Story and photos by Marg Seregelyi
Six Flags Darien Lake, New York's largest theme park and resort marks its 45th anniversary this year. It features over 100 rides, including five roller coasters, many shows and a variety of other attractions. The theme park is located between Rochester and Buffalo, less than one hour from Niagara Falls.
The newest water thrill ride, called The Big Kahuna Extreme
Water Slide, spirals a four-person raft 700 feet through dips
and twists before landing in a pool of water.
The waterpark includes five water slides, a wave pool and a
family section called Hook's Lagoon. This is a great place to
cool off with the kids. It has a three-storey tree house, 150
aquatic features, three lagoons and the S.S. Crocodile Pirate
Ship. The tree house contains a huge barrel, which fills up
with 1,000 gallons of water every five minutes, pouring out
over bridges and nets below getting everyone below drenched.
The extreme tubing ride called the Tornado was introduced
last spring. This water ride brings visitors to a 75-feet
journey into the air before plunging down a 132-foot long
tunnel in a cloverleaf-shaped raft, travelling back and forth
down a giant funnel in gushing water.
If you want to really get soaked, you can head down to rides
like Shipwreck Falls and the Grizzly Run.
The Skycoaster is a must for those who have no fear. It's
like skydiving 180 feet at 70 mph without a parachute. This
ride takes up to three people and lasts five minutes.
A parade and live shows are held throughout the day with
special appearances from Looney Tunes Characters, providing
great photo opportunities. The Batman Thrill Spectacular is a
high-voltage, action-packed stunt show with special effects
held in an indoor theatre.
End your day with the laser light show involving
pyrotechnics, laser animation, lights, musical choreography and
fireworks. The show lasts about 30 minutes, so bring a blanket
or chairs to sit on.
Several concerts featuring popular bands perform throughout
the summer at the park's Performing Arts Center.
There's lots to do, so you'll need a couple of days. There
are campsites, RV rentals and a Hotel Lodge located beside the
park.
Admission prices include most rides and shows. For more information check out www.sixflags.com .
