Helicopters

Helicopters is a classic spinning ride that is in Kiddy Kingdom at Cedar Point. 

Helicopters opened at Cedar Point sometime by the early 1960's. When the ride first opened, it was located where Starbucks is currently located on the Main Midway. 

By 1964 Helicopters was relocated into Kiddieland. 

In 1970 Kiddieland was expanded to be the largest kids area in the world. In 1970 the rides that were previously located in the area were all slightly moved around so the area looked brand new. 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 (moved to Kings Island), Wolrds of fun, Lagoon, Kennywood and , Knobels. This ride has since been removed from most parks that had this ride. 

Helicopters is located in Kiddy Kingdom. The ride is between 4x4's, Kiddy Kingdom Carousel, and Motorcycles. 

Helicopters are one of the oldest rides at Cedar Point. It is one of those rides that have entertained kids for generations. 

Helicopters Ride Facts:
Opened: Early 1960's
Location:
   Early 1960's-1963 Main Midway
   1964- 1969 Kiddieland
   1970-current Kiddy Kingdom 
                (Beside Lost Persons)
Manufacturer: Allan Herschell
Cars: 8
​Riders per cycle: 16
​Height Requirement: Under 54 inches. 

The Helicopters have been painted many times over the years.

Ride Experience

The Helicopter ride experience begins with the kids getting in line for the ride. The entrance is located on the right side of the ride between helicopters and Motorcycles. 

The line for Helicopters usually isn't very long. The ride does have one of the longer lines in Kiddy Kingdom, but the kids are usually on the ride within one ride cycle. 

Once the kids are measured by the ride operator they can choose their helicopter. 

Riders are held in place with a seatbelt. Each helicopter holds two riders. 

Helicopters moves riders in a slow circle that goes counterclockwise. 

For the first lap riders are just able to fly on the ground. 

Riders are able to make their helicopters go into the sky after the ride makes its first lap. 

Riders make their helicopter go up in the air by pulling the bar towards them. The helicopter goes down by the rider pushing the bar away from them.

Riders fly their helicopters about 10 feet into the sky above Kiddy Kingdom. 

Riders are given about 2 minutes to fly their helicopters. 

At the end of the ride the hydraulics bring the helicopters down to the ground. It can take a while for all the helicopters to land. 

Becoming a classic

Helicopters have entertained Cedar Point guests for 65 years!

Helicopters have entertained Cedar Point guests for many different generations!

Helicopters is a great starting ride for junior thrill seekers! Helicopters gives riders their first experience of riding rides!

Riders must be able to walk to ride Helicopters. All riders must be under 54 inches tall. 

Last Updated: 05/01/2025

Historical photos by: Cedar Point. Map by: Cedar Point. All other photos by: Jake Hamons