The Dania Beach Hurricane was a beloved wooden roller coaster that operated in Dania Beach, Florida, from 2000 to 2011. Designed to be a nostalgic throwback to the grand era of classic wooden roller coasters, the Dania Beach Hurricane quickly became a local icon and a must-visit attraction for thrill-seekers and coaster enthusiasts alike. With its towering structure, sharp drops, and exhilarating turns, it was a symbol of fun and excitement on Florida’s Gold Coast.
The Creation of the Hurricane
The Dania Beach Hurricane was constructed as the centerpiece of Boomers!, an amusement park and entertainment center located just off I-95 in Dania Beach. Built by Custom Coasters International, a respected name in the roller coaster community, the Hurricane took only a few months to complete, thanks to its efficient design and construction team. The coaster was one of the tallest wooden roller coasters in the southeastern United States, standing at 100 feet tall and featuring a track length of 3,200 feet.
Key Features and Ride Experience
The Dania Beach Hurricane provided a thrilling ride experience for guests of all ages. Here are some of the key features that made the coaster stand out:
- Height and Speed: With a first drop of 95 feet and a top speed of 55 miles per hour, the coaster delivered a fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping ride from start to finish.
- Wooden Design: The classic wooden structure gave the Hurricane its signature rumbling and swaying motion, adding an element of unpredictability and excitement to the experience.
- Multiple Airtime Hills: Riders experienced several moments of “airtime,” where the coaster’s sharp drops and quick ascents created the sensation of weightlessness.
- Twists and Turns: The ride featured intense lateral G-forces as the train navigated sharp turns, making every ride a unique adventure.
The Hurricane’s ride experience was not just about thrills; it also provided scenic views of the surrounding area, including the lush greenery of the park and the bustling I-95 highway.
The End of an Era
Despite its popularity and unique appeal, the Dania Beach Hurricane faced challenges that ultimately led to its closure. Maintenance costs for wooden coasters can be significantly higher than for their steel counterparts, and as the coaster aged, upkeep became increasingly expensive. The Hurricane closed in 2011, and the structure stood abandoned for several years, becoming a sad reminder of a once-thriving attraction.
Demolition and Legacy
In 2016, the decision was made to demolish the Dania Beach Hurricane. The demolition was met with mixed emotions from locals and coaster enthusiasts who had fond memories of riding the coaster. By the end of that year, the iconic wooden structure was no more, leaving behind only photographs, stories, and nostalgic recollections.
The legacy of the Dania Beach Hurricane lives on in the hearts of those who experienced it. While the coaster may be gone, it remains a cherished memory for those who rode its thrilling hills and felt the rush of the wind on its sharp turns.