Switchback Railway
1892-Around 1900

Switchback Railway was Cedar Point's first roller coaster. The ride was built in 1892 and was located next to the Grand Pavillion. 

Switchback Railway was a very cool roller coaster. Riders would ride down the track and the train would have to be pushed back to the top. 

Switchback Railway Ride Facts:
Opened: July 10, 1892
Height: 25 feet
Speed: 6 MPH
Manufacturer: American Railway Coaster Company of Chicago
​Location: Current location of Lakeside Pavillion
​Type: switchback
Closed: Around 1900, Before 1906

Switchback Railway was removed around 1900. The ride didn't last very long due to the fact that technology had caught up and no one needed to push the train to the top on what was then modern coasters. 

The area that once housed Switchback Railway is now home to the Lakeside Pavillion. 

Last Updated: 07/26/2023

Photos by: Cedar Point and Jake Hamons