It’s a fact: Cedar Point is known for its roller coasters. But there’s another side to this amusement park beyond thrill rides.
“Although we’re known around the world as a roller coaster innovator, Cedar Point isn’t just a coaster park,” says Tony Clark, director of communications for Cedar Point. “It’s the special signature events, live shows, the mile-long Cedar Point Beach, water activities like parasailing and paddle boarding, on-site beachside hotels and the Cedar Point Shores Waterpark that all combine to round out a fantastic family getaway. If you don’t like roller coasters, there’s still plenty to do at America’s Roller Coast.”
Here are some unexpected surprises that await you at Cedar Point beyond roller coasters:
Stay Somewhere Unique
For a fun way to stay and play, think tiny — tiny home, that is. Lighthouse Point is a unique space that offers waterfront cottages, inland cabins and 10-person deluxe cabins, all just a short walk from the park entrance. Each cottage and cabin comes with amenities that make your stay extra special, such as outdoor seating and a charcoal grill, as well as multiple televisions with cable and property-wide Wi-Fi.
Plus, booking an overnight stay comes with additional perks, says Clark. “Staying at Cedar Point is ideal, with benefits including discounted tickets and early entry into the park one hour before the general public,” he says.
Hit the Beach and Make a Splash
Relax and unwind at Cedar Point Beach, which stretches out for a mile along Lake Erie. This sandy shoreline invites you to lay down a towel and soak in the sun (or build a sand castle: your choice!). When you’re ready to cool off, take the family to Cedar Point Shores Waterpark for 18 acres of water slides, geysers and splish-splashing fun for all ages. On special evenings during the summer, guests can grab a tube and watch a movie while floating in the pool during the park’s Dive-In Movie series.
Savor the Sweet and Savory Side
From pizza and burgers to sushi and steak, there is something for every taste at Cedar Point. Get cheesy at local favorite Melt Bar & Grilled, where you’ll find gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and craft beer. Foodies looking for a casual fine-dining experience can head to Bay Harbor at the Cedar Point Marina to dine al fresco while watching boats glide in and out of the marina. Or try Cedar Point’s newest restaurant, Hugo’s Italian Kitchen, serving up handmade pastas and brick-oven pizzas.
Celebrate at a Festival
Cedar Point gives visitors a reason to celebrate each season with their lineup of festivals and special events. Immerse yourself in good old-fashioned fun during Frontier Festival from June 7-30, a street fest with live music, appearances by townsfolk and games for the whole family. From July 12 through August 18, the Cedar Point Beach comes alive nightly during Cedar Point Nights, which features themed zones of family-friendly activities like a silent disco, glow games and dancing with a live DJ. HalloWeekends — Cedar Point’s most popular fall festival — runs Friday nights, and Saturdays and Sundays September 13 through October 27, and features not-so-scary fun for little ones, including trick-or-treating, costume contests and kid-friendly mazes.
Say Hello to Some Animals
If you’re thinking, “All this entertainment at Cedar Point is great, but what I really want is to pet a baby animal,” then you’re in luck. Cedar Point has a barnyard filled with more than 60 furry creatures to pet, touch and feed, ranging from baby goats to llamas to donkeys, as well as Curtis the miniature cow.
“Guests can stop by and take a selfie with mascot Curtis the Cow, or feed a few new friends — the photo opportunities here are endless,” Clark says.
Go Beyond the Everyday
Want to watch the sun rise atop the Valravn coaster? Or maybe take a mini cruise to the Lake Erie Islands from the Cedar Point Marina? You can do that at Cedar Point. From pedicab rides on the beach boardwalk to panning for gemstones at the park’s Fort Sandusky Mining Company, Cedar Point offers one-of-a-kind experiences that families will remember.
“Everyone can experience something unique here,” Clark says. “When we say that there are so many things to do at Cedar Point, we mean it!”