Coaster reviews

Theming Launch Masterpiece

The quality, thrilling Velocicoaster experience begins the moment you step into the queue. No longer are you visiting Islands Of Aventure. You are inside Jurassic World. As you venture through the outdoor section of the line, you will encounter many theming elements, from the walls to the intricate light fixtures on the ceiling synced framing the huge statue in the center of the room. Stepping into the indoor queue, an even higher level of immersion awaits. The combo screen/window system cleverly crafted by Universal Creative will get your heart pumping as you traverse the building. The realistic raptor animatronics are wildly impressive, paired with the custom scent that just speaks to the level of detail and care poured into the creation of this ride. Finally, as you arrive in the locker room, you will find the whole process to be perfectly streamlined, making the whole thing so much more enjoyable. Climbing a short set of stairs, the preshow explains the enthralling story behind Velocicoaster. It's time to ride. After being loaded onto the train, you will notice the perfectly designed restraints securing you into the seat to ensure maximum safety and comfort. The first launch tunnel is filled with smoke, really making you feel as if you are in the raptor paddock. What happens next is a crazy out of body experience. The launch is so powerful and punchy, yet satisfyingly smooth. The first two inversions begin your journey, supplying ample hangtime and a pop of airtime as you zoom out of the Immelmann, especially in the back row. The few turns you make through the scenery are whippy and just plain fun. Take the time to admire the rockwork and vegetation, crafted to match what a velociraptor enclosure would realistically look like. After zooming past detailed raptor statues, the ultra-powerful second launch will push you up the top hat, giving superb views before rushing down and into the stall, possibly the calmest moment of the ride giving you just enough time to catch your breath before turning into two large helixes. The speed you feel during this part of the coaster is insane. The final element, the mosasaurus roll, will make you genuinely feel for your life as you are whipped over the lagoon. Now go buy yourself the iconic Velocicoaster shirt and wear it every day like I do. Velocicoaster changed my life, and I'm sure you'll see why after riding this masterpiece of an Intamin launch. Some recommendations: Front row for the best views (worth it, despite less airtime) and back row for my favorite experience. Night rides are just the best, and arms up on the mosasaurus roll!

Airtimes First Drop Fun Dead spots

Apollo COULD do more but I'm not mad that it doesn't. Not super big and intense, but just so likeable.

Intensity Headbanging

Haven't been on enough inverts to properly critique Alpengeist, but it just feels too big. The elements are super tight compared to the height of the ride and I don't think any inverts should be this tall. You will most likely gray out and come off the ride with a HUGE headache.

First Drop Pointless Layout

Griffon is kinda trash. I'll ride it occasionally, but there are better coasters to spend my time riding. Not complaining about it existing though, GP love dive coasters and as they're the park's main audience it makes sense that Griffon exists.

Airtimes Lap Bar Ejectors Theming

By far the best coaster at BGW. Launches are super powerful (The swing launch is a bit... shaky?? not quite rough but it rumbles) and there are some surprising pops of airtime throughout the ride. An airtime bump on the swing launch section will rocket you out of your seat. I can see why a lot of people rank it above Velocicoaster, but I feel like Pantheon needs better theming to even begin to compare the ride experience.

Airtimes Fun Rattle

Thoosies need to talk about Thunderhead more. Not a huge, fancy ride but still manages to be one of Dollywood's best. It's just a good experience.

Nice surprise! Fun Capacity Dead spots

Do not underestimate this coaster, but also please do not expect it to be fantastic. The first drop is pretty surprisingly good, as far as family coasters go. Pretty much nothing happens after that except for a few nice banked turns where you can just relax and enjoy the ride.

Airtimes First Drop Ejectors Too short

Rode AFTER the launch was removed. Thought it might be a bit of a disappointment after hearing thoosies complain, but it's pretty solid in my opinion. The first drop is AMAZING and everything that follows is good. The quad down is just so much fun. Wish it did more, but overall, it's one of the most fun coasters I've ridden

Inversions Location Intensity Rattle Too short Disappointing!

The first drop is a bit of a disappointment. The other Arrow I've been on, Loch Ness Monster has a superb drop in the back row and I came into Tennessee Tornado expecting something similarly good, but you don't get much of that droppy feel. You just feel like you're rushing downwards quickly. The inversions are super intense and I usually gray out, which I know some people like for whatever reason. In my opinion, the ride's biggest strength is its scenery. Really gorgeous

Launch Fun Smoothness Theming Layout

Big Bear feels like a good buildup to a climax that never happens. The launches are quite punchy for a family coaster, and there are a few good elements, but the top hat is so anticlimactic and the ride doesn't really do much. Unfortunate it isn't themed better, because the concept is great and just a few statues of big bear or camping supplies could help the ride experience.

Inversions Pace Hangtime Intensity

Copperhead feels more like a family launch with inversions than a full-fledged launch coaster. The launches are ok, not super punchy. There are some good pops of airtime throughout and the hangtime is enjoyable, but not really my favorite. It's a great addition to Carowinds but not a standout ride.