From the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the sun-kissed shores of the Pacific Coast, the United States boasts a breathtaking tapestry of landscapes. What better way to experience the nation’s natural beauty and iconic cityscapes than from the thrilling vantage point of a roller coaster? From the towering heights of coasters perched on cliffsides to those that soar above vibrant urban skylines, get ready to discover the roller coasters that provide the ultimate combination of adrenaline and awe-inspiring scenery. We’ll take you on a thrilling ride across the country as we explore roller coasters that offer not only heart-pounding excitement but also some of the most stunning and unforgettable views in the United States.
Before we embark on a whirlwind tour of the Roller Coasters With the Best Views in the United States a few quick notes:
- This list is in no particular order.
- Only one coaster per park can be listed.
- We did not consider alpine coasters, although many of them have very scenic views, such as the Copperhead Mountain Coaster.
- These are only roller coasters located in the United States. There are many parks throughout the world that have just as incredible, if not even better, scenic views, in locations such as Spain and Hong Kong. Perhaps we will visit those on a future article.
Ravine Flyer II – Waldameer
Location: Erie, Pennsylvania
While the lift hill is one of the shorter ones on this list at only eighty feet tall, Ravine Flyer II’s position on a hill overlooking Lake Eric and the nearby Presque Isle State Park make for an outstanding view.
Scared of roller coasters? Go up in the tower (for free) in the neighboring Tom Ridge Environmental Center to get a similar view and to watch the coaster through the trees:
Valravn – Cedar Point
Location: Sandusky, Ohio
Out of all sixteen roller coasters at America’s Roller Coast, our vote goes to Valravn with having the best view. The 223 foot tall lift hill is located in the center of the park and the ninety-degree turn gives ample time to survey the surroundings – all the twisted track of the other roller coasters below you. The lake view is not bad either. We recommend riding at sunset.
Wildfire – Silver Dollar City
Location: Branson, Missouri
Wildfire is one of those rare rides that make you feel as if you’re really on top of the world. The view of the endless Ozark forests from the top of the 120 foot tall lift hill is unprecedented.
Defiance – Glenwood Caverns
Location: Glenwood Springs, Colordao
From feeling like you’re on top of the world to maybe actually being on top of the world. Defiance at Glenwood Caverns is the country’s highest looping roller coaster. Situated at 7,132 feet above sea level, Defiance features a 102.3 degree, 110-foot freefall drop and also boasts the steepest freefall drop in the Western United States.
Built into the side of Iron Mountain, Defiance combines an incredible setting with unparalleled thrills for a one-of-a-kind ride. Don’t believe me? Watch this video to get a taste of how incredible this location is.
Tatsu – Six Flags Magic Mountain
Location: Valencia, California
Experience the stunning scenery of Southern California on this 170 foot tall B&M flyer. It’s located on top of the mountain of Magic Mountain.
Fury 325 – Carowinds
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
Of course we had to include the tallest traditional lift hill coaster in the United States on this list. It’s a great view when you can see the entirety of Uptown Charlotte on a clear day.
Wild Eagle – Dollywood
Location: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
We love majestic mountain views and Wild Eagle offers some of the best views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Great White – Morey’s Piers
Location: Wildwood, New Jersey
At the top of the 110 foot tall Great White you might have a fleeting thought that you’re going to end up in the Atlantic Ocean.
Locations of the Roller Coasters with the Best Views
What do you think? Are there any other roller coasters in the United States with incredible views that we missed? Let us know in the comments below!
i tyhink cannibal at lagoon has a great view
an under appreciated one is also the Zippin Pippin sitting right on the Bay of Green Bay/Lake Michigan
Orion at Kings Island in Mason, Ohio has a great view from the first drop. Millinneum Force at Cedar Point has a great view of Sandusky Bay and the City of Sandusky, OH as well
Clearly the authors have never ridden Valravn in the front row at sunset. Have fun cleaning the dead bugs off your entire body… Magnum has better lake views and you have all the time in the world on the lift hill.
It’s kind of annoying that you only listen the park and not the city and state they are located in. It’s like, “Here’s the best coasters with the best views in the United States. Where are they located? Search for yourself!”
Thanks for the feedback. The article has been updated.
Steel curtain at the top of the lift hill. You can see up and down the valley
Even though it’s no longer Operational. The Red Devil / Cliffhanger Coaster at Ghost Town in the Sky ( Maggie Valley, NC ) has amazing views of the NC Mountains, Maggie and the Soco Valley