Arnold's Park Wooden Roller Coaster

A yearly summer road trip has to include Okoboji, Iowa, for an afternoon at Arnold's Park. In addition to food, midway carnival games, waterpark, a train, shopping, and a beautiful beach, the amusement park has a lot of rides for kids and adults alike. But the ride that rises above the rest is Legend, the wooden roller coaster that has thrilled riders for nearly 100 years! According to ArnoldsPark.com, it's the 13th oldest roller coaster in the world.

Recently renovated, the Legend feels faster and has a smoother ride. Built in 1930, this mighty roller coaster costs $8 per ride and the rider must be at least 48" tall.

And here's one of the greatest stories of the iconic roller coaster. In 1930 a boy named Les Menke and his friend were in the right place at the right time. Les and his friend were staring at this new roller coaster in awe. It happened to be the morning when they were testing the new coaster with sandbags when a worker asked Les and his friend if they wanted to ride it. They apparently were not afraid and eagerly jumped at the opportunity. Thus, becoming the first riders of the Legend.

Even more amazing, in 2015, when Arnold's Park was celebrating its 125 anniversary, Les Menke rode the Legend roller coaster again, according to the Des Moines Register. This time at the age of 96.

Here is a HD video from the front car of the Legend in Arnold's Park, courtesy of AmusementInsider on Youtube.

Arnold's Park Amusement is still a free entry park and only riders need tickets. Day Park Passes start at around $37. A great value for a family day full of memories.