Family Roller Coasters: Types and Buying Guide

Family roller coasters are the perfect balance of thrill and safety, offering fun experiences for riders of all ages. Unlike the extreme heights and loops of traditional roller coasters, family roller coasters are designed to provide excitement without being overwhelming. These rides typically feature gentle drops, moderate speeds, and a more comfortable experience, making them ideal for children and adults who are looking for a less intense but still enjoyable ride.

Whether you’re looking to purchase a family roller coaster for sale or learn more about the modern family roller coaster designs, this guide will walk you through the key features, types, and considerations for purchasing such a ride.

What is a Family Roller Coaster?

A family roller coaster is a type of roller coaster specifically designed for family-friendly amusement parks or areas where riders of all ages can participate together. These coasters are often less intense than traditional thrill rides, but they still provide a fun, exciting experience. Family coasters typically have:

• Gentle dropsand moderate speeds.
• Milder curvesand turns compared to intense inversions or high-speed loops.
• Height and weight restrictionsthat allow younger children to ride with an adult or older child.
• Comfortable seatsto ensure the safety and comfort of younger riders.

Family roller coasters are great for introducing younger children to the world of amusement rides while still offering something enjoyable for the whole family to experience together.

Types of Family Roller Coasters

There are several types of family roller coasters that can cater to different needs and park themes. Some of the most popular types include:

Wooden Family Roller Coasters

• These coasters are built using wooden tracks and provide a traditional, nostalgic ride experience.
• Typically smoother and more comfortable than older wooden designs, making them perfect for families.
• The gentle drops and turns are usually less intense than those found in modern steel coasters.

Examples:

• Wild Mouseand Blue Streak coasters often fall into this category.

Steel Family Roller Coasters

• These are the modern, more comfortable family coasters that use steel tracks.
• Known for their smooth ride and ability to incorporate elements like moderate drops, light inversions, and sharp turns without being overly thrilling.
• Steel coasters allow for more flexibility in design, so they can be more creative in their layout and structure.

Examples:

• The Dragon(at Legoland) and The Great Nor'Easter are great examples of steel family coasters.

Flying Family Roller Coasters

• A unique style of coaster where riders are placed in a prone position (like flying) as they travel along the track.
• Although these coasters do simulate the sensation of flight, the speed and drops are kept at family-friendly levels.
• Popular in theme parks like Six Flags and Disney.

Spinning Family Roller Coasters

• These coasters are designed to spin as they move along the track, adding an extra element of fun and unpredictability.
• The spinning motion is generally gentle and does not cause discomfort, making it suitable for a wide range of riders.

Examples:

• Mad Mouseat various parks is a good example of a spinning family coaster.

Modern Family Roller Coasters

Modern family roller coasters incorporate the latest technology and design innovations to create a smooth, enjoyable experience for riders of all ages. Unlike older designs, these coasters are engineered to be more efficient, with enhanced comfort, smoother tracks, and more engaging elements. Here are some key features of modern family coasters:

Smooth and comfortable ride: Modern coasters are designed with advanced track technology that eliminates jerky movements, making for a smoother experience, even on sharper turns or small drops.

Interactive elements: Some family roller coasters include interactive features such as on-ride photos, special lighting, or sound effects, adding a layer of excitement to the ride.

Themed experiences: Many modern family coasters are designed with a storyline or theme, making them feel like a mini adventure rather than just a ride. Popular themes include fairy tales, space adventures, or pirate stories.

Safety and accessibility: New designs place a strong emphasis on rider safety, with ergonomic seats, lap bars, and seat belts, ensuring the comfort of riders, especially children.

Buying a Family Roller Coaster: What to Consider

If you’re looking to purchase a family roller coaster for sale for your amusement park or family entertainment center, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you select the best option for your needs:

Design and Theme

• Choose a design that fits with the overall theme of your park. A well-themed coaster can enhance the guest experience and make the ride more memorable.

Safety Standards

• Ensure the roller coaster meets all the necessary safety regulations. It should be built using high-quality materials and include safety features such as restraints, emergency stop systems, and clear signage.

Space and Layout

• Consider the available space for your coaster. Family coasters come in various sizes, from compact designs that fit into smaller spaces to larger installations that require more land.

Maintenance and Durability

• Roller coasters require regular maintenance to ensure they operate smoothly and safely. Be sure to choose a model from a reputable manufacturer that provides reliable service and easy-to-maintain components.

Cost

• The cost of purchasing a family roller coaster can vary widely based on the type, design, and customization options. Make sure to work within your budget and factor in installation, operational, and maintenance costs.

Rider Experience

• The goal of a family roller coaster is to offer a fun experience without overwhelming riders. Consider the ride’s speed, height, and duration to ensure that it caters to the target audience’s preferences.

Where to Buy Family Roller Coasters

If you’re interested in purchasing a family roller coaster, there are a few well-known manufacturers that specialize in designing and building these types of rides:

Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M): A leading manufacturer of family-friendly roller coasters, including the well-known Dragon and Kiddie Coasters.

Intamin: Known for their innovative family coasters, Intamin has designed several successful models that balance fun and comfort.

Zamperla: A company known for building family and children’s rides, including some well-designed family roller coasters.

Gerstlauer: Specializes in compact family coasters that fit into smaller spaces while still delivering a fun experience.

A family roller coaster is a fantastic investment for amusement parks or entertainment centers that want to offer safe, enjoyable experiences for all ages. Whether you are interested in a modern family roller coaster with the latest technology or a classic design, there are plenty of options to choose from. When purchasing, consider key factors like safety, design, and space, and consult with reputable manufacturers to ensure you select the perfect ride for your park.

By carefully selecting the right coaster, you can create an attraction that will delight both children and adults, ensuring hours of fun for families to enjoy together.