ValleyFair, located in Shakopee, Minnesota, is well known for its array of thrilling rides and attractions. Among the standout rides is Delirious, a looping coaster that offers a high-adrenaline experience for roller coaster enthusiasts. Opened in 2018, this coaster quickly became a must-ride for visitors seeking intense thrills in a compact but exhilarating design. The addition of Delirious further enhanced ValleyFair’s reputation as a prime destination for thrill-seekers in the Midwest.
History and Background
Delirious made its debut at ValleyFair in May 2018 as part of the park’s continuous efforts to expand and update its ride offerings. Manufactured by Larson International, a company known for their high-quality looping coasters, Delirious is part of the Super Loop model series. Its introduction marked a key investment in modern attractions for the park, aimed at providing a ride experience that combines speed, loops, and suspense.
Ride Experience
Delirious is a unique attraction with a simple yet striking design. Shaped like a giant loop, the ride offers 360-degree flips that send riders head-over-heels repeatedly. The train-style seating, which accommodates up to 24 riders, moves along a single loop, building momentum as it swings back and forth. As the speed increases, the ride reaches its peak, sending passengers upside down and hanging in a weightless inversion before diving back down.
The suspense is palpable as the train stalls at the very top, giving riders a brief moment of stillness before gravity takes over and flips them back into motion. With no distinct "end" to the track, the sensation of continuous flipping creates a delirious, disorienting experience — hence the ride’s name.
Key Features and Statistics
- Manufacturer: Larson International
- Model: Giant Loop / Super Loop
- Height: 70 feet (21 meters)
- Ride Time: Approximately 90 seconds
- Capacity: 24 riders per cycle
- G-Forces: Up to 4.0 Gs
- Unique Elements: 360-degree looping action, prolonged hang-time, weightless sensations at the loop’s peak.
Theming and Design
Themed around the concept of daring acrobatics, Delirious features bright, dynamic colors and a visually striking structure. The coaster’s loop is painted in bold red and blue, making it a standout piece in the park’s skyline. The open design of the train cars allows for an unobstructed view, enhancing the ride’s intensity by creating a feeling of exposure. The sleek, modern aesthetic makes Delirious both a visually captivating and intimidating presence, drawing in thrill-seekers.
Ride Experience in Detail
From the moment the train begins its ascent, riders experience a mix of excitement and apprehension. As the train reaches the top of the loop, the ride pauses momentarily, giving a thrilling sense of weightlessness before gravity pulls it through multiple 360-degree inversions. The ride experience is compact but highly intense, delivering high G-forces and thrilling reversals that make the relatively short duration feel packed with excitement.
Delirious also offers a rare opportunity for park-goers to experience a sensation similar to larger looping coasters, but in a more accessible format. The constant flipping and hang-time at the top of the loop provide a unique ride experience that contrasts sharply with ValleyFair’s other attractions, making it a favorite for guests seeking a quick but powerful adrenaline rush.
Comparison to Other Rides
While Delirious may seem tame in height compared to some of the park’s other coasters, such as Wild Thing or Steel Venom, its compact design and repetitive loops make it a surprisingly intense ride. The short duration and high number of inversions give it a distinct appeal, allowing riders to experience multiple flips without the need for a sprawling track layout.
Popularity and Reception
Since its introduction, Delirious has been well-received by park visitors. Its compact design and prominent location near the front of the park make it an eye-catching ride, and the accessibility of its thrills ensures that it remains a popular choice for guests of varying thrill thresholds. Its smooth ride experience, combined with the intense feeling of flipping upside-down repeatedly, has solidified Delirious as one of ValleyFair’s go-to attractions for those seeking a quick shot of adrenaline.
Tips for Riding Delirious
- Best Time to Ride: Delirious tends to have shorter lines compared to ValleyFair’s larger coasters, making it a great option during peak hours. For an even smoother experience, try riding early in the day or during dinner hours.
- Choose Your Seat Wisely: For the best ride experience, try sitting towards the front of the train. The front row offers more visual exposure, making the inversions feel more intense.
- Brace Yourself for the Hang-Time: The moments of weightlessness at the peak of the loop can feel more intense than anticipated. Hold on and enjoy the sensation of being suspended in the air.
Delirious is a standout ride at ValleyFair, offering a unique thrill experience that is hard to find elsewhere. Its compact yet intense looping action, combined with sleek design and high-thrill elements, make it a must-ride for adrenaline junkies and casual thrill-seekers alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix of flips or an introduction to more extreme coaster elements, Delirious provides a satisfying ride that packs a punch in a small package. Be sure to add it to your list when visiting ValleyFair!