster enthusiasts who appreciate the charm of classic roller coasters. It’s a must-ride for anyone seeking pure, non-stop exhilaration.
Magnum doesn’t often boast lines over an hour, so be sure to get in line when queue times are below 60 minutes. If entering through the back of the park or “magnum” entrance, this is a great first ride.
4. Raptor
One of Cedar Point’s most enduring attractions, Raptor is an inverted coaster that often gets overshadowed by the newer and taller attractions in the park. However, don’t let that fool you—this ride still has plenty of thrills to offer and is one of my favorite “front row” rides. Raptor takes riders on a high-speed journey through tight twists, heart-pounding drops, and intense inversions. The feeling of being suspended under the track adds to the excitement, making it a favorite for many Cedar Point fans. Though it may not be the flashiest ride in the park, Raptor‘s smooth yet intense ride makes it a hidden gem that shouldn’t be missed.
This ride is also busy during park open into the afternoon. Try and ride this toward the end of the day when ride wait times dwindle.
5. Wild Mouse
For those looking for a less intense, yet still thrilling experience, Wild Mouse is a perfect choice and one of the newest roller coasters in the park! This spinning coaster may not boast the height or speed of some of Cedar Point’s bigger rides, but it delivers a fun, unpredictable ride full of sharp turns and sudden drops. This is a great family roller coaster that allows guests 42″ and above with a riding companion.
What makes Wild Mouse so unique is its layout—it’s more compact and has an unpredictable feel as it spins, providing moments of surprise and excitement. While it might not be the first coaster that comes to mind, it’s an enjoyable experience for families or those looking for something a little different from the larger thrill rides.
Why These Coasters Deserve More Love
While Cedar Point is known for its record-breaking roller coasters and massive thrill rides, it’s important to remember that some of its best attractions don’t always get the recognition they deserve. Valravn and GateKeeper offer unique experiences with high-speed drops and inversions that rival even the biggest coasters in the park. Magnum XL200 remains a classic that continues to impress, despite being overshadowed by newer rides. Raptor, with its high-flying inversions and twists, continues to hold its own as one of the best inverted coasters in the world. And Wild Mouse, while tame compared to the park’s other behemoths, provides a fun and unpredictable ride for those seeking something a little lighter.
If you find yourself at Cedar Point, don’t overlook these hidden gems. They may not be the most famous rides in the park, but they still offer unforgettable experiences that will leave you smiling and maybe even coming back for more.
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