FunEx Picks: The Best Roller Coasters in the US for the Ultimate Thrills

Posted on May 01, 2025

A thrilling roller coaster ride is captured at night against a dark sky. The ride features illuminated cyan tracks with multiple loops and twists. The bright lights accentuate the structure, creating a sense of excitement and adventure as riders twist upside down, experiencing the thrill of high-speed turns. Strings of lights add a festive atmosphere in the background.

Here's something for the thrill and adventure enthusiasts. In the name of tummy-twisting adrenaline and the loudest screams, we are sharing this blog with everyone who tosses themselves into roller coasters like bread into toasters (rhyme unintended).

If you love going to theme parks to look for top thrilling rides, look no further than the good old roller coaster. Tall, twisty, and with a regular accompanying audio of screaming and shouting, no theme park is complete without this iconic ride.

How do we pick the best roller coasters in the US?

Picking the best roller coasters in the US is hard. With over 400 amusement parks and attractions in the country, choosing the ones that will stand out is pretty challenging. So, we have considered four important factors when making this list.

Thrill

What's a good roller coaster without that anticipated thrill? This list features roller coasters that offer your much-needed thrill and adrenaline rush. From height to speed, these roller coasters will surely give you an extreme adventure you won't forget.

Uniqueness

In addition to thrill, we also picked the best roller coasters with unique, never-before-seen features. Unique features add to the exciting experience of each rider.

Safety

Thrill and entertainment are both important, but safety is paramount. These masterpieces do not only boast unique features, but are built with the highest safety precautions.

Experiences

Of course, judging each roller coaster is easier with the help of our own personal experiences, and the experiences of our fellow FunExplorers. We reviewed some of the most fun (and heart-stopping) comments from riders to see which roller coasters will make it to the list.

Attention, Adrenaline Junkies! Our Top Picks for the Best Roller Coasters in the US:

1. Twisted Colossus at Six Flags Magic Mountain

Where: Screampunk District at Six Flags Magic Mountain

Length Top Speed: Inversion: Duration:
4,990 ft. 57 mph 2 3:40
A thrilling roller coaster ride with two tracks side by side, one blue and one green, twists and turns against a backdrop of lush trees. Riders are visible, experiencing an exhilarating drop. In the distance, other amusement park rides and structures like a tall tower and looping coasters are visible. The image captures the excitement and energy of an amusement park adventure.

Minimum height requirement: 48 inches

Scream level: 🚨🚨🚨

Did we just talk about uniqueness? If you are in search of the most innovative and aesthetically surprising roller coaster, the Twisted Colossus at Six Flags Magic Mountain is perfect for you. Twisted Colossus is nestled inside another behemoth coaster, the Goliath. This roller coaster is made up of wooden supports with a super sturdy steel track.

The design highlight of Twisted Colossus is the awe-inspiring crosshatching of white wood that features an intertwined track, steep banks, and uncompromising rolls and spirals. These elements make the Twisted Colossus more than just a beautiful, thrilling ride, but a great ode to traditional wooden roller coasters.

How high is Twisted Colossus?

Twisted Colossus stands at 121 ft., with a drop of 128 ft., making it one of the most thrilling theme park rides in the US.

Does it live up to its hype?

Absolutely. Apart from the features mentioned above, Twisted Colossus allows two trains to race each other on the same track layout. It's also the second roller coaster to feature the high five element, with both tracks running parallel and banked at 90 degrees. This gives the illusion of riders being able to high five passengers on the other train, when their hands are up in the air.

Twisted Colossus also has a fair share of spotlight in pop culture, with an appearance in one of Katy Perry's music videos (Chained to the Rhythm ft. Skip Marley), and in the 2021 film Yes Day. Get your Six Flags Magic Mountain tickets at FunEx now to experience Twisted Colossus and more.

2. Steel Vengeance at Cedar Point

Where: Frontier Section at Cedar Point

Length: Top Speed: Inversion: Duration:
5,740 ft. 74 mph 4 2:30
Thrill-seekers enjoy an exciting ride on a wooden roller coaster, leaning into a sharp turn. The group of people, mostly smiling and laughing, are seated together on a sleek, metallic roller coaster car. The wooden structure of the ride surrounds them, and the bright sky is visible in the background, highlighting the dynamic motion and excitement of the scene.

Minimum height requirement: 52 inches

Scream level: 🚨🚨🚨🚨

Towering proudly within Cedar Point's Frontier Town at Sandusky in Ohio, no list of top 10 Cedar Point rides is complete without this roller coaster. Steel Vengeance has everything you need for an action-packed theme park adventure. It's tall, it's fast, and it has the right amount of twists and turns to satisfy your need for thrill.

This hyper-hybrid roller coaster features both wooden and steel elements to provide high, yet safe and secure accelerations and incredible weightlessness. Steel Vengeance uses most of the wooden support from the former Mean Streak roller coaster, which closed in 2016. Steel Vengeance's Zero-G Roll inversion is designed to give the roller coaster a weightless sensation. With perfectly utilized restraints, riders feel seamlessly safe and easy while on the train.

How fast does the Steel Vengeance go?

The Steel Vengeance roller coaster at Cedar Point is FAST. At 74 miles per hour, prepare to get your adrenaline pumping on this super exciting ride.

Is the Steel Vengeance worth it?

To say that this roller coaster is worth it would be an understatement. It's one of the main roller coasters included in theme park bucket lists of thrill seekers. In fact, Steel Vengeance is so popular that it boasts not just one or two, but 10 world records. A real champ.

  • Fastest airtime hill on a hybrid roller coaster at 74 mph.

  • Most airtime on a hybrid roller coaster at 27.2 s.

  • Most airtime on any roller coaster at 27.2 s.

  • World's first hyper hybrid roller coaster

  • World's tallest hybrid roller coaster at 205 feet tall.

  • World's fastest hybrid roller coaster at 74 mph.

  • World's longest hybrid roller coaster at 5,740 feet.

  • Most inversions on a hybrid roller coaster at four.

  • World's steepest drop on a hybrid roller coaster at 90 degrees.

  • World's longest drop on a hybrid roller coaster 200 feet.

Don't miss the spine-chilling ride with this record-breaking roller coaster. Secure your Cedar Point tickets now and experience Steel Vengeance's iconic thrill.

3. Xcelerator at Knott's Berry Farm

Where: Boardwalk at Knott's Berry Farm

Length: Top Speed: Inversion: Duration:
2,202 ft. 82 mph 0 1:02
A colorful roller coaster filled with excited riders twists down a steep track under a clear blue sky. The ride's vibrant colors and the joyful expressions on the riders create an exhilarating scene, capturing the thrill and fun of a theme park adventure. The track is supported by green structures, adding contrast to the red and white design of the ride.

Minimum height requirement: 52 inches

Scream level: 🚨🚨🚨🚨

Opened in 2002, Knott's Berry Farm's Xcelerator made amusement park history as the first roller coaster to use a hydraulic launch system. As the tallest and fastest roller coaster in Knott's Berry Farm, Xcelerator is also among the crowd favorites. Design-wise, this 50s-themed roller coaster features a more colorful and funkier twist to the typical steel roller coaster body.

The high-octane coaster also boasts an impressive chrome-plated, flame-emblazoned '57 Chevy and speed. Xcelerator will definitely bring every rider into a frenzy with its mind-blowing speed of 0-82 mph in 2.3 seconds and a 90° vertical angle.

How tall is the Xcelerator?

Pretty tall. Xcelerator stands at 205 ft., similar to Cedar Point's Steel Vengeance.

Why is Xcelerator a must-ride roller coaster?

Xcelerator at Knott's Berry Farm is a must-ride roller coaster because it is unique, fast, and powerful. Imagine getting transported to a height of 205 ft., before completing two hairpin turns. The adrenaline rush will surely keep you wanting more. And of course, who would want to skip those adorable 50s theming? Super fast and super stylish, what a charmer.

4. Revenge of the Mummy at Universal Orlando

Where: Universal Studios Florida, Universal Orlando Resort

Length: Top Speed: Inversion: Duration:
2200 ft. 40 mph 0 2:57
A group of six people ride a thrilling indoor amusement park attraction, their expressions a mix of excitement and surprise. The background features dramatic flaming effects and ancient temple-like structures, adding to the intense atmosphere. The diverse group grips the ride's handlebars, immersed in the exhilarating experience.

Minimum height requirement: 48 inches

Scream level: 🚨🚨🚨

Another themed roller coaster, Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride is inspired by the super successful movie franchise, "The Mummy". Despite not being as fast as the other coasters mentioned in this list, we picked Revenge of the Mummy for its extraordinary theme combining darkness and thrill. You read that right. While the typical thrill seekers would love to scream and shout in broad daylight, others want a darker twist.

Revenge of the Mummy boasts three LIM launches. Each launch is synchronized with a special effect or element for an immersive experience. The ride also has multiple stops to showcase scenes featuring animatronics based on antagonists from the film. If we're rating this roller coaster based on creativity, it's an easy 10/10. No questions.

How fast is the Revenge of the Mummy ride?

The Revenge of the Mummy ride at Universal Studios Florida runs as fast as 44 miles per hour. This is considered a decent speed for roller coasters.

Is Revenge of the Mummy a thrilling roller coaster?

Of course! While the coaster is not as fast as the other massive hyper roller coasters in the US, it offers a thrilling experience to riders. The special effects and projections will allow you to immerse yourself into the world of darkness and thrilling fun. Simply put, if the speed can't snatch your wig, the spirits and ghosts might do the work. If you are down for more than just your usual roller coaster adventure, Revenge of the Mummy is an experience you should not miss.

5. Emperor Dive Coaster at SeaWorld San Diego

Where: Emperor Pavilion, SeaWorld San Diego

Length: Top Speed: Inversion: Duration:
2,411 ft. 60 mph 3 1:10
A vibrant image of a large, twisting steel roller coaster against a blue sky with fluffy clouds. The coaster features several loops and sharp curves, towering over the surrounding area. The structure is painted in shades of teal, adding a striking contrast to the bright sky above. Below, parts of the amusement park are visible, with trees and buildings in the background. The scene conveys excitement and adventure, inviting visitors to experience the thrilling ride.

Minimum height requirement: 52 inches

Scream level: 🚨🚨🚨

What?! A roller coaster in a SeaWorld park?! It's time for you to get your SeaWorld San Diego tickets at FunEx and try this extraordinarily thrilling coaster. Originally named Mako, Emperor Dive Coaster was launched in 2022 and features floorless ride vehicles. Despite its relatively simpler structure, the Emperor Dive is a finely crafted theme park ride offering a brand-new adventure to thrill seekers.

The dive coaster also secures riders with vest harnesses, which are considered less bulky than the typical over-the-shoulder harnesses. While this type of harness feels tighter and more restrictive, it reduces the risks of headbanging and helps riders enjoy better.

What makes the Emperor Dive Coaster so special?

The Emperor Dive Coaster is a special roller coaster because it is California's first floorless dive coaster. At 153 ft. and 60 miles per hour, it's also the tallest and fastest dive coaster in the state.

Emperor Dive Coaster also highlights a key partnership between SeaWorld and Penguins International. The organization is dedicated to penguin conservation and research. So, every time you ride this amazing dive coaster, you will be reminded of the meaningful partnership and advocacy that inspired its creation.

6. Iron Gwazi at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Where: Cheetah Run area of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Length: Top Speed: Inversion: Duration:
4,075 ft. 76 mph 2 1:50
A vibrant roller coaster soars through a wooden structure at an exhilarating angle. The ride features colorful green and purple tracks, with thrill-seekers visible in the cars, enjoying a thrilling upside-down loop. The sky is bright with scattered clouds, enhancing the excitement of the scene.

Minimum height requirement: 48 inches

Scream level: 🚨🚨🚨🚨

Extremely colorful and extremely thrilling. Iron Gwazi is the definition of art and adventure combined. What makes Iron Gwazi iconic is the fact that it literally goes beyond the usual drop angle of 90°, a first for a hybrid roller coaster. It changes the game with its massive size and spine-chilling speed. Its stylized crocodile head is also one of the most eye-catching parts, creating a lush jungle vibe for each rider.

This hybrid coaster replaced Gwazi, but has maintained the majority of its layout with improved acceleration and a smoother track. Unlike Gwazi, this is not a twin coaster, but the height of both sides is x2 of its predecessor. For ultimate adrenaline junkies, this coaster is one of the rides you should never skip during your Busch Gardens Tampa Bay visit.

How fast can it go?

Surprise, not surprise. It's FAST. Like insanely fast. In fact, it's the world's fastest and steepest hybrid coaster at 76 miles per hour.

What to expect from this hybrid coaster?

If you are a pro at roller coasters, this hybrid coaster will still surprise you. The dips are steeper and the danglers are a lot more thrilling. But don't fret about safety, because the lap-bar restraint system will help you enjoy the ride without fearing for your life.

The buildup before its iconic 91° drop is described as "slow and terrifying" by some critics, but emphasized its impressive speedy maneuvers and smoothness. Others also describe the coaster as a "winner" with its ability to be re-rideable, despite its unpredictable thrills. Indeed, in the world of exhilarating rides and attractions, this hybrid coaster is a force to reckon with.

7. Titan at Six Flags Over Texas

Where: Six Flags Over Texas, Arlington, Texas

Length: Top Speed: Inversion: Duration:
5,280 ft. 85 mph 0 3:30
A vibrant roller coaster races down a red track at an amusement park. The ride is full of excited passengers raising their arms, surrounded by a backdrop of blue sky and scattered clouds. Behind the coaster, a large observation tower stands tall, adding to the thrilling atmosphere. The wooden structure of the coaster adds a classic touch to the exhilarating ride experience.

Minimum height requirement: 48 inches

Scream level: 🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨

Go big or go home? You choose. True to its name, Titan is a huge roller coaster that's almost identical to its friend Goliath. Except that it's a lot higher and wilder. If tummy-twisting drops is your thing, Titan will be your ultimate roller coaster ride. Waving at your direction with its orange and blue color scheme, this massive coaster features incredible height and show-stopping turns.

Titan went hard on thrills and chills, with its 255 ft. drop and 65° drop angle. For a more extreme experience, riders ascend the 540° upward helix before hitting the mid-course brake run. If this doesn't sound thrilling yet, you get thrown into Titan's 570° downward helix finale with a 4.5 G-force pull for about six seconds. Sweet, sweet Six Flags, you did it again.

How fast is the Titan at Six Flags?

The Titan is crazy fast, going 85 miles per hour. A Titan roller coaster ride is basically a voyage to vertigo, but in a fun and exhilarating way. Curious about how we describe it? Get your Six Flags Over Texas tickets through FunEx now for more unbelievable deals.

Is Titan worth it?

Definitely! Adventure junkies swear by Titan's exceptional thrill. Thanks to the technology used by the legendary Giovanola. Titan has everything you're looking for in a monster of a roller coaster. Elevation? Wow. Length? Superb. Speed? Insane. So, yup, a Titan ride is super worth it. It will complete your roller coaster bucket list. Trust us!

Ways to prepare for your first extreme roller coaster ride:

Fun is for everyone, but not all roller coaster rides are good for the faint-hearted. So, to make sure that no fun will be spoiled, we want to help you prepare for your first extreme coaster ride. Keep these in mind:

Be mindful of the height requirements.

Listen. Even shorties can have fun. But if you're a little lower than the minimum height requirement, that will be dangerous. Being mindful of the height requirements for each roller coaster is a great way to prepare for your extreme adventure. You can still drink lots of milk before your planned getaway. We can't guarantee 100% effectiveness though.

Eat light and bland before your ride.

You don't want to go sajdIdfhhgjhfijghsdgh on rides, do you? If you want a safer and hassle-free ride, we recommend eating light and bland meals. Stuffing your stomach with tons of heavy food is not advised, as it may disrupt your bowel movement. Disrupted bowel movement and roller coasters don't go well together, so...

Do some stretching.

Being thrown and dangled up and down for minutes can be super exhausting. A little stretch will do wonders to relax your nerves and muscles and avoid cramping while on the ride.

Keep yourself hydrated.

Drink your water, but make sure to get rid of the extra water in your body. Dehydration will make you feel more nauseous and exhausted during the ride. Also, don't forget the necessary bathroom break before the ride.

Purchase ticket add-ons for shorter wait times.

We've already talked about speed, and we know that you're so excited about your extreme coaster ride. To skip the long lines and boring queues, ticket add-ons are the real lifesaver. For example, Universal Orlando's Express Pass will save you a lot of time and effort without waiting in line for your favorite rides and attractions.

Don't miss the twists and thrills with the best roller coasters in the USA.

Excited to feel the twists and thrills coming? We hope that this list of the best roller coasters in the US can help you plan your dream extreme getaway soon. In choosing a roller coaster, consider important factors like safety, thrill, uniqueness, and rider feedback for a smooth and exciting adventure.

FunEx can make your extreme dream adventures come true. We offer discounted tickets for your favorite US attractions. No hidden fees, just pure affordable fun. Follow us and stay in the loop for fantastic deals that will make your escapades truly memorable. Keep the thrills going, FunExplorers!