Valleyfair!

Valleyfair! is the largest amusement park in Minnesota, located in Shakopee, just 25 minutes southwest of downtown Minneapolis. Established in 1976, Valleyfair has become a staple attraction for families, thrill-seekers, and adventure enthusiasts throughout the Midwest. The park spans over 125 acres and features a blend of high-speed roller coasters, water attractions, family-friendly rides, and live entertainment, making it a favorite destination for visitors of all ages.

History and Background

Valleyfair was founded by the Cedar Fair Entertainment Company, a renowned name in the amusement park industry, which also manages parks like Cedar Point and Kings Island. Originally opening with just 20 attractions, Valleyfair has expanded significantly over the decades. The park’s history is marked by the continuous addition of new rides, roller coasters, and water attractions. Highlights include the debut of the High Roller, the park’s first wooden roller coaster, in 1976, and the addition of Wild Thing, a 207-foot hyper coaster, in 1996. Today, Valleyfair is home to over 75 rides and attractions.

Main Attractions

1. Roller Coasters
   • Wild Thing: As the park’s tallest and most iconic roller coaster, Wild Thing reaches a height of 207 feet and speeds of up to 74 mph. Its steep first drop and out-and-back layout make it a favorite for thrill-seekers.
   • Renegade: A wooden coaster known for its twisty track and intense airtime moments, Renegade is celebrated for its unique S-curve drop.
   • High Roller: The original wooden coaster of Valleyfair, High Roller delivers a classic coaster experience with plenty of nostalgic charm.
   • Steel Venom: A launched coaster that accelerates riders forward and backward along a U-shaped track, providing exhilarating thrills with every launch.
2. Family and Kid-Friendly Rides
   • Cosmic Coaster: A smaller, gentler roller coaster for young children and families.
   • Northern Lights: A family-friendly spinning ride that mimics the beauty and motion of the aurora borealis.
   • Antique Autos: A classic car ride where families can take a leisurely drive along a scenic track.
3. Water Attractions: Soak City
   • Soak City is Valleyfair’s dedicated water park, included with the price of admission. It offers a variety of slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. Highlights include:
     • Breakers Pipeline: A multi-lane mat racing slide.
     • Hurricane Falls: A large family raft slide.
     • Splash Station: A play area with interactive water features for younger kids.
4. Live Entertainment
   • Valleyfair also hosts a variety of live shows and seasonal events. From musical performances to thrilling stunt shows, the entertainment lineup changes throughout the year to keep things fresh and exciting.

Seasonal Events

1. ValleySCARE: During the fall, Valleyfair transforms into a haunted attraction called ValleySCARE. The park is filled with haunted mazes, scare zones, and spooky-themed shows that offer chills and thrills for Halloween enthusiasts.
2. Grand Carnivale: A colorful and lively summer event featuring parades, international cuisine, and vibrant performances celebrating different cultures from around the world.
3. Christmas in Color: In the winter, the park decks out in festive lights and holiday decorations, offering a magical experience for the entire family.

Dining Options

Valleyfair features a diverse array of dining options, ranging from classic amusement park fare to sit-down restaurants. Popular choices include:

• Chickie's & Pete's Sports Bar: Known for its signature crabfries and wide selection of entrees.
• Depot Refreshments: A great spot for burgers, fries, and snacks.
• Grist Mill: Serving pizza, chicken, and salads in a rustic-themed setting. Additionally, there are numerous food stands offering funnel cakes, ice cream, and other sweet treats throughout the park.

Tips for Visiting Valleyfair

• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays during the summer tend to be less crowded than weekends. Arriving early ensures shorter lines for major attractions.
• Family Tips: Take advantage of the parent swap program if you have small children who are not tall enough for certain rides.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a water bottle are essential for a full day at the park. Consider renting a locker for storage.
• Fast Lane Passes: To maximize ride time, consider purchasing a Fast Lane Pass, which allows you to skip the regular lines for many of the park’s most popular attractions.

Accessibility and Amenities

Valleyfair is committed to making the park accessible to all guests. Many rides are designed with accessible entrances, and the park offers wheelchair and ECV rentals. There are also family restrooms, nursing rooms, and plenty of shaded areas to relax. Soak City has zero-depth entry pools, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the water park.

Future Plans

Valleyfair continues to innovate, with plans to introduce new rides and attractions in the coming years. Whether through roller coaster expansions, new water slides, or upgraded dining experiences, the park aims to provide fresh thrills for its loyal visitors.

Valleyfair! is more than just an amusement park; it’s a destination that combines thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, and a host of seasonal events to create a memorable experience for everyone. Whether you’re a local Minnesotan or a visitor from out of state, Valleyfair promises an unforgettable adventure filled with excitement and fun.