Switchback Railway
1892-Around 1900
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Cedar Point’s very first roller coaster, the Switchback Railway, debuted in 1892 and stood proudly beside the Grand Pavilion, marking the beginning of the park’s thrill ride legacy.
Primitive by today’s standards but groundbreaking at the time, the Switchback Railway delivered a unique experience. Riders would glide down the track, then watch as the train was manually pushed back to the top for the next run. It was a simple design, but in its day, it captured the excitement and curiosity of a brand-new kind of amusement ride. |
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Switchback Railway: Ride Facts
Opened: July 10, 1892 Closed: Around 1900 (prior to 1906) Height: Approximately 16–18 feet Speed: About 6 mph Manufacturer: American Railway Coaster Company of Chicago Location: Present-day site of the Lakeside Pavilion Type: Switchback coaster |
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The Switchback Railway was removed around 1900, as rapidly advancing technology made it obsolete. Newer roller coasters no longer required trains to be manually pushed back to the top, offering a smoother and more efficient ride experience.
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The site that once hosted the Switchback Railway is now home to the Lakeside Pavilion.
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Last Updated: 05/02/2026
Photos by: Cedar Point and Jake Hamons
