Helicopters

Helicopters is a classic spinning ride located in Kiddy Kingdom at Cedar Point.
Helicopters opened at Cedar Point in the early 1960s. When it first debuted, the ride was located on the Main Midway, where Starbucks is currently situated.
By 1964, Helicopters had been relocated to Kiddieland.
In 1970, Kiddieland was expanded to become the largest kids’ area in the world. The rides previously in the area were slightly rearranged to give the section a fresh, new look. Helicopters was then moved to its current location.
Helicopters were built by the Allan Herschell Company. This ride model could be found in several parks around the world, including Coney Island (later moved to Kings Island), Worlds of Fun, Lagoon, Kennywood, and Knoebels. It has since been removed from most parks that once featured it.
Helicopters is located in Kiddy Kingdom. The ride is between 4x4's, Kiddy Kingdom Carousel, and Motorcycles. 
Helicopters is one of the oldest rides at Cedar Point and has entertained children for generations.
Helicopters Ride Facts:
Opened: Early 1960s
Location:
 Early 1960s–1963: Main Midway
 1964–1969: Kiddieland
 1970–present: Kiddy Kingdom (beside Lost Persons)
Manufacturer: Allan Herschell
Cars: 8
Riders per cycle: 16
Height Requirement: Under 54 inches
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The Helicopters have been repainted many times over the years.

Ride Experience

The Helicopters ride experience begins as kids get in line. The entrance is on the right side of the ride, between Helicopters and Motorcycles.
The line for Helicopters usually isn’t very long. While it can be one of the longer lines in Kiddy Kingdom, kids are typically on the ride within a single ride cycle.
Once the ride operator measures the kids, they can choose their helicopter.
Riders are secured with a seatbelt, and each helicopter holds two riders.
Helicopters moves riders in a slow, counterclockwise circle.
During the first lap, riders stay close to the ground.
After the first lap, riders can raise their helicopters into the air.
Riders raise their helicopter by pulling the bar toward them and lower it by pushing the bar away.
Riders soar about 10 feet above Kiddy Kingdom in their helicopters.
Riders have approximately 2 minutes to fly their helicopters.
At the end of the ride, the hydraulics lower the helicopters back to the ground. It can take a few moments for all the helicopters to land.

Becoming a classic

Helicopters have been entertaining Cedar Point guests for 65 years!
Helicopters have entertained multiple generations of Cedar Point guests!
Helicopters is a great starter ride for junior thrill seekers, giving them their first taste of amusement park fun!
Riders must be able to walk independently and be under 54 inches tall to ride Helicopters.
Last Updated: 05/01/2026
Historical photos by: Cedar Point. Map by: Cedar Point. All other photos by: Jake Hamons
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