The Thrill of the Ride ==== National Roller Coaster Day

Many summer time bucket list most likely included a visit to an amusement park and possibly even a ride on a roller coaster. Today, August 16th many roller coaster enthusiast more than likely could have been found at their local amusement park. Each year on this date the National day of Roller Coaster is observed.

One of the earliest patents for an inclined railway was granted to J.G. Taylor in 1872. Just seven years later and another pioneer Richard Knudsen applied for and was granted a patent for an inclined plane railway. Every since those early days roller coaster fans have visited most likely starting with the opening of the first roller coaster at Coney Island in America in 1884. But was it the earliest?? The debate roars on with

• J. G. Taylor's roller coaster at Rocky Point, Rhode Island in 1872. 
• Russian Mountains created in 17th century with hills of ice. Saint Petersburg, Russia was the place for this roller coaster. With heights ranging from 70 to 80 feet with a 50 degree drop that were enforced with wooden supports

National roller coaster day has been celebrated since 1986. The reason this date was selected is not known. What is known is that on August 16th the thrilling ride that roller coasters provide is celebrated. Many amusement parks and fairgrounds across America will celebrate the roller coaster. Ticket prices may be reduced, special promotions may be offered, and large celebrations will be celebrated.
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