Allentown | Shenanigans & Tomfoolery

October 9, 2016
Allentown PA

Dorney Park is one of those parks that you kind of just show up, stay a couple of hours to get everything in, and then leave unless you’re doing an event or the water park. I knew it wouldn’t be a long visit and with Platinum Cedar Fair passes, why not stop by? We got in fairly quickly and headed straight to the closest coaster to the front.

Talon–There was a one train wait for the front row, and I’d almost feel spoiled, but it is Dorney. The first drop is really great. It’s odd how quiet the coaster is. The loop is really great, the next set of inversions are fun and powerful, and the ride has a really great layout. I really like it.

The mouse had a bit of a line as usual. I think it may be the only ride that ever has a line at Dorney. So we walked back towards more coasters. Dorney really kind of reminds me of a mini Cedar Point. You can definitely see the influence in the front gate, midway, and in the Shoot the Chutes ride. Up next was a quick shot of Hydra.

Dorney Park | Photos | ~~Videos~~

June 19, 2009
Allentown PA

I’d been planning a huge summer coaster trip since the end of 2008. My original plans were too ambitious. Then there were issues with work. Then there were issues with pets. But eventually everything worked out and instead of 10 days up north for coasters and more, my trip was cut down to a more manageable 5 days with three large amusement parks and 2 days spent in 2 different cities. I had a plan, a place to stay, and a mission, to finally hit 200 coasters.

Friday, June 19, 2009 was West Virginia Day and as a state employee I always had the day off with pay, so I left the nite before and headed out to my brother’s place, which was roughly half the distance to my first destination: Dorney Park in Allentown, PA. I had been told that Dorney was not an all day park. I was meeting up with friends on Friday evening at the park, so I didn’t want to arrive too early. Unfortunately, on Friday morning I woke up at about 6:30 AM and couldn’t get back to sleep. I decided I’d go ahead and head out.

The drive from Moorefield to Dorney Park was not bad, even if I did take the scenic route. I arrived at the park around 10:00 AM, parked, and headed to the main gate. My first impression after going thru the gate at Dorney was of a mini Cedar Point. The front midway was very reminiscent, and even though Talon was on the right, its right up front like Raptor. And since Talon is right up front, that was my first coaster.

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